Michelle Garande from Afrotherapy gives braids a sophisticated spin – so now they’re suitable for any age or workplace

Texture play is a brilliant way to introduce pretty plaited patterns into your hairstyle. When choosing braid extensions Michelle highlights a few things to bear in mind. ‘If you want your braids to stay neat and tidy for longer, buy hair that’s in-between medium and coarse because it holds for longer.’

Mixing textures is a clever way to reinvent braids. ‘By canerowing the sides and blending it with your own hair or extensions, you can create rock n’ roll Mohicans,’ says Michelle. ‘The style can last for a day to two months providing you re-plait the edges to keep them tidy.’

If you feel like you’ve exhausted all style options when it comes to braids, Michelle hints that there’s much more scope. ‘The beauty of braids is that you can work with them like it’s your own hair. Braids don’t have to look avant garde or afrocentric, in fact you can be much more contemporary and create looks that are classy and simple.’

Some workplaces require a level of conformity when it comes to attire, but thanks to the versatility of braids, you can switch between a classic ballerina bun to a funky mixed braid updo. ‘It all depends on where you are working,’ says Michelle. ‘Some jobs may require for your hair to be up. If you have long braids, instead of keeping it in a ponytail, you can style it up into a large twist bun. Either way you can be as plain or experimental as you want with braids.’

Photography by Abi Oshodi. Hair by Michelle Garande at Afrotherapy 235 Fore Street, Edmonton, London N18 2TZ. Tel: 020 8345 5632. Make-up by Alicene Alcindor