Only have 5 minutes to spare? Learn how to master this deceptively easy four strand braid
Meet your new everyday go-to: the four strand braid.
You Will Need
TONI&GUY Tousled Texture Creation Hairspray
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that offers maximum impact with minimal effort – you’ve come to the right place. The DNA of a four strand braid might lie in a classic weaving technique of three equal sections, but it looks decidedly more fancy (and fashionable) than its smaller counterpart.
This braiding technique is a great option for work – Ella
Don’t be put off by the complicated finish, once you nail the basic over-under-over method of plaiting (it’s a total cakewalk – we promise). Ready to learn more? Follow along with our step-by-step four strand braid tutorial and discover more ways to wear the look, below…
How to do a four strand braid
Add texture.
Giving your hair some grip will make it easier to braid. Mist the VO5 Texturising Spray all over your tresses and comb through if needed to remove any tangles.
Start weaving.
Take strand number one from the far left and weave it over strand number two (next to it).
Then weave it under strand number three and finally over strand number four.
Repeat.
Repeat this over-under-over process as you braid down the hair (where strand number one now becomes strand number two and so on).
Practice makes perfect, so if it takes you a couple of tries to get the weaving style right, don’t panic!
Tie your plait.
Leave about an inch of hair loose at the bottom so your braid doesn’t look frayed at the end and then secure with a hairband.
Secure with hairspray.
If you want a fatter or fuller-looking plait, use your fingers to gently pull it apart at the outer edges.
Once you’re happy with the final look, secure the style by misting the TONI&GUY Tousled Texture Creation Hairspray all over your four strand braid.
Finished!
Happy with your final look? Show off your weaving skills by wearing your plait over your shoulder.
Four strand braid hairstyle inspiration
1. Four strand high ponytail
Looking for a more workout-friendly option? Use your new weaving skills on a high ponytail to create the ultimate gym-ready braid. This technique also works well on longer locks, especially if you’re looking for a high-impact finish. Credit: @leauxmane
2. Four strand french braid
If you’re feeling extra confident, try your hand at a four strand French braid. Use the same weaving technique, pulling in small amounts of hair from either side of the braid as you move down towards the nape of your neck. We promise the results are worth the extra effort. Credit: @cravenhairbytrisha
3. Four strand french braid
We’ve officially found your new festival season hair: the four strand milkmaid braid. Follow our tutorial to nail the basics of the look and then adopt the four strand weaving pattern into your plait. Perfection. Credit: @Tindrashairart