Hair trends: Tail blazing (Photo: iStock)

First things first, consider your braid game.

For extra length and volume, run to your favourite long brand of braiding hair if you are on a budget. Clip-in or braided weft extensions will come at a pretty penny but will seamlessly blend with your natural hair creating that mesmerising waterfall effect.

What you need:

Detangling brush

This will help tame those tangles especially if you are a natural hair babe. To make your job easier use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to minimise breakage.

Hairpins

These trusty pins will be your secret weapon to secure those annoying flyaways and keep your braid in place all day.

Accessories

Elevate your look with butterflies, ribbons woven into the braid or even statement hair clips at the base of the ponytail.

How to keep those braids fresh:

So your stylist has done her thing but the battle is not over yet. You have to keep your hair looking cute for days to get value for your cash.

         i.            Protection

To prevent frizz and tangles, knot your hair loosely into a knot or bun then stash it away in a satin or silk scarf or bonnet. If this does not cut it, a pillowcase will work wonders.

       ii.            Restyle

After some time, your braid and natural hair will start to loosen. Apply some gel or edge control to your natural hair to tame the loose strands then spritz your ponytail with water or dry shampoo to revive it. Re-pin the stubborn flyaways if any.

     iii.            Go with the flow

Don’t be afraid of a little imperfection so long as the style is still giving. A slightly loose braid can be passed off as playful by throwing on some hair cuffs, rings or butterfly clips.