A Complete Guide to How to French Braid
The French braid is a timeless and elegant hairstyle loved by many. Whether you’re going for a classic look or something more modern, this braid is a versatile option that suits any occasion. Although it might seem intricate at first glance, mastering the technique is easier than it looks with a bit of practice. In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to create a traditional French braid as well as a lace French braid, along with tips and tricks to perfect your braiding skills.
How to Create a Classic French Braid
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair for Styling
To start, ensure your hair is smooth and tangle-free. Use a brush or wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair, leaving it soft and ready to work with. For a single braid down the back of your head, brush your hair backward. If you prefer side braids or multiple braids, part your hair accordingly.
You can braid your hair while it’s dry or slightly damp. Wet braiding not only makes handling easier but also leaves you with natural waves when you undo the braid later.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Gather a section of hair about 3-4 inches wide from the top center of your head. Make sure all the hair in this section is from the same “row” or level. Avoid taking strands from different heights to maintain uniformity.
If you have bangs, decide whether you want to incorporate them into the braid or leave them out for a softer look. Keep in mind that the size of this section doesn’t determine the overall thickness of your braid, as it will grow as you add more hair.
Step 3: Divide into Three Equal Strands
Using your fingers, divide the gathered section into three even strands. These will form the foundation of your braid. Ensure all three strands are equal in size to create a balanced braid.
Step 4: Start with a Traditional Braid
Hold two strands in one hand and the third in the other. Begin a traditional braid by crossing the right strand over the center, then the left strand over the center. Repeat this process until you’ve completed 2-3 rounds of braiding.
Step 5: Add New Hair
Now, it’s time to incorporate new hair. Before crossing a strand over to the center, grab a small section of hair from the same side of your head and add it to the strand. Continue braiding in this way, adding hair with each cross-over.
The amount of hair you add each time depends on your preference. Adding smaller sections creates a more intricate look, while larger sections result in a bolder braid.
Step 6: Braid to the Nape of Your Neck
As you work your way down, continue adding hair from the sides until you’ve incorporated all your hair into the braid. By the time you reach the nape of your neck, there should be no loose strands left.
Step 7: Finish with a Traditional Braid
Once all your hair is in the braid, continue braiding the remaining hair in a traditional three-strand pattern until you reach the tips. Secure the braid with a hair tie, avoiding rubber bands to prevent hair damage.
How to Create a Lace French Braid
Step 1: Prepare Your Hair
As with the classic French braid, start by detangling and smoothing your hair. For a lace French braid, you’ll need to decide whether you want one braid framing your face or two braids along either side. Use a side or center part to divide your hair as needed.
Step 2: Start with a Small Section
Take a small section of hair from one side of your part, close to the hairline. The size of this section will determine the thickness of your braid. For a delicate look, choose a smaller section; for a more pronounced braid, use a larger one.
Step 3: Split the Section into Three Parts
Divide this section into three equal parts, just as you would for a traditional braid. Angle the strands downward so the braid frames your face beautifully.
Step 4: Begin Braiding
Start a traditional braid by crossing the right strand over the center, then the left strand over the center.
Step 5: Add Hair from One Side Only
Unlike the classic French braid, in a lace braid, you’ll only add hair from one side. Choose either the top or bottom of your head, and consistently pull hair from that side with each crossover.
Step 6: Continue Around Your Head
As you braid, guide the braid around your head to create a crown-like effect. You can position the braid over or under your ear, depending on your preference.
If you’re making two lace braids, stop when you reach the nape of your neck, secure the first braid with an elastic, and repeat on the other side.
Step 7: Finish the Braid
Once you’ve added all the hair, finish the braid traditionally until you reach the ends. Tie it off with an elastic to secure your style.
Tips for Perfect French Braids
- Practice makes perfect! Start with loose braids to get the hang of the technique.
- Use a mirror to ensure even braiding, especially at the back of your head.
- Experiment with different braid sizes and placements for a variety of looks.
- For a polished finish, spritz your braid with light-hold hairspray to tame flyaways.
Conclusion how to french braid
Once you have mastered the French braid, you have endless possibilities for creating elegant and versatile hairstyles. Whether you prefer the classic French braid for a timeless look or the top braid for a more intricate and unique style, these techniques will add charm and sophistication to your look. With practice, you can create braids that suit any occasion, from casual outings to formal occasions. So grab your comb, start braiding and let your creativity shine through your hair!
