The best celebrity plaited hairstyle inspiration

Braids, or plaits as they're known in their most simple form, are perhaps the most versatile hairstyling technique there is.

While a basic plait involves weaving three strands of hair together (of various widths and lengths), detailed braiding requires more complex intertwining.

From the three-strand gathered French plait, to the reverse Dutch braid, cornrows–with sections crossed under–which originated from Africa, and the larger Ghana braids – every culture has a signature style and there are countless takes on the techniques. Of course, while plaits are decorative, many braids are also practical choices, serving as protective hairstyles for textured hair.

If you're looking for inspiration to try a new take on a plait, look to these A-listers for creative ideas (and see here to try a new protective hairstyle for your natural hair, whatever your curl pattern).

Anya Taylor-Joy's long rope braid oozes Rapunzel vibes.

Serving Nineties beauty trends like no other, Hailey Bieber has the nostalgic baby braids look down to a T.

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Kate Bosworth's long, tight fishtail braid has a soft, lived-in finish.

These jumbo knotless box braids work beautifully with Tessa Thompson's graphic eyeliner.

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Emily Ratajowski demonstrates the power of simplicity with a loose, side plait, finished off with a black ribbon.

Sarah Jessica Parker channeled the late Carrie Fisher's iconic Princess Leia hairstyle with this jumbo fishtail crown plait.

The actress injected a dose of romance into a sleek and shiny slicked back bun with an intricate braid circling it.

Bringing back pigtail plaits, Elsa Hosk's Coachella hairstyle is perfect for summer festivals.

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Rooney Mara offers a new take on double ponytail plaits.

Here Beyoncé immaculate up-do features two small French plaits running from above the ear to the crown, culminating in a third long braid down her back.

Zandaya's long box braids are perfectly defined for a protective style that's both pretty and practical.

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For a dose of red-carpet romance, Olivia Wilde's braid looped into a low chignon.

The model's long rope braid is perfectly balanced with a chunky fringe.

Sometimes less is more, as Chrissy Teigen's simple plait proves.

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Margot Robbie paid homage to Sharon Tate with Sixties-style braids while promoting Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood.

Olivia Palermo put a twist on a classic French plait.

With precise proportions, this trio of braids, leading to a high bun, is a head-turner.

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Plaits don't have to be the focus of your hairstyle, as Cara Delevingne proved with her intricate parting.

Drew Barrymore's messy, braided locks radiate bohemian vibes.

Scarlett Johansson's braided halo is the ultimate in red-carpet glamour.

Gigi Hadid knows how to work just about every look, including this soft braided bun.

The actress' iconic golden-blonde locks are always the subject of admiration; this half-hidden braid adds a touch of charm.

Kerry Washington's double Dutch braids beautifully showcase her highlights.

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Blake Lively's hidden plaits added texture to a casual hairstyle.

Sienna Miller proves a bob can be versatile with centre-parted braids meeting at the back of the head.