How to French Braid Your Hair Step by Step

A French braid starts at your crown and incorporates new hair sections as you braid down, creating that woven-in look that stays put all day.

1. Start with the right prep. Work with day-old hair that has some texture and grip - freshly washed hair is too slippery and will slide around. Brush everything smooth and spray with a light texturizing spray if your hair is particularly fine or slippery.
2. Create your foundation section. Take a triangle section at the very top of your head, starting about two inches back from your hairline. This section should be about three inches wide at the base. Divide this into three equal strands - this is your starting point.
3. Begin the basic braid pattern. Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the new middle. Do this twice to establish your braid before you start adding hair - this gives you something solid to work with.
4. Add hair as you go. Before crossing each outside strand over the middle, pick up a small section of loose hair and add it to that strand. Keep your additions even in size and tension consistent. Work your way down the back of your head, always braiding close to the scalp.
5. Finish strong. Once you've incorporated all the loose hair, continue with a regular three-strand braid to the ends. Secure with a clear elastic and gently tug at the edges of each section to make it look fuller and less perfect.