Runway trend report: twisted and braided

braided models pose backstage at United Bamboo/Image: Beauty Press,Samantha Adler

On the Spring 2012 New York runways hair trends ran the gamut between uber sleek and super beachy. But the looks that really caught our eye as they appeared over and over again, were the complicated braids, and twists that graced models heads at some of the most cutting edge collections of the week. 

models pose backstage at Nicholas K/Image:Beauty Press,Samantha Adler

a model shows off her twist at Karen Walker /Image: S.Whittle for Style Wylde

Our favorite twists on the trend were seen at: United Bamboo, Nicholas K, and  Karen Walker. For each of these designers stylists took a standard, classic idea and put a thoroughly modern spin on the style. Whether it was roughed up, punked up twists at Karen Walker (created by Bumble and Bumble), hidden peek-a-boo braids at Nicholas K (created by Zahir Ziani for Red Door Spas) or  deconstructed cornrows at United Bamboo, (created by celebrity stylist Duffy) each look was fresh and surprising. 

image:Beauty Press, Samatha Adlerimage:S.Whittle for Style Wylde
image:Beauty Press,Samantha Adler

Runway to real life: While an exact replica of the complicated pinned rows at United Bamboo might be more challenging than the average hands can complete there are a variety of ways to incorporate the trend into your Spring look, just keep in mind the key to the look is the undone, unfussy effect. Stay away from heavy sprays and too-perfect twists.

Recommended products for trying this look at home:

Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, for roughing up locks and giving them 'grab' ( essential for twisting pieces)

Prive Flexible hold spray, to keep things set without getting crunchy or overdone