Braids have been around for centuries and they’re a classic for a reason. Once you get the hang of a normal braid you’re good to go, you’ll never forget it. It’s like riding a bicycle in that way. And honestly all those complicated looking braided hairstyles are all based on a basic braid with some added elements. A French braid is the epitome of class, and it looks so intricate and elegant, but it uses the same principle as a basic braid, you just keep adding small sections of hair to it. Here is everything you need to know about the French braid.
How To French Braid Hair
French braiding hair is actually quite easy. Just make sure your hair is brushed and has no tangles in it. Then based on the texture of your hair you might want to add mousse or texturizing spray to add some grip. Take a large section (about 3 inches thick) at the crown of your head and divide it into 3. Braid like normal twice, then add more hair to the section on the right you’re about to put in the center, now do the same on the left. Just keep adding hair to the outside sections that are about to be put in the center. Eventually you’ll run out of hair to add, finish off like a normal braid and tie with an elastic.
How To French Braid Short Hair
Having short hair doesn’t mean you can’t do a French braid. Sure you might not be able to do one braid in the center of your head if you have a bob haircut but you can definitely do two French braids on the sides, or one that goes across your head like a crown. All you need to do is make sure you have enough grip and patience, it’s also best to do this on the second day short hair.
How To French Braid Your Own Hair
Doing a French braid on yourself is very similar to doing it on someone else, the only thing is you’re doing it without seeing so you have to go by what feels right. If you’ve got the technique down on someone else, you just need a little practice and you’ll be able to do it on you. A tip that makes it a little easier is to use your thumbs to grab the extra hair you’re about to add to your strand and hold the rest of your hair with your middle finger.
French Braid Hairstyles
We’ve briefly mentioned that a French braid is a single intricate braid that goes down the middle of your head from the crown of your head to your neck. But That doesn’t mean that’s the only way to do it. There are multiple ways you can incorporate French braids into your hairstyles. Here are a couple of options for you to explore.
Double French Braid
Double French braid just means you do two French braids instead of one and they start on the sides of your head instead of in the middle. Other than that it’s the same thing. It works on long, medium and even some shorter hairstyles. For example you can definitely do double French braids if you have a lob.
Side French Braid
A side French braid is a very elegant version of the French braid that can easily work as a hairstyle for a special occasion. All you have to do is start with deep side part and braid make the braid go down the side of your head that has more hair on it. You can either keep it on that side or curve it to go across the back of your head and finish on the other side.
Reverse French Braid
A reverse French braid also known as a Dutch braid is done using the same technique. You start with a normal braid and keep adding more hair to the outside strand that’s going in the middle. The only difference is that instead of placing the strand on top and in the middle you go under. This makes the braid more voluminous and it looks like it sits on top of your hair.
French Braid Ponytail
A French braid ponytail is a very cute hairstyle. You basically do the French braid like normal or on the side. But once you run out of hair to add, instead of just finishing it up as a normal three strand braid you just tie it off and leave the rest of the hair as a ponytail.
Upside Down French Braid
Doing an upside down French braid is a great way to spice up an updo like buns or a high ponytail. The easiest way to do it is to literally flip your hair upside down and do a French braid starting from the nape of your neck and go towards the crown. From there you can either tie it off into a ponytail or finish up the braid and wrap it into a bun.