Braids style for women's Hair 2009

Braids are a classic style, but that doesn't mean they have to be boring. As these stars show, braids can do everything from add interest to an up-do or give a hippie-chic twist to straight strands. Hopefully these photos will inspire you to add a braid (or two) to your look.

1. Like a garland headdress, a single braid woven across the top of the head is nothing if not romantic. Moreover, it's a brilliant alternative to hair clips for keeping hair off your face. Senior stylist Kyrin McKenna of the Oscar Blandi Salon in New York City calls this look an empire braid. It's so soft and elegant it even makes a sex kitten like Jessica Simpson look grown-up.