How to French Braid

Want to learn how to French braid? It is simple, yet elegant and these braids provide just the right look for either a casual fun look or a classic style with the most elegant of gowns. Many people think it's difficult to learn how to French braid, but it really isn't, especially if you've already mastered the fishbone braid.  

As with all braids, begin by combing all the tangles and knots out of your hair. Using a rat-tail comb with a pointed handle, divide a small section of hair at the top of your head near the hairline, or just behind your bangs, if you have them, into three equal sections, just as you would for a classic braid.  

Cross the right hand section over the middle section, so it becomes the new middle section and pull the sections away from each other so the braid is tight. Next, cross the left hand section over the middle section so it now becomes the center. Pull sections apart again so the braids are tight.

Using the end of the rat-tail comb, lift up a small section of hair on the right side. Just part the hair from the hairline to the middle of the braid - about a 1/2 inch below the current braid. Add the hair to the section you already have on the right and cross it over the middle section. Pull tight.  

Repeat on the left side. Make your part from the hairline to the middle of the braid, 1/2 inch below the existing braid. Lift the hair, add it to the section on the left and cross it over the middle section.  

Continue like this until you reach the hairline and secure with an elastic ponytail holder. Don't forget to tighten the braid after each cross over to keep it snug and secure. You can now braid the remainder of your hair in a classic braid. For an elegant finish, coil the braid into a chignon on the back of the head and secure with bobby pins, a stick or a clip.