Braids are a versatile and stylish way to wear your hair. They can be simple or elaborate, and they can be dressed up or down. Braids are also a great way to protect your hair from damage.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, braiding your hair can help to reduce breakage and split ends. Braids can also help to prevent tangles and knots, which can lead to hair loss.
If you’re new to braiding, there are plenty of resources available to help you learn. There are books, websites, and even YouTube videos that can teach you how to braid your hair. You can also ask a friend or family member to teach you.
Once you’ve mastered the basics of braiding, you can start to experiment with different styles. There are endless possibilities when it comes to braids, so you’re sure to find a style that you love.
Here are 21 braids every woman should know how to style:
1. The French braid
The French braid is a classic braid that is both beautiful and versatile. It can be worn on any hair type, and it can be dressed up or down.
To braid a French braid, start by dividing your hair into three sections. Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section. Continue braiding in this way, adding hair from the sides as you go.
2. The Dutch braid
The Dutch braid is a variation of the French braid that is slightly more intricate. It is also known as an inside-out French braid.
To braid a Dutch braid, start by dividing your hair into three sections. Cross the left section over the middle section, then cross the right section over the middle section. Continue braiding in this way, adding hair from the sides as you go.
3. The fishtail braid
The fishtail braid is a beautiful and unique braid that is perfect for special occasions. It is also known as a herringbone braid.
To braid a fishtail braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Take a small section of hair from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the inside of the right section. Repeat on the other side. Continue braiding in this way, alternating sides.
4. The waterfall braid
The waterfall braid is a beautiful and ethereal braid that is perfect for summer. It creates the illusion of a waterfall flowing down your hair.
To braid a waterfall braid, start by dividing your hair into three sections. Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section. Instead of continuing to braid the left section, drop it down and take a new section of hair from the top of your head. Cross this new section over the middle section and repeat the process.
5. The crown braid
The crown braid is a beautiful and elegant braid that is perfect for special occasions. It creates the illusion of a crown on your head.
To braid a crown braid, start by dividing your hair into three sections. Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section. Continue braiding in this way, adding hair from the sides as you go. Once you reach the back of your head, secure the braid with a hair elastic.
6. The milkmaid braid
The milkmaid braid is a simple and elegant braid that is perfect for everyday wear. It is also known as a double Dutch braid.
To braid a milkmaid braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Braid each section of hair into a three-strand braid. Cross the two braids over each other, then secure them with a hair elastic.
7. The rope braid
The rope braid is a simple and versatile braid that is perfect for any occasion. It is also known as a twisted braid.
To braid a rope braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Twist each section of hair clockwise. Cross the two twisted sections over each other, then twist them together counterclockwise. Continue braiding in this way until you reach the end of your hair.
8. The braided bun
The braided bun is a beautiful and elegant hairstyle that is perfect for special occasions. It is also known as a braided updo.
To create a braided bun, start by braiding your hair into a three-strand braid. Wrap the braid around itself to form a bun, then secure it with bobby pins.
9. The braided ponytail
The braided ponytail is a simple and stylish hairstyle that is perfect for everyday wear. It is also known as a braided tail.
To create a braided ponytail, start by braiding your hair into a three-strand braid. Pull the braid through the hair elastic to create a ponytail.
10. The braided headband
The braided headband is a beautiful and unique hairstyle that is perfect for special occasions. It is also known as a braided halo.
To create a braided headband, start by braiding your hair into a three-strand braid. Wrap the braid around your head to form a headband, then secure it with bobby pins.
11. The micro braid
The micro braid is a small and intricate braid that is perfect for adding detail to your hairstyle. It is also known as a tiny braid.
To braid a micro braid, start by dividing your hair into very small sections. Braid each section of hair into a three-strand braid.
12. The jumbo braid
The jumbo braid is a large and dramatic braid that is perfect for making a statement. It is also known as a giant braid.
To braid a jumbo braid, start by dividing your hair into large sections. Braid each section of hair into a three-strand braid.
13. The box braid
The box braid is a square-shaped braid that is perfect for adding texture to your hair. It is also known as a cornrow.
To braid a box braid, start by dividing your hair into square sections. Braid each section of hair into a three-strand braid.
14. The Senegalese twist
The Senegalese twist is a twisted braid that is perfect for adding volume to your hair. It is also known as a rope twist.
To create a Senegalese twist, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Twist each section of hair clockwise. Wrap the two twisted sections around each other, then twist them together counterclockwise.
15. The dreadlock
The dreadlock is a matted braid that is formed by allowing your hair to tangle and knot together. It is also known as a loc.
To create dreadlocks, stop combing or brushing your hair. Your hair will naturally start to tangle and knot together, forming dreadlocks.
16. The faux loc
The faux loc is a type of dreadlock that is created by wrapping hair extensions around your own hair. It is also known as a weave loc.
To create faux locs, start by dividing your hair into sections. Wrap hair extensions around each section of hair, then secure them with a hair elastic.
17. The knotless braid
The knotless braid is a type of braid that is created without using any knots. It is also known as a stitch braid.
To create a knotless braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Cross one section over the other, then pull the other section through the loop. Repeat this process, alternating sides.
18. The invisible braid
The invisible braid is a type of braid that is created by braiding your hair underneath your other hair. It is also known as a hidden braid.
To create an invisible braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Cross one section over the other, then pull the other section through the loop. Instead of continuing to braid the top section, pull it underneath the bottom section. Repeat this process, alternating sides.
19. The half-up braid
The half-up braid is a type of braid that is created by braiding only the top half of your hair. It is also known as a French braid bun.
To create a half-up braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Braid the top section of hair into a three-strand braid. Wrap the braid around itself to form a bun, then secure it with bobby pins.
20. The side braid
The side braid is a type of braid that is created by braiding your hair on one side of your head. It is also known as a Dutch braid ponytail.
To create a side braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Braid the side section of hair into a three-strand braid. Pull the braid through the hair elastic to create a ponytail.
21. The messy braid
The messy braid is a type of braid that is created by braiding your hair loosely. It is also known as a French braid bun.
To create a messy braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Braid the top section of hair into a three-strand braid. Pull the braid through the hair elastic to create a bun, then secure it with bobby pins.
FAQs
1. What are the benefits of braiding your hair?
Braiding your hair can help to reduce breakage and split ends. It can also help to prevent tangles and knots, which can lead to hair loss.
2. How often should I braid my hair?
You can braid your hair as often as you like. However, if you have dry or damaged hair, you should avoid braiding it too often.
3. What are some tips for braiding your hair?
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