How to French Braid on the Side

Singer Ashlee Simpson with her hair styled in a side French braid.

The side French braid is a variation of the classic French braid hairstyle. It's a hairstyle that is simple yet glamorous, and a great way to get your hair off your face while still looking trendy and stylish. Side French braids have become very popular after so many Hollywood actresses have been seen sporting this beautiful hairdo, including Lauren Conrad, Ashlee Simpson, Jessica Alba and Nicole Richie.

Things You'll Need

• Curl-boosting cream or mousse
• Elastic band
• Comb

Instructions

1. Wash your hair and apply a curl-boosting cream or mousse all over while your hair is still wet. Allow your hair to air dry and comb it to get rid of knots and tangles.

2. Create a side part. Take a 2-inch section of hair from the part line and divide it into three equal sections using your fingers.

3. Braid the three equal strands by crossing the right section over the middle one, then crossing the left section over the middle one, which used to be the right one.

4. Pick up sections of hair farther down the hairline, and add to the sections you started with as you continue braiding until you reach the nape of the neck.

5. Create another French braid on the other side of the head following the same instructions.

6. Secure the two braids together with an elastic band. Choose an elastic band that matches the color of your hair for a classy look.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you reach the nape of the neck, you can continue to braid the hair to the end.

• To add shine and tame frizz, rub a dime-size amount of anti-frizz serum over the braid.

References

• Glamour: Sign that Spring is on Its Way
• Seventeen: French Braid

Resources

• Dreamweaver Braiding: 3-Strand French Braid