How to Do a 4-Strand Braid

Living in the braid-obsessed hair style culture of 2018, it’s no surprise that we’ve all tested our hand at a traditional three-strand braid, a French braid, and maybe even a fishtail braid. But a four-strand braid? Now that’s next-level trendy. If you want to really take your beauty look up a notch, read below to learn how to weave 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.

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: 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: Pull your outer right strand over your inner right and under your inner left. Stop there with that strand.

Step 4: 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 and fall in love with your new braided hairstyle.

Braided Hairstyle #2: Celtic FOur-Strand Braid

With a nod towards Celtic culture, this braid looks straight off the head of an elf from a fairytale. Yep, it’s really that whimsical.

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Pull all of your hair over to one shoulder. OK, done. Next.

Step 2: Divide your hair into four even sections. Easy enough.

Step 3: 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, 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!

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.

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.

Get the look by following these simple steps:

Step 1: 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: 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: 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 clear elastic. Again, pancake each stich of your braid for a fluffier, more voluminous braid.

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.

To help lock in your hard work, make sure to always have a can of the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Strong Hold Hairspray on hand for a little extra hold to help your look last all day (and night) long. Next, here’s How to Do a Waterfall Braid.