From milkmaid to braided buns, this season, braids are back with a vengeance. We’ve seen them on the red carpet  - the SAG awards were swarming with braids atop the pretty heads – and on the runways. At Valentino and Alexander McQueen shows for  spring 2012 fashion week, braids were the predominate hair style, although one was tight and incredibly detailed (McQueen), while the other was intricate (you have to see the way it maneuvers up the back of the head to understand the intricacy) and whimsical (Valentino). And now, just last week, in Paris at the Haute Couture shows, braids were once again a vision on the runway at the Christophe Josse show – combining the best parts of both Valentino and McQueen’s braids, this style was detailed and intricate yet somehow romantic.

Regardless of how you choose to wear your braid, take note, that braids are bound to be a huge hair trend this spring season. Here, a curated selection of braids from the spring runways and award season 2012.

The intricate and romantic multi-braided concoction at the Christophe Josse Couture show in Paris last week.

Mila Kunis at the Golden Globes in an updated version of the classic bun – one with braids.

Busy Phillips at the SAG Awards in a single swide swept braid by Chris McMillan (of Jen Aniston fame). This is an easy look to recreate, and one that will instantly add life into your hair style.

Dianna Agron in a beautiful and whimsical fishtail braided updo at the SAG awards. One of my personal favorite styles of all the braids. On trend yet, despite being an updo, this look is quite romantic and age appropriate.

Kelly Cuoco at the SAG Awards with a braided headband accompanying her updo. Not my favorite style, but the braided headband look is quite popular and, if done right, can look fabulous (think Sienna Miller here).

Kirsten Dunst, at the Sundance premiere of Bachelorette, shows off a slightly messy updo with a single, front side braid secured into the bun – to add texture and trendiness. Again, an easy way to refresh the seen-it-before updo.