The Braid Bar opens exclusively at Selfridges

The Braid Bar has arrived at Selfridges Oxford Street, London – your answer to stylish, braided hair on the go.

This new pop up founded by West London duo Sarah Hiscox and Willa Burton is exclusive to the Beauty Workshop on G.

From French plaits and fishtails to stylish corn rows, you can choose from a menu of 12 styles named after supermodels and stars, priced between £10 and £25. 

Selfridges.com spoke to co-founders Sarah and Willa to find out all about it...

How did you come up with the idea for The Braid Bar?
Sarah: After repeated requests from my daughter Lucy to braid her hair, I realised that there was nowhere in London that I could take her to get a quick braid and not have to pay a fortune for it. With the help of Willa – a close friend, fashion stylist and all-round girl about town – we saw there was a gap in the market that needed to be filled. 

What is the most popular style of braid?
Sarah: There are two really popular styles, one being the classic fishtail, otherwise known as the ‘Cindy’. This is an intricate braid and can be worn either tight and clean or messy and edgy. Another style which is very popular is the ‘Bey’ braid, which is basically a full head of corn rows. 

And what's your favourite style of braid?
Willa: My favourite braid is the ‘Cara’ which is half a heart. I like having the majority of my hair down, so it’s perfect. This look is insane when there are charms hung all the way down the braids.

Sarah: I love the fishtail, it's a classic braid with a real twist. It suits all ages and looks glamorous, sophisticated and edgy all at the same time. An all-round winner!

Which style would you suggest to someone who has never braided their hair before? 
Willa: I think it depends on whether the person feels more comfortable with the majority of their hair being up or down.The ‘Kate’ is the perfect braid for someone who prefers to have their hair down, as the heart can only be seen from behind but the rest of the hair (including the front bits) are left free. For someone who is slightly more daring, I love the ‘Claudia’ which is a simple yet sweet halo-like look.

We’re a big fan of Blake Lively’s braids. Who are your braid icons?
Willa: Growing up in the 90s, I would probably say someone like Gwen Stefani is the most famous braid icon. However, right now, I think Cara Delevingne (being the most influential model around) has set a lot of braid trends – particularly with her under-cut style braid she wore to the Met Ball in 2013. 

Sarah: I grew up in the 80s so I always think of Madonna. She has great style and is always re-inventing herself. She wore very cool braids and hair wraps when she was just starting to become well known.

To book an appointment, call The Beauty Workshop on 0207 318 3647.