If you need a hairstyle that gets you ready in less than five minutes, say no more—French braids are for you. This coiffure is simple and elegant. Braid lovers who’d rather not spend long hours in the salon opt for it every now and then. It’s a stunning DIY hairstyle you can do with your natural hair or add extensions to increase the length.
In this guide, we show you how to achieve this zero-complicated hairstyle and stunning inspos to get you started.
What are French Braids?
A French braid is a three-strand hairstyle that involves braiding three sections of hair from the crown of the head to the nape of the neck. It begins with a small section of hair, then gradually adds more hair from each side as the braid goes down, creating a smooth plait close to the scalp.
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Difference Between Dutch Braids & French Braids
The two hairstyles are similar, often achieved with the same braiding technique. However, what distinguishes them is that while French plaits cross the side sections of hair over the middle strand, Dutch braids cross the hair strands underneath each other.
How to Achieve French Braids
French plaits are chic and quick to achieve. Their simplicity makes them a must-wear for minimalist hair enthusiasts. Start with the single French braid or the classic two French braids for some understated elegance using these tools:
- A comb
- Texturizing spray
- Hairspray
- Bobby pins
- A hair elastic
Here’s how to do the braids:
- Wash your hair and comb it to make it tangle-free.
- Section your hair into two sections, beginning at the hairline.
- Separate this large section of hair into three smaller parts. These are the strands you’ll use to braid.
- Take the left section of your hair and cross it over the middle. Do the same for the right section.
- After doing the initial crossovers on both sides, add hair from outside the braid to begin weaving your French braid.
- Continue adding more sections of hair from both sides as you braid down.
- Repeat this braiding technique until you add all the hair from both sides.
- Plait the hair until you have about two inches of unbraided hair and secure with an elastic band.
One of the most challenging aspects of French plaits is mastering the hand positioning. While some braiders hold all three strands with one hand, others pick the strands one at a time. Holding all strands at once will free up your other hand and allow you to add more hair into the braid more evenly.
Stunning French Braid Ideas
Recreate any of these French plaits for a gorgeous look:
Messy French Plaits
This style embraces the perfection in imperfection. The deliberate undone look adds more texture and amplifies the tousled finish it gives.
Single French Braid
For a laidback look, make a single plait on your head using this technique. It gathers all your hair into one cornrow, giving you a convenient style.
French Pigtails
After braiding your hair into one or two cornrows, gather and tie it at the back or side of your head for that childlike pigtail.
French Plait Ponytail
Get this look by leaving the hair around the nape of your neck undone. Then secure it with an elastic band or hair accessory.
Tucked French Plait
After plaiting your hair, tuck the tail into the little gap between your scalp and the braid. Use a pin to keep it in place and enjoy your coiffure without any strand touching your nape.
French-Braided Half Updo
Create a half-up, half-down style by only braiding half of your hair and letting the other half flow freely and loose at the back. Add some subtle curls for that wavy, beachy style.
Double French Braid Ponytail
This double French braid ponytail is perfect for casual and formal events. Feel free to curl the ponytail for more effect.
French Braids with Curly Ends
For a cascading effect, curl the ends of your braids. But before doing this, secure the point where the plait ends so the whole braid doesn’t unravel.
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Embrace French Plaits for a Quick Hairstyle
So long as comfort and functionality are treasured, French plaits will always be trendy. Whether lounging at home or prepping for casual or formal outings, this style gets you ready in minutes. Accessorize it with hair clips, beads, gold cuffs, headbands, and other hair accessories. And if you need more ideas to get you started, check them out below:
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