Braid tutorial – two ways and two accessories

Step up your everyday ponytail with this double Dutch braid tutorial.

Yes, even I wear ponytails but I admit that I find them kind of boring. Today’s tutorial is a about adding detail with braids and playing around with accessories.

I believe your hair is your best accessory but check out the difference an accessory makes to your hair. I love the leather cuff to finish off this style. The leather bow gives it a completely different feel, don’t you think? (Scroll down for more photos)

While I was playing around with this ponytail I realised I liked this half-up half-down version just as much as the ponytail. Maybe even more? I’ve shot the ponytail braid tutorial below and the steps are exactly the same to re-create this half-up look too.

At first I thought the bow might be too much but I like it. It’s in leather which stops it from looking too cutesy. Both accessories were kindly sent to me by Lady Jayne. They’re part of the new Minimalistic Leather collection that’s just launched. Find them in Priceline and other retailers now. These pieces are only $7.99-$9.99 and would look fab in just a basic ponytail or half-up style.

Ponytail braid tutorial

What you need:

• 3 hair elastics
• Hair accessory of your choice to cover your hair elastic

Step-by-step:

1. Brush your hair to remove any knots. As always, curly girls can skip this step or risk the frizz.
2. Start by parting your hair loosely in a side part and then separating a large section of hair along your hairline. You can clip or tie the rest of your hair out of the way.
3. Start with a large section by your part and split it into three.
4. Begin to form a Dutch braid that angles back. Bring the left section under the middle then the left under the right.
5. Start adding in hair to your braid by combining more hair with the left and right sides as you braid under into the middle.
6. Continue braiding back for only a few sections, and then finish your braid and secure the end with a small, clear hair elastic.
7. Stretch the braid out! It’s so important and makes your braid look much thicker and wider.
8. Repeat on the other side. Take a section of hair by your part and split into three. Dutch braid for a few sections then finish in a regular braid. Secure the end with an elastic.
9. For the ponytail – combine all your hair into a low ponytail. Once in place you can remove the elastics from the individual braids. Add your hair cuff or bow over the ponytail band.
10. For the half up style – join the two braid at the back of your head with an elastic. You can then remove the elastics from the individual braids and add your bow to cover the join.

Styling tips

• This hairstyle works in straight, wavy and curly hair. Braids hold better in hair that has a little texture. If your hair is freshly washed or slips out of braids easily, spray some dry shampoo lightly to add some texture.
• Your accessory sets the look – it can look sweet with a bow or edgy with a leather or metal cuff.
• A braid beginner? Try this style just with regular braids instead of Dutch braids.
• More advanced? Try fishtail braids for a more detailed twist.

What’s your fave brand or place to buy hair accessories? What’s your fave hair accessory and how does it change the look of your hairstyle?