Not sure which braid to choose, Dutch braids vs French braids? In our comprehensive articles, we explore both styles and provide detailed guidance and tips.
Ever found yourself unable to choose 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 braiding techniques 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 methods. Dutch braids involve crossing the strands underneath, resulting in a raised effect that sets this hairstyle apart from French braids.
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 to the nape of the neck. The first documented reference to this hairstyle appeared in March Westland’s short story “Our New Congressman,” published in an 1871 issue of Arthur’s Home Magazine, where it was described as a novel haircut. Despite this historical mention, the exact origins and evolution of the modern French braid remain somewhat ambiguous.
In today’s context, the French braid serves a more versatile purpose than a basic braid. While it can be executed independently, the complexity may vary depending on the hair type and length. This style allows for the incorporation of multiple hair sections, facilitating diverse styling options.
The Dutch braid, often referred to as the reverse French braid, involves crossing the strands underneath rather than over. Although it may appear challenging, it is relatively straightforward to create.
A basic Dutch braid can be achieved with hair of any length; however, individuals with shorter hair might consider trying a double Dutch braid, 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 towards the nape of the neck, the outer sections are crossed beneath the middle section. This technique results in the braid sitting atop the hair, giving it a raised appearance, while the French braid offers a more flowing aesthetic. Similar to the French braid, the Dutch braid can also be styled as a single or double braid, with the latter sometimes 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 to 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
Collect a section of hair that is roughly 3-4 inches wide from the top-center of your head. It is crucial that all the hair in this section originates from the same row. 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
Begin the braiding technique by placing the right strand over the center strand, then follow with the left strand. Continue this alternating pattern to form several rows of a classic braid, which will serve as the foundation for your French braid.
Work in New Hair
Maintain the traditional braiding technique while gradually integrating extra sections of hair as you advance. Prior to crossing each section over to the center, collect new hair from the relevant side of your head and incorporate it into the braid. Continue this process to enhance both the volume and complexity of your French braid.
Incorporate All Your Hair
Incorporate new sections of hair as you continue braiding from the top of your head until the entire length of your hair is included in the braid. Ensure that the braid remains tidy and secure 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 effectively secure the braid and prevent the use of rubber bands that may damage your hair.
To learn the technique with ease, consider watching a step-by-step tutorial on how to French braid through this video.
By adhering to these guidelines, you will be able to create beautiful French braids, thereby expanding your hairstyle options 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 several braids.
Section Your Hair
Take a section of hair that is about 3-4 inches wide from the top-center of your head. It is important that all the hair in this section is sourced from the same row. 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 form the base of your braid. It is important that each strand is of uniform size to ensure consistency in the overall appearance of the braid.
Start Braiding
Begin the braiding technique by placing the right strand over the center, 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
Maintain the traditional braiding pattern while gradually integrating new sections of hair. Before moving each section to the center, collect additional hair from the corresponding side of your head and incorporate it into the braid. Repeat this process to enhance the volume and complexity of your French braid.
Gather All Your Hair
As you progress with the braid, continue adding fresh sections of hair until all of your hair is included. Ensure that the braid remains tidy and secure throughout the process.
Complete the Braid
Once every strand of hair has been incorporated, continue braiding in the conventional style until you reach the ends of your hair. To secure the braid, use a ponytail holder, avoiding rubber bands that may damage your hair.
For a comprehensive guide on mastering the French braid technique, consider watching a step-by-step tutorial video.
By adhering to these guidelines, you will create beautiful French braids, expanding your hairstyle repertoire 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. Ensure that your hair is free of knots and tangles by running a brush through it. If necessary, lightly mist any stray hairs or flyaways with water or a smoothing product such as pomade.
Section Your Hair
To avoid creating side or center parts, brush your hair straight back. From your front hairline, take a section of hair using your thumbs across the width of your forehead. Alternatively, you can 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 holding the left strand with your pinkie.
Begin Braiding
Start with a standard braid to establish the Dutch braid. Cross the right strand beneath the middle strand, then cross the left strand under the newly formed middle strand. It is essential to cross these strands underneath rather than over, as would be 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 entity and proceed to cross them underneath 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 and 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
Upon achieving the desired length, divide the remaining hair into three equal sections: right, middle, and left. Proceed to braid these sections together using a standard braiding technique, 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 very end.
Customize Your Braid
To enhance the appearance of your braids, gently pull on the outer strands from the ends towards the top. For a more relaxed look, you may also tousle the fine hairs along your hairline. To add a romantic flair, twist the braid into a bun at the nape of your neck and secure it with bobby pins.
For a comprehensive step-by-step tutorial on mastering the Dutch braid technique, please refer to this video.
These tips will assist you in creating an elegant Dutch braid that complements a variety of hairstyles. Whether attending a formal event or enjoying a casual outing, the Dutch braid offers both beauty and versatility suitable for any occasion.
FAQs:
Which one last longer – French braid or Dutch braid?
Dutch braids are designed to maintain their structure longer than French braids, as they provide a more secure hold on the hair for extended durations. This enhanced grip is particularly beneficial during physical activities or sports, as it helps keep the hair in place more effectively. Additionally, Dutch braids tend to retain their shape better over time compared to French braids, resulting in a longer-lasting hairstyle. Factors such as hair type, the tools utilized, and the skill of the individual braiding all contribute to the longevity of the braid style.
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 typically yield 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 uniform and polished appearance using the underhand technique required for Dutch braids.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, both French and Dutch braids offer distinct aesthetic advantages. French braids are beneficial for protecting hair from heat damage while providing a natural, effortless wave. Conversely, Dutch braids create a more voluminous and bouncy appearance due to their raised structure. Mastering both styles will allow you to adapt your look according to different occasions or moods.
Therefore, consider exploring both options to determine which aligns better with your personal style. For an exceptional experience, reach out to Jen Hair Studio or visit in person to witness the transformation for yourself, whether you prefer French or Dutch braids.