Plaiting short hair can be a challenge, but it’s definitely doable with the right technique. The key is to start with small sections of hair and to keep them taut as you braid. If you have very short hair, you may want to use bobby pins to help hold the braid in place. There are many different ways to plait short hair, so experiment until you find a style that you like. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful braids on even the shortest of hair.
One popular way to plait short hair is the French braid. To do a French braid, start by taking a small section of hair from the top of your head. Divide this section into three strands and begin braiding as usual. After each stitch, take a small section of hair from the side of your head and add it to the outside strand. Continue braiding until you reach the end of your hair. Secure the braid with a bobby pin or hair tie.
Another way to plait short hair is the Dutch braid. The Dutch braid is very similar to the French braid, but it’s started from the bottom of the head and worked up. To do a Dutch braid, start by taking a small section of hair from the nape of your neck. Divide this section into three strands and begin braiding as usual. After each stitch, take a small section of hair from the side of your head and add it to the inside strand. Continue braiding until you reach the top of your head. Secure the braid with a bobby pin or hair tie.
French Braids for Short Tresses
Section 1: Mastering French Braids on Short Locks
French braids are a timeless hairstyle that adds elegance and sophistication to any look. While typically associated with long hair, French braids can be effortlessly achieved on shorter tresses with the right technique. To succeed, follow these detailed steps:
- Prepare the Hair: Brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles, ensuring a smooth braiding surface. Section off the front third of your hair from the crown to the forehead, securing the remaining hair with an elastic.
- Start the Braid: Divide the front section into three equal strands. Begin braiding by crossing the right strand over the middle strand, followed by the left strand over the new middle strand. Tighten the braid slightly.
- Incorporate More Hair: As you proceed down the braid, gradually add small sections of hair from the sides into the outer strands. Cross these sections over the middle strand as well, keeping the tension uniform.
- Continue Braiding: Keep braiding until you reach the nape of your neck. At this point, you will have two strands remaining. Twist these strands together and secure with a small elastic or bobby pin.
- Finish with a Pin: To conceal the elastic or bobby pin, bobby pin the end of the braid under the hair near the crown.
Tips for Success:
- Use bobby pins to secure any loose strands along the way.
- Don’t be afraid to start over if you make a mistake.
- Practice regularly to improve your technique.
Effortless Headbands with Dutch Braids
Dutch braids are an intricate and eye-catching way to style short hair. When combined with a headband, they create a chic and effortless look that’s perfect for any occasion.
Step 1: Section Your Hair
To begin, part your hair down the center, creating two equal sections. Secure the left section with a clip or hair tie.
Step 2: Dutch Braid the Right Section
Taking a small section of hair from the right side, divide it into three strands. Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the middle. Continue braiding this way, incorporating small sections of hair as you go.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the braiding process:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Divide a small section of hair into three strands: left, middle, and right. |
| 2 | Cross the right strand over the middle strand. |
| 3 | Cross the left strand over the new middle strand (the former right strand). |
| 4 | Take a small section of hair from the right and add it to the rightmost strand. |
| 5 | Cross the augmented right strand over the middle strand. |
| 6 | Take a small section of hair from the left and add it to the leftmost strand. |
| 7 | Cross the augmented left strand over the new middle strand. |
| 8 | Repeat steps 4-7 until you reach the end of the hair section. |
Step 3: Repeat on the Left Side
Unclip the left section of hair and repeat the Dutch braiding process on this side.
Step 4: Secure the Headband
Once both sides are braided, place the headband on your head and secure it by hooking the braids under the ends of the headband.
Inverted Fishtail Braids for Bobs
Inverted fishtail braids are a stylish and unique way to wear short hair. They’re perfect for bobs or lobs, and they can be dressed up or down. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare your hair
Start with clean, damp hair. Brush or comb your hair to remove any tangles. If your hair is very fine or slippery, apply a small amount of mousse or hairspray to help hold the braids in place.
Step 2: Section your hair
Divide your hair into two even sections, from the nape of your neck to the top of your head. Secure the top section with a clip so that it’s out of the way.
Step 3: Create the first braid
Take a small section of hair from the outside of the right-hand section. Cross it over the top of the section and into the left-hand section. Now, take a small section of hair from the outside of the left-hand section and cross it over the top of the section and into the right-hand section. Continue alternating sides, crossing the hair from the outside of each section over the top and into the opposite section.
As you braid, gently pull on the sides to tighten the braid. When you reach the end of the hair, secure the braid with a small elastic band.
Step 4: Repeat steps 3 and 4
Unclip the top section of hair and repeat steps 3 and 4 to create a second braid on the other side of your head. Once you’ve finished both braids, secure them together at the back of your head with a bobby pin or hair tie.
Step 5: Finish the style
To finish the style, gently tug on the sides of the braids to loosen them up and create a more relaxed look. You can also add a few curls or waves to the ends of the braids for a more polished look.
Side Braid Variations for Asymmetrical Cuts
For those with asymmetrical haircuts, side braids offer a touch of bohemian elegance. These braids accentuate the uneven lengths and create a trendy and eye-catching look.
1. Asymmetrical Side Braid
This braid starts at the shorter side of the head and sweeps across to the longer side. It creates a visually dynamic effect that highlights the asymmetrical cut.
2. Braided Crown
Suitable for shorter bobs, this braid encircles the head like a crown. It involves sectioning the hair and braiding it into several strands that are then intertwined.
3. French Waterfall Braid
Similar to a French braid, this technique incorporates a “waterfall” effect where some strands are released at regular intervals. This creates a delicate and ethereal look.
4. Dutch Lace Braid
This intricate braid involves crossing the strands underneath instead of on top, creating a lace-like pattern. It is ideal for asymmetrical bobs or pixies with some length on the longer side. Here are detailed steps to create a Dutch lace braid:
| Step 1: | Section off a small portion of hair at the nape of the neck. |
|---|---|
| Step 2: | Divide this section into three strands and cross the left strand over the middle strand. |
| Step 3: | Pick up a small section of hair from the right side and cross it under the newly formed middle strand (which is now the left strand). |
| Step 4: | Repeat steps 2 and 3, alternately crossing the left and right strands and picking up new sections of hair from the corresponding sides. |
| Step 5: | Continue braiding until you reach the desired length. |
Half-Up Braids to Frame Your Face
Half-up braids are a versatile and beautiful way to style short hair. They can be dressed up or down, and they’re perfect for any occasion. To create a half-up braid, simply divide your hair into two sections. Braid the top section and secure it with a hair tie. Then, use bobby pins to secure the braid to the back of your head. You can leave the rest of your hair down or style it into another braid.
Half-up braids offer a variety of different styling options. You can create a sleek and sophisticated look by braiding the top section of your hair tightly and securing it with hairspray. Or, you can create a more whimsical and playful look by braiding the top section of your hair loosely and leaving the rest of your hair down in waves.
Half-Up French Braid
French braids are a classic and elegant way to style half-up hair. To create a half-up French braid, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Then, braid the top section of your hair French style. Secure the braid with a hair tie, and then use bobby pins to secure the braid to the back of your head. You can leave the rest of your hair down or style it into another braid.
Fishtail Braid for a Bohemian Chic
The fishtail braid is a simple yet elegant style that is perfect for short hair. To create a fishtail braid, start by dividing your hair into two equal sections. Then, take a small section of hair from the outside of the left section and cross it over the left section. Next, take a small section of hair from the outside of the right section and cross it over the right section. Continue this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end of your hair. Secure the braid with a hair tie or bobby pin.
Celtic Braids for an Elegant Twist
Celtic braids are a beautiful and intricate type of braid that can be used to create a variety of elegant hairstyles. To create a Celtic braid, start by dividing your hair into three equal sections. Then, cross the left section over the middle section. Next, take the right section and cross it over the new middle section. Continue this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end of your hair. Secure the braid with a hair tie or bobby pin.
Variations on the Celtic Braid
There are many different variations on the Celtic braid, each with its own unique look. Some popular variations include:
- Four-strand Celtic braid
- Five-strand Celtic braid
- Six-strand Celtic braid
Six-Strand Celtic Braid
The six-strand Celtic braid is a beautiful and complex braid that is perfect for special occasions. To create a six-strand Celtic braid, start by dividing your hair into six equal sections. Then, cross the left section over the second section. Next, take the third section and cross it over the new second section. Continue this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end of your hair. Secure the braid with a hair tie or bobby pin.
| Number of Strands | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|
| Four | Easy |
| Five | Medium |
| Six | Hard |
Mohawk Braids to Add Height
Materials You’ll Need:
- Hair elastic
- Bobby pins (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Section off the top part of your hair, from the front hairline to the nape of your neck.
- Divide the sectioned hair into three equal strands.
- Begin braiding the strands using the traditional three-strand braiding technique.
- Continue braiding down the length of the hair, keeping the braid as close to the scalp as possible.
- Once you reach the end of the hair, secure the braid with an elastic.
- Repeat steps 2-5 to create additional parallel braids on either side of the first braid.
- Secure the braids into a mohawk style by pinning them down along the sides of your head, creating volume and height.
Tips:
* Use bobby pins to secure the braids more securely.
* Add hair extensions to the braids for extra length and volume.
* Experiment with different braid styles, such as cornrows or fishtails.
* Use hairspray to hold the braids in place and give them a polished finish.
Crown Braids for a Regal Touch
Crown braids are an elegant and versatile hairstyle that can add a touch of sophistication to any look. They are perfect for special occasions or for everyday wear, and they can be adapted to suit any hair type or length. To create a crown braid, follow these steps:
1. Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Then, divide your hair into three equal sections: one at the front of your head, one at the back, and one at the side.
2. Take the front section of hair and cross it over the middle section. Then, take the back section of hair and cross it over the new middle section.
3. Continue crossing the sections of hair over each other until you reach the end of your hair. Secure the braid with a hair tie.
4. To add a touch of glamour, you can add some hair extensions to the braid. Simply clip the extensions into the braid at regular intervals.
5. You can also embellish the braid with beads or other hair accessories.
6. Once you have finished braiding your hair, you can style it in any way you like. You can leave it down, or you can put it up in a bun or ponytail.
7. Crown braids are a great way to keep your hair out of your face and add a touch of style to your look.
8. Here is a table with some different variations on the crown braid:
| Variation | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Dutch Crown Braid | Start by french braiding the top section of your hair. Once you reach the back of your head, continue braiding the hair in a regular three-strand braid. |
| Asymmetrical Crown Braid | Start by braiding the hair on one side of your head. Once you reach the back of your head, continue braiding the hair in a regular three-strand braid. |
| Double Crown Braid | Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections. Then, french braid the hair on each side of your head. Once you reach the back of your head, cross the two braids over each other and secure them with a hair tie. |
Ladder Braids for Intricate Details
Ladder braids offer a visually striking and intricate style that can elevate any short hairstyle. They involve creating a series of parallel strands that interlace like a ladder, creating a unique and eye-catching effect.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ladder Braids:
- Section the hair: Part the hair into two equal sections, one on each side of the head.
- Create the base: Take a small section of hair from the front of one section and divide it into three strands.
- Cross the strands: Cross the left strand over the middle strand, then cross the right strand over the new middle strand.
- Add to the sides: Take a small section of hair from both sides and add it to the outer strands of the braid.
- Continue braiding: Cross the left strand over the middle strand, then cross the right strand over the new middle strand, adding hair from the sides as you go.
- Secure the end: Once the braid is complete, secure it with a small elastic band.
- Repeat on the other side: Create a ladder braid on the other side of the head, following the same steps.
- Connect the braids: Pull the two braids together at the back of the head and secure them with an elastic band or bobby pins.
- Add embellishments: Enhance the style with beads, hair cuffs, or other embellishments to create a more intricate and personalized look.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Part the hair into two equal sections. |
| 2 | Create a base of three strands. |
| 3-5 | Cross the strands and add hair from the sides. |
| 6 | Secure the end of the braid. |
| 7-8 | Repeat and connect the braids. |
| 9 | Add embellishments for a more intricate look. |
Hybrid Braids Combining Multiple Techniques
Hybrid braids are a versatile and stylish way to style even the shortest of hair. These braids can incorporate elements from multiple techniques, allowing you to create a unique and customized look. Here are some popular hybrid braid styles:
Boxer Braids with Cornrows:
This hybrid braid combines the classic boxer braids with smaller cornrows in the front. The cornrows create a decorative element that frames the face and adds interest to the overall style.
Micro Braids with Twists:
Micro braids are tiny, individual braids that can be done on even the shortest hair. This hybrid braid combines micro braids with larger twists, creating a textured and edgy look.
French Braid with Fishtail:
A French braid is a classic braid that starts at the crown and is woven down the head. This hybrid braid combines a traditional French braid with a fishtail braid, creating a feminine and intricate style.
Half-Up Halo Braid
This hybrid braid combines a half-up ponytail with a halo braid. The halo braid is created by braiding the hair around the head like a headband, while the rest of the hair is left loose or styled in another braid.
Crown Braid with Pigtails:
This hybrid braid combines a crown braid with two pigtails. The crown braid is created around the head, and the remaining hair is divided into two pigtails. This style is both playful and elegant.
Double Dutch Braids with Senegalese Twists
Double Dutch braids are a type of braid that is done with two strands of hair at a time. This hybrid braid combines double Dutch braids with Senegalese twists, creating a voluminous and textured look.
Cornrow Mohawk with Box Braids
This hybrid braid combines a cornrow mohawk with box braids. The cornrow mohawk is created by shaving the sides of the head and leaving a strip of hair down the center that is braided into cornrows. The box braids are then added to the cornrows for a bold and edgy look.
French Braid with Waterfall Braid
This hybrid braid combines a French braid with a waterfall braid. The waterfall braid is created by releasing small strands of hair as you braid, creating a cascading effect. This style is both elegant and bohemian.
Micro Braid with Beads and Cuffs
This hybrid braid combines micro braids with beads and cuffs. The beads and cuffs are added to the braids for a decorative and flashy effect. This style is perfect for adding a touch of glamour to your hair.
Two-Strand Twist with Senegalese Twist Braid
This hybrid braid combines two-strand twists with Senegalese twist braids. The two-strand twists are created by twisting two strands of hair together, while the Senegalese twist braids are created by twisting three strands of hair together. This style is both protective and stylish.
How To Plait Short Hair
Plaiting short hair can be a bit tricky, but with a little practice, you can create beautiful and stylish braids. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plait short hair:
1. Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Then, part your hair into three sections: left, middle, and right.
2. Take the left section of hair and cross it over the middle section. Then, take the right section of hair and cross it over the new middle section.
3. Continue crossing the left and right sections of hair over the middle section until you reach the end of your hair. Secure the braid with a hair tie.
4. To make your braid look more polished, you can gently pull on the sides to loosen it up. You can also add some hairspray to help keep it in place.
People also ask about How To Plait Short Hair
How can I make my braid last longer?
To make your braid last longer, try using a hairspray or mousse to help keep it in place. You can also try braiding your hair when it’s slightly damp, as this will help to keep the braid from falling apart.
What are some different types of braids I can do with short hair?
There are many different types of braids you can do with short hair. Some popular options include the three-strand braid, the fishtail braid, and the French braid. You can also try experimenting with different variations of these braids to create unique and stylish looks.
How can I style my short hair with braids?
Braids can be a great way to style your short hair. You can try wearing a single braid, two braids, or even multiple braids. You can also add some hair accessories, such as beads or clips, to your braids to create a more polished look.
