But whether they’re called cornrows, double Dutches, boxer braids, or reverse French pigtails, they’re actually pretty easy to create: You can sport this look while at the gym, for date night, or even for work! They’re super impressive and get your hair out of your face, which is a total win/win in our book. Read on to check out how you can create your very own boxer braids:
How to Create a Boxer Braid or Pigtail Dutch Braids
Step 1: Start on clean, washed, and blow-dried hair.
Few things hold a braid better than strands that have been shampooed, conditioned, and prepped for the tugging. Do so with a fortifying system, such as Love Beauty and Planet Blue-Green Algae & Eucalyptus Shampoo and Conditioner. This duo works to gently cleanse and nourish your hair.
Step 2: Blow-dry until 90 percent or completely dry.
Make sure that your hair is dry before you start your boxer braid style.
Step 3: Detangle and brush out any knots.
Create a middle part all the way from your hairline to the back of your head, as if sectioning your hair for pigtails. Using the end of a fishtail comb can help give a precise part line.
Step 4: Clamp one section off.
Begin Dutch-braiding the loose section from the hairline downwards. A Dutch braid is a reverse French braid: The side sections are crossed under instead of over the middle section. This will result in the braid looking as if it’s virtually on top of your head, like a ridge on your scalp. Continue past the point it detaches from your nape, and braid until the ends. Secure with a hair tie.
Step 5: Repeat step 4 on the remaining side.
Secure the ends with a hair tie. Finish with some high shine. Spray your style with Bed Head by TIGI Headrush Shine Hair Spray. Looking to style your edges afterward? Don’t forget to use a gel, like Emerge Style Goals Gel, to keep your hairline looking snatched.
How to Master the Boxer Braid in 8 Steps
Still not ready to tackle the trend? It might look like it takes a skilled set of hands to create—but we’re here to prove otherwise. As a totally budge-proof updo option, the boxer braid is a lifesaver when you need to keep your hair up and away from your face. Perfect for everything from a fitness class to a festival, it’s easily suited to all hair types and textures. Convinced? Follow our easy step-by-step tutorial to master this look once and for all.
Taking the loose section of hair from the other side of your part, repeat this braiding process, moving from front to back and securing with a hairband.
