Bed head plagues us all. It’s relentless, indiscriminate and unpredictable. Although there is no cure (unless you shave your head) there are ways to keep it at bay. The one remedy I personally swear by is braids. I use them for both defensive and offensive combat strategies, which I’ll let you in on! The first of which is great for medium length and the second is ideal for longer locks.

1. Braid Before Bed (defensive)

• Part your hair down the middle, french braid on both sides (use elastics to hold) and hit the hay.
• Wake up and take them out.
• Gently run your fingers through to loosen the waves. (don’t brush)
• Spritz with some light hold spray (I use this one) and you’re good to go OR
• Pin back some front pieces with a couple bobby pins to add a little romance, spritz again.

2. Braid in the morning (offensive)

• Wake up after a lovely slumber with kinks and cowlicks aplenty.
• Part your hair down the middle, french braid on both sides (use elastics to hold).
• Bring one braid up and over the top of your head so the end is at the top of your other ear. (i.e.: left braid, right ear)
• Pin down the end.
• Bring the other braid up and over so it covers the first braid’s end.
• Tuck the end of the second braid under the first and pin.
• Add pins throughout to secure.
• Spritz thoroughly to tame fly aways and prepare for compliments!

This post was inspired by the folks at Casper, a sleep startup that launched this spring with outrageously comfortable mattresses made in the US and shipped to your doorstep. They asked if I had any tips for combatting or embracing bed head and it turns out I had ideas for both! They’ll be rounding up tips from bloggers all over and I’ll be sure to share it when they do. #ownyourbedhead

Outfit 1 – Everlane Tee, J.Crew Jeans // Outfit 2 – Zara Tee, Rag & Bone jeans // Outfit 3 – Anine Bing Dress