How-To: Mermaid Braid

Braids are incredibly versatile, which is probably a big part of the reason they are becoming more of a style mainstay than just a trend.

"I am here to tell you that the mermaid braid is the newest thing in hair," says Latest-Hairstyles.com guest contributor Melissa Cook. "Just think of it as the upgraded French braid. This beautiful hairstyle can be dressed up for a night out or worn in a more casual way for an everyday hairstyle."

If you know how to French braid, this won't be a stretch. "The technique behind the braid is exactly the same as French braiding, but when the strands are pulled in, they are thinner and smaller so that the hair underneath shows through," Cook says. "This gives it a more intricate and detailed look since the individual pieces are showing up a lot more."

Steps and video below!

GET THE LOOK: MERMAID BRAID

STEP 1: Start with a deep side-part and pull all hair over the opposite shoulder.

STEP 2: Divide out a section of hair at the back of the head on the heavy side of the part.

STEP 3: Divide this into three pieces for the braid.

STEP 4: Cross the back strand over the middle.

STEP 5: Cross front strand over middle.

STEP 6: Cross back strand over middle, then bring in a small section of hair directly below where the braid began.

STEP 7: Cross front over middle and add in a small section of hair directly in front of the braid.

STEP 8: Repeat steps 6 and 7. Pull in skinny sections until the braid reaches the bottom of the hair.

STEP 9: Once all hair is braided, tie off end with an elastic band.