3 Easy DIY Crown Braid Hairstyles Step-by-Step Guide

Hey there, style enthusiasts! Are you ready to level up your hair game with a timeless and elegant hairstyle? Today, we're diving into the world of crown braids – also known as halo braids – a look that's been taking the fashion scene by storm. Whether you're aiming for a casual everyday vibe or getting dolled up for a special occasion, crown braids are incredibly versatile and can add a touch of magic to any outfit. In this complete guide, we'll explore three gorgeous crown braid styles you can easily create in the comfort of your own home. So, grab your combs, bobby pins, and let's get braiding, guys!

Why Crown Braids? The Timeless Appeal

Let's kick things off by understanding why crown braids have become such a beloved hairstyle. These braids, encircling your head like a regal crown, exude a classic charm that never goes out of style. Think of them as the LBD (Little Black Dress) of the hair world – always chic, always appropriate, and endlessly adaptable. Their popularity has surged in recent years, and for good reason. Crown braids are not just pretty; they're practical too. They keep your hair neatly tucked away, making them perfect for busy days or outdoor events. Plus, they're a fantastic way to showcase your hair's length and texture, adding dimension and visual interest.

Crown braids have this amazing ability to elevate any look. They can transform a simple jeans-and-tee combo into something effortlessly stylish, or complement a formal gown with an air of sophisticated grace. What's more, they're a fantastic option for those days when you want your hair out of your face but still want to look polished. Whether you're heading to a music festival, a wedding, or just a casual brunch with friends, a crown braid can be your go-to hairstyle. The best part? With a little practice, you can master these styles yourself, saving time and money on salon visits. So, let's embark on this braiding adventure and discover the crown braid that perfectly suits your style!

Essential Tools and Prep for Crown Braid Success

Before we dive into the techniques, let's gather our tools and prep our hair for braiding success. Just like any good recipe, having the right ingredients and equipment is key to a flawless finish. Here's a rundown of what you'll need to create stunning crown braids:

• Comb: A wide-tooth comb and a fine-tooth comb are essential for detangling and creating clean parts.
• Brush: A good quality brush will help smooth your hair and distribute natural oils.
• Bobby Pins: These are your best friends for securing the braid and keeping it in place. Choose pins that match your hair color for a seamless look.
• Hair Ties: Clear elastic hair ties are ideal for securing the ends of your braids without being too visible.
• Mirror: Having a mirror handy, especially if you're braiding the back of your head, is crucial for ensuring a neat and even braid.
• Hair Products (Optional): Depending on your hair type, you might want to use some products to enhance the braid. Texturizing spray can add grip and volume, while hairspray can provide hold and prevent flyaways. A little bit of hair oil or serum can also tame frizz and add shine.

Now that we have our tools, let's talk prep. The key to a beautiful crown braid is starting with clean, dry hair. Freshly washed hair can be a bit slippery, so braiding on second-day hair often works best. If your hair is too clean, you can add some texture with a texturizing spray or dry shampoo. Make sure to brush your hair thoroughly to remove any knots or tangles. This will make the braiding process much smoother and prevent any unwanted snags. If you have layers, consider using some styling cream or wax to keep them in place and prevent them from sticking out of the braid. Remember, a little prep goes a long way in achieving a polished and long-lasting crown braid!

Crown Braid Hairstyle #1: The Classic Three-Strand Crown Braid

The first crown braid we'll conquer is the classic three-strand crown braid. This is the quintessential crown braid, a timeless style that exudes elegance and simplicity. It's a great starting point for beginners, as it utilizes the basic three-strand braiding technique that many of us learned as kids. Don't let the simplicity fool you, though; this braid is anything but ordinary. It's a versatile look that can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion. Plus, it's a fantastic way to keep your hair out of your face while looking effortlessly chic.

To create this braid, start by parting your hair down the middle. Then, divide your hair into two sections. Begin braiding one section using a standard three-strand braid. Once you reach the end, secure it with a clear elastic hair tie. Repeat this process on the other section. Now comes the fun part: creating the crown! Take one braid and carefully wrap it across the top of your head, pinning it securely behind your opposite ear. Repeat with the second braid, overlapping it slightly over the first braid and pinning it in place. Make sure to tuck the ends of the braids underneath each other to create a seamless look. Use bobby pins generously to secure the braid and prevent any sections from slipping. Once you're happy with the placement, give your braid a gentle tug in a few places to loosen it up and add some texture. This will create a softer, more romantic look. A light mist of hairspray can help hold the braid in place and prevent flyaways.

The beauty of this classic crown braid lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can customize it to suit your personal style by adding accessories like flowers, ribbons, or decorative hairpins. For a more relaxed look, pull out a few strands of hair around your face. If you have layers, this braid is a great way to showcase them, adding dimension and texture to the overall style. This crown braid is perfect for everything from a casual day out to a formal event. It's a go-to hairstyle that will always make you feel polished and put-together. So, embrace the classic charm of the three-strand crown braid and make it your own!

Crown Braid Hairstyle #2: The Dutch Braid Crown

Next up, we have the Dutch braid crown, a variation that adds a touch of boldness and dimension to the classic crown braid. If you're looking for a style that stands out and showcases your braiding skills, the Dutch braid crown is definitely worth exploring. This braid is created using the Dutch braiding technique, which involves braiding the strands under each other instead of over, creating a raised, three-dimensional effect. The result is a braid that pops and adds a unique texture to your hairstyle. It's a fantastic option for those who want a crown braid with a bit more visual impact.

To create the Dutch braid crown, start by parting your hair on your preferred side. Then, take a section of hair near your part and divide it into three strands. Begin Dutch braiding by crossing the right strand under the middle strand, and then the left strand under the new middle strand. As you continue braiding, add a new section of hair to each strand before you cross it under. This is the key to creating the Dutch braid effect. Continue braiding around your head, following your hairline and adding new sections of hair as you go. Once you reach the starting point, continue braiding the remaining hair into a regular Dutch braid. Secure the end with a clear elastic hair tie. Now, carefully wrap the braid around your head, following the line of the braid you created earlier. Tuck the end of the braid underneath and secure it with bobby pins. Make sure the braid lies flat against your head and that there are no gaps. Use plenty of bobby pins to secure the braid and prevent it from unraveling. Once you're happy with the placement, you can gently tug on the braid to loosen it up and add some volume. This will create a softer, more romantic look. A light mist of hairspray can help hold the braid in place and prevent flyaways.

The Dutch braid crown is a statement hairstyle that's perfect for special occasions or for those days when you want to add a touch of drama to your look. It's a great option for showcasing highlights or dimensional hair color, as the raised texture of the braid really makes the colors pop. You can customize this braid by adding accessories like flowers, beads, or ribbons. For a more bohemian vibe, try pulling out a few strands of hair around your face and adding some loose waves. This crown braid is a fantastic way to showcase your braiding skills and create a hairstyle that's both beautiful and unique. So, embrace the boldness of the Dutch braid crown and let your hair make a statement!

Crown Braid Hairstyle #3: The Fishtail Crown Braid

Last but certainly not least, we have the fishtail crown braid, a whimsical and intricate style that's sure to turn heads. If you're looking for a crown braid with a touch of bohemian flair, the fishtail crown is the perfect choice. This braid is created using the fishtail braiding technique, which involves dividing the hair into two sections and transferring small strands from one section to the other. The result is a braid that resembles the intricate pattern of a fish's tail, adding a unique and eye-catching texture to your hairstyle. It might look intimidating at first, but with a little practice, the fishtail braid is surprisingly easy to master.

To create the fishtail crown braid, start by parting your hair on your preferred side. Then, take a section of hair near your part and divide it into two sections. Begin fishtail braiding by taking a small strand from the outside of the right section and crossing it over to the inside of the left section. Then, take a small strand from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the inside of the right section. Continue this process, alternating sides and adding new sections of hair as you go, braiding around your head and following your hairline. Once you reach the starting point, continue braiding the remaining hair into a regular fishtail braid. Secure the end with a clear elastic hair tie. Now, carefully wrap the braid around your head, following the line of the braid you created earlier. Tuck the end of the braid underneath and secure it with bobby pins. Make sure the braid lies flat against your head and that there are no gaps. Use plenty of bobby pins to secure the braid and prevent it from unraveling. Once you're happy with the placement, you can gently tug on the braid to loosen it up and add some volume. This will create a softer, more romantic look. A light mist of hairspray can help hold the braid in place and prevent flyaways.

The fishtail crown braid is a dreamy and romantic hairstyle that's perfect for weddings, festivals, or any occasion where you want to add a touch of whimsy to your look. The intricate texture of the fishtail braid adds a unique visual interest that sets it apart from other crown braids. You can customize this braid by adding accessories like flowers, feathers, or delicate hairpins. For a more relaxed and bohemian vibe, try pulling out a few strands of hair around your face and adding some loose waves. This crown braid is a fantastic way to showcase your creativity and create a hairstyle that's both beautiful and unique. So, embrace the whimsical charm of the fishtail crown braid and let your inner bohemian goddess shine!

Tips and Tricks for Braiding Like a Pro

Now that we've explored three stunning crown braid hairstyles, let's dive into some tips and tricks that will help you braid like a pro. Whether you're a braiding beginner or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you achieve flawless and long-lasting crown braids. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. With a little patience and these helpful tips, you'll be creating stunning crown braids in no time!

• Start with clean, dry hair: As we mentioned earlier, clean hair is essential for braiding. Freshly washed hair can be slippery, so braiding on second-day hair often works best. If your hair is too clean, you can add some texture with a texturizing spray or dry shampoo.
• Prep your hair: Brushing your hair thoroughly to remove any knots or tangles is crucial for a smooth braiding process. If you have layers, consider using some styling cream or wax to keep them in place and prevent them from sticking out of the braid.
• Use a mirror: Having a mirror handy, especially if you're braiding the back of your head, is crucial for ensuring a neat and even braid.
• Secure your braid: Bobby pins are your best friends for securing the braid and keeping it in place. Use plenty of pins that match your hair color for a seamless look. Clear elastic hair ties are ideal for securing the ends of your braids without being too visible.
• Loosen the braid: Once you're happy with the placement, gently tug on the braid to loosen it up and add some volume. This will create a softer, more romantic look.
• Add texture: Texturizing spray can add grip and volume to your hair, making it easier to braid. It can also help your braid last longer.
• Use hairspray: A light mist of hairspray can help hold the braid in place and prevent flyaways.
• Experiment with accessories: Accessories like flowers, ribbons, beads, and hairpins can add a personal touch to your crown braid. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different accessories to find the perfect look for you.
• Practice, practice, practice: Like any skill, braiding takes practice. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. Keep practicing, and you'll be creating stunning crown braids in no time!

Embrace the Crown: Your Braid Journey Begins Now!

So there you have it, guys! Three stunning crown braid hairstyles that you can easily create at home. From the classic three-strand crown braid to the bold Dutch braid crown and the whimsical fishtail crown braid, there's a style to suit every taste and occasion. We've covered the essential tools, the prep work, the techniques, and the tips and tricks for braiding like a pro. Now, it's time to embark on your own crown braid journey and discover the magic of these timeless hairstyles.

Remember, the key to mastering any braiding technique is practice. Don't be afraid to experiment, try different variations, and put your own spin on these styles. Crown braids are incredibly versatile, and you can customize them to suit your personal style and preferences. Whether you're aiming for a romantic, bohemian, or sophisticated look, a crown braid can be your go-to hairstyle. So, grab your combs, bobby pins, and hair ties, and get ready to embrace the crown. Your hair will thank you for it!

Happy braiding, and may your crown braids always shine!