Rihanna Rocks New Braided Ponytail - StyleList

Rihanna's new fishtail braided ponytail. Photo: Stefania D'Alessandro/Getty ImagesIf you're a fan of Rihanna's bright red locks, now there are more of them to love.The 22-year-old pop star was spotted this week wearing a long, braided ponytail. Yes, we know it's hair extensions, but if you're going to go bold with a color, why not go all the way, right?Worn loose and off to the side, this plait draws more attention to Remy hair Rihanna's gorgeous face (just look at those high cheekbones and pouty lips!). It also highlights her long bangs tinted with what appear to be gray streaks.Long or short hair, the "Only Girl (In the World)" singer is one of the only stars we know who could pull off this raging red hair color.Just days before, Rihanna was rocking the purple carpet -- and the stage -- at the 2010 MTV Europe Music Awards in Madrid with a Snooki-esque pouf. After a quick costume change, she reappeared with her signature short, choppy locks to complement her um... short, pointy dress.The hairstyles may change, but her "matador red" mane seems to be a keeper.Want more Rihanna scoop? Check out her new wax figure!Click here for more wild and wacky Hollywood hairstyles.And create your own Rihanna-inspired braided ponytail with the easy steps Weaving hair in the gallery below: Celebrity stylist and Hair Basics expert Ted Gibson gives you the step-by-step on how to create this playful look.Peter Buckingham Hair Basics: Braided PonytailThe braided ponytail is a classic style that's easy to achieve and gives the basic pony an updated edge.Hair Basics: Braided PonytailHair ExtensionsTo create the look, long hair is essential (below the shoulders is best). If you don't have long hair, consider clip-in hair extensions. They come in a variety of shades and are simple to secure-no professional needed.Working two inches below the crown, part the hair horizontally. Lift the hair and clip to hold. Secure in the extensions by snapping them into the hairline.Hair Basics: Braided PonytailCreate a Ponytail If you're wearing hair extensions, use your hands to gently pull the hair into a high ponytail. If not, you Hair weaving can use your hands or a brush to create the ponytail.Tip: Tilting the head back when you're gathering your hair allows you to get the ponytail higher on the head.Hair Basics: Braided PonytailSecure the Ponytail Fasten your ponytail with an elastic (Gibson prefers a bungee elastic), and then pull a small strand of hair out from the bottom of the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic.Hair Basics: Braided PonytailBraid Divide the hair into three sections and braid. As you create the braid, try to smooth out each section for a more polished look.Hair Basics: Braided PonytailThe Finished Look Sleek and stylish, the braided ponytail can take your from t-ball practice to date night, effortlessly.Hair Basics: Braided PonytailWant something a little less funky? Click here to learn how to create a chic, classic ponytail.And visit our Hair Basics section for more easy hair how-tos.