I. Introduction
French braids have been a popular hairstyle for centuries due to their versatility and charm. Whether you’re going out on a date, going to the gym, or attending a formal event, French braids are an excellent choice. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to do French braids, including different variations, tips, and tricks to make it easy and fun for you.
II. Step-by-step instructions
Before we get started with the instructions, let’s gather all the tools and products necessary for French braids. These include a hairbrush, hair ties, texturizing spray, and hair extensions(if needed).
The following is an easy-to-follow guide on how to do French braids:
Step 1:
Start by brushing your hair to remove tangles. This will help smooth out the hair and make the braiding process much easier.
Step 2:
Next, apply texturizing spray if you have fine or slippery hair. This will help add volume and make braiding more comfortable.
Step 3:
Now it’s time to start with the French braid. Begin by sectioning your hair into three equal parts, with the section on the top being the smallest.
Step 4:
Cross the right strand over the middle strand, making sure they remain separate.
Step 5:
Then, cross the left strand over the middle strand and combine it with the right strand. This is the start of the French braid.
Step 6:
Now take a small section of hair from the right side and add it to the right strand, then cross the right strand over the middle one.
Step 7:
Take another section of hair from the left side and add it to the left strand, then cross it over the middle one.
Step 8:
Repeat the process of adding hair to each strand before crossing it over the middle until you reach the nape of your neck.
Step 9:
Finish the braid with a simple three-strand braid and secure the end with a hair tie.
The above steps describe a traditional French braid. However, French braids can be done on different parts of the head and can take different forms, such as side French braids, crown French braids, and French braids in the back. We will now explore how to do French braids in these different areas.
Side French braids:
Side French braids are an excellent way to keep your hair out of your face while still looking stylish. To create a side French braid, follow these steps:
Step 1:
Begin by parting your hair on one side and separating a section of hair along the hairline, starting from the side of the part with more hair.
Step 2:
Divide the section into three parts and start braiding as you would for a traditional French braid.
Step 3:
Continue adding hair to the right and left sides until you reach the nape of your neck.
Step 4:
Finish with a simple braid and secure it with a hair tie.
Crown French braids:
Crown French braids are the perfect way to create an elegant look for any occasion. To create the crown French braid, follow these steps:
Step 1:
Start by parting your hair down the middle from the front hairline to the nape of the neck.
Step 2:
Start with a small section of hair near the forehead and braided into a traditional French braid.
Step 3:
Add hair to the left and right sides to create a crown-like braid.
Step 4:
When you reach the back of your head, finish with a simple three-strand braid and secure the end with a hair tie.
French braids in the back:
A French braid in the back is an excellent way to keep your hair in place while still looking chic. Here’s how to create a French braid at the back:
Step 1:
Brush your hair and gather it at the nape of the neck, then divide it into three equal parts.
Step 2:
Braid each of the three sections into a traditional French braid.
Step 3:
Once you reach the end of each braid, secure it with a hair tie.
III. Common mistakes to avoid
While French braids are a relatively simple hairstyle to create, there are some common mistakes to avoid. Here are some tips:
Not sectioning the hair properly:
One of the most significant mistakes that people make while trying to do French braids is not sectioning the hair properly.
Tip:
To avoid this common mistake, part the hair using a tail comb and carefully smooth the hair you want to braid before you start.
Pulling the braids too tight:
This can lead to discomfort and make the braid appear to “float” above the scalp.
Tip:
To avoid pulling the braids too tight, loosen your grip on each strand after you have added hair to it, and remember to maintain a relaxed grip on the hair while braiding it.
IV. Different variations
Once you have mastered the traditional French braid, you can start exploring different variations to create unique and complex styles. Here are some variations to try:
The waterfall braid:
The waterfall braid involves dropping strands of hair to create a unique, cascading effect. Here’s how to create it:
Step 1:
Begin by creating a traditional French braid on one side of the head.
Step 2:
For the next few stitches of the braid, drop the lower strand from the braid and pick up a new strand from the top of the head, similar to a Dutch braid.
Step 3:
When you have completed braiding, secure the end with a hair tie.
The fishtail braid:
The fishtail braid is an effortless yet stylish variation of the traditional French braid. Here’s how to create it:
Step 1:
Begin by sectioning the hair into two parts.
Step 2:
Take a small part of the hair from the outside edge of one section and cross it over to the other side.
Step 3:
Repeat this process, alternating between the two sections until you reach the end of the hair.
The Dutch braid:
The Dutch braid is a variation of the traditional French braid that gives the braid a raised, 3D appearance. Here’s how to create it:
Step 1:
Begin by creating a traditional French braid on one side of the head.
Step 2:
Instead of crossing each strand over the middle portion, cross them under, towards your face.
Step 3:
Continue braiding and adding new sections from both sides until you reach the nape of your neck.
V. Best hair types for French braids
While French braids can be done on different hair types, some hair types are better suited for them than others. Here’s how to do French braids for different hair types:
Straight hair:
Straight hair is perfect for French braids. However, it might require a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to create volume and grip.
Curly hair:
Curly and textured hair can be challenging to work with, but it is perfect for creating soft, romantic French braids. Apply hair oil to the hair for added moisture and control.
Fine hair:
People with fine hair may struggle to create volume with French braids. Use a volumizing texturizing spray to add fullness to the hair before braiding.
VI. French braids for special occasions
If you’re attending a special occasion like a wedding or a prom, French braids make the perfect hairstyle. Here’s how to create sophisticated styles:
Braided updo:
Start by creating a traditional French braid at the top of your head and continue braiding down the back.
Low bun:
Create two loose French braids at the nape of your neck and then twist them into a low bun.
VII. French braids for short hair
People with short hair are often the ones who feel left out by French braids. Nevertheless, there are still ways to enjoy this style even with short hair. Here are some tips:
Half French braids:
Create two French braids at the front part of the head and let the rest of the hair flow freely.
Hair Extensions:
For a more extended French braid, consider using hair extensions.
