For an effortless style, the ideal time and method for braiding hair should be when it is still slightly damp. Also, try braiding it a few days post-wash to help the style hold.
Start by crossing the right section over the middle section, and continue this pattern until your braid has reached your desired length.
Three-Strand Braid
This braid will surely draw attention. Easy to do and great for adding drama or texture to any ponytail or long hairstyle, it makes an impactful statement at formal events like weddings or proms.
Divide these sections according to their numbers (1, 2, 3, and 4), then start braiding by flipping section 1 over section 2 and under section 3 until the end. Tie it off using an elastic, and you are finished!
Lattice Braid
Make a more striking statement with lattice braiding by starting with a basic three-strand braid and adding small sections from either side to an outside strand, crossing them over each middle strand, then feeding another area from the opposite side into an inside strand, traveling back over said newly struck over the central strand and repeating this until desired lattice effect has been reached.
Two-Strand Braid
If you prefer more relaxed, calm looks, this two-strand braid style could be needed to achieve that look. With no knots to tie or complicated techniques involved, this look can be achieved quickly.
Before braiding your hair, divide it into three equal sections and comb through them all so they are neat. Take one unit on either side and cross them over one another – first, cross over the right section over the middle, then the left section, etc. Repeat this over-under pattern until your hair reaches the end. When done, tie back with clear elastics and enjoy your new style!
Curlier and Kinkier Textures
Curlier and kinkier textures may benefit from starting with freshly-washed hair to ensure detangled strands, says Miller. Additionally, misting your braids from time to time with water to rehydrate them will prevent them from drying out and becoming dry and brittle over time – keeping them moisturized is especially crucial if your scalp issues include sensitive skin or psoriasis.
Fishbone Braid
Fishbone braids are an elegant way to wear your hair for special events and can look stunning on women of any age and hair length or texture.
An easy, beautiful fishbone braid style can make an effortless statement for casual or formal events. Add color with your braids for added glamor, perfect for curls and top knots. Check out how celebrity stylist Dimitris Giannetos glamorized Camila Cabello’s stacked GL Tapes by Great Lengths at the Grammys to see this style at its best!
Fishbone braids offer many advantages, one being versatility: you can customize them to any size you like! From one big cornrow on each side to multiple small cornrows arranged randomly throughout your head in different patterns – even adding another color of braiding hair for an extravagant effect!
French Braid
Create a French Braid by starting with three equal sections and gradually adding more pieces to each side as you progress. Use either center or side braiding techniques, grabbing hair from the top of your head (or areas closest to your face), then crossing one piece from the left or right side over the original middle piece to form another middle section.
Continue this pattern–right over center, left over center–across your entire length. Add additional hair as needed from either side and cross them over for an ombre look.
Once you reach the end of your hair, secure it into a braid with clear elastic to maintain its secure style. To add flair, consider using decorative clips for additional flair in your braid.
