How to Do a 4-Strand Braid

Living in the braid-obsessed hairstyle culture of 2019, it’d be no surprise to us if you’ve already tried your hand at a traditional three-strand braid, a French braid, and maybe even a fishtail braid. But a 4 strand braid? Now that’s next-level trendy. If you want to really take your beauty look up a notch, read on to learn how to braid 4 strands into three of the most common four-strand braids. You’ll be a plait pro in no time!

BRAIDED HAIRSTYLE #1: CLASSIC 4 STRAND BRAID

Easily the most recognizable four-strand braid, this classic plait sometimes tricks the eye into thinking it’s just another traditional three-strand beauty, but upon further inspection, you’ll notice detail that makes this braid a must-try.

What you’ll need:

Hair tie

L’Oréal Paris Elnett Precious Oil Satin Hairspray

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Bring your hair to one side

Pull all of your hair over one shoulder—pretty self-explanatory!

Step 2: Start with four even sections

Simply use your fingers to divide your hair. There’s no need to be perfectly precise in this the-messier-the-better era we’re witnessing in beauty.

Step 3: Begin to weave

Pull your outer right strand over your inner right and under your inner left. Stop there with that strand.

Step 4: Weave some more

Weave the outer left strand under the new inner left strand and over the inner right. That completes one full stitch of the classic four-strand braid!

Step 5: Repeat

Over, under. Just remember that the outer strand always goes over then under on the right side and under then over on the left. Tie off with a hair tie, spritz on some hairspray, and fall in love with your new braided hairstyle.

BRAIDED HAIRSTYLE #2: CELTIC FOUR-STRAND BRAID

With a nod toward Celtic culture, this braid looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Yep, it’s really that whimsical.

What you’ll need:

Hair tie

L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Weather Control Hairspray

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Pull all of your hair over to one shoulder

OK, done. Next.

Step 2: Section your hair

Divide your hair into four even sections. Easy enough!

Step 3: Start your braid

Pull your outer right strand over your inner right strand so that the two switch places. Then weave that same strand under the inner left. Finally, bring it over the outer left. Now it’s your new outer left strand. That completes one full stitch of this fairy-like four-strand braid.

Step 4: Repeat all the way to the end

Got it? Good! Secure with a hair tie.

Step 5: Tie off with a clear mini elastic

Before going about your day, gently tug at each section of your braid to fluff it up for a more intricate look. Don’t forget to seal your style with hairspray!

BRAIDED HAIRSTYLE #3: ROUND 4-STRAND BRAID

Unlike the other two four-strand braids you’ve been introduced to, this braid is round instead of flat.

What you’ll need:

Hair tie

L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Fine Control Hairspray

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Section away

Pull all your hair over one shoulder and divide your hair into four even sections. By now you’ve probably got it down pat.

Step 2: Start your braid

Weave the outer right strand over the inner right. Then the inner left over both of those so that it becomes the new outer right.

Step 3: Continue to weave

Weave the outer left over the inner left, and weave the inner right over both of those so that it becomes the new outer left. That completes one full stitch of your rad, round braid.

Step 4: Repeat

Outer over inner and inner over both. Finish with a hair elastic. Again, pancake each stitch of your braid for a fluffier, more voluminous braid, then follow with hairspray.

Now that you have three new techniques to master, we have one last expert tip for your using. When weaving your braids, try to do so with your eyes closed so that you can perfect the skill of each weave. Sometimes when you get caught looking in a mirror, things get confusing because it’s a reverse image. What’s more, when you do this regularly, you’ll soon find that braiding behind your back or without a mirror is no problem at all!

Next up: Once you have four-strand braids down pat, there are plenty more plaits to learn. Here’s How to Create a Waterfall Braid.