Get inspired by summery celebrity plaited hairstyles

An ideal choice for protecting hair from summer hear while still looking stylish, plaits and braids are also set to be an on-trend choice for Autumn/Winter - and learning how to incorporate them into updos will ensure that your clients come to you for their party styles and Christmas looks.

Here are our favourite plaited looks, which could easily be transformed from beachside babe to party princess.

"This look is in keeping with what we are currently seeing on the catwalks and editorially. The colour is understated and sophisticated, in line with the popular balayage technique. Plaits have been a definite must-have this Spring/Summer - they are a great alternative for an updo and they provide a more informal touch to red-carpet glamour. I like the way the hair has been left free around Jenna's face which makes the look appear softer."

"No doubt inspired by Valentino's Spring/Summer 2012 show, Candice carries off this chic plaited half updo effortlessly. Use a working spray to help build a loose plait - pulling at each intersection will increase the volume and size and allow the plait to sit with a softened structure. Create gentle movement and waves throughout the back with a tong, which will ensure the two elements of the complete look combine beautifully. This is definitely a style must for the Summer event calendar - simple and effective soft structure." 

"This hairstyle feels more wedding-inspired than typical sexy, red-carpet hair. Although it's right on-trend by incorporating a statement plait, I feel it hasn't been worked into the style well and looks as though it could have been an afterthought. As a very beautiful woman, Lea could have sported a more simple do and still looked stunning and striking. I'd have teamed the fringe with a slightly higher simple bun, as opposed to making it busy with a bun, a plait, a fringe and curls. For me, Lea's fringe is right on the money so I would work with a more unkempt look and let this statement style work its magic."

"Plaiting and braiding made a massive impact on the Spring/Summer catwalks - their versatility ensures they're an amazing way of transforming bad hair days. Scarlett works it perfectly, with the plait sitting loosely and relaxed around her hair. This form of plait sits proud on her head as opposed to the conventional tight-to-the-scalp style, elongating her neck and showing off her strong but delicate features. An outfit will determine what style of plaiting you choose; I personally love the textured, angelic braid - taking different sections and using fish plaits and rope braids twisted together, leaving some hair to fall loosely to give it a natural look; perfect for the Summer festivals."