A braid or plait is a complex pattern or structure that is formed by intertwining three or more flexible strands of hair together. Braids are very diverse, and there are many types of braiding techniques to choose from.
The effects your hairstyle portrays depends on other areas of your style. As a result, it is important to know the different ways to style your desired braiding techniques, so that it perfectly fits the particular event you are going to. Most types of braids can either be casual or formal. You can decide to use the same braid technique for a casual day as you do for special events.
This depends on you and how knowledgeable you are about the braiding technique you want to use. There are several factors you should consider before choosing a particular braid technique.
These factors include hair strength, texture, volume and length. And they play a role in determining the type of braiding techniques that will look best on you. Another factor to consider is whether or not you can do the braiding yourself, or you would need a braiding professional to help you. The more the complexity of the braiding technique, the more you will need the expertise of a braid professional.
Braids are perfect for almost every event. Whether you are in school, office, in the gym or even at a wedding. There is always a braided hairstyle that is ideal for you. Also depending on your type of hair, braids can help you protect your hair from damage and help you grow it longer. If you are looking for different braid techniques, then this article is for you. Below are different types of braids you can choose from.
For some more ideas on braids for the ladies here ya go!
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Best Braiding Techniques and Types
Table of contents:
Crochet braids
Fishtail braid
Braided buns
Feed-in braids
Cornrow braids
Box braids
Dutch braids
Waterfall braids
Fulani braids
Yarn braids
Crown braids
Mohawk braids
Snake braids
Halo braids
Side braids
Crochet braids
Crochet braid technique is among the easiest and simplest means to get that extra long braids you desire. It is very similar to weave, and it involves first braiding your hair into loose cornrows. This loose pattern of cornrow forms the foundation of the crochet braids. This is then followed by hair extensions that are threaded and secured using a crochet hook, and then plaited into the braid style of your choice. There are also secured ready-made braids like box braids that dramatically reduce the time it takes to fix your braids. And if you don’t have an extra day to spend in the stylist’s shop, then a ready-made braid is a good choice.
Fishtail braid
Fishtail braid is among the easiest braid to create because it does not involve a complicated pattern. Also, you may want to divide the hair into various small sections of about half an inch, and keep tension in the braid to prevent it from falling apart. You can then start the fishtail at any point, using a Dutch or French braiding technique. This implies that it works well on both long and short hair. You can also wear a double fishtail braid, which gives you a good look.
Braided buns
When it comes to braided buns, there are so may options. It is a festival favorite with the vibes of the 90’s and for a trending take, you can combine double braids with buns. Firstly, section the hair down the center parting, followed by creating two Dutch braids at the nape of your neck. Continue this up to the crown of your head, then secure. This makes it in a double ponytails. Now create a double Dutch braids beginning at the front of your head and braid backward to meet the other braid. Then secure the hair into a mini ponytail and twist other loose hair into two buns. You will get a hairstyle that is attractive and stands out from the crowd.
Feed-in braids
Feed-in braids are very good for protecting your hair from damage than most other styles. It is also known as knotless braids. To create cornrows or super long box braids, the hair stylist will secure extensions to your hair with a feed-in knot. The stylist will progressively feed the extensions in with this technique, and then plaiting them together with your own locks for a seamless bend. This will result in less tension on your scalp, and less bulk of the braid. This will allow the braids to flow freely, and giving you that extra length you desire.
Cornrow braids
This braid is among the most trending hairstyles right now. Using the underhand technique, the hair is braided close to the scalp to create a raised plait. Each of the plait is formed neatly in rows. This is where cornrow braid originates it’s name. The braids can be thick or thin, and then are very adaptable. They can be combined with some other braid styles or can be used to create a fauxhawk or faux undercut. Cornrows are a protective style, and they will last for some weeks without much maintenance.
Box braids
This is an iconic braid for Afro textured hair. The entire hair is sectioned into squares and then worked into individual plaits to get this amazing look. Your hair can be used or you can have an extension braided in it, and it will give you a full, long and a head turning locks. They can be of any length or thickness, and are considered a protective style that prevents your hair from damage. However, if your hair is a fine hair or naturally thin, it is better you opt for smaller box braids that will impose less tension on your scalp. In addition, box braids takes longer time to put in, and once done, they last for several weeks without much maintenance.
Dutch braids
They are underhand braid style, this implies that rather than lying flat, your hair will actually stand out from your head. It is a three staged technique that is very classic. This means that you are acquainted with creating a plait that is standard. The Dutch braid also follows the same pattern. Although, since both plaits require that you gradually add sections of hair, the Dutch braid can sometimes be referred to as the reverse French braid. This is an interesting way to create double braids, crown braids for a formal event, and take a standard plait style to another level.
Waterfall braids
Waterfall braids is among the most amazing and feminine styles. It is simply a modified form of French braid. But the major difference is that you only have to braid across the top part of your hair, leaving the rest free rather than pulling in sections to work all your hair into the plait. Waterfall braid creates cascading effect. That is, it looks great and perfect paired with a soft wave hairstyle. It’s romantic and gentle vibe makes this braid a popular bridesmaid and bridal choice. And to get a pretty effect, add some flowers, a Dutch braid or a delicate hair slides.
Fulani braids
This braid is the signature of the Fulani people of West Africa. The braid involves plaiting medium or thin braids in rows along each side of the head while also leaving a central twist at the crown. The braid in the central is then decorated with various accessories like beads and rings. Hair cuffs are optional. The accessories and the braids must be placed strategically to make the most of the shape of the face. The Fulani braids may also be combined with many other styles to make it more perfect. For example, pairing Fulani braids at the front, with wearing your hair in a crown braid will make a unique statement.
Yarn braids
These are types of braid extensions that are made from acrylic, a non wool fabric. Yarn braids are a good protective styles for an Afro textured hair, most especially during cold months like winter and autumn. The braids make a bold statement. This is because the non wool fabric comes in a rainbow of colours; peach, colour pop shade like deep green, red, and pastel pink are on trend. Yarn braids works with all hair lengths, which makes it a very versatile styling option. Yarn braids can be as thick or as thin as you want, so choose anything from jumbo to mini depending on the strength and texture of your hair. You may also need to consider how much time you have when braiding because the bigger the braids are, the longer time it takes.
Crown braids
Crown braid is a very popular braid for special occasions like weddings and proms. This is simply because the braid brings out the princess in you! Although the style needs hair with a bit of texture and grit. So it is very perfect if you have not washed yours, and you want to disguise a bad hair day. The easiest and simplest way to make a crown braid is to plait your hair into a French braid or a double Dutch braid, then raise each side and secure it to the opposite side to form the crown. Within minutes, you are already feeling and looking like royalty.
Mohawk braids
Mohawk braid is a unique style that commands attention, and if you are in need of hairstyle that draws attention, Mohawk is the style for you. When you don’t have much time, you can plait a thick Dutch braid along the center of your head, followed by tying the remaining section of your hair back in a ponytail. This will immediately create a Mohawk effect without putting much effort. And if you decide to take your Mohawk braid to another level, there are several striking techniques you can use. Firstly, begin by cornrowing the side section of your hair, then make a French or Dutch braid at the center section of your neck, and working it towards your forehead. Fold the braid back on itself when you run out of hair, this will help you to create a rounded Mohawk. This style works best if you have a straight and thick hair.
Snake braids
If you can create a three strand plaits, then you can easily turn it into a snake plaid. Snake braid is a very easy style and it is usually used to give a half-down and a half-up look a fresh twist. If you want to create a snake braid, begin by plaiting a small section of hair at your temple. Now work it backwards until you run out of hair, then hold one of the three strands while pushing the other two strands back up. After that, gently and slightly pull out the braid once again so as to make the snake pattern visible. Advance to the opposite side and repeat this process, then pin the two snake braids together at the back of your head in a ponytail. Now use a section of your hair to cover the join. Snake braid is among the most fantastic looking and straightforward braided hairstyles that gives you that look you desire.
Halo braids
The halo braid is a bit higher on the head than crown braid. It is a more advanced form of crown braid. If you want to create this style, start by sweeping all your hair to one side and initiate the Dutch braiding from the left to the right. The braiding should start about an inch behind the temple. Starting at this section of the head will make the halo appear more raised and less like the crown braid. And as you add more and more sections, the braid will begin to coil around your head. Immediately you run out of hair to continue the braiding, twist the last pieces of hair and tuck them away. This is a wonderful hairstyle for a formal occasion especially in summer. It is also a good way to flaunt statement earrings too.
Side braids
Side braid is another great braid pattern that can be used to take a side-swept wavy hairstyle to another level. The side braids begins at the hairline, and instead of moving straight back, it moves up towards the crown of the head. Because of this, they have a striking appearance.
