The French braid may seem like a tricky hairstyle to master, but knowing the right techniques and taking time to practice it will greatly improve one’s chances of success. This classic hairstyle is both practical and stylish, so it’s a great option for special occasions as well as everyday wear.
Keep reading to learn how this step-by-step guide can be used to perfect the French braid, and discover why it’s such a popular hairstyle choice in 2025.
Table of Contents
What is a French braid?
When is the most appropriate time to wear a French braid?
Downsides to wearing a French braid
Step-by-step guide to styling the French braid
What are some alternative ways to wear a French braid?
French braid updo
Side French braid
Final thoughts
What is a French braid?
A French braid is an elegant hairstyle that’s popular due to its versatility, as it can be worn for a number of occasions, and even workouts, and the hair still stays in place. This type of braid is different from a regular braid as it starts at the crown and follows a specific pattern, rather than starting at the nape. Three sections are woven together, and as the braid moves down the head, more hair is incorporated into the design.
It may look complex to a complete beginner, but perfecting the French braid is very easy with practice and the right techniques. Eventually, it’ll become effortless and quick to do.
When is the most appropriate time to wear a French braid?
One of the most versatile hairstyles for women is the French braid. This means that it’s suitable to wear in a wide variety of situations, whether that be everyday wear or special occasions.
People often wear the French braid for work or running errands as its pattern keeps hair out of the face and neat for the entire day. It’s also the perfect hairstyle for more physical activities such as going to the gym or playing sports since it will securely hold the hair in place, even with rapid movements.
Aside from everyday wear, the French braid is the perfect choice for special occasions as it can be dressed up to suit events like weddings or dinner parties. In outdoor settings, the French braid is also ideal for windy or hot conditions as it won’t fall out of position (as long as it’s a tight braid), nor will it become frizzy.
Downsides to wearing a French braid
Although the French braid is very popular, some downsides might change people’s opinions about wearing it:
- Creating a French braid can be a time-consuming task, especially for beginners or people with longer hair. It requires practice and patience to create a neat French braid.
- It may be versatile, but the French braid doesn’t suit all hair types. People with silky or fine hair will find that the braid lacks grip and falls out regularly.
- Tension on the scalp can be caused if the braid is too tight, which can lead to breakage or discomfort. Traction alopecia can also occur over time if the hair is frequently braided tightly.
- When paired with hair care products or exposed to heat, the French braid can cause scalp irritation if it’s worn for a long period of time.
- Unless it’s styled with additional accessories or positioned in a creative way, the French braid can look too simple for certain occasions.
Step-by-step guide to styling the French braid
A French braid is very easy to accomplish, whether it’s being done for someone else or by an individual for themselves. By following certain steps, this timeless hairstyle can be accomplished in a quick and efficient way.
Tools needed:
Hair clips (optional)
Dry shampoo (optional)
Step 1: Preparation
Use a detangling brush or a wide-tooth comb to remove any tangles in the hair. If the hair is soft or slippery, try adding dry shampoo or texturizing spray for a better grip.
Step 2: Start the base sections
Section off part of the hair at the top of the head (near the crown or forehead.) Create three equal strands, using the same method as a regular braid.
Step 3: Time to start the braid
Hold the right strand and cross it over the middle strand. Next, cross the left strand over the new middle strand. This is the general pattern of a French braid.
Step 4: Add more hair to the braid
Before the braid movements are repeated, it’s important to grab a section of loose hair from the right side to add to the right strand. The thicker right strand should then be crossed over the middle. Do the same process on the left side.
Step 5: Continuing to braid the hair
This pattern should be repeated until the end of the braid is reached. Make sure to add more hair before crossing over, and to maintain even tension to ensure the braid stays secure.
Step 6: Complete the braid
Once all of the hair has been incorporated into the braid, and the nape of the neck has been reached, continue with a normal three-strand braid until the end is reached. Secure the French braid with a hair elastic.
Step 7: Polish the look
Pull on the braid’s edges gently if the intention is to make the hairstyle look more voluminous. A light mist of hairspray will help to hold everything in place. This is also the part where people might want to add accessories such as ribbons or clips.
What are some alternative ways to wear a French braid?
The traditional French braid is already a very classic look. However, there are several unique ways that the French braid can be styled, giving people plenty of options for any occasion.
According to Google Ads, “French braids” received 368,000 average monthly searches in 2024. The most searches appeared between July and September, when searches reached 450,000 per month. Keep reading to find out which French braids styles are the most popular.
French braid updo
The French braid updo is an elegant hairstyle that blends the beauty of the classic braid with a charming updo. Once the hair has been braided down to the nape of the neck, the rest of the length needs to be twisted into a bun. Some people prefer to wrap the hair around itself for an even more classy look. This is a popular hairstyle for formal events such as weddings, but it can also be styled with an everyday, casual look.
Side French braid
A stylish twist on the French braid is the side French braid. This look is ideal for casual days, but it can look equally as nice for formal events. Rather than braiding straight down the back, the hair is woven on an angle, to one side, which allows the braid to fall casually over the shoulder. It’s an effortless look, and it’s popularly worn slightly loosened for a boho vibe.
Final thoughts
Once the art of French braiding has been mastered, there are endless possibilities for how to style it. Although the classic French braid is the most popular look, both the French braid updo and the side French braid are versatile options that can be worn for special occasions or during everyday life.
It’s important to practice the French braid until all of the steps have been memorized, and using the right products is essential for a polished look. This timeless hairstyle is one that oozes beauty and elegance however it’s worn.
