I couldn't tell you what I was doing during recess when all my girlfriends were busy braiding each other's hair, but I totally regret it now because I am completely plait-handicapped. And just like everything else in our lives, as you grow older, the braids just get more complicated. Fishtail. Waterfall. Chinese staircase. I can't.
Thankfully, we live in a world where the Internet rules (as in awesome), and thanks to Pinterest, I've managed to learn a thing or two about hair weaving. If you, too, are intimidated by the complicated-looking techniques modeled by what seems like everyone these days, fret not. It's much easier than you think. If you're capable enough to tie your own shoelaces, you can definitely tackle these not-so-basic braids. Here are 8 easy-to-follow tutorials that will have your gal pals asking you how you did your 'do.
The Heart Braid
Feeling extra lovey dovey? Instead of wearing your heart on your sleeves, why not try it out on your head? This sweet braid brings your basic French pigtails to the next level by creating a heart-shaped curve on the top of your head. As suggested by Seventeen, the more textured the hair, the easier it is to manage, so don't be shy with that dry shampoo.
Batiste Dry Shampoo, $8, Amazon
The Waterfall Braid
You could do a basic French braid and call it a day OR you could be more adventurous and have your braid cascade down the side of your head like a beautiful waterfall. The choice is yours. And the tutorial from YouBeauty is below. Whether you're going to a summer wedding or just grabbing brunch with your friends, this adorable braid is the perfect way to style your hair.
The Zig Zag Dutch Braid
Wait, don't skip this one! It looks way more complicated than it actually is. While there's a bit more braiding involved, it's totally worth it in the end. Whether you prefer spending your hottest days at a music fest or the beach, this is the perfect braid to get all your hair off your neck.
Garnier Fructis Anti-Humidity Hairspray, $8, Amazon
The Short-Haired Girl's Crown Braid
Even if you've chopped of your locks and are rocking the season's popular bob (or lob), that doesn't mean you can't style your hair into a gorgeous plait. Check out this incredible step-by-step braid tutorial for short haired girls from The Beauty Department.
Infiniti Pro 1 1/2 in Curling Iron, $20, Amazon
The Triple Braid Updo
The name of this braid alone sounds like a complicated figure skating jump. But really, it's just three simple braids tied together in a knot and bobby pinned. As suggested by LuLu's, you can keep things sleek and sophisticated in the front by combing your hair down or amp up the volume for a more boho-vibe with some teasing.
Teasing Comb, $9, Amazon
The Milkmaid Braid
The secret to a perfect milkmaid braid? Olia of Love, Olia suggests tucking the elastic bands holding your braids together under your hair and securing it with a bobby pin. This will help create a more seamless-looking braid.
Oscar Blandi Braid Paste, $20, Amazon
The Faux Side Shave Braid
Instead of shaving the side of your head a la Demi Lovato, you could opt for this less spontaneous alternative. It'll still give the illusion of that edgy 'do without the commitment of a half-shaven head.
The Fishtail Side Braid
Still don't know how to fishtail your hair? It's OK, a lot of us don't. But thanks to We Women's super simple how-to, you can officially rock the red carpet's hottest braid this summer.
Images: Seventeen, YouBeauty, The Latest Hairstyles, The Beauty Department, Lulu's, LoveOlia, Pretty Designs, SoFeminine.Co.Uk
