How To Do a Dutch Braid in 6 Easy Steps
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Love a Dutch braid but don’t know where to start? Now’s your time to shine.
A Dutch braid, also known as a reverse French braid, is where strands of hair are crossed underneath eachother to give your plait a 3D effect. It’s pretty and practical, perfect if you want a hairstyle that doesn’t get in your way as you go about your day.
And over on TikTok, it seems everyone’s having a go at the look this season, with Dutch braid hairstyle videos generating over 95.8 million views.
Master the art of a Dutch braid and wave goodbye to bad hair days with our step-by-step guide.
Apply Dry Shampoo
Start by spraying your hair with some dry shampoo. This will help give your locks grip and texture, making the braid last longer.
Divide a Section of Hair into 3
Using your fingers, take a small section of hair from just above the crown and divide it into three equal sections.
This will form the start of your braid.
Start Braiding
Start your Dutch braid by doing a regular 3 strand braid, but remember to cross the strands under the middle strand rather than over.
Do this by crossing the right strand under the middle strand, then bringing the left strand under the middle strand.
Continue this process, pulling in more hair from the sides as you bring the strands into the centre.
Secure the Braid
Once you’ve come to the end of the braid, leave a small section loose and tie it with a hair tie or elastic band.
Apply Hairspray
Once you’re happy with your braid, lock it in place with the TRESemmé Freeze Hold Hairspray.
Mist the hair from front to back, smoothing down any flyaways or shorter layers that are sticking out.
More Dutch Braid Inspiration
Now that you can Dutch braid like a pro, try your hand at these fun styles, perfect for your everyday look or that formal event in the calendar.
Mohawk Dutch Braid
Create a cool faux-quiff effect with this mohawk, Dutch braid style. To get the look, add texture by backcombing your hair first, then keep the sides of your braid sleek once it’s done. You could also try pancaking the braid afterwards (pulling on it gently from both sides to make it look thicker).
Side Dutch Braid
Once you’ve got the standard Dutch braid method down, this side braided variation is a cute twist on the classic. As you’ll be braiding across from one side of your head to the other, it works best on those with mid-length to long hair.
Upside Down Dutch Braid
Pulling together two of our favourite looks – messy buns and braids – this dreamy style is a great way to upgrade your go-to top knot. We’d say it’s the perfect way to style your locks for a night out or as a bridesmaid. Divine.
Dutch Crown Braid
With a relaxed, bohemian-inspired feel, this Dutch crown braid works even on shorter lengths. Add an accessory to the side, like a floral clip or style up the back with a velvet bow.
Editor’s tip: The best way to help give braids texture and make them stay in place is to style your hair with some mousse beforehand. Simply apply a dollop of TRESemmé Volume and Lift Mousse on your strands to give your hair more volume and hold for longer-lasting styles.
Half-Up Dutch Braid
This pretty half-up half-down braid is both casual and elegant, making it work for just about any occasion. All you need to do is braid until just below your ears. Our tip? Curl the rest of your hair to turn this look from day to night.
Side Dutch Braided Updo
Looking for a glamorous hairstyle you can do yourself? Adding a Dutch braid to a simple chignon is a deceivingly simple way to get you occasion-ready. We’re loving this chic look.
Grecian Crown Braid
Hello, Mamma Mia vibes. This Dutch braided crown is the perfect hot-weather hairstyle – think summer sunsets and holiday escapades. Keeping you looking and feeling cool, it’s a great way to keep hair that has a tendency to go frizzy under control.
Double Braided Bun
A voluminous double braided bun adds body and fullness to finer hair, giving the illusion of thick and luscious locks. This was made for those black tie events coming up in the diary.
