How to Braid Your Own Hair: 3 Simple Styles to Try at Home

The 3-strand braid is the most basic and popular braid. It is easy to learn and perfect for beginners. This style keeps your hair tidy and works well for casual days or work.

Step 1: Brush Your Hair

Brush your hair well to remove all tangles and knots. This makes it smooth and much easier to handle while braiding.

Step 2: Divide Into Three Sections

Split your hair into three equal parts. Hold the left section in your left hand, the right section in your right hand, and let the middle section rest in between.

Step 3: Start Braiding

Take the right section and cross it over the middle one, making it the new middle. Then take the left section and cross it over the new middle. Continue following this pattern.

Step 4: Continue to the Ends

Keep braiding by crossing each outer section over the middle one. Work your way down slowly until you reach the ends of your hair.

Step 5: Secure the Braid

Use a hair tie to fasten the end of your braid. This will keep it from loosening or coming undone during the day.

The French braid looks elegant and holds your hair tightly in place. It may take a bit more practice, but it's worth learning. It's great for both sporty and fancy looks.

Step 1: Start with Brushed Hair

Brush your hair completely to remove tangles. Smooth hair helps you braid more easily and neatly.

Step 2: Take a Section at the Top

Gather a small section of hair from the crown of your head. Divide it into three equal parts to begin your braid.

Step 3: Begin Like a Regular Braid

Start braiding as if doing a 3-strand braid by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left section over the middle.

Step 4: Add Hair to Each Side

Before crossing each section, grab a small amount of loose hair from the same side and add it to the section you're about to cross.

Step 5: Keep Adding and Braiding

Continue adding hair and crossing sections as you work your way down your head. Make sure the braid stays tight and even.

Step 6: Finish the Braid

Once all the loose hair has been added and you reach the base of your neck, braid the remaining hair like a regular 3-strand braid.

Step 7: Tie the End

Secure the braid with a hair tie to keep it from unraveling. Adjust the braid gently if needed.

The fishtail braid looks fancy but is simple once you get the hang of it. It's perfect for long hair and adds a stylish twist to your look.

Step 1: Brush and Split Hair

Brush your hair until it is smooth. Then, divide your hair into two equal sections instead of three like a regular braid.

Step 2: Take a Small Piece

Take a small strand of hair from the outer edge of the left section. Cross it over and add it to the inside of the right section.

Step 3: Repeat on the Other Side

Now take a small strand from the outer edge of the right section. Cross it over and add it to the inside of the left section.

Step 4: Keep Going

Continue taking small pieces from each side and crossing them over. Repeat this step slowly and evenly for a neat result.

Step 5: Work to the Ends

Braid down to the very ends of your hair. The smaller the pieces you use, the more detailed and beautiful your fishtail braid will look.

Step 6: Tie the Braid

Secure the end of your braid with a hair tie. If you want a softer look, gently pull at the braid to loosen it a bit.

Braiding takes patience and practice, especially when doing it on your own. Here are some helpful tips and tricks to make the process easier and give you better results:

- Practice in Front of a Mirror: Use two mirrors or a mirror with side panels so you can see the back of your head while braiding. This will help you stay neat and avoid missing any sections.

- Start with Slightly Damp Hair: Lightly damp hair gives you better control and helps the braid stay in place. However, don't do it when it's still wet. Wet hair can be damaged easily when you try to braid it.

- Use Hair Clips: If you're struggling to hold all the hair at once, clips can keep some parts out of the way. This makes it easier to focus on each section as you go.

- Apply a Bit of Hair Product: A small amount of mousse or cream reduces flyaways and gives a smoother look. It also adds grip, which helps keep your braid tight and neat.

- Don't Rush: Take your time while braiding to make sure each step is done correctly. Rushing can lead to uneven braids or loose sections that fall apart.

- Secure Tightly but Gently: When tying the end of your braid, make it tight enough to stay in place, but not so tight that it causes discomfort or pulls on your scalp.