How to Braid Hair to One Side of Your Head

Braids are often popular for summer. However, for 2010, they are also an important beauty statement. Whether your hair is medium length or longer, braiding your hair is an easy way to make sure your glorious tresses are under control during fun in the sun.

While pigtails might be okay for the younger lot, they don't lend themselves well to women above the age of 15. Of course there is always the single braid at the nape of the neck. This classic look is attractive, easy, and classic.

One of the most popular hair trends involves braids that are pulled to one side of the head. The look is hip, fun, and just a bit flirtatious. What more can any woman ask for?

To achieve the perfect one-sided braid, the hair must be just above the shoulder or longer. Hair that is cut all one length, rather than in layers, will lend itself to this style the best. However, most women who have limited or longer layers can also pull of this look by tacking a comb or bobby pins in any last minute flyaways.

I recommend beginning with hair that is wet; either fully saturated or at least sprinkled down with water. The hair clings together better in this state, making it much easier to braid. I often add a leave-in conditioner or hair sunscreen as well. That secures my hair from the harsh rays of the sun while keeping it moisture rich.

Hair that is just above to just below the shoulders, as well as multi-layered hair, will find that side braids will work better if they are first put it into a ponytail. That helps to control flyaway hair and gives the braid a more polished look. Longer hair may wish to leave the top free flowing and only rubber band the tail of the braid.

Begin by pulling the hair to one side of the head. Use a fabric-covered rubber band to secure into place, if necessary. Make sure the connection is tight so the hair won't wiggle out easily as the day wears on.

Braids are typically braided from right to left. However, left handers can also braid the opposite way if it is more comfortable. When braiding right to left the right hand is called the control hand and the left, the braiding hand. Obviously, it is the opposite for those braiding from left to right.

Next, divide the hair into three equal sections, holding two of the sections with the control hand and one with the braiding hand. With the braiding hand reach over to the furthest section of hair in the control hand, pulling it up and over the other section held by the control hand. Keep the hair tightly pulled together.

Then pull the single section of hair held in the braid hand over top of the top section now held in the control hand. Continue using the same technique until the hair is braided down as far as it will go, leaving at least one and one-half inches of hair hanging loose from the bottom of the braid.

Place a second fabric covered rubber band at the end of the braid to secure it in place. Add combs, barrettes, or decorative bobby pins, if desired, to hold any flyaway hair down.

Keep in mind, for a typical braid, be sure to keep each braided section tight. For a looser, more casual looking braid, keep the hair loose as you are braid it.

Think about adding strings of pearls or ribbons to the braid by working one strand of each together with each of three hair sections. Secure the top of the pearls or ribbon into place with a bobby pin or barrette or by tucking it into a banded ponytail.

Braids are all about convenience, comfort, and fun so get creative and think of ways to decorate your one-sided braid to match your swimsuit or your personality.