If you haven't noticed, there's a new twist on traditional braids giving coifs everywhere some serious pop. Thanks to an innovative breed of temporary hair color that imparts intense color that washes out in your next shampoo braids are coming to life in an unexpectedly vivid way. This kind of no-commitment color means you can go crazy streaking, and then, when you braid your hair, the effect is like a multihued tapestry. "The colors are fun and great for the younger girl who can afford to be a little edgy," says celebrity hairstylist Oscar Blandi. "The looser the braid, the better it looks." A fishtail braid is an ideal way to show your colors.

Go Streaking!
Chose the pastels colors you want. Like a crayon, run the pastel down the length of your hair wherever you want the streaks to be. The more colors you put in your hair, the more intricate your braid will look.

Start with a Ponytail
The easiest way to make a fishtail is to fasten hair into a low ponytail just above the nape of the neck. Secure with an elastic. If your ponytail is on the shorter side, you can always add extensions.

Divide and Conquer
Split the ponytail into two sections. Take a small piece from the right side and cross it over, combining it with the left section. Then, take a small piece from the left section and cross it over, combining it with the right section. Repeat until you near the bottom of the hair and secure with another elastic. Remove the top elastic and gently pull the braid apart to loosen. Secure any falling strands with bobby pins.