Hey Babes!‍

Awhile back, I asked for suggestions on topics you would like to see me write about, and I’m finally getting around to humansjourneyblog‘s suggestion: Braids.

Braids are a classic. Certain types will go in and out of fashion, but it will never be unfashionable to wear one. I like to think of braids like coffee. The general concept is there, but there’s so many variations. And you can tweak one as much as you want, but generally the basics are known across the board. I’d be very surprised to go to a coffee shop that didn’t know what a latte was or how it’s different from a cappucinno.

For some cultures, like African and Native American, braided hairstyles are an important part of their history and a prominent part of their fashion. Wearing braids is also popular in women’s lacrosse, probably because the sport has Native American roots.

The other cool thing about braids, is that they can be worn for the most casual look, or turned into a prom up-do. There are so many things you can do with braids that it’s almost overwhelming. I did some browsing on YouTube and came up with a list of my top 10 favorite tutorials, ranging from basic to ultra elaborate.

If you need a new hairstyle to wear with your new sundress this spring, try one of these looks.

While a lot of the gurus in these tutorials make braiding your own hair look really easy, it definitely isn’t. So if you’re finding something a little challenging, grab a friend or a roommate and have a hair braiding night.

Or, if you are determined to get it done yourself, you can reduce some of the struggle by:

• Clipping certain sections of hair so you don’t lose them
• Clipping aside all of the hair you aren’t using
• Using multiple mirrors and placing them so you can see your backside

Also, brushing and/or straightening your hair, and using smoothing products can make the process easier for anyone.

I really wanted to recreate all of these looks myself, but when it comes to my hair, I’m really limited on what I can do with braids. Short, thick, and layered hair is not an ideal combination when it comes to this type of hairstyle.

I can’t even do a simple side braid without at least five bobby pins, because there’s always little pieces sticking out and one small section that isn’t long enough to reach the side I’m braiding.

However, I can usually get away little braids at the crown of my head, or a half-up braid, so   if you find yourself in my situation, you might want to try something like that.

And remember: practice makes perfect. So if you don’t get it the first time, try and try again.

If you also have any suggestions, leave them in the comments!

dress well. eat well. live well.

××,

Addie

cover photo source