Spring 2012 Braided Hairstyle Trends

Braids are definitely one of the prettiest and worth testing styles seen on the runway. They are easy to achieve, extremely versatile and oh-so-lovely regardless the look and the event you have to attend. Effortlessly chic and relaxed or uber-polished and elegant, the spring 2012 braided hairstyles are reinterpreted and given a new spin and it is practically impossible not to find a version to suit your taste. Therefore, if you're looking for a little inspiration, just check out the different braids spotted on countless shows.

Natural and simple with a carefree yet refined touch, the braid seen at Francesco Scognamiglio can be done in no time and makes a great quick fix for a bad hair day. The same thing can be said about the slicked variant spotted at Ruffian, a healthy, chunky and smooth braid at the back of the head that will only take a few minutes. Another super-gorgeous 'do that has recently become a quintessential summer look is the fishtail braid (Jean-Pierre Braganza, John Galliano).

When it comes to timeless, on-trend styles, there is always room for braids. Whether shiny or messy, a braid can become your ultimate lifesaver and solve all your hair dilemmas. For the free-spirited girls, the modern meets hippie versions seen at Nicholas K, Just Cavalli can easily do the trick. You can have fun while creating multiple little braids as there are no rules whatsoever regarding their styling. Keep on practicing and you'll undoubtedly learn all the tricks in mastering these 'dos. For elegant hairstyles you can try the fresh pony-fishtail mix spotted at Marchesa. At Michael Kors, the fishtail braid was messy and with interwoven dark leather shoelaces.

Continuing with the relaxed, loose hair, Vivienne Westwood opted for the messy braided style. On the opposite end of the spectrum, we can find the slicked, side-parted and wrapped around 'do spotted at Antonio Marras. Another hairdo reinvented season after season and which is among the hottest spring 2012 braided trends is the already famous milkmaid style. At Moschino and Thakoon hair was pulled back and tucked into a messy braided chignon. However, while Moschino opted for the elegant approach, Thakoon added a touch of color and drew attention through its cool feel. There were more intricate milkmaid style braids at Valentino and Alexander McQueen.

Photos courtesy of elle.com, style.com