How To Plait The Perfect French Braid

For the days when you’re looking for something smarter than a topknot, prettier than a plait and less fiddly than a fishtail, a French plait fits the bill perfectly. Whether you want to go sleek and sophisticated or more undone with slept-in strands, it’s all possible with this hairstyle. Follow these easy steps for how to do a French plait.

Summary

· Here's how it's done
· Section it
· Criss cross
· Tease in another piece of hair
· Continue down to the neckline
· Tighten
· Finish up!
· Check out these hot celebrity hair-dos for more hairstyle inspiration!

When it comes to our hair we’re always looking for ways to reinvent our look with minimal effort. The less fuss the better! That’s where the easy up-do comes in.

Every day hairstyles can get a little #yawn but the French plait never fails to keep your locks looking all kinds of modern at all times.

For a wearable daytime look go brushed out and baggy by teasing out a few strands at the front. Use your two thumbs either side of the braid to gently tease and pull the hair for a loose finish. This will also give the illusion of thicker hair!

By night, go for a more pulled together look by wearing your French plait tighter. Secure with plenty of glossy lacquer for a high-fashion approach to the classic schoolgirl hairstyle.

And of course, here's your definitive step by step guide to perfecting the French braid.

Here's how it's done

1. Section it

For a styled tight braid, section the hair into three parts from the hairline just like you would with a normal plait.

Alternatively for a looser style, brush your hair back, gather the top centre section from the front of your hairline back to your crown and tie with a clear elastic to secure this section. The braid will then start from further back giving it a gorgeous waterfall effect.