2021 hair trends: The front row braid seen on Blackpink’s Jennie, Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, and more

Unlike highlights, claw clips, and tight-set perms, braids have deftly avoided the 'dated' association since its boom in the early 2000s. And while we'll gladly give credit where it is due, the timelessness of this look — in large part — has to do with the ingenuity of hairstylists. The art of twisting, knotting, and looping strands has been reinvented countless times since it went mainstream, birthing iteration after iteration that often comprises niftier-than-ever patterns and configurations. The latest arrangement of note in 2021: the front row braid; where face-framing strands are braided artfully by the side of your mien. Not only is this a way to keep your tresses out of the way, it also proves to be a fun throwback, of sorts, to the good ol' days where we all donned "cockroach feelers" with our ponytails (ha). Unfamiliar with the concept? We recommend you avoid the insect comparisions and opt for these chic renditions instead. Our favourite faces have demonstrated how to rock the look, above.