How to... Do a French Braid in 6 Easy Steps

A classic French braid is an essential plaiting technique for everyone who loves braids, and it’s not difficult at all. It’s similar to a basic 3-strand braid. The difference is that French braids (aka French plaits) start higher up at the crown instead of bringing all the hair together at the nape of the neck, and more hair is added in as the hair is braided.

Learning how to French plait your own hair is actually a lot easier than you might think – all you need is an expertly crafted and easy-to-follow guide. Et voilà! We’ve put together a really simple how-to to help you perfect your technique! Trust us, after reading our 6-step French Braid tutorial, you’ll be able to French plait like a total pro.

Just scroll down to discover the secrets to braiding your own hair, tout de suite!

Use a Dry Shampoo.

Give your hair texture and grip by spraying some dry shampoo all over the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.

This step will help your braid stay in place longer, especially if you have fine or very soft hair.

How to french braid your own hair brunette girl spraying Toni&Guy dry shampoo on hair

Section your hair.

To create your French braid, begin by taking 2-3 inches of hair at the top of your head, and dividing it into 3 equal sections.

How to french braid your own hair brunette girl braiding hair

Start Braiding.

Take your right section of hair and cross it over your middle section (this will become the new middle section of hair), then cross the left section of hair over your ‘new’ middle section.

How to french braid your own hair woman with brunette hair braiding

Weave in Hair as You Go.

Repeat this weaving process, picking up hair from the sides of your head, and adding them to your left and right sections as you continue to braid.

Do this until you reach the nape of your neck.

How to french braid your own hair brunette girl braiding back of head

Swap to a Three-Strand Braid.

Once you’ve reached the nape of your neck, take the remaining hair and plait it into a classic 3-strand braid.

Secure the plait by tying it with a hairband.

How to french braid your own hair brunette girl tying braid with hair tie

Spray and Secure.

Ensure that your French braid stays put all day long. Finish the look with a generous mist of the TRESemmé Freeze Hold Hairspray.

Smooth down stray flyaways with your hand after you use the hairspray to lock your strands in place.

How to french braid your own hair brunette girl spraying hairspray

Credit: Verity Jane Smith

All done! You now know exactly how to French braid your own hair. Amp up the look by adding a blinged-out hair accessory or try putting your own twist on this classic braid.

Feeling a justified sense of achievement? Get busy with our list of all things braid-related now that you’re on a roll with your plaiting skills.

Why not try our upside down French Braid as your next updo?