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If you meet Taylor without a ponytail, she's humble, forgiving, and a true virtue of patience. But there's nothing that brings out my inner hot girl like a 40" yaki braid from my local beauty supply store, and that's big facts. Celebrities like Beyonce, Yara Shahidi, and Alicia Keys have all championed the braided faux ponytail with all the style and grace Biggie talked about and xoNecole has the details on how you can achieve this style, too.

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We're only a few weeks into the year and I know you're trying to get your finances all the way together, which makes this elegant yet budget-friendly style a perfect choice for mavens who want to slay without sacrificing a check at the hair salon.

With a brush, a pack of hair from the beauty supply store of your choice, some edge control, and a whole lot of bobby pins and the possibilities of your braided pony are endless.

If your interest is piqued but you're not sure where to start, here are some celebrity-inspired styles that will have you heading to the store ASAP:

Beyonce

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Give your chemically-treated hair a break and try out a blonde braided pony as a protective style.

Yara Shahidi

Earlier this week at the Golden Globes, Yara gave us all the Set It Off energy with this 90-style braided pony by Rio Sreedharan.

Issa Rae

Film Magic / HBO

Issa Rae never fails to come through with the natural styles and this one of a kind spin on a jumbo braided pony is no exception.

Yara Shahidi

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No gallery of braided ponies is complete without a proper topknot and Yara Shahidi's expertly crafted high bun fits the bill perfectly.

Marsai Martin

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Marsai Martin may be young, but she's here to show the world that high fashion comes fun-sized, too. Add gold thread to level up your elegance instantly.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Getty / Steve Granitz

This braided pony perfectly modeled by Tracee Ellis Ross is reserved for expert home stylists who know their way around a fishtail.

Janelle Monae

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This butt-length, jewelry-adorned braid is proof of Janelle Monae's undeniable drip. Level up your pony by adding accessories that match your fit.

Featured image by Instagram/@rio_hair.

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