A modern take on the side plait by Ellie from Saks

We first saw the side swept plait in 2010 for Alexander Wang by session stylist and Redken Creative Consultant Guido Palau. He wanted something that was sexy, cool and casual. He added extensions for extra thickness and length and did a simple three strand plait pinned loosely on the side and pulled over the shoulder. Everyone from Victoria Beckham to Cheryl Cole wore this and today there is a great fresh up-to-date version of this original look.

In 2012 we are wearing this look still loosely pinned and to the side but with a twist. This is now with a super easy fishtail plait. We have demonstrated a quick 'how to' for you to try at home.

The fishtail plait is done with two pieces of hair and not the traditional three. 

Step 1: First divide a loose ponytail into two. We have used the original 2010 idea of loosely to the side, but you could do this without a ponytail to start or from a slicked high ponytail a la Fashion Week.  

Step 2: Now all you have to do is take small pieces of hair from the outside edge of each of your two divided pieces and place the outside hair to the centre of the divided hair. You could add a clip in hair piece if you wanted a chunkier or longer plait.

Step 3: Continue working the small hair strands from the outside into the middle of the plait until you run out of hair. You can either tie this with a little band or even a ribbon or you can back comb the end of the plait to give it a good strong grip without an obvious tie.

We think this look is great for a night out dressed up with heels or with jeans for a casual day out shopping. You could even try a work-friendly version by keeping the look sleek and with a neat shiny finish - possibly wrapping the band with a piece of hair from the bottom of the plait to finish it off. 

Check out our Pinterest boards for more ideas www.pinterest.com/saksexeter/wedding-hair/