The Faux Side Shave Braid

April 12, 2013

The majority of our favorite hair trends are influenced by top celebrities. A recent trend seen on top celebrities such as Rihanna, is a style that you’ll have to be ready to commit to! While the side shave can be a little shocking, we can’t deny the edgy appeal it exudes. Love it but don’t have the guts? Well you’re in luck. There is a faux side shave braid that will give you the badass look your aiming for, without sacrificing your locks. Follow the steps below to master this edgy style!

Steps 1 & 2: Start by parting your hair to the side you want left down. The key is to give yourself a dramatic part, so at least 3/4 of your hair should be to one side.

Step 3: Starting near the face (right above your ear), Start as you normally would with a french braid by taking a section of hair and dividing it into 3 strands.

Steps 4 & 5: As a second step, rather than placing the pieces over each other like a classic french braid, place them under each other. This will make the finished product a ‘dutch’ braid and the pop out effect will make the finished product more dramatic!

Step 6: Continue braiding and, with each strand, gather hair from beneath and incorporate into your braid. (Again, be sure to place each strand UNDER the other, not on top!)

Step 7: Secure with a few bobby pins!

Voila! You’ve mastered this daring top trend without making a dramatic commitment. The best part is you can customize this look to you’re liking, by rocking it on either side of your head, or for a super shocking effect, both! So ditch the scissors, get braiding, and you’ll be on your way to super stylish hair!

- Elizabeth Barkley