Hair Braids: TOOLS OF THE BRAID

Whether they are tight and structural or loose and romantic, braids are this year’s rock star. To get yours to last longer, here are some tips to max out your style.

Condition first, then shampoo—Braids or no braids, shampooing after you condition will give your hair more loft and body. Braiding your hair while it’s slightly damp will also keep braids tight.

Spray before you braid—Add texture and “grip” to your hair by using a dry shampoo or a sea salt spray before you start braiding.

Add extensions—Adding volume and length to cascading braids is as simple as clipping in a few extensions. Choose a shade slightly lighter than your hair colour for that balayage look.

Start your braid tight, no matter what the style—You can always go back and loosen up a braid, so start tight. Day two can be your deconstructed look.

Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase—It will lessen frizzing and make day-two braids look more bedroom than bed-head.

Watch tutorials online—YouTube is chock full of braiding tutorials for beginners. And watching someone braid is always a little mesmerizing. t8n