Hunter braids, also known as Dutch braids, are a stunning and versatile hairstyle perfect for everything from casual outings to formal events. Their intricate appearance belies a surprisingly simple technique, making them achievable even for braid beginners. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to mastering this popular braid.
What You'll Need:
Before you begin, gather your tools. You'll need:
- A brush or comb: To detangle your hair and create a neat parting.
- Hair ties: To secure the braid at the end and potentially section off hair.
- Optional: Hairspray or texturizing spray: To help manage flyaways and add grip.
Step-by-Step Hunter Braid Tutorial:
Let's dive into creating your beautiful hunter braid!
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
Start with clean, dry hair. Brush thoroughly to remove any knots or tangles. This will make the braiding process much smoother and easier. For extra hold, especially on finer hair, consider using a texturizing spray.
Step 2: Section Your Hair
Part your hair as desired – a center part is classic, but a side part offers a different look. Take a section of hair near your hairline at the front. This is where your braid will begin. The size of this section will determine the thickness of your overall braid.
Step 3: Begin Braiding (The Key Difference!)
This is where hunter braids diverge from regular braids. Instead of crossing the strands over each other like a regular braid, you'll cross them under.
- Divide the section: Divide the initial section into three equal strands.
- Cross under: Take the outermost right strand and cross it under the middle strand.
- Add more hair: Now, before crossing the left strand, pick up a small section of hair from the right side of your head and add it to the right strand before crossing it under the middle strand.
- Continue the pattern: Cross the left strand under the middle strand, and add a small section of hair from the left side of your head to the left strand before crossing.
- Repeat: Keep repeating steps 3 and 4, gradually incorporating more hair from the sides of your head into each strand as you braid. This is what creates the distinctive "hunter" look, a braid that seems to sit on top of the scalp.
Step 4: Secure the Braid
Continue braiding until you reach the nape of your neck or the end of your hair. Secure the end with a hair tie.
Step 5: Finishing Touches (Optional)
Gently loosen the braid slightly to give it a fuller, more voluminous look. If any stray hairs are poking out, use a little hairspray to tame them.
Tips for Perfect Hunter Braids:
- Practice makes perfect: Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. The more you practice, the easier and faster it will become.
- Hair type matters: If you have very fine or slippery hair, a texturizing spray can provide much-needed grip.
- Experiment with variations: Try different partings, braid sizes, or add embellishments like ribbons or beads for a unique touch. You can even incorporate multiple hunter braids for a more intricate style.
- Watch tutorials: There are many helpful video tutorials available online that can visually guide you through the steps.
Styling Your Hunter Braids:
Once you’ve mastered the technique, get creative with your look! Hunter braids work well with:
- Casual wear: Pair them with jeans and a t-shirt for a relaxed yet stylish look.
- Formal occasions: Dress them up with a sophisticated outfit for a chic and elegant hairstyle.
- Accessorizing: Add barrettes, clips, or flowers for a touch of personality.
Mastering the hunter braid opens up a world of stylish possibilities. So grab your comb and get braiding! With a little practice, you'll be creating stunning hunter braids in no time.
