An oval face shape is often regarded as the ideal canvas for a wide variety of hairstyles, and braids are no exception. The symmetry and balance of an oval face allow for creative and flattering braided looks that can enhance one’s natural beauty and add a touch of charm and elegance. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore several types of braids that are particularly well-suited for oval faces, along with detailed instructions on how to achieve them.
The Classic French Braid
The French braid is a timeless and sophisticated choice that complements an oval face beautifully.
Preparing the Hair:
Start with clean, dry hair. It’s advisable to use a detangling spray or a leave-in conditioner to make the hair more manageable, especially if it tends to be frizzy or prone to tangles. Brush the hair thoroughly to remove any knots and ensure a smooth surface for braiding.
Beginning the Braid:
Gather a section of hair from the front of the head, just above the forehead. Divide this section into three equal strands.Cross the right strand over the middle strand, then the left strand over the new middle strand. This forms the basic foundation of the French braid.
Adding Hair to the Braid:
As you continue braiding, gradually incorporate small sections of hair from the sides of the head into the braid. This gives the French braid its characteristic look of appearing to be woven into the hair. Each time you cross a strand over the middle, pick up a small amount of hair from the side closest to that strand and add it in.
Continuing and Finishing:
Keep braiding in this manner, maintaining an even tension on the strands. As you reach the nape of the neck, continue braiding without adding any more hair until you reach the end. Secure the braid with a small elastic band. You can leave the braid as it is for a simple and elegant look, or you can gently tug on the edges of the braid to make it appear fuller and more voluminous.
Styling Tips:
For an oval face, a French braid that starts at the crown of the head and travels down the back can elongate the face and draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones. You can also accessorize the braid with a small ribbon or a jeweled hairpin for a more formal or decorative touch.
The Dutch Braid
Similar to the French braid but with a different visual effect, the Dutch braid is also a great option for oval faces.
Hair Preparation:
Just like with the French braid, start with clean, dry, and well-brushed hair. Applying a volumizing mousse at the roots can give the braid an added lift and make it look more textured.
Initiating the Dutch Braid:
Begin by parting the hair in the desired location. For oval faces, a center part can create a symmetrical and balanced look.Take a section of hair from the front and divide it into three strands. However, instead of crossing the strands over the middle as in a French braid, cross them under the middle strand.
Incorporating Hair:
As you progress with the braid, pick up small sections of hair from the sides and add them to the strands, always crossing them under the middle. This creates a braid that lies on top of the hair rather than being woven into it, giving a more prominent and textured appearance.
Finishing the Braid:
Continue braiding until you reach the nape of the neck or the desired length. Secure the end with an elastic. To make the Dutch braid look more voluminous, you can gently pull on the edges of the braid and tease the hair slightly at the crown before starting the braid.
Styling Considerations:
A Dutch braid that frames the face, starting from one temple and ending at the other, can accentuate the oval shape and add a touch of bohemian charm. It can be worn alone or combined with loose curls or waves for a more romantic look.
The Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a stylish and intricate option that looks stunning on oval faces.
Hair Prep:
Wash and condition the hair, then towel-dry it until it is damp. Apply a texturizing spray to give the hair some grip and make it easier to braid. This also helps to create a more defined and textured fishtail braid.
Starting the Fishtail:
Gather all the hair at the back of the head or wherever you want the braid to start. Divide the hair into two large sections.Take a small strand of hair from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other section. Then, take a small strand from the outside of the other section and cross it back to the first section.
Continuing the Pattern:
Repeat this process, alternating which section you take the small strand from. As you go, make sure to keep the tension even and the braid tight. You can also adjust the thickness of the strands you take to create a more or less textured look.
Finishing and Styling:
Keep braiding until you reach the end of the hair and secure it with an elastic. To make the fishtail braid look more polished, you can spray it with a light-hold hairspray. For oval faces, a fishtail braid that is worn low and loose can add a soft and feminine touch. You can also wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic to conceal it and give the braid a more finished look.
Accessorizing the Fishtail:
A fishtail braid can be accessorized with a variety of items. For example, a small flower or a feather can be tucked into the braid for a boho-inspired look. Or, a thin chain or ribbon can be woven into the braid for a more glamorous effect.
The Crown Braid
The crown braid is an elegant and regal option that frames the face and complements an oval face shape.
Preparing the Hair:
Start with clean, dry hair. If you want to add volume, you can backcomb the hair at the crown slightly before starting the braid. Use a fine-toothed comb to create a part, either in the center or to one side, depending on your preference.
Beginning the Crown Braid:
Take a section of hair from the front of the part and divide it into three strands. Start braiding as you would a French braid, incorporating small amounts of hair from the sides as you go. However, instead of braiding straight back, angle the braid upwards and around the head, following the curve of the crown.
Continuing and Securing:
Keep adding hair and braiding until you reach the other side of the head. At this point, you can either tuck the end of the braid under the starting point and secure it with bobby pins, or you can continue braiding the remaining hair into a regular braid and let it hang down.
Styling and Enhancing:
To make the crown braid look more elaborate, you can add small flowers, pearls, or other decorative elements. For an oval face, a crown braid that sits slightly higher on the head can elongate the face and give an overall more glamorous appearance. You can also leave a few loose strands of hair around the face to soften the look.
The Side Braid
A side braid is a versatile and flattering option for oval faces, offering a more casual yet stylish look.
Hair Preparation:
Wash and dry the hair. Apply a small amount of styling cream to tame any flyaways and add a bit of shine. Part the hair to one side, either deeply or more subtly, depending on the desired effect.
Starting the Side Braid:
Gather all the hair on the side with more hair (the heavier side of the part) and divide it into three strands. Begin braiding as you would a regular three-strand braid, but instead of braiding straight down, angle it slightly towards the back.
Adding Texture and Style:
As you braid, you can pull on the strands slightly to make the braid look more textured and voluminous. You can also incorporate small pieces of hair from the other side of the part as you go to give the braid a more intertwined look.
Finishing and Accessorizing:
Secure the braid with an elastic at the end. You can leave the braid as it is for a simple and effortless look, or you can curl the loose end of the braid with a curling iron for a more feminine touch. To accessorize, a small ribbon or a charm can be tied around the elastic or woven into the braid. For oval faces, a side braid that starts at the temple and drapes over the shoulder can draw attention to the face and add a touch of elegance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oval faces have the privilege of being able to carry off a wide range of braided hairstyles with grace and style. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of a French braid, the textured look of a Dutch braid, the intricate beauty of a fishtail braid, the regal charm of a crown braid, or the casual allure of a side braid, there are endless possibilities to experiment with and make your own. By following the detailed instructions and considering the styling tips provided for each braid type, you can create a hairstyle that not only flatters your face shape but also expresses your unique personality and sense of style. So, don’t be afraid to get creative and try out different braids to find the perfect look for any occasion.
- What Gradient Hairstyles Are Suitable for Oval Faces?
- Which South Korean Hairstyles Are Suitable for Men with Oval Faces?
- Is a Curtain Haircut Good for an Oval Face?