If you have short hair, you might have looked at intricate braids and thought they were out of reach. But that’s simply not true! Braiding shorter lengths is absolutely possible and can be a fantastic way to add style and texture to your look. It’s all about choosing the right techniques and working with what you have. With a little patience and the right approach, you can create beautiful, eye-catching braids that celebrate your shorter style.
Prepping Your Short Hair for Braiding
Preparation is your best friend when it comes to braiding short hair. Start with hair that is slightly dirty or has some texture; freshly washed, silky hair can be slippery and difficult to hold. A light-hold texturizing spray or a bit of mousse can work wonders to add grip. If you have layers, don’t fight them—embrace them! They often add a lovely, piecey effect to your finished braid. Having a few small, clear elastic bands and some bobby pins on hand is also essential for securing those shorter pieces.
Simple Braiding Styles to Try
You don’t need long tresses to create a beautiful braid. Here are a few styles that work wonderfully with shorter hair.
The Classic French Braid: This is perfect for creating a crown braid or a braid along your hairline. Start with a small section of hair at the front and begin a regular three-strand braid, adding in small pieces of hair from the sides with each new stitch. This technique gathers hair as you go, helping to manage shorter lengths.
The Twist-Back: For an elegant and simple look, try a twist-back. Take a section of hair from the front of your head, split it into two strands, and twist them over each other away from your face. As you twist, gently pull in small pieces of hair from the side. Secure it with a small elastic when you reach the back of your ear.
Mini Accent Braids: Sometimes, a small, simple braid is all you need. Create a small three-strand braid just above your ear or within your bangs. Pull it back or let it hang loose for a cute, bohemian touch. This is a great way to keep hair out of your face while adding a stylish detail.
Securing Your Braids and Embracing the Pieces
When you finish your braid, use a small, clear elastic to secure the end. Don’t worry if you have shorter pieces that pop out or frame your face—this is part of the charm of braiding short hair! It gives a soft, effortless, and modern feel. You can use a light-hold hairspray or a bit of pomade to gently tame any flyaways if you prefer a neater look, but often, those little pieces add character.
Braiding short hair is a fun and creative way to change up your everyday style. It might take a little practice to get the tension right, but the results are well worth it. So grab your comb and some elastics, and give one of these styles a try. You might just find your new favorite look.