French braids have long been popular with women with medium-long hair. They look elegant and graceful and are a way to style your hair at home, without calling on a stylist.

But how do you choose which French braids look to go for? And what are some of the trendiest French braids styles this year?

Here, we explain everything you need to know about the French braids hairstyle and introduce you to some maintenance tips to keep your hair looking healthy and strong.

How to French braid your own hair two sides?

Wondering how to French braid your own hair? We've got you covered. Here's an easy-to-follow French braid tutorial that will help you achieve your desired look:

Step 1. Brush your hair

The first step is to brush your hair. This smooths out any knots or tangles and gives you free flowing hair to work with.

Step 2. Divide your hair

Next, find your hairline and gather enough hair to divide it into equal sections - the right, the left, and the middle

Step 3. Cross the sections

To start your braids, cross the right section over the middle section, and repeat with the left section. You should smooth your hair down as you go, and pull your hair tight so the braids don't come undone.

Step 4. Repeat

Adding more hair as you go, repeat the process until you have gathered all the additional hair strands into braids. Remember, French braids require you to braid over and not under.

Step 5. Tie your hair

Find the hair at the end of the braid and secure it in place with a hair tie or band. Make sure you wrap the hair tightly around the band and consider adding some spray to keep the braids in place.

Dutch braid vs French braid - what's the difference?

Dutch braids and French braids are very similar, but there are some differences you need to be aware of. Specifically, French braids see hair strands go over the middle section of the braids, which is the signature of this look.

In contrast, Dutch braids require hair strands to go under the middle section of the hair. As a result, you may see French braids described as overhand braids, and Dutch braids described as underhand braids.

Both looks are popular and to the untrained eye, they look practically the same. But now you know the difference, you can choose the look that is best suited to your preferred style.

4 French braid hairstyles to try this year

Now you know how to rock this style, let's take a look at four awesome French braid styles you can try this year for something a little different:

1. French braid ponytail

There are lots of ways to style a French braid in a ponytail. We recommend a unique, French braid up do for a stunning, professional look. This up-do is all about the curls, and you can pin your hair high to keep things in place as you go about your business.

2. French braid with fishtail

Adding a fishtail to your French braids is a great way to run your hair further down your back. Though they look better when they're messed up slightly, fishtails keep your braids tight to begin with and run down past your shoulders. We recommend creating a tousled braid by separating them slightly with your hands.

3. French braid half up half down

If you're looking for something more casual, a half up half down French braid is a good look to consider. This look is stunning for women with shoulder-length blonde hair in particular, and it's a great way to achieve quick, loose braids with a unique style.

4. French braids for short hair

Though French braids tend to work best for women with medium and long hair, you can also opt for this look if you have short hair. If you want your short hair braids to look slightly fuller, consider tousling the ends to add volume and depth.
French braids maintenance tips

Knowing how to maintain your French braids is the difference between messy braids and those that look the part throughout the year. Here are some top tips to bear in mind:

☑️ Consider washing and drying your hair before braiding your hair. Use an ionic dryer - such as the Laifen Swift Premium - to eliminate frizz and ensure your braids are long, soft, and free-flowing.

☑️ If you're concerned about your braids holding in place, apply a strong hairspray as soon as you tie the braids at the ends. This will keep them in place.

☑️ Don't be afraid to mix things up. Try a unique French braids style, opting for a fishtail or a ponytail to try so you can elevate this look in your own unique way.

☑️ Be sure to keep your hair hydrated and healthy. Use a leave-in conditioner with ingredients like argan oil or avocado oil to replenish and renourish your braids, which prevents them from drying out.

Recap

French braids are extremely popular and are a great style to try in 2024. Note the difference between French braids and Dutch braids, and consider which style to opt for, choosing from classic braids to those with a ponytail or fishtail.

You should also bear in mind our top tips for looking after French braids, so that you can keep your hair healthy and hydrated while wearing your hair in this impressive style.