How to French Braid, Plus 8 French Braid Hairstyles to Try

Fashionuer is reader-supported and may earn a commission from links on this page, including as an Amazon Associate. Learn more

The French braid (also called a French plait) is one of the most popular braids in the world. Unlike a basic three-strand braid, it starts at the crown and gathers in new hair as it goes, so it lies flat against the head and stays put all day.

Below you’ll learn how to French braid step by step, how it differs from a Dutch braid, and 8 French braid hairstyles to try.

How to Do a French Braid

Brush out any tangles. A little texturizing spray or dry shampoo gives slippery hair more grip.
Take a section of hair at the crown and split it into three equal strands.
Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the middle, like a regular braid.
On the next cross, add a small section of loose hair from the right side to the right strand before crossing it over the middle. Repeat on the left.
Keep adding hair from each side with every cross until you reach the nape of your neck.
Once all the hair is gathered, finish with a regular three-strand braid and secure with an elastic.

Tip: Take sections of the same size each time for a neat, even braid, and keep your hands close to your head for a tighter finish.

French Braid vs. Dutch Braid

Both braids add hair as they go. The difference is the direction:

French braid: Strands cross over the middle strand, so the braid lies flat and looks woven into the hair.
Dutch braid: Strands cross under the middle strand, so the braid sits on top of the hair and looks raised and 3D. See our guide to Dutch braids.

Why Is It Called a French Braid?

No one knows for sure. Braids gathered close to the scalp are thousands of years old and appear in ancient African and Mediterranean art, long before the name existed. The term “French braid” began appearing in English in the 19th century, likely because France was seen as the center of fashion at the time.

French Braid Hairstyles to Try

1. Double French Braids

Double French braids on both sides of the head

Two French braids, one on each side of a center part, are sporty, neat and great for the gym or windy days.

2. French Braid Pigtails

Braid back on each side to the nape, then leave the rest loose as two pigtails. It’s a fun look for festivals and weekends, and works on lobs as well as long hair.

3. Double Dutch Braids

Also called boxer braids, two Dutch braids give a bolder, raised look than French braids.

4. Loose French Braid

Braid loosely, then gently pull the edges of each section to loosen it. The result is soft and romantic, perfect for second-day hair.

5. French Fishtail Braid

Instead of three strands, use two: take a small piece from the outside of one side, cross it to the other, and add new hair from the sides as you go. Finish with a regular fishtail braid.

6. French Braid Bun

Braid up the back of the head from the nape and twist the ends into a top knot, or braid around the head and finish with a low chignon for a romantic event look. See more braided bun ideas.

7. Side French Braid

A side braid is the easiest French braid for beginners, because you can see what you’re doing in the mirror. Finish it into a ponytail, bun or loose hair.

8. French-Style Pull-Through Braid

This isn’t a true braid: it’s a series of small ponytails looped through each other and loosened. It gives the look of a big, chunky braid without the skill.

How Long Does a French Braid Last?

On natural hair, a French braid usually lasts two or three days. Sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap your hair in a scarf or bonnet to reduce frizz.

FAQs

Do French braids damage your hair?

Not if they’re done gently. Braids that are pulled too tight, especially around the hairline, can cause breakage and tension over time, so keep them comfortable.

Can you French braid short hair?

Yes, as long as hair is long enough to hold in a small section, roughly chin length. Short hair works best in two braids or a single braid along the front.

Can you do French braids with extensions?

Yes. Feeding in braiding hair makes the braid longer and fuller, and it can last a week or two. See our guide to pre-stretched braiding hair.

Final Thoughts

Once you master the basic French braid, you can turn it into pigtails, buns, fishtails and more. For more inspiration, browse our braided ponytail hairstyles.