Braided Buns So Sweet Even Princess Leia Is Jelly

Braided buns are the perfect hairstyle for this New Year's Eve bash and the rest of 2016. There are so many facets to braided bun hairstyles: they are delicate and romantic, completely detailed and formal, and sweet and casual all at the same time (unless you're Miley Cyrus). They are completely versatile. You can wear them to a wedding or black tie event, rock them on a first date or girl's night with champagne, popcorn, and "Netflix & Chill." They work for every season and climate. Rain only ensures that the braids will hold tight to your head, whereas windy days will make every look windswept and Valentino-inspired.

If you were to wear a down-do (that's totally a thing) in Chicago your entire look would fall apart. Additionally every woman knows the terrifying feeling when they've already spent two hours getting ready in their bathroom to achieve the perfect selfie/Instagram/Pinterest post, and then walked outside to hail a cab only to be devastated by weather, sweat, et cetera.

So, this year, go for the braided bun. Each style can either be incredibly simplistic and polished, or delicate and exquisitely ornate. Braided buns are accessible for both hair newbies and beauty gurus alike. I pulled together some of the best braided bun tutorials, so you can feel like the 2016 Princess Leia that you are.

1. The Holiday Braided Bun

This one would be fitting for NYE or any other such occasion. Just braid from the front down to the side on both the left and right and substitute different flowers for every holiday.

2. The Messy French Braid Bun

Missy is a genius. This look is a combination classic three-part Frenchie braid and gorgeous low side bun. Bobby pins are your friends. Missy Sue is a hair Queen, so I'd follow her blindly into any salon.

3. The Perfect Halo Braid

Angelic? Riawna Capri thinks so and I do too. Make sure to have mini elastics on hand to secure tightly before you primp up the volume of your hair.

4. The Tuxedo Braid Bun

Ooh well you fancy, huh? This look is effortless, but the higher the hair is piled the fancier the style. Her secret is hair wax and high clips.

5. The Upside Down French Braid Bun

I love pineapple upside down cake as much as the next, so why not try the upside down French braid bun? That's definitely the same thing. She also uses a chignon to add height!

6. The Floral Side Bun

Is there a flower growing out of the back of your head? Are you in a Dr. Seuss book? Nope, it's just this gorgeous floral side bun. You might want a mirror for this one, folks. Once you get the hang of the pattern, it'll be easy.

7. The Mixed Fishtail & Dutch Braid Bun

A combo of two classics makes for the craziest braided bun I've ever seen. However, it's not as crazy as it seems. It helps if you have mermaid hair. Put the Dutch braid in the front for a more dramatic look.

8. The 2-Minute Elegant Bun

Do you have zero time like me? Do you get up at 3 a.m. to go to work and just can't find the energy or motivation to pull it all together? Try this timeless two-minute elegant bun.

Make sure to tease your crown before you put it into a twisted pony! Twist opposite of your side part!

9. The Messy Bun With a Braided Wrap

This bun gives off a very "Love Story" Tay Swift vibe. Going on a date? This is super romantic. Section off the right and left sides of hair, pull the bun in the back with the remaining hair, and then braid and overlap the two sides.

10. The Classic Double Dutch

Classy and perfect for fans of British TV. You'll see this one everywhere; it's a staple. The severe side part is necessary prior to sectioning; it'll look like a peace sign on the back of your head. Once you break it down, these looks are easier than you think!

Aren't they easier than they look? All you need is the right tools. After seeing all these awesome tutorials, my first New Year's resolution is to work on my braided hair game!