Top Five Braided Hairstyles

Have you ever tried to learn a new braid just by reading instructions? "Cross section one with section five, then flip over section two ..." Huh?

Usually, you don't end up with a pretty result like this. In my case, following a braid how-to leads to a "nice" bird's nest on top of my head.

Related link: 10 Best Braided Celeb Hairstyles

If I'm really serious about learning a specific style (say, a waterfall braid), I need to see it done in person, or watch a video of someone doing it. So this time, instead of reading a bunch of braiding how-tos, I decided to plant myself in front of my computer screen and watch the best YouTube braiding video tutorials.

Related link: 10 Things I Learned at Makeup School

Believe it or not, I learned how to create more than 10 braids in one afternoon, with only one minor nest-like incident (not bad!). Every single one of these braids comes with a video, clear step-by-step voiceover instructions, and important tips to remember, which makes it sooo easy to get the hang of them. Check out the first five below, and click here for the entire list.

Look no. 1: The Waterfall Braid

Click here to watch the entire tutorial by YouTube user LetsMakeitUp.

While you watch, keep in mind: When you pick up the new section of hair from the bottom after you drop each section, keep those pieces the same size for a uniform look. And don't pull your hair too tightly as you braid. You want to keep the braid nice and loose to get the cascading waterfall effect.





Look no. 2: The Five-Strand Braid

Click here to watch the entire tutorial by YouTube user Luxy Hair.

While you watch, keep in mind: There should always be one section of hair in the middle and two sections of hair on either side. As you braid the five pieces, repeat the steps of "over" and "under" to yourself to keep track of where you're at, since it can get complicated.



Look no. 3: The Half Dutch Headband Braid

Click here to watch the entire tutorial by YouTube user justbebexo.

While you watch, keep in mind: When you're braiding, bring the left section above the center section. Same with the right section. This is what flips out the braid. If you find this concept confusing, don't look at her fingers while you're watching the video. It's more helpful to look at each section of hair and where it goes instead.



Look no. 4: The Fishtail Braid

Click here to watch the entire tutorial by the hair and makeup gurus at thebeautydept -- you can see how Lauren Conrad even illustrates each step for you.

While you watch, keep in mind: The fishtail braid requires separating your hair into different sections constantly, so make sure your hair is well brushed before starting.


Look no. 5: The French Fishtail Braid

Click here to watch the entire tutorial by YouTube user iampurrfect.

While you watch, keep in mind: Hair tends to slip more when you're French fishtail braiding, so use your thumb to pin down your hair whenever you cross a section over to the other side. This will make it easier to grab the next section of hair when it's time to cross over.



Check out even more amazing braiding tutorials here, including the zig-zag braid, the rope braid, and the scarf French braid. And don't forget to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for even cooler hairstyle tips.

More from BeautyRiot.com:
Say What? Beauty Brand Pronunciation Guide
10 New, Non-Boring Ponytails
Stylish Ways to Wear Dirty Hair