11 ways to braid your hair
Here are 11 different braid ideas for your hair. Braiding your hair can give you many different looks, and is a simple way to style your hair when it is hot. Braids are ideal for long and medium hair, but can work on short hair too. Make sure you have a brush, hairspray, clear elastics, and bobby pins on hand before you braid. Here are a few braid ideas you can try:
1. Side French Braid
A twist (no pun intended) on the classic French braid, which can also work for short hair. Create a deep side part so you have enough hair to work with. Starting at the part, work toward the opposite side of your face, stopping at the temple. Secure your braid with a clear elastic, bobby pins, or even a decorative hair accessory. You can leave the rest of your hair down, straight or curly.
2. Braided Crown
Inspired by Swiss milkmaids, this is a braid hairstyle that requires longer hair, but is very easy to do. To start, pull hair into low pigtails, braid both, and secure with elastics. Pull one braid up over your head and place a bobby pin a little behind your hairline. Repeat with the other braid, putting it directly behind the first.
3. Rope Braid
The rope braid is a twisted braid. Divide your hair into two sections, and then divide one section again, into two. Twist the two strands counterclockwise around your fingers, keeping the twists tight. Do the same on the other side so you have two twists. Cross the twisted strands clockwise and secure with an elastic.
4. Side Fishtail Braid
This braid works best on hair that has some texture. If your hair is straight, use a little volumizing product or hairspray before you start to create hold. Secure your hair in a low side ponytail. Separate the ponytail into two sections. Take a small strand of hair from the outside of one section and bring it over the other section. Continue alternating sides until you have run out of hair. Finish with a clear elastic. You can cut out the top elastic or place a strand of hair over it to cover.
5. Braided Bangs
Everyone knows that growing out bangs can be a painful process. When they reach the ‘in-between’ stage, get them out of your eyes with a braid. Start on one side of your face and braid along your hairline. Tuck the end of the braid behind your hair and secure with a bobby pin. If your hair is fine, you will need some hairspray to hold this small braid in place.
6. Flower Bun
This is another style that works better with longer hair. To begin, separate a one-inch section of hair at each temple and clip them. With the remaining hair, create two or three low braids and finish each with an elastic. Twist the low braids until they curl around themselves and bobby pin the ends. Separate the one-inch section at the top into two pieces and twist. Use a bobby pin to secure them under the bun.
7. Waterfall Braid
Also known as a cascade braid, the waterfall braid has been a big trend this year. This style can work on short, medium, and long hair, making it a very versatile braid.
If doing a single waterfall braid, start your braid on the side of your head with the most hair. Separate the section into three equal parts and start to braid the hair into a traditional braid. Add another portion of hair into the braid from the top next to the left portion of the hair and cross over the middle portion. Let go of the right portion of your hair so it drops down, creating a ‘waterfall’ affect.
For a more glamorous look, you can add ribbons, flowers, or other hair accessories to the waterfall braid.
8. Half Up Braid
This is a style that also works with shorter hair since you are only braiding the top portion of hair. Start with a two inch section of hair above your ear, and braid it towards the back of your head. Secure with an elastic and repeat on the other side. Wrap the left braid around the nape of your neck and bobby pin under the right braid. Do the same on the other side. Style the rest of your hair as usual.
9. Messy Side Braid
This Bohemian look has been seen everywhere, especially with this summer’s maxi dresses. To do it yourself, start with a French braid from back to the side. Secure with a hair elastic to make side ponytail with the remaining hair. Tease the ponytail, and then braid into a regular braid and secure the end. Pull on the hair in the braid so it loosens. To finish, cut the top hair elastic off.
10. Baby Braids
Baby braids, or tiny braids, work with all hair lengths and are so simple to do. Gather a few random one-inch sections of your hair, braid them tightly down and secure with a clear or color elastic. Blend them into the rest of your hair, which you can leave down.
11. Combo Braids
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different braid types within the same braid. For example, a braid can start as a French braid and then turn into as a fishtail once you reach the neck. Two side braids into a bun is also becoming a popular look.
A braid is a fun way to style your hair, and can complement any outfit. There are so many braid choices, you can find many that will work well with your hair type and length.