Hair Special 2: PLAITS AND PONIES

Runway: The ponytail obsession continues, from preppy prom queen at Calvin Klein to high-energy disco diva at Dolce & Gabbana. The finished article is singularly on trend whether exuding show-ring standard levels of shine or an edgier, unpredictable matte texture. Plaits are less about Heidi and more about the highly elaborate, whether judiciously placed as the single focal point in unimpeachably silky straight do, or worn en masse in ropes and intricate twists.

Reality: A successful ponytail is about sending out a strong style statement and not an SOS signal to society at large. Get creative and introduce S-bend shaped waves, or a precision pin straight finish; or backcomb the underneath sections, leaving the top piece sleek. Transform schoolgirl plaits into a braid parade by looping up the ends, or introduce at random around the hairline or use to give an up-do an added dimension.

Halo hair
Plaits are back. The stunning 'halo' style seen at Marras is being recreated atop the heads of celebs everywhere this season, none so successful as Sienna Miller's Golden Globes 'do.

Plaited bun
This demure, plaited high bun looked edgy at Tatanaka, but Eva Longoria gave it a touch of old-school Hollywood glamour on the red carpet.

Top knot
Who knew Madonna's infamous top knot circa 1990 would make a comeback? It's been seen on the catwalks of Dolce & Gabbana and the red carpet of Thandie Newton.

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