Embracing the Dutch braid trend, want to achieve that effortlessly chic look? mastering the art of doing two dutch braids on yourself is a game-changer. Here's a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to help you create perfect Dutch braids at home.
Before you dive in, ensure your hair is detangled, and you have a brush, hair elastics, and a mirror to monitor your progress. Now, let's get started!
Preparing Your Hair
Begin by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. If your hair is thick or prone to frizz, consider washing it the day before to allow it to settle. Then, section off the top part of your hair from ear to ear, clipping or pinning it up for now.
For the best results, start with clean, damp hair. Apply a small amount of mousse or texturizing spray to enhance the grip and prevent flyaways. Comb it through your hair and let it air dry or use a blow dryer with a cool setting.
The Art of Dutch Braiding
The Dutch braid is an inverted French braid. Instead of braiding the hair under, you bring the sections over each other, creating a bulkier, rugged texture. Let's break down the steps to create beautiful Dutch braids.
Start Sectioning and Braiding
Unclip the top section you set aside earlier. Start by taking a small section of hair from the middle of your forehead. Divide this section into three equal parts. Begin braiding, taking the right section and crossing it under the middle section. Then, take the left section and cross it under the new middle section.
You've now completed one stitch of a Dutch braid. Ensure you cross the strands under instead of over, as you would in a French braid. Continue this pattern, adding small sections of hair from the top of your hairline as you go along the length of your hair.
Continue Along Your Head
Follow the same Dutch braiding pattern – right under the middle, then left under the new middle – as you work your way down your head. Take care to add equal amounts of hair from the top of your head with each stitch to create a smooth, balanced braid.
When you reach the nape of your neck, switch to traditional three-strand braiding without adding more hair. Secure the end with a hair elastic. Repeat the same process on the other side of your head.
Braiding the Back
With both Dutch braids complete up to the top of your head, it's time to connect them at the back. You can either create a single, large Dutch braid down the center of your head or keep them as two separate braids.
Single, Large Dutch Braid
Unclip the top section of your hair and let it down. Divide this section into three equal parts. Begin Dutch braiding again, adding pieces from both sides as you work your way down the back of your head. Secure the end with a hair elastic when you reach the nape of your neck.
You can now unravel the initial Dutch braids at the top of your head, if desired, to create the illusion of one continuous Dutch braid from front to back.
Two Separate Dutch Braids
If you prefer keeping the Dutch braids separate, simply continue with the braids at the back of your head without joining them. Secure each end with a hair elastic.
For added interest, you can twist or intertwine the ends of the Dutch braids, or even pin them up into a bun. Experiment with different styles to find the one that suits you best.
Congratulations! You've mastered the art of creating two Dutch braids on yourself. With a bit of practice, you'll be rocking this chic style in no time. Happy braiding!