Short hair doesn’t have to mean limited styling options. Braids are a versatile and stylish way to add texture, interest, and a touch of elegance to your short locks. Whether you’re looking for a casual daytime look or a chic evening style, there’s a braid that can suit your short hair and personal style. In this article, we’ll explore different types of braids that work well with short hair, step-by-step instructions on how to create them, and tips for making your braids last all day.
Understanding Short Hair & Braids
Short hair can vary greatly in length, from a bob to a pixie cut. The key to successfully braiding short hair is to work with the natural texture and length of your hair. While it may seem challenging at first, with the right techniques and a little practice, you can create beautiful braids that enhance your short hair.
Types of Braids for Short Hair
There are several types of braids that are particularly suitable for short hair:
Mini Braids: These are small, delicate braids that can be created by sectioning off small pieces of hair. They add a subtle texture to your hair and can be styled in various ways.
French Braids: A classic braid that starts at the crown of your head and works its way down. It can be adapted for short hair by starting with a smaller section and adding more hair as you go.
Dutch Braids: Similar to French braids, but the strands are crossed under each other instead of over, creating a more three-dimensional look.
Half-Up Braids: These braids focus on the top section of your hair, leaving the rest loose. They are a great option for adding a touch of style without committing to a full braid.
Side Braids: Braids that are created on the side of your head, adding a playful and romantic touch to your look.
Preparing Your Hair for Braiding
Before you start braiding your short hair, it’s important to prepare it properly. This will make the braiding process easier and help your braids last longer.
Wash & Condition Your Hair
Start by washing your hair with a shampoo and conditioner that suit your hair type. This will remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup, leaving your hair clean and manageable. If your hair is particularly dry or damaged, you may want to use a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep it healthy and strong.
Dry Your Hair
Towel-dry your hair gently to remove excess moisture. You can then either let your hair air-dry or blow-dry it using a diffuser attachment to minimize frizz. If your hair is naturally curly or wavy, you may want to embrace your natural texture and work with it when creating your braids.
Apply Styling Products
Depending on your hair type and the type of braid you’re creating, you may want to apply some styling products to help your hair hold its shape. A lightweight hairspray can provide hold without making your hair stiff or crunchy. A texturizing spray can add volume and texture to your hair, making it easier to braid. You can also use a small amount of hair wax or pomade to tame flyaways and add definition to your braids.
Creating Braids on Short Hair
Now that your hair is prepared, it’s time to start braiding! Here are some step-by-step instructions for creating different types of braids on short hair.
Mini Braids
Section Your Hair: Use a comb to section off a small piece of hair, about an inch wide. You can create as many mini braids as you like, depending on the thickness of your hair and the look you’re going for.
Divide the Hair: Divide the section of hair into three equal strands.
Start Braiding: Cross the right strand over the middle strand, then cross the left strand over the new middle strand. Repeat this process, adding more hair to each strand as you go if you want a longer braid.
Secure the End: Once you reach the end of the section of hair, secure it with a small elastic band or a bobby pin.
Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining sections of hair until you have created all of your mini braids.
French Braids
Start at the Crown: Take a small section of hair at the crown of your head and divide it into three equal strands.
Begin Braiding: Cross the right strand over the middle strand, then cross the left strand over the new middle strand.
Add Hair: As you continue braiding, add a small amount of hair from each side of your head to the corresponding strand before crossing it over the middle strand. This will create a French braid effect.
Continue Down: Keep adding hair and braiding until you reach the nape of your neck or the desired length of your braid.
Secure the End: Secure the end of the braid with a small elastic band.
Dutch Braids
Start at the Crown: Just like with a French braid, start with a small section of hair at the crown of your head and divide it into three equal strands.
Begin Braiding: Cross the right strand under the middle strand, then cross the left strand under the new middle strand. This is the key difference between a French and a Dutch braid.
Add Hair: As you continue braiding, add a small amount of hair from each side of your head to the corresponding strand before crossing it under the middle strand.
Continue Down: Keep adding hair and braiding until you reach the nape of your neck or the desired length of your braid.
Secure the End: Secure the end of the braid with a small elastic band.
Half-Up Braids
Section Your Hair: Use a comb to section off the top half of your hair, leaving the bottom half loose.
Create Braids: Choose a type of braid (mini, French, or Dutch) and create one or more braids in the top section of your hair.
Secure the Braids: Use bobby pins or small elastic bands to secure the braids in place.
Style the Bottom Half: You can leave the bottom half of your hair loose, curl it, or add a wave for a more textured look.
Side Braids
Choose a Side: Decide whether you want your braid on the left or right side of your head.
Section Your Hair: Take a small section of hair from the chosen side of your head.
Create the Braid: Choose a braid style (mini, French, or Dutch) and create the braid along the side of your head.
Secure the End: Secure the end of the braid with a small elastic band or bobby pins.
Blend with the Rest of Your Hair: Use your fingers to gently blend the braid with the rest of your hair for a natural look.
Tips for Making Your Braids Last
- Use the Right Products: Choose styling products that are lightweight and non-greasy. Heavy products can weigh your hair down and make your braids look limp.
- Secure with Bobby Pins: Use bobby pins to secure any loose strands and keep your braids in place. You can also use decorative pins to add a touch of style.
- Avoid Touching Your Hair: Once your braids are in place, try not to touch them too much. Touching your hair can cause frizz and loosen the braids.
- Refresh with Hairspray: If your braids start to lose their shape during the day, you can refresh them with a light mist of hairspray. Just be careful not to use too much, or your hair will look stiff.
Personalizing Your Braids
- Add Accessories: You can add beads, ribbons, or flowers to your braids for a more playful look. Just secure them with small elastic bands or bobby pins.
- Experiment with Different Styles: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of braids. For example, you could create a French braid on one side of your head and a Dutch braid on the other.
- Combine with Other Hairstyles: Braids can be combined with ponytails, buns, or half-up styles for a more complex look.
Conclusion
Braiding short hair may seem challenging at first, but with a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful and stylish braids that suit your personal style. Whether you’re going for a casual daytime look or a chic evening style, braids can add a touch of elegance to your short hair. So, grab your comb, some bobby pins, and get ready to experiment with different braid styles!
Related topics:
- How to Do a Braid Out on Short Natural Hair
- How to Do Box Braids on Short Hair
- How To Do A Side Braid With Short Hair
