Creating a side braid is easier than you think! This guide will walk you through the process, covering various techniques and tips for success.
Getting Started: Preparation and Tools
Before you begin, you'll need:
- A hairbrush or comb to detangle your hair.
- Hair ties (elastic bands) to secure the braid.
- Optional: Hairspray or texturizing spray for better hold, especially for finer hair.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Basic Side Braid
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Part your hair: Create a side part, choosing your preferred side. The larger section will be where you'll start your braid.
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Begin braiding: Start a regular three-strand braid near your hairline on the larger side of your part. Take a small section of hair and divide it into three equal strands. Begin your braid by crossing the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the new middle.
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Add hair: This step transforms it into a French braid. As you continue braiding, add small strands of hair from the outside sections of your head to each strand before crossing it over. This incorporates more hair into the braid.
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Continue braiding: Keep adding hair to your braid until you reach the end of your desired length, continuing your normal three-strand braid pattern.
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Secure the braid: Secure the end of your braid with a hair tie.
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Loosen (optional): For a more relaxed, effortless look, gently pull at the edges of the braid to loosen it.
Different Side Braid Variations
There are many variations of side braids, including:
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Dutch Braid: Instead of crossing the strands over each other as in a regular braid, cross them under each other. This creates a raised braid that stands out more. [See this YouTube tutorial](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o2xtrm99PA4 for a Dutch side braid).
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Fishtail Braid: This intricate braid involves taking small strands of hair from the outside of the main section and adding them to the opposite side. Numerous online tutorials illustrate this technique.
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Loose Side Braid: Achieve a casual, romantic look by intentionally creating a looser braid with slightly pulled-out sections. My Stiletto Life provides a great tutorial for this style.
Tips for Success
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Practice makes perfect: The more you practice, the easier it will become to create beautiful, even side braids.
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Hair texture matters: If your hair is fine or slippery, texturizing spray can provide better grip and hold.
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Experiment with placement: Try different partings and braid placements to find what looks best on you.
Conclusion
Mastering the side braid opens up a world of styling possibilities! From simple and elegant to intricate and bohemian, a side braid is a versatile and timeless hairstyle. Practice, experimentation, and finding the right tutorial for your skill level are keys to success.
