#TrendingAtSephora—Braids

Sponsored by Sephora

As Fashionistas, we are constantly playing around with new trends. Our Style Guru influencers are also stepping up their beauty routines and tackling the latest emerging looks in make-up, hair, skincare and more.

Trying a new look can be intimidating, which is why we have partnered with our favorite beauty retailer, Sephora, who is making the process easier with their #TrendingAtSephora platform. Each month, Sephora will showcase top beauty trends and inspire you to join the conversation.

Our Style Gurus are getting in on the action as well! Given that trends are not one-size-fits-all, our Style Gurus will be showing you how they are making the looks their own.

Ever since the fishtail rocked the fashion world, braids have been all the rage. Thanks to the runway, street style and Hollywood, there is no lack of braid-spiration these days! New styles and trends are emerging daily. Just in time for festival season, this month Sephora is all about helping you take your braid to the next level. Visit the #TrendingAtSephora platform for tips and products on how to become a braid expert in no time!

Check out how CollegeFashionista’s Style Gurus are rocking some “knot” so basic braids and get our tips on how to achieve their boho-beautiful looks with our favorite Sephora products!

1—Refresh. Braids are perfect as they work equally great on a fresh blowout as they do on second or third day hair. For those days, use a dry shampoo to absorb oil and add volume. The Drybar Triple Sec is a volumizer, texturizer and dry shampoo in one (hello convenient!). This clear formula absorbs oil and instantly leaves hair feeling fresh and clean. Spray on, brush through and bring on day three of the festival!

2—Texture. A thick braid is nothing without texture. If you didn’t already add a texturizer spray during step 1, this would be a great time to do so! We love newcomer Ouai’s Texturizing Hair Spray. Part hairspray, part dry shampoo, this product keeps your hair looking full all day and night with more hold than a traditional dry shampoo. Depending on the braid style you are looking to achieve, you may also want to add some product to boost your natural waves. There is no better product than Bumble and bumble’s Surf Spray to achieve that windblown, beachy feel that looks you just spent the afternoon at the beach (in the best way possible).

3—Braid. This is your time to let your braid personality shine. Whether you are partial to the milkmaid crowns, wanting to go classic with a Dutch braid pony or looking to harness your inner cool girl with French braid pigtails, be inventive and creative!

4—Finish & Set. Now, for the final step. You know those pesky little flyaways that detract from your braided masterpiece? We like using oil to tame frizz, add shine and smooth hair. Ouai’s Hair Oil is versatile and helps achieve sleek, frizz free hair. Set your hair with a flexible hair spray so your braid stays in place with a natural-looking hold. Living Proof’s Flex Shaping Hairspray has finishing power while still being brushable, touchable and all around fabulous.

Join the conversation by entering our #TrendingAtSephora Instagram contest. The winner will receive a $1000 gift certificate to Sephora! The deadline to enter is 4/30.