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From French to fishtail, there are many lovely braided styles that you can create. They work for casual and more formal events, and not only do they look fab in your hair, they also help you create lovely styles once you take them out. With a few basic hairstyling products, in just minutes you can turn your after-braided hair into a chic and lovely 'do.
Waves
Once you take the braids out, you'll have wavy, almost crimpy hair. Loosen the waves up a bit by running your fingers through your hair. Part your hair to one side and use a bit of texturizing cream to add more definition to your waves. A light misting of hair spray helps make your waves last and keeps frizz away.
Curls
To turn your waves into big, bouncy curls, use a large-barrel curling iron to curl random sections of hair around your head. Pull each section out away from your head and curl up the hair. Leave a couple inches loose at the top, so the curls are focused on the ends of your hair. Finish with a generous misting of hair spray. Add a sparkly headband or a pretty flower clip to finish your lovely curled style.
Hair Pouf
A hair pouf style shows off those lovely waves that result from being braided. To create a hair pouf, pull up a section of hair at the top center of your head and pull it away from your face, toward the back of your head. The first 5 inches make the hair pouf -- push this hair forward to get the pouf as voluminous as you want -- then slide a few bobby pins behind this to keep it in place.
Twisted Pullback
A twisted pullback style in your post-braids wavy hair looks natural and fresh. It shows off the full length of your hair, so whether you've got long locks or a closely cropped coif, you get to show off your beachy waves in all their glory. To achieve this style, start by parting your hair down the center. Use your fingers to pull out a section of hair on one side, about 2 inches wide. Twist the hair around and push the twist up against the side of your head. Secure it in place with a couple of bobby pins, then do the same on the other side. A bit of hair spray sets your style.
Tips
To get extra definition in your hair once you take the braids out, style the braids in damp hair, or at least use a styling mousse or gel in your hair before braiding. Your hair dries in the braided style, and once you take it out, you'll have extra-voluminous waves.
