French Braid Tutorial: Learn How to Make This Classic Braid at Home

Watch our step-by-step tutorial and master the art of French braiding! It’s not as complicated as you think, all you need is a bit of practice!

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A classic French braid is the foundation of most of the prettiest braided hairstyles ever invented, so you cannot NOT know how to do this ‘do! As a sophisticated variation of the basic three-strand braid, the French braid can take you from a bad hair day to a dressed-up casual night out. It has the ability to sweep up hair of different lengths, which is perfect for all the ladies with layered hairstyles looking to polish their tresses, while making sure there’s texture on the mane to keep it fun and feminine.

When you learn how to create this basic braid, you can do a hundred different versions. From updos to half-ups to other intricate plait hairstyles, play around with it and explore the different ways you can transform the French braid’s endless possibilities. Well, you know what they say, better late than never, so click the play button on our tutorial video above and discover the fun of French braiding!  

French Braid Tutorial: Learn These Easy Steps

1

Start with clean, fresh hair

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2

Detangle

Dry your hair and brush it gently to get rid of tangles and make it smooth and frizz-free.

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3

Section hair

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

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4

Start weaving

Take the right section and cross it over the middle section. Next, take the left section and cross it over the middle one. Gather a bit of hair from the right side and add it to the right section—this should now be a larger portion. Now cross this whole section over the middle. Do the same on the left side. Make sure the sections of hair you’re adding are roughly equal so your braid doesn’t end up looking lopsided.

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5

Secure & loosen

Use a hair tie to secure the end of your braid, then gently pull apart to loosen it and make it look fuller.

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6

Set your style

Use TRESemmé Freeze Hold Hairspray to make sure your French braid doesn’t come undone.

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Once you’ve gotten the hang of French braiding, you can create hairstyle masterpieces like these half-up, half-down styles or, even get to braiding your man’s hair!

 

French Braid Tutorial: Fun Ways to Wear This Hairstyle

Now, it’s time to experiment with different French braided hairstyles. Check these out!

1. Crown Waterfall French Braid

French Braid tutorial: girl is looking down at an angle with her beautiful hairstyle
Wear this hairstyle with wavy hair. Credit: Shutterstock

This hairstyle looks really sweet. Also, it doesn’t take a lot of work because the braids are kept at the hairline. What make this hairstyle really nice are the soft waves that are added to your long hair. So, if you’re looking for a different way to wear a French braid, try this ‘do.

2. French Braid into Sleek Ponytail

Girl's back is show to reveal her French braided hair
Braid just half the length of your hair. Credit: Natasha Estelle

If you have long hair, you should definitely go for this French braid hairstyle. The braid only goes halfway through the length of your hair, combining the ponytail and braid hairstyles. It looks fresh, which makes it perfect for a hot summer day.

3. French Rope Braid Bun

French Braid tutorial: girl's back is seen to show her nice rope bun
Exude the classic vibe with a rope bun. Credit: Natasha Estelle

.This French rope braid bun looks (and sounds) complicated but really, it’s not. You just need to create a French-style rope braid and a low bun. You’ll surely love the airy feeling and feminine vibe of this hairstyle.

Editor’s tip: Stop worrying about your hairstyle getting messed up by using VO5 Firm Hold Hairspray. Its light hold is enough to keep your hair in place without making it look stiff and heavy.

4. Loose French Braid with Scarf

girl's braided hair has a scarf around it.
Use your scarf as a unique accessory. Credit: Shutterstock

We love the relaxed vibe of this hairstyle! The scarf is also a welcome addition, which totally gives the hairstyle more oomph. So, next time you have a head scarf that you no longer use, think of this hairstyle.

5. Twin French Braids

girl is showing her double braids
Reminisce your younger years with this double braid. Credit: Shutterstock

Double French braids will keep your hair off your neck and face and you can even wear it even if you have shoulder-length hair.

We know you can’t get enough of our French Braid hairstyles, so what are you waiting for? Try these now and have fun braiding your hair!

 

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