Chalk It Up

Add temporary streaks of fun colors to your next braid

If you haven't noticed, there's a new twist on traditional braids giving coifs everywhere some serious pop. Thanks to an innovative breed of temporary hair color led by Hair Chox (hair "chalk" that imparts intense color that washes out in your next shampoo) braids are coming to life in an unexpectedly vivid way. This kind of no-commitment color means you can go crazy streaking, and then, when you braid your hair, the effect is like a multihued tapestry. "The colors are fun and great for the younger girl who can afford to be a little edgy," says celebrity hairstylist Oscar Blandi. "The looser the braid, the better it looks." A fishtail braid is an ideal way to show your colors. Here, tips to create the style:

• Go Streaking!
  Chose the Hair Chox colors you want. Like a crayon, run the Chox down the length of your hair wherever you want the streaks to be. The more colors you put in your hair, the more intricate your braid will look.

• Amp Up Texture and Volume
  For your braid to stay put, it needs holding power. Use a product like Oscar Blandi Pronto Texture & Volume Spray to give it grip. "Spray it throughout your hair before styling to thicken and add lots of texture so the style is guaranteed to stay intact," says Blandi. "Hair should be as voluminous as possible to ensure the braid won't fall flat."

• Start with a Ponytail
  The easiest way to make a fishtail is to fasten hair into a low ponytail just above the nape of the neck. Secure with an elastic, such as Karina Beaded Pony-Bracelet, which doubles as a bracelet for a festive beaded accent. If your ponytail is on the shorter side, you can always add extensions. HairUWear 22" Extra Straight Clip-In Extensions instantly make short hair long without having to visit the salon.

• Divide and Conquer
  Split the ponytail into two sections. Take a small piece from the right side and cross it over, combining it with the left section. Then, take a small piece from the left section and cross it over, combining it with the right section. Repeat until you near the bottom of the hair and secure with another elastic. Remove the top elastic and gently pull the braid apart to loosen, says Blandi. Secure any falling strands with bobby pins. Elle Natural Hair Strands Bobby Pins are easily camouflaged in your hair.