How I Style My Braids In 5 Easy Ways

I love having braids. I just feel like I have superhero powers with them in. As much as braids are a hairstyle in their own right, I have often had people ask me how to they can style their braids without using the same mundane tactics. It can be quite tricky to create lavish styles on braids if you're not a hair professional but there are quick and easy hairstyles that you can try for everyday. These are some of the hairstyles that I go to when styling my braids up.

Side Swept
Really easy and elegant, sweeping your braids to one side can give you an instant effortless, put-together look. Gather a small section in the front, sweep over your forehead like a fringe then tuck behind the opposite ear. Secure with a hair clip.

Bohemian Plaits
Braids have a natural bohemian vibe to them already so I love creating this look when I want to look extra "boho". Create a middle parting and section off two small sections of braids in the front on either side. Loosely plait the sections into simple 3-part plaits and secure with a hair tie at the ends.

The Top Knot
This is my "long day at work", "chilling in bed", "let's be cool today" or "its too hot to have braids in my face" hairstyle. The top knot is so easy to create and doesn't even take 2 minutes. Grab a section of braids, about one third from the front, and twist. Start to roll the twisted braid section as you would when creating a bun. Use a hair tie to hold in place; if you need more hold, use hair clips at the base of the bun.

The Retro Roll
There are some days that I like to "play pin-up" and this retro, 40s inspired style does just that. Create a side parting and section off one third of hair in the front. Twist the section like you are about to create a bun but roll the twist along the hairline then towards the back. Secure with pins or a hair tie.

Scarf Up
The easiest way to make your braids look interesting? Add accessories. Wrap a printed scarf around your head like a head band and tie. You can secure the band with clips if you like. Try this with embellished head bands, flower crowns or berets depending on the occasion.

My Top Braid Care Tips
1. As much as you love your braids, avoid keeping them in too long. 3 weeks to a month should be the absolute maximum time to have them in. Your actual hair will not love your for leaving them in any longer.
2. Always remember to go to a salon to have your braids washed at least once a week or once every 2 weeks. At the salon, your braids can be properly dried and it stops your braids from collecting debris and oil created from products; which creates knots and breakage in your actual hair.
3. Spritz your moisturizing spray on your scalp and on the actual braids to keep them looking fresh and create a healthy sheen.
4. Always think of the hair underneath the braids so never tug or pull the braids too tightly or do anything that puts extra strain to your hair.

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