A Step-by-Step Guide to Braiding Shoulder-Length Hair

by Joy

Braiding shoulder-length hair is a great way to add some texture and dimension to your hairstyle. Braids are versatile, low maintenance, and can be dressed up or down for any occasion. If you’re new to braiding, don’t worry – it’s easier than it looks! In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to braid your shoulder-length hair in three different styles.

Style 1: The Classic Three-Strand Braid

The classic three-strand braid is the perfect style for beginners. It’s simple, elegant, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Step 1: Brush Your Hair Thoroughly

Before you begin braiding, make sure your hair is completely brushed out and free of tangles. This will ensure that your braid is smooth and even.

Step 2: Divide Your Hair Into Three Sections

Take a small section of hair from the top of your head and divide it into three equal sections.

Step 3: Cross the Right Section Over the Middle Section

Take the right section and cross it over the middle section.

Step 4: Cross the Left Section Over the New Middle Section

Take the left section and cross it over the new middle section.

Step 5: Repeat Until You Reach the End of Your Hair

Keep repeating this pattern – right over middle, left over the new middle – until you reach the end of your hair.

Step 6: Secure the End of the Braid

Once you reach the end of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie.

Tips:

  • Keep the tension even on all three sections for a neat braid.
  • To add volume to your braid, gently tug on each section after crossing it over.
  • For a looser, more relaxed braid, pull on the edges of the braid once it’s secured with a hair tie.

Style 2: The French Braid

The French braid is a little more complex than the classic three-strand braid, but it’s still easy to master with a little practice. It’s a great style for everyday wear or dressed up for a special occasion.

Step 1: Brush Your Hair

As with the classic braid, start by brushing your hair thoroughly to remove any knots or tangles.

Step 2: Section Your Hair

Take a small section of hair from the top of your head near your forehead and divide it into three equal sections.

Step 3: Begin Braiding

Start braiding by crossing the right section over the middle section, then crossing the left section over the new middle section.

Step 4: Add More Hair to Each Section

As you continue braiding down your head, add more hair to each section before crossing them over.

Step 5: Keep Repeating Until You Reach the Nape of Your Neck

Keep repeating this pattern – right over middle, left over the new middle, adding more hair each time – until you reach the nape of your neck.

Step 6: Finish With a Regular Braid

Once all your hair is incorporated into the braid, finish with a regular three-strand braid until you reach the ends of your hair.

Step 7: Secure the End of the Braid

Secure the end of the braid with a hair tie.

Tips:

  • Keep the braid tight as you go along to prevent it from becoming loose.
  • Pull gently on the sides of each section after crossing them over to create a more voluminous braid.
  • For a more polished look, use a small amount of hair gel or pomade to smooth down any flyaways.

Style 3: The Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a little more intricate than the other two styles, but it’s still easy to master with a little practice. It’s a great style for casual wear or dressed up for a night out.

Step 1: Brush Your Hair

As before, start by brushing your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles.

Step 2: Section Your Hair

Divide your hair into two equal sections.

Step 3: Take Small Sections of Hair From the Outside

Take a small section of hair from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the inside of the right section.

Step 4: Repeat on Other Side

Then, take a small section of hair from the outside of the right section and cross it over to the inside of the left section.

Step 5: Keep Repeating Until You Reach the End of Your Hair

Keep repeating this pattern – taking small sections of hair from the outside of each section and crossing them over to the inside of the other section – until you reach the end of your hair.

Step 6: Secure the End of the Braid

Secure the end of the braid with a hair tie.

Tips:

  • The size of the sections you use will determine the size of the fishtail pattern. For a tighter fishtail braid, use smaller sections.
  • Pull gently on the sections of the braid after crossing them over to create a more textured look.
  • For a bohemian vibe, pull out some small pieces of hair around your face and at the crown of your head to create a more effortless look.

Braiding your shoulder-length hair is a great way to add some variety to your hairstyle without too much effort. Whether you’re going for a classic three-strand braid, a French braid, or a fishtail braid, these step-by-step guides will help you achieve your desired look. Remember to experiment with different styles and techniques to find what works best for you. With practice, you’ll be braiding like a pro in no time!

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