Braids are a popular hairstyle option for many people, whether it’s for a special occasion, like a wedding, or a daily look. Two types of braids that are commonly discussed are the French braid and the Dutch braid. Both of these braids create a beautiful, intricate look and are great options if you’re looking for something different than your typical ponytail or bun. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between the two braids and how to create them.
What is a French braid?
A French braid is a braiding technique where you slowly add sections of hair to the braid as you go along. This creates a braided “cascade” down the head and is a popular look for many occasions. To create a French braid, follow these steps:
1. Start with a small section of hair at the crown of your head. Divide it into three sections.
2. Cross the right section over the middle, then cross the left section over the new middle section.
3. Now, begin adding hair to the right strand before you cross it over the middle. Cross the left strand over the new middle section.
4. Add hair to the left strand before crossing it over the middle. Cross the right strand over the new middle section.
5. Keep adding hair to each side as you cross them over the middle. Continue braiding until you run out of hair to add, then finish braiding until you reach the end of the section.
What is a Dutch braid?
A Dutch braid is similar to a French braid, with the main difference being that the sections are braided underneath the braid instead of over it. This creates a “raised” effect that is perfect for an updo or half-up, half-down look. Here’s how to create a Dutch braid:
1. Start at the crown of your head and divide a section of hair into three.
2. Take the right section, go under the middle section and bring it to the left side.
3. Take the left section, go under the new middle section and bring it to the right side.
4. Add a small section from the right, combine with the right section and go under the middle section.
5. Add a small section of hair from the left, combine it with the left section and go under the new middle section.
6. Keep adding hair to the sides and braiding until you’ve reached the nape of your neck.
7. Braid the remaining hair without adding hair and secure it with a hair tie.
What are the differences between French and Dutch braids?
The primary difference between the French and Dutch braid is the direction in which the sections of hair are added to your braid. French braids involve taking new sections of hair and crossing them over the braid, while Dutch braids involve tucking new sections of hair under the braid.
Another difference is the resulting look. French braids have a classic, romantic look while Dutch braids tend to create a more complex, ornate look. French braids create an “inward” braided look, and Dutch braids create an “outward” braided look.
Conclusion
While there isn’t a “better” braiding technique, both French and Dutch braids offer unique and beautiful styles. French braids have a romantic look while Dutch braids tend to be more complex and ornate; it all depends on the occasion and how you want to wear your hair. Now that you understand the difference between the two braids, why not give them both a try and see which one you like best? You might just find a new go-to hairstyle!
FAQ
What are two French braids called?
Two French braids that are created by weaving sections of hair into a three-strand braid are commonly known as Boxer braids. These braids are also referred to as Double French braids or Dutch braids. The braids are created by dividing the hair into two sections, and braiding each section of hair from the scalp to the ends using the traditional French braid technique. The braids are tightly woven, starting at the hairline at the top of the head and ending at the nape of the neck.
Boxer braids are currently a popular hairstyle trend among women, especially those who are into fitness or sports as the style is practical, easy to maintain, and keeps the hair away from the face and neck. The name boxer braid probably comes from the fact that this hairstyle is commonly used by female boxers to keep their hair out of the way during boxing matches.
Although the name may suggest that Boxer braids are always created on short hair, they can also be created on any length of hair, from long to medium-length hair. Additionally, Boxer braids can vary in style. For instance, some people add hair extensions or decorate their braids with ribbons, beads, or other accessories to make the hairstyle look more unique and stylish.
Boxer braids, also known as Double French braids or Dutch braids, are two braids that are created from two sections of hair that are tightly woven from the scalp to the nape of the neck. This practical and stylish hairstyle is used by many women, including athletes and fitness enthusiasts, and can be customized with accessories to make it more unique.
Are Dutch braids culturally appropriate?
The topic of cultural appropriation has gained a lot of attention in recent years, with debates over what is considered ‘fair’ use of cultural practices and what is seen as disrespectful or problematic. One area that has come under scrutiny in terms of cultural appropriation is hairstyles. The question of whether or not Dutch braids are culturally appropriate is a complex one, encompassing ideas of cultural identity, representation, and power relations.
To begin with, it’s important to define what Dutch braids are. A Dutch braid (also known as an ‘inside-out French braid’) is a type of braiding technique where the hair is woven together in three sections, with each section crossing underneath the previous one. This creates a braid that sits on top of the head, rather than hanging down. Although Dutch braids are often associated with European culture, they are not specific to any one community, but rather a style that can be seen across cultures and regions.
However, when it comes to cultural appropriation, context is key. The act of appropriating a hairstyle can be problematic when it’s done without understanding or acknowledging the cultural significance of that style. For example, when non-Black people wear dreadlocks, a hairstyle with roots in African history and culture, without any understanding of that history or context, it can be seen as a form of erasure or exploitation. However, Dutch braids do not carry the same weight of cultural significance as dreadlocks, and as a result, it’s not usually considered problematic for people of any culture to wear them.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the rules around cultural appropriation are not universal and can vary from community to community. While some people may feel that it’s fine for anyone to wear any hairstyle they choose, others may feel more protective of their cultural practices and see appropriation as a harmful act. whether or not Dutch braids are culturally appropriate is dependent on the context and intentions behind wearing them.
Dutch braids themselves are not culturally inappropriate, as they are not tied to any one specific culture or community. However, as with any form of cultural appropriation, the context and intentions behind wearing them can make all the difference. It’s important to approach hairstyles from a place of respect and understanding, acknowledging the diverse cultural histories and contexts that contribute to our understanding of beauty and style.
Which braids are better for your hair?
Braids are a popular form of protective styling for people with natural hair. They can help to protect your hair from damage caused by weather, friction, and manipulation. However, not all braids are created equal. Some braids can put too much tension on your hair and scalp, leading to hair breakage and even traction alopecia. Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs when hair is pulled too tightly from the roots.
Many people opt for knotless braids as they are considered a better option for your hair in comparison to traditional braids. Knotless braids are created without any knots at the base, which means that they put less stress and tension on your hair and scalp. This is because the braids are created by looping the extensions onto your natural hair, rather than knotting the extensions onto your hair. This technique allows for a more even distribution of weight on the scalp.
One of the benefits of knotless braids is that they are less likely to cause damage or breakage to your hair. When extensions are knotted onto your hair, there is a risk of the knots pulling on your hair and creating tension, which can lead to breakage. With knotless braids, the weight is distributed more evenly, reducing the risk of tension and damage.
Another advantage of knotless braids is that they can help prevent traction alopecia. Traction alopecia is caused by excessive tension and pulling on the hair and scalp. Traditional braids can put a lot of tension on your hairline, causing the hair to break or fall out. Knotless braids, on the other hand, are gentler on your hairline, which can help to prevent traction alopecia.
However, it is important to note that the quality of your braids also depends on the technique and the person who is doing them. Regardless of whether you choose knotless braids or traditional braids, it is important to make sure that you go to a skilled, experienced stylist who can apply your braids with the proper technique and tension. If your braids are too tight or too heavy, they can still put an excessive amount of stress on your hair and scalp, leading to damage or hair loss.