How To Do a Dutch Braid in 6 Easy Steps
A Dutch braid is one of the most popular braided hairstyles. It’s similar to a French braid in that more hair is added as you weave – which is why they’re also referred to as a ‘reverse French braid‘. However, instead of crossing the strands over, they’re crossed underneath to give the braid a 3D effect.
Don’t fear though, as while they might look tricky to master, it’s not as complicated as it looks once you know-how. Learn how to Dutch braid with our simple step-by-step guide and how-to video.
Apply Dry Shampoo.
Start by spraying your hair with some dry shampoo. This will help give the hair grip and texture, making the braid last longer.
Divide a Section of Hair Into 3.
Using your fingers, take a small section of hair from just above the crown and divide it into three equal sections.
This will form the start of your braid.
Start Braiding.
Start your Dutch braid by doing a regular 3 strand braid but remember to cross the strands under the middle strand rather than over.
Do this by crossing the right strand under the middle strand and then bringing the left strand under the middle strand.
Then continue this process, pulling in more hair from the sides as you bring the strands into the center.
Secure the Braid.
Once you have come to the end of the braid, leave a small section loose at the end and tie it with a hair tie or clear elastic.
Apply Hairspray.
Once you’re happy with your braid, lock it in place with the VO5 Invisible Ultimate Hold Hairspray.
Mist the hair from front to back, smoothing down any flyaways or shorter layers that are sticking out.
More Dutch Braid Inspiration
Mastered how to do a Dutch braid? Now you’ve got the basic technique down, here are more fun ways you can rock the style for different occasions.
Mohawk Dutch Braid
Create a cool faux-quiff effect with this mohawk Dutch braid style. To get the look, keep the sides of your braid sleek and add texture to your braid by backcombing your hair before braiding and then pancaking it afterwards (pulling on it gently from both sides to make it look thicker).
Half-Up Dutch Braid
Prefer wearing your hair down but still want a way to incorporate a braid into your look? This pretty half-up half-down braid would work for any occasion and is a great way to still show off your lengths. Our tip? Curl the rest of your hair to turn this look from daytime to date night vibes.
Side Dutch Braid
Once you’ve got the standard Dutch braid method down, this side braided variation is a cute twist on the classic straight-down-the-back version. As you’ll be braiding across from one side of your head to the other, this look works best on those with mid-length to long hair.
Upside Down Dutch Braid
Pulling together two of our favourite looks – messy buns and braids – this cute style is a great way to upgrade your go-to top knot.
Dutch Crown Braid
With a relaxed, bohemian-inspired feel, this Dutch crown braid works even on shorter lengths.
Editor’s tip: The best way to help give braids texture and make them stay in place is to prep your hair with some dry shampoo beforehand. Simply spritz your strands with a dry shampoo like the TRESemmé Day 2 Volumising Dry Shampoo to give your hair more grit and hold for longer-lasting styles.
Side Dutch Braided Updo
Looking for a glam-worthy hairstyle you can DIY? Adding a Dutch braid to a simple chignon is a deceivingly simple way to get you occasion-ready.
Grecian Crown Braid
Pretty and practical, a Dutch braided crown braid is the perfect hot-weather style for summer events or dinners on holiday. Keeping you looking and feeling cool, they’re a great way to keep hair that has a tendency to go frizzy under control.
Double Braided Bun
A voluminous double braided bun adds body and fullness to finer hair, giving the illusion of thick and luscious locks.
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