How To Braid When You Have Layers

By Lora Brown

Layers are great for adding volume and texture to your hair. However, they can make it difficult to achieve trendy styles, such as braids. Here are some tricks for creating braids that work with your layered hair.

5 Ways To Fix Flyaways When Braiding

Give it a Twist
One problem you might encounter with a braid is having the shortest layer of hair come undone, especially when making a side braid. An easy twist and a couple of bobby pins can help. After braiding your hair, gather the loose pieces from the top layer and twist them around the sides of your head. Pin them behind the braid with bobby pins to keep in place.

Cover with Curls
Before braiding, curl the ends of your hair. If your ends are straight, they'll be more likely to stick straight out when your hair is up. Instead, grab a round brush and your hairdryer to give the ends a slight curl,. An alternative is to use a curling iron or a wand to curl all of the hair. When you create your braid, the pieces that fall will look intentional instead of disheveled.

Choose Higher Braids
While fishtails and French braids will cause layers to leave pieces going astray, opting for braids higher on the head can conceal layers. Try out a milkmaid braid by making two French braid pigtails and crisscrossing them behind your head. When you're done, secure stray pieces easily by tucking them into the braid. A beaded crown can also work well for those with long layers. Just separate the top layer and braid that part of the hair, letting the other layers flow underneath.

Spray and Secure
When braiding layered hair, bobby pins will be your best tool. Luckily, most stylish braids are meant to look a bit more messy, so some stray strands will only add to your look. For those larger pieces that won't stay put, bobby pins and hairspray will keep things in place. Just pull the pieces through a section of the braid and use a bobby pin to secure the piece behind the braid. When you're finished, use a bit of pomade to hold the piece in place, then secure it all with hairspray.

Start with a Great Cut
When your hair has a great cut full of layers, texture, and volume, nearly every trendy hairstyle will look great. To get your new cut, visit the professionals at The Salon by Lora Brown.


Need help deciding which braid will go with your outfit or event? Download our free Braid Meter Guide!

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