Braiding Hairstyles for a Round Face
Braids are a classic look and can be styled to suit any style of dress or occasion, whether formal or casual; however, depending on the shape of your face, some braided styles are more flattering than others. Round faces need a hairstyle that heightens and elongates the face and chin while accentuating the cheekbones. Braided hair can be styled a variety of different ways to help you to achieve this look, but first you need to determine the style that suits you best. Does this Spark an idea?
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English Braid
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The classic “English braid” hairstyle consists of two braids, one on each side of the head, which are secured at the ends with an elastic band. While this is a quick and attractive way to keep your hair out of the way, it isn't always flattering to a round face, because it brings focus on the lower, heavier part of the cheeks and chin. You can add height to your face by first bringing a section of hair up on each side and securing the sections at the top with clips; then braid the hair hanging down in two plaits.
French Plaiting
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French plaiting or braiding is a style in which strands of hair are continuously picked up and added to the braid during the plaiting process. A French braided style created at the crown and sides of the head is particularly attractive for round faces, because it creates height and elongates the face, making the cheeks and chin appear slimmer. This style also brings the hair back from the ears and away from the face, giving an overall "lift" to the entire facial appearance.
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One-Sided Braid
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For a variation on the English braid look, brush your hair to one side and, starting at the hairline at the nape of your neck, braid it using three strands, then secure the hair with an elastic band. This style exposes one side of your face and emphasizes your cheekbones. For a braided coronet, bring the side braid up and wrap it across the top of your head, pinning it in place with bobby pins; this works best with longer hair and can also be done with two braids, bringing up one on each side.
Multiple Braids
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The popular cornrow style of braiding isn't always flattering to a round face, because the flat-top appearance tends to pull the focus down, where facial features are heaviest. However, you can give your face some height if you first pull up a thick strand of hair on each side and secure it to the top with clips, then create multiple long, thin braids hanging down.
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References
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