Are you uncertain about whether to select Dutch braids vs French braids? In our comprehensive articles, we explore both styles and provide thorough instructions and helpful tips.
Have you ever found it difficult to decide between Dutch braids vs French braids? This is a common dilemma; however, there’s no need for concern as we are here to help. While French and Dutch braids may appear similar at first glance, each possesses distinct characteristics. We will highlight the primary differences between these two braid styles to facilitate your decision-making process.
In what ways do Dutch and French braids differ?
The primary distinction between a Dutch braid and a French braid lies in their construction. Unlike French braids, which weave the strands over one another, Dutch braids intertwine the strands beneath, resulting in a more elevated look that sets this hairstyle apart.
French Braids
The French braid is one of the most popular braided hairstyles in contemporary fashion. It intricately weaves three sections of hair from the crown down to the nape of the neck. The first documented mention of this hairstyle appeared in the 1871 short story “Our New Congressman” by March Westland, published in Arthur’s Home Magazine, where it was referred to as a new haircut. Despite this historical reference, its connection to the modern technique of French braiding remains somewhat ambiguous.
In today’s context, the French braid serves a more versatile purpose than a basic braid. It can be executed independently, although the complexity may vary based on the hair type and length. This style can accommodate various hair sections, allowing for flexible styling options.
The Dutch braid, also known as the reverse French braid, involves crossing the strands beneath rather than over each other. Although it may appear challenging, it is relatively easy to master.
A straightforward Dutch braid can be created with hair of any length. However, for shorter hair, a double Dutch braid is an alternative worth considering, which consists of two braids secured on either side of the head.
To create a Dutch braid, the hair is divided into three sections. Starting from the top of the head and moving toward the base of the neck, the outer sections are crossed under the middle section. This technique results in the Dutch braid sitting atop the hair while neatly tucking the strands underneath, giving it a raised appearance. In contrast, the French braid has a more flowing aesthetic. Similar to the French braid, the Dutch braid can be styled as either a single or double braid, with the latter often referred to as boxer braids.
How to Make a Classic French Braid
Prepare Your Hair
Start by getting your hair ready for styling. Utilize a brush to eliminate any knots and achieve a soft, smooth texture. Based on the look you wish to create, either brush your hair away from your forehead for a single braid down the back or separate your hair into sections for multiple braids.
Section Your Hair
Select a section of hair that is roughly 3-4 inches wide from the top-center of your head. It is crucial that all strands in this section originate from the same row of hair. If you have bangs, determine whether you want to incorporate them into the braid or allow them to remain loose.
Divide Your Hair
Divide the collected section into three equal parts to establish the base for your braid. It is important that each strand is of uniform size to ensure consistency throughout the braiding process.
Start Braiding
Commence the braiding technique by placing the right strand over the center strand, then proceed with the left strand. Continue this sequence to form several rows of a classic braid, thereby laying the groundwork for your French braid.
Work in New Hair
Maintain the traditional braiding technique while gradually integrating extra strands of hair as you advance. Prior to crossing each section over to the center, collect new hair from the corresponding side of your head and incorporate it into the braid. Continue this process to enhance the volume and complexity of your French braid.
Incorporate All Your Hair
Incorporate new sections of hair as you progress with the braid, ensuring that it encompasses all of your hair. Maintain a tidy and secure braid throughout the process.
Finish the Braid
After incorporating all of your hair into the braid, continue braiding in the traditional style until you reach the ends of your strands. Utilizing a ponytail holder can help secure the braid and prevent damage caused by rubber bands.
To learn the technique with ease, refer to a step-by-step tutorial on how to French braid available in this video.
By adhering to these guidelines, you will create beautiful French braids, expanding your hairstyle choices for any event or occasion.
Prepare Your Hair
Start by getting your hair ready for styling. Utilize a brush to eliminate any knots and achieve a soft, smooth texture. Based on the look you wish to create, either brush your hair away from your forehead for a single braid down the back or separate your hair into sections for multiple braids.
Section Your Hair
Select a section of hair that is roughly 3-4 inches wide from the top-center of your head. It is important that all strands in this section originate from the same row of hair. If you have bangs, determine whether you would like to incorporate them into the braid or allow them to remain loose.
Divide Your Hair
Divide the collected section into three equal portions to establish the base for your braid. It is important to ensure that each strand is of uniform size to achieve consistency throughout the braiding process.
Start Braiding
Begin the braiding process by placing the right strand over the center strand, followed by the left strand. Continue this sequence to form several rows of a classic braid, which will serve as the foundation for your French braid.
Incorporate Additional Hair
As you continue with the traditional braiding technique, start integrating new sections of hair into the braid. Before crossing each section over to the center, gather additional hair from the corresponding side of your head and add it to the braid. Repeat this process to enhance the volume and complexity of your French braid.
Include All Your Hair
Continue adding new hair sections as you braid downwards until all of your hair is incorporated. Ensure that the braid remains tidy and secure throughout the process.
Complete the Braid
Once all of your hair has been included in the braid, continue braiding in the conventional manner until you reach the ends of your strands. To secure the braid effectively, use a ponytail holder instead of rubber bands, which can damage the hair.
For a comprehensive understanding of how to create a French braid, consider watching a step-by-step tutorial video to master the technique with ease.
By adhering to these guidelines, you will be able to create beautiful French braids, expanding your hairstyle options for any occasion.
How to Create a Simple Dutch Braid
Prepare Your Hair
Regardless of whether your hair is dry or slightly damp, begin with well-brushed hair. Use a brush to ensure your hair is free of knots and tangles. Lightly mist any flyaways or stray hairs with water or a smoothing product such as pomade.
Section Your Hair
Brush your hair straight back to avoid creating side or center parts. From your hairline, take a section of hair using your thumbs across the width of your forehead. Alternatively, you may choose to style your hair in a half-up, half-down ponytail positioned at eyebrow or eye level.
Divide Your Hair
From the gathered section, create three equal strands. Hold the right strand with your right hand and the other two strands with your left hand. Allow the middle strand to rest on your middle finger while securing the left strand in your palm with your pinkie.
Begin Braiding
Start with a standard braid to establish the Dutch braid. Cross the right strand underneath the middle strand, followed by crossing the left strand under the newly formed middle strand. It is essential to cross these strands underneath rather than over, as is done in a traditional braid. This step is vital for achieving the desired outcome of the Dutch braid.
Add Hair Sections
Prior to crossing the right strand beneath the middle one, incorporate a small section of hair from the right side of your hairline into the right strand. Consider these two strands as a single unit and cross them under the middle strand. Ensure that any loose hairs are smoothed down to achieve a neat braid. Repeat this procedure on the left side by adding a thin section of hair from the left side of your hairline to the left strand, then crossing it under the middle strand.
Continue Braiding
Continue the Dutch braiding technique by incorporating small sections of hair from both sides as you work your way down towards the nape of your neck. Ensure that the sections are uniform in size and maintain a firm braid, making adjustments to the tightness as necessary. Cease the braiding process once you arrive at the nape of your neck.
Finish with a Standard Braid
After achieving the preferred length, divide the remaining hair into three equal sections: right, middle, and left. Proceed to braid these sections together using a traditional braiding technique by crossing the right and left sections beneath the middle one. Maintain tight and smooth stitches throughout the process, and secure the braid when approximately 2 inches (5.1 cm) remain. Alternatively, you may choose to continue braiding all the way to the end.
Customize Your Braid
To enhance the appearance of your braids, gently pull on the outer strands from the tips towards the roots. For a more relaxed look, you may also tousle the fine hairs along your hairline. Consider twisting the braid into a bun at the nape of your neck and securing it with bobby pins for an added romantic flair.
For a comprehensive step-by-step tutorial on mastering the Dutch braid technique, please refer to this video.
These recommendations will assist you in creating an exquisite Dutch braid that complements various hairstyles. Whether attending a formal event or enjoying a casual outing, the Dutch braid offers both elegance and versatility suitable for any occasion.
FAQs:
Which one last longer – French braid or Dutch braid?
Dutch braids are known to have a longer-lasting hold compared to French braids, as they secure the hair more effectively for extended durations. This firmer grip is particularly beneficial during physical activities or sports, as it helps keep the hair in place. Additionally, Dutch braids tend to maintain their shape better over time than French braids, resulting in a longer-lasting hairstyle. The longevity of any braid style is influenced by several factors, including hair type, the tools utilized, and the skill level of the person creating the braid.
Which braids, French or Dutch, make better waves?
Once you take out the braids, both French and Dutch styles will result in wavy hair. However, Dutch braids tend to produce more pronounced waves. This is due to the underhand weaving method, which lifts more hair away from the scalp, resulting in a wave pattern that is deeper and more textured.
Are French Braids Easier To Do Than Dutch Braids?
Many individuals perceive that mastering French braids is easier than Dutch braids. This perception arises from the overhand twisting motion involved in creating French knots, which appears more intuitive and straightforward. However, with additional skill and practice, one can achieve a consistent and polished weave using the underhand technique characteristic of Dutch braids.
Final Thoughts
Lastly, I would like to emphasize that both French and Dutch braids are visually appealing. French braids offer protection against heat damage while creating natural-looking waves that appear effortless. In contrast, Dutch braids provide added volume and a bouncy texture, resulting in a distinctive raised appearance. Mastering both styles will enable you to adapt your look according to various occasions or your personal mood.
Therefore, I encourage you to explore both options and select the one that aligns best with your individual style. For a firsthand experience of these beautiful braiding techniques, consider visiting JenHair Studio today, whether you prefer French or Dutch braids.