Braiding short hair can be a delightful and stylish way to change up your look. Despite the shorter length, there are many braid styles that can be achieved with a bit of practice and creativity. This article will explore several braided hairstyles suitable for short hair, providing detailed instructions for each style.
French Braid
The French braid is a timeless and elegant braided hairstyle that works well even with shorter hair. It’s perfect for keeping hair out of your face while looking chic.
Steps to Make a French Braid
- Section the Hair: Start by taking a 3-inch (7.6 cm) wide strand from the top of your head. This will be the base of your braid.
- Divide into Three Strands: Divide this strand into three equal sections.
- Start Braiding: Begin by crossing the leftmost strand over the middle strand, then cross the rightmost strand over the new middle strand.
- Add More Hair: As you continue braiding, gradually add more hair to each strand before crossing it over the middle. This is what creates the distinctive French braid look.
- Finish the Braid: Continue this process until you run out of hair to add. Secure the end of the braid with a hair band.
Tips for French Braiding Short Hair
- Work with Second-Day Hair: Hair that hasn’t been freshly washed has more texture and is easier to braid.
- Use Hair Spray: Apply a light hairspray to help manage any flyaways and keep the braid neat.
- Tight Braiding: Make sure to keep the braid tight to ensure it stays in place throughout the day.
Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is an elegant and romantic hairstyle that creates a cascading effect, making it ideal for short hair. This braid gives the illusion of a waterfall with strands of hair flowing down.
Steps to Make a Waterfall Braid
- Section the Hair: Take a small section of hair from the top of your head.
- Divide into Three Sections: Separate this section into three parts to start the braid.
- Begin Braiding: Start a traditional braid by crossing the left strand over the middle strand, then the right strand over the new middle strand.
- Create the Waterfall Effect: When you cross the hair on the right side, drop the strand instead of bringing it into the braid.Pick up a new section of hair next to it and continue braiding.
- Continue the Braid: Repeat the process, crossing and dropping hair strands to create the cascading waterfall effect.
- Secure the Braid: Once you reach the desired length, secure the braid with a hair band or pins.
Tips for Waterfall Braiding Short Hair
- Use a Mirror: If you’re braiding your own hair, use a mirror to see the back of your head.
- Practice Patience: This braid can be tricky at first, so practice makes perfect.
- Add Texture: Use texturizing spray to give your hair grip and help the braid hold better.
Side Braid
The side braid is a simple yet stylish hairstyle that is perfect for short hair. It’s a versatile look that can be casual or elegant, depending on how you style it.
Steps to Make a Side Braid
- Comb Hair to One Side: Brush your hair to one side of your head.
- Divide into Three Sections: Separate your hair into three equal sections.
- Start Braiding: Begin a traditional three-strand braid by crossing the left strand over the middle, then the right strand over the new middle strand.
- Continue Braiding: Keep braiding until you reach the end of your hair.
- Secure the Braid: Use a hair band or pins to secure the end of the braid.
Tips for Side Braiding Short Hair
- Loose and Messy Look: For a more relaxed style, gently tug at the braid to loosen it.
- Use Accessories: Add decorative pins or clips to enhance the braid.
- Hairspray for Hold: A light mist of hairspray can help keep the braid in place.
Dutch Braid
The Dutch braid, also known as the reverse braid or inside-out braid, is similar to the French braid but with a distinct, raised look. It’s a great way to add volume to short hair.
Steps to Make a Dutch Braid
- Section the Hair: Take a small section from the top of your head.
- Divide into Three Strands: Separate this section into three equal strands.
- Start Braiding: Cross the left strand under the middle strand, then the right strand under the new middle strand.
- Add More Hair: Continue braiding, adding more hair to each strand as you go.
- Finish the Braid: Once you reach the end of your hair, secure the braid with a hair band.
Tips for Dutch Braiding Short Hair
- Tight Braid: Keep the braid tight for a more defined look.
- Use a Rat-Tail Comb: This can help in sectioning and adding hair more precisely.
- Secure with Pins: If any short pieces stick out, use pins to tuck them in.
Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a unique and intricate braid that looks more complicated than it is. It’s perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to short hair.
Steps to Make a Fishtail Braid
- Divide Hair into Two Sections: Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections.
- Cross Small Sections: Take a small piece of hair from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to the right section.
- Repeat on the Other Side: Take a small piece from the outer edge of the right section and cross it over to the left section.
- Continue the Process: Keep crossing small sections from each side until you reach the end of your hair.
- Secure the Braid: Use a hair band to secure the end.
Tips for Fishtail Braiding Short Hair
- Use Thin Sections: Smaller sections create a more detailed braid.
- Loosen for Volume: Gently tug on the braid to make it look fuller and more relaxed.
- Practice Makes Perfect: The fishtail braid takes practice, so don’t get discouraged if it’s not perfect at first.
See Also: What Type Of Braids Last The Longest
Crown Braid
The crown braid is an elegant and regal hairstyle that wraps around your head like a crown. It’s a stunning look for special occasions and works well with short hair.
Steps to Make a Crown Braid
- Part the Hair: Part your hair down the middle.
- Start on One Side: Begin braiding near your temple, using a Dutch braid technique (crossing strands under instead of over).
- Wrap Around: Continue braiding around your head, adding hair as you go.
- Complete the Circle: Once you reach the other side, tuck the end of the braid under the starting point and secure with pins.
- Secure with Pins: Use bobby pins to hold the braid in place.
Tips for Crown Braiding Short Hair
- Use Clear Elastics: Clear elastics blend in better and keep the braid secure.
- Pin as You Go: Use pins to secure the braid as you work around your head.
- Finish with Hairspray: A light spray of hairspray will help keep everything in place.
Rope Braid
The rope braid is a simple and quick braid that’s perfect for short hair. It gives a twisted, rope-like appearance.
Steps to Make a Rope Braid
- Divide Hair into Two Sections: Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections.
- Twist Each Section: Twist each section of hair in the same direction.
- Twist Together: Then twist the two sections around each other in the opposite direction.
- Secure the Braid: Use a hair band to secure the end of the braid.
Tips for Rope Braiding Short Hair
- Tight Twists: Keep the twists tight for a neat look.
- Use Styling Cream: Apply a bit of styling cream to reduce frizz and help the braid hold.
- Experiment with Placement: Try different starting points for the braid, such as starting from the side or back of your head.
Conclusion
Braiding short hair can be a fun and creative way to style your locks. From the classic French braid to the elegant waterfall braid and the intricate fishtail braid, there are plenty of options to choose from. Each braid offers a unique look that can be tailored to your personal style and the occasion. With a bit of practice and the right techniques, you can master these braids and enjoy a variety of stunning hairstyles.