Styling Long Braids: 25+ Elegant Variations for Every Occasion
Long braids are not just a hairstyle trend, they are an art form. Discover the charm of the French braid or the elegance of the fishtail braid and let yourself be inspired!
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French Braid
Imagine mastering the French braid like a pro and enchanting everyone with your skill. It is one of the most timeless and elegant braiding styles that have ever traveled from France to us. Its finesse and versatility make it the perfect companion—whether at work, a wedding, or simply when you're in the mood for a charmingly feminine touch. A touch of hair oil can add to the shine, keeping the strands smooth while you braid. The great thing is that with a bit of practice, it's really super easy to style—and all without any outside help! So grab your brush, comb, and hair tie, and let the braiding adventure begin. Remember: practice makes the master braider!
Fishtail Braid
Imagine conjuring up a hairstyle with just a few steps, as elegant and graceful as the waves of the sea: the fishtail braid. Admittedly, braiding this gem requires a bit of patience and practice, but the result is truly eye-catching. A little tip before you start: To ensure the braid holds better, work with hair that isn't freshly washed or add some styling product. The more even and finer the strands, the more precise your fishtail will be. Step by step, you'll become a master in this intricate braid that showcases your long mane perfectly.
Dutch Braid
Imagine creating an eye-catching look with just a few simple steps – the Dutch Braid! This braid not only adds a stunning 3D effect to your mane but also exudes a touch of boho-chic. It's important not to wash your hair right before, so it has enough grip. With some skill, the side strands are woven under the middle one rather than over it – this gives the braid its distinctive appearance. Give it a try and see how a simple technique can have an amazing impact! Fixed with hairspray, your Dutch Braid will stay with you through the day or night – always making a stylish statement.
Waterfall Braid
Dive into the magic of the waterfall braid – a style that instantly transforms your look into a romantic masterpiece! Imagine gentle waves cascading over your shoulders, while delicate strands enhance the illusion perfectly. This braid is like a touch of poetry, an ode to the playfulness that slumbers within each of us.
To master the waterfall braid, you don’t need four hands – no, your talent and a bit of practice will be more than enough. Prepare your hair with a smooth base using a brush for dry hair or a wide-toothed comb for wet hair. A drop of shine serum or a dab of styling mousse will provide the necessary hold and make it easier to braid the strands. A waterfall braid works best on hair that hasn’t been freshly washed, so it won’t slip and each strand stays in place.
This braid is not only an eye-catcher for special occasions but also a playful companion in everyday life. It keeps your hair back while still allowing you to shine with an open mane. So, grab your brush, pick up a few hair ties, and let your hair flow in a waterfall braid!
Braided Crown / Milkmaid Braid
The braided crown, affectionately known as the milkmaid braid, is simply enchanting and instantly gives you the look of a fairytale princess. This style is perfect for events where you want to shine with a touch of nostalgia. The base consists of two French braids woven along the head, which are later artfully draped around the head. The crown holds particularly well if your mane is not freshly washed, as a bit of texture in the hair provides the necessary grip. Secure everything with some hairpins, and a spray of hairspray adds the final touch of magic. Don't hesitate to try this timeless piece of braiding history!
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Care and Preparation for Long Braids
The beauty of long braids begins long before the actual braiding process—a careful care routine is essential. Before you attempt more complex braid creations, you should optimally prepare your mane. Start with a thorough wash and then use a nourishing conditioner or hair mask. This not only adds extra smoothness but also helps to strengthen your hair and prevent split ends. To avoid tangles, it's important to detangle your hair thoroughly. A wide-tooth brush for wet hair or a detangler can work wonders and make braiding easier. It's also worth trimming your ends regularly to ensure your long braids always look well-groomed. A light leave-in serum or oil can give the hair shine and reduce static before braiding. This makes the strands easier to manage and the braid appears even more radiant in the end.
Creative Styling with Synthetic Hair Braids
Even if you aren't naturally blessed with a Rapunzel-like mane, you can create stunning hairstyles in no time with synthetic hair braids. These braids offer you a wealth of styling options—from updos to extravagant braided creations. When opting for a synthetic braid, make sure that the texture and color of the synthetic hair match your own hair as closely as possible. For a seamless transition, it can be helpful to tease your natural hair at the roots before attaching the synthetic braid. You can also curl, braid, or twist synthetic hair braids into a bun to achieve different looks. Use hairpins to shape the structures and give the styling the perfect finish. Thanks to the variety of attachment options, you can also add extra volume or create an entirely new length to your hair. Experiment with different braiding techniques and add accents by incorporating thicker synthetic hair strands into your own braided styles.
Long-Lasting Hold and Setting of Braid Hairstyles
To ensure your carefully braided hair lasts all day, you should pay attention to a few things. Start with a good foundation – hair that isn't too smooth. You can also use some texturizing spray or mousse to give your hair more grip. Braid your hair tightly enough to prevent it from falling apart loosely, but not so tight that it strains your hair. After securing the braid with an elastic band, you can gently pull it apart if needed to achieve a fuller look. Then, set everything in place with a hairspray that provides extra hold without making it look stiff. For braiding works, especially when using artificial hair, bobby pins and clips can be useful to keep the hairstyle in place. Hide the bobby pins under the braided strands so they remain invisible and don't disrupt the look of your hairstyle. Remember that the long-lasting hold of your hairstyle depends on proper preparation, a thoughtful braiding technique, and securing it with the right styling products. With these tips, long-lasting, beautiful braids are guaranteed!
