The French braid is a classic, which is constantly being reinvented. Although this favorite style takes a bit of practice, the results are definitely worth it. We will show, step by step, how to best do it and how varied it can be
The classic is not all that simple, for the French plait attracts attention and always produces a particular effect. You will find step-by-step instructions earlier in this text
You can jazz up almost any hairstyle with a French plait. In this case, only a small strand was pulled back from the temple into a ponytail. The small accents created by the plaited insets lend this style a playful look
Plaiting is tame you say? Not so! Take the top hair aside and weave it into a French plait along the neck. Then backcomb the top hair and let it lie to the side over the weaving
This variation is simply a slight change from the classic French plait. The plait is woven much more tightly, so that it is almost stiff and rests immobile over the shoulder. As well, plaiting begins right from the hairline
The French plait can be a true work of art when it is pinned onto the back of the head. Braid a strand on each side and then pull towards the back and secure the hairstyle with hair pins and hairspray
We love the French braid in all its lengths and variations. Since it is so unique as it may look, it can be woven and styled. The French braid put together as a braided strand is by far the best known method, but it can also be divided, for example, for a very eye-catching effect.
1. Work some mousse into the hair in order to have some body. Next, pull back the hair, and take a section from the top and divide it into three equal parts.
2. Weave the right-hand section over the middle section, so the right-hand section now is in the middle.
3. Weave the left section over the middle section, so the left-hand section is now in the middle. This is the base for the French braid.
4. Now take some hair from the right side, weave it with the right section, and braid it again over the middle section, so that this hair from the right section is now in the middle.
5. Take some hair from the left side, weave it with the left section, and braid it again over the middle section, so that this hair from the left section is now in the middle.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until there is no more hair length remaining, and braid the rest normally to the tip.
7. Finally, set it all in place with hairspray for an optimal hold.
Once you have understood the basics and principle behind the classic French braid, you are ready to try out different variations. Our gallery illustrates five different ways of doing a French braid.