Master the Art of the Upside Down Braid: A Step-by-Step Guide

The upside down braid, also known as the Dutch braid or inverted braid, is a stunning and versatile hairstyle that elevates any look. It’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your everyday style, or for creating an intricate updo for special occasions. While it might seem intimidating at first, mastering the upside down braid is achievable with a little patience and practice. This comprehensive guide will break down each step, ensuring you’ll be rocking this gorgeous braid in no time. Get ready to turn heads with this beautiful and surprisingly simple technique!

What You’ll Need:

• Hairbrush or comb: To remove tangles and create a smooth base. A wide-tooth comb is great for gentle detangling.
• Hair ties or elastics: Clear elastics are ideal for blending in, but you can use colored ones to add a touch of fun.
• Hair clips: To secure sections of hair while you work.
• Optional: Hair spray, texture spray, or dry shampoo for added hold and volume. A mirror will also be very helpful.

Preparation is Key:

Before you even begin braiding, it’s crucial to prep your hair properly. This will ensure a smoother, more professional-looking finish. Here’s what you should do:

1. Detangle thoroughly: Use your brush or comb to remove any knots or tangles. This will make the braiding process much easier and prevent snagging. Start at the ends and work your way up to avoid breakage.
2. Add texture (optional): If your hair is very fine or slippery, a little dry shampoo or texture spray can provide some grip and make the braid hold better. Apply it lightly, focusing on the roots and mid-lengths.
3. Decide on your style: Do you want a single braid that ends in a ponytail, a double braid, or a braid that wraps around your head? Knowing your desired outcome will help you determine where to start your braid.
4. Optional Parting: Consider how you would like your hair to be parted. A middle part is a classic look, while a side part adds a touch of asymmetry.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Upside Down Braid:

Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into the braiding process. This method will teach you how to create a single upside-down braid.

Step 1: Position Your Head and Hair

The key to a successful upside-down braid is starting with your head tilted forward. You can achieve this by either sitting and bending at the waist or by flipping your head over while standing. The important thing is that your hair is hanging downwards.

Step 2: Section Your Hair

Locate the nape of your neck (the area just below your hairline). This is where you’ll begin the braid. Gather a section of hair about 2-3 inches wide at the nape of your neck. Divide this section into three equal strands, just like you would for a normal braid. If you are doing a double upside down braid make two sections at either side of the base of your neck. Use hair clips to secure the rest of your hair and ensure it is not in your way.

Step 3: Begin the Dutch Braid (Inverted French Braid)

This is where the magic happens. The Dutch braid is essentially a French braid done in reverse. Instead of braiding over the middle strand, you will braid under it.

• Start with the right strand: Take the right strand and pass it under the middle strand.
• Next, the left strand: Take the left strand and pass it under the new middle strand (which was previously the right strand).
• Add Hair (Key Step): Now, before you bring the right strand under the middle again, add a small section of hair from the right side of your head to the right strand. This is the same as a french braid except you are braiding under. Mix the newly added hair in with the right strand of hair you are holding.
• Bring it under Pass the right strand with the new hair under the middle strand.
• Add More Hair to the left: Repeat the process on the left side. Add a small section of hair from the left side of your head to the left strand, mix it together, and then pass the left strand under the middle strand.

Continue this pattern, always braiding under and adding hair from each side with each new strand.

Step 4: Maintain Tension and Direction

As you braid, maintain even tension to create a neat and even braid. Keep the strands taut, but not so tight that it pulls uncomfortably on your scalp. Make sure that as you add hair, you keep following the curve of your head, directing the braid towards the top. If doing a single braid, aim to meet at the crown of your head. If doing two braids, aim to join each braid at the back of your head.

Step 5: Braiding to the Desired Length

Continue braiding until you have reached the crown of your head (for a single braid) or the back of your head (for double braids). At this point, you will have gathered all of your hair into the braid. Finish the rest of your hair as a regular three-strand braid, continuing the under braiding technique to maintain the Dutch braid appearance.

Step 6: Secure the Braid

Once you have reached the ends of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie or elastic band. Make sure it’s tight enough to hold the braid in place, but not so tight that it causes breakage.

Step 7: Style the Remainder (Optional)

This is where you get to add your personal touch. You can leave the braid as a ponytail or bun. You can also loosen the braid slightly by gently pulling at each loop to create a fuller, more relaxed look. You can also style the remaining hair into a high bun, messy bun, or curls. Get creative and have fun!

Step 8: Set the Style (Optional)

To ensure your braid lasts all day, apply a light mist of hairspray to hold it in place and tame flyaways. Use a lightweight hairspray so the hair does not feel too stiff.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Braid is too tight: Make sure you are not pulling too hard as you braid. Keep your tension even and relaxed.
• Loose strands: When adding hair, make sure to grab only a small amount. Also, ensure that each strand is tightly pulled to your head. Use hair clips if needed to secure strands.
• Uneven braid: It is important that as you add hair, you take a similar amount of hair from either side.
• Braid doesn’t look upside down: Make sure you are braiding under each time rather than over. This is the most common mistake. If you are following an over braiding technique, then you are creating a French braid not a dutch braid.

Tips for Success:

• Practice makes perfect: Don’t get discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Like any skill, it takes practice. Keep trying, and you’ll get the hang of it.
• Use a mirror: Having a hand mirror can be invaluable, allowing you to see the back of your head and monitor your braid as you work.
• Start simple: If you’re a beginner, start with a single braid that ends in a ponytail. Once you’ve mastered this, you can explore more complex styles.
• Use a good quality elastic band: Using a low-quality elastic band that breaks easily can result in having to start again.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of the upside-down braid, such as incorporating ribbons or adding extensions.
• Watch Video Tutorials: Sometimes seeing the process can be easier than reading it. Look up some reputable video tutorials on youtube and practice along side them.

Variations and Styling Ideas:

The beauty of the upside down braid is its versatility. Here are some ways you can switch it up:

• Double Upside Down Braids: Create two braids starting from the nape of the neck on either side of your head, meeting in the middle.
• Braided Crown: Instead of a ponytail or bun, continue the braid all the way around your head to create a braided crown. Pin the end of the braid neatly behind the ear.
• High Bun with Upside Down Braid: Gather your hair into a high bun at the crown of your head, and use an upside-down braid as an accent.
• Half-Up Style: Stop your braid when you reach the back of your head and tie off a half-up hairstyle.
• Messy Texture: After completing your braid, gently pull at the loops to create a messier, more bohemian style.
• Add Accessories: Use clips, ribbons, or hair scarves to add a personal touch to your braid.

Conclusion

The upside down braid is a beautiful and unique hairstyle that’s easier to achieve than you might think. By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to master this elegant look and create a variety of stunning styles. With practice and a little patience, you can impress everyone with your braiding skills. So go ahead, give it a try, and unlock a world of gorgeous hairstyles! Remember, the key is practice, patience and not being afraid to make mistakes. Happy braiding!