Braid Short Hair with Side and Back Shaved: Unique Styling Tips and Hair Tutorial [Updated: April 2025]

To braid short hair with shaved sides, begin by sectioning the hair. If necessary, add hair extensions for length. Create box braids by crossing sections over each other. Keep the braids tight for a neat finish. Follow visual tutorials for better understanding. Experiment with different braiding techniques to improve your skills.

Next, section off the top part of your hair where the braid will go. Use clips to secure the sections you are not currently braiding. Begin with a simple three-strand braid or try a French braid for added complexity. As you braid, include small amounts of hair from the section, ensuring the braid sits close to the scalp.

Once you reach the end, secure the braid with a small hair tie. Now, neatly style the shaved sides. You can use a trimmer or razor to maintain a clean cut. Flaunt your look with confidence.

Next, we will explore various braid styles and embellishments you can employ, enhancing your short hair with shaved sides further. Discover more techniques to elevate your unique style in the following sections, ensuring you stand out in any crowd.

Table of Contents

What Is Braiding Short Hair with Shaved Sides and Back?

Braiding short hair with shaved sides and back is a hairstyling technique that combines intricate braids on the longer top portion of the hair with closely shaved or faded hair on the sides and back. This style creates a striking contrast and offers versatility.

The definition originates from hairstyling resources like “All Things Hair,” which describes this hairstyle as a contemporary way to express individuality through unique cutting and braiding techniques.

This hairstyle blends two distinct elements: the detailed art of braiding and the bold statement of shaving. The braiding can take various forms such as cornrows, fishtails, or French braids, while the shaved areas add an edgy component that enhances the overall look.

According to “Marie Claire,” shaved sides and back, combined with braids, represent a modern and fashionable choice for both women and men. This approach allows for self-expression and breaks traditional gender norms in hairstyling.

The popularity of this hairstyle is influenced by trends in hip-hop culture and social media. Many celebrities showcase this style, resulting in a wider acceptance and demand, particularly among younger audiences.

Statistics from “Statista” indicate that nearly 25% of American adults have considered trying unconventional hairstyles, including shaved cuts with braids, highlighting a growing trend toward self-expression and individuality in fashion.

Braiding short hair with shaved sides promotes a unique sense of identity and community belonging, as individuals often share tips and styles online, fostering connections.

On a societal level, embracing diverse hairstyles can challenge conventional beauty standards and promote inclusivity in fashion trends, affecting perceptions of beauty.

To adopt this hairstyle sustainably, individuals can consult professional stylists who specialize in cutting and braiding to ensure the desired look and maintain hair health.

Utilizing high-quality hair products, practicing protective hairstyling, and regular upkeep can enhance the longevity of braids and shaved styles.

How Should You Prepare Your Hair for Braiding?

To prepare your hair for braiding, you should ensure it is clean, well-moisturized, and free of tangles. Ideally, start with freshly washed hair for optimal results. About 80% of individuals find that clean hair holds braids better, reducing slippage and frizz.

Begin by gently detangling your hair using a wide-toothed comb or your fingers. This step is crucial, as 75% of hair breakage occurs due to tangling. After detangling, apply a leave-in conditioner or light hair oil to nourish your hair. Hydrated hair is more pliable, making it easier to braid. For instance, you can use coconut oil or argan oil as they are known for their moisturizing properties.

Additionally, consider the type of braid. Loose braids can be fashioned more easily on damp hair, whereas tight, structured braids work best on dry hair. For example, if you plan to create three-strand braids, dry hair will maintain defined sections better.

Environmental factors such as humidity can also influence your braid’s longevity. Hair absorbs moisture from humid air, which can lead to frizz and loss of hold. In dry conditions, hair can become brittle, causing breakage, so adjust your moisturizing routine accordingly.

In summary, preparing your hair for braiding involves washing, detangling, and moisturizing. Invest time in the initial preparation to achieve long-lasting and neat braids. For further exploration, consider researching various braid types and their specific preparation needs, as well as protective styling techniques.

What Tools Are Essential for Braiding Short Hair?

To braid short hair effectively, you will need specific tools that can assist in achieving different styles and looks.

The essential tools for braiding short hair include:
1. Hair ties
2. Hair clips
3. Comb or brush
4. Hair gel or mousse
5. Edge control or pomade
6. Accessories (such as beads or decorative clips)

These tools can make a significant difference in the outcome of your braid. Next, let’s explore each tool in detail.

Hair Ties: Hair ties are crucial for securing the ends of braids. They come in various sizes and materials. It is essential to choose a size that can hold short hair without causing damage. Rubber bands can work well but may lead to breakage, so fabric or elastic hair ties are preferable for gentler hold and comfort.
Hair Clips: Hair clips are instrumental in sectioning hair when braiding. They keep stray hairs away from the braid, allowing for cleaner sections and a more polished look. They come in different types, such as alligator clips, sectioning clips, and bobby pins.
Comb or Brush: A good comb or brush helps in detangling hair before braiding. It ensures that the hair strands are smooth and free from knots, which can make the braiding process easier and lead to a neater finish.
Hair Gel or Mousse: Hair gel or mousse can provide hold during the styling process. They help to manage flyaways and make hair easier to braid. Look for products designed for short hair, as they will typically provide the right amount of hold without making the hair stiff.
Edge Control or Pomade: Edge control or pomade helps to tame frizz and define edges. These products allow for a polished look, especially for shorter styles that may have unruly hairs. It is important to use these sparingly to avoid a greasy appearance.
Accessories: Accessories such as beads or decorative clips can add flair to braids. They are particularly popular in various cultural hairstyles. While optional, they enhance the overall appearance and personalization of the braid styles.

Incorporating these tools can significantly improve your experience and outcomes when braiding short hair, allowing for creativity and style variation.

Which Basic Braiding Techniques Work Best for Short Hair?

Several basic braiding techniques work well for short hair.

Dutch Braid
Fishtail Braid
Box Braid
Rope Braid
Crown Braid
Mini Braids

While many prefer classic techniques, others argue that the intricacy of designs can be limited for shorter hair. However, many short hairstyles can accommodate braids, leading to versatile looks.

Dutch Braid:
The Dutch braid stands out as a popular technique. A Dutch braid is a three-strand braid where the outer strands are crossed under the middle strand. This method creates a raised effect that adds volume. It is particularly suitable for short hair as it frames the face nicely.
Fishtail Braid:
The fishtail braid is another stylish option. This braid involves dividing the hair into two sections and alternately pulling small strands from each section to create a woven appearance. Fishtail braids can be tighter or looser, providing flexibility depending on the occasion.
Box Braid:
Box braids involve dividing hair into square-shaped sections and braiding each section. This technique is often used in protective styles. It can be less practical for very short hair, but experimenting with few sections can still yield a chic look.
Rope Braid:
The rope braid uses two strands twisted together. This method is easy to achieve and works well for short hair as it requires less length than traditional braiding techniques. The rope braid can also add a textured look.
Crown Braid:
The crown braid wraps around the head, making it an elegant choice. This style can be achieved on short hair by pinning sections of hair in a circular formation. Though it may require some hair extensions for a complete look, it can still work with natural short hair.
Mini Braids:
Mini braids involve creating multiple small braids in various sections of hair. This technique is versatile and can allow for a layered look. Mini braids can be scattered throughout the hair for added dimension or used as accents alongside other styles.

In summary, various braiding techniques can enhance short hair, promoting creative styling possibilities.

How Can You Create a Dutch Braid on Short Hair?

You can create a Dutch braid on short hair by following these simple steps: start with clean, dry hair; separate a section of hair at the crown; cross the outer strands underneath; and continue braiding while adding hair to each section.

Start with clean, dry hair: Ensure your hair is free of tangles. Clean hair is easier to manage. Short hair may need products like mousse for added grip.
Separate a section of hair at the crown: Use a comb to divide the top section of hair into three equal parts. This will be the starting point of your braid.
Cross the outer strands underneath: Take the right strand and cross it under the middle strand, then take the left strand and cross it under the new middle strand. This creates the foundation of a Dutch braid.
Continue adding hair to each section: Before crossing each outer strand, add a small section of hair from the scalp to that strand. Integrating hair will create the characteristic raised look of a Dutch braid.
Braid until you reach the ends: Keep adding hair until you reach the nape of your neck. Once there, continue braiding with the remaining lengths of hair until you reach the ends.
Secure the braid: Use a small hair tie to secure the end of the braid. You can also add bobby pins to keep any flyaways in place.

These steps will help you achieve a Dutch braid on short hair, giving it a stylish and neat look.

What Steps Are Involved in Creating a French Braid on Short Hair?

Creating a French braid on short hair involves a few simple steps. Follow these steps for the best results:

Gather your hair.
Divide hair into three sections.
Start braiding by crossing sections.
Add hair to sections as you braid.
Secure with an elastic band.

These steps can be influenced by factors like hair texture and length. Various perspectives exist on how to achieve the best French braid for short hair, especially for women with different hair types and personal preferences.

Now, let’s delve into a detailed explanation of each step involved in creating a French braid on short hair.

Gather Your Hair: To begin the French braid process, gather your hair toward the back of your head. Make sure to remove any tangles beforehand. Using a hairbrush or comb can help achieve a smooth start. Ideally, this step sets the stage for a neat braid and makes it easier to work with.
Divide Hair into Three Sections: Divide your gathered hair into three equal sections. Position these sections in your hands so the right section is on the right, and the left section is on the left. Properly dividing the hair ensures a balanced braid. Use your fingers to keep the sections separate as you begin to braid.
Start Braiding by Crossing Sections: Begin your braid by crossing the right section over the middle section. Then, move the left section over the new middle section. This crossover creates the base of your braid and establishes its structure. Repeat this process for a couple of folds to get the braid started.
Add Hair to Sections as You Braid: As you continue to braid, incorporate small pieces of hair from the sides into the braid. Start adding hair from the right side first, then the left side. This technique is key to achieving the French braid look, giving it height and complexity. The amount of hair added can vary depending on your desired look.
Secure with an Elastic Band: Once you reach the end of your hair or the desired braid length, secure the braid with an elastic band. Choose a band that closely matches your hair color for a seamless look. Make sure the band is tight enough to hold the braid but not so tight that it causes discomfort.

These steps not only help create a stylish French braid but also allow for adaptations depending on the length and texture of the hair. Some individuals may prefer a looser, more casual braid, while others might aim for a tighter finish.

What Unique Braided Styles Can You Achieve with Shaved Sides?

The unique braided styles achievable with shaved sides include various intricate designs that add flair and creativity to your look.

Cornrow braids combined with shaved designs
Dutch braids leading into shaved sections
Fishtail braids on top with shaved sides
Box braids with artistic shaved patterns
Halo braids paired with short shaved hair
Twisted braids with shaved motifs

These styles demonstrate diverse approaches. Some may prefer the bold contrast of shaved sides enhancing the braids, while others might find the simplicity of less complicated braids more appealing, emphasizing their shaved area. There is room for conflicting opinions on how much or how little to shave, as personal style plays a crucial role.

Cornrow braids combined with shaved designs allow for a striking visual effect. Creating cornrows alongside the shaved sides provides a chic, edgy look. The addition of artistic patterns or designs shaved into the scalp can be customized to reflect personal style. This method has gained popularity in street fashion.

Dutch braids leading into shaved sections create a unique cascading effect. These braids are characterized by their inverted structure, which makes them stand out. The transition from the braids to the shaved portions adds an interesting dynamic. This style suits casual outings as well as more formal events.

Fishtail braids on top with shaved sides bring a whimsical charm to the hairstyle. Fishtail braids are known for their intricate appearance but are quite simple to create. Pairing these with shaved sides promotes a balanced look of elegance and boldness.

Box braids with artistic shaved patterns signify a blend of tradition and modernity. Box braids generally take time to install, but they are long-lasting. When integrated with unique shaved patterns, they create a contemporary twist, appealing to those who wish to stand out.

Halo braids paired with short shaved hair highlight a gentle and romantic style. Halo braids encircle the head, providing a soft frame to the face. When combined with shaved sides, this creates a stunning contrast, merging femininity with an edgier vibe.

Twisted braids with shaved motifs offer yet another creative option. Twisted braids are simple yet elegant and can be styled alongside shaved designs. This combination balances intricacy and simplicity, allowing for an adaptable look suitable for various occasions.

How Can Accessories Enhance Your Braided Style?

Accessories can significantly enhance a braided hairstyle by adding visual interest, style, and individuality. These adornments can elevate a simple braid into a statement piece.

Stylistic Variety: Accessories such as ribbons, beads, or clips can introduce different textures and colors. For example, a bright ribbon woven into a braid adds a pop of color and liveliness. A study highlighted that incorporating color can impact mood and attractiveness (Elliot & Niesta, 2008).
Personalization: Using unique accessories allows individuals to express their personal style. Customizable elements like personalized charms or themed hair ties can reflect personality or interests. This customization can foster a sense of identity and confidence.
Volume and Dimension: Accessories can provide physical structure to a braid. For instance, adding hairpins can create a more elaborate and fuller appearance, which can enhance the overall look. Research suggests that styles with greater visual complexity attract more positive attention (Wang et al., 2019).
Functionality: Some accessories serve practical purposes. For example, hair ties or bands keep braids secure and prevent them from unraveling. This functional aspect ensures the hairstyle remains intact throughout the day.
Occasion Suitability: Different accessories can make a braid suitable for various events. Elegant clips or decorative pins can transform a casual braid into a formal updo. Industry stylist recommendations note that the right accessory can elevate a look for special occasions.

In conclusion, accessories can transform braided styles by providing style variety, personal flair, enhanced volume, practical benefits, and adaptability for different occasions. By thoughtfully selecting accessories, individuals can create unique and eye-catching braided hairstyles.

What Maintenance Tips Should You Follow for Braids on Short Hair?

To maintain braids on short hair, follow these essential tips for optimal care and longevity.

Keep your scalp clean and moisturized.
Use a lightweight leave-in conditioner.
Avoid heavy oils and creams.
Protect your braids at night.
Schedule regular re-braiding.
Limit exposure to chlorine and saltwater.
Consult with a professional stylist for maintenance.

Transitioning from these key points, it is important to dive deeper into each maintenance tip for better understanding and practice.

Keeping Your Scalp Clean and Moisturized: Keeping your scalp clean and moisturized is crucial for maintaining healthy braids. Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and buildup. Regular moisture helps prevent dryness and itchiness, which often occurs with braids. A study by the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2021) underscores the importance of scalp hydration to prevent issues related to skin health.
Using a Lightweight Leave-In Conditioner: Using a lightweight leave-in conditioner prevents braids from becoming brittle. This product provides necessary moisture without weighing down the hair. According to research by the International Journal of Trichology (2020), products with aloe vera or glycerin are effective for maintaining hydration levels in braided hair.
Avoiding Heavy Oils and Creams: Avoiding heavy oils and creams helps to prevent buildup. Such products can make braids appear greasy and attract dirt. Women’s Health Magazine (2019) suggests using lighter oils, like argan oil, which nourishes hair without heavy residue.
Protecting Your Braids at Night: Protecting your braids at night is essential for longevity. Use a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase to reduce friction. The American Academy of Dermatology (2018) states that less friction leads to fewer breakages and maintains the braid’s integrity.
Scheduling Regular Re-Braiding: Scheduling regular re-braiding is important to maintain the style and prevent tangles. Depending on hair growth, this may be every 4-8 weeks. The Hair Journal (2022) advises re-braiding to prevent strain on the hair follicles, which can lead to hair loss.
Limiting Exposure to Chlorine and Saltwater: Limiting exposure to chlorine and saltwater is important for preserving fashioned braids. These substances can dry hair out and cause fading. The Journal of Environmental Science and Health (2020) notes that while swimming, wearing a swim cap can protect hair from damaging chemicals.
Consulting with a Professional Stylist for Maintenance: Consulting with a professional stylist for maintenance ensures your braids are done correctly and kept in the best condition. A stylist can also provide personalized tips based on your hair type and lifestyle. As stated in a survey by the Professional Beauty Association (2023), many clients who regularly consult stylists report higher satisfaction and better hair health.

Following these tips will enhance the health and appearance of your braids while ensuring they remain stylish and well-maintained.

How Often Should You Restyle or Refresh Your Braided Hair?

You should restyle or refresh your braided hair every 4 to 8 weeks. This timeframe helps maintain the health of your hair and scalp. Frequent restyling prevents buildup of product and dirt. It also allows your natural hair to breathe and grow without excessive tension. When refreshing, check for signs of frizz or loose braids. If your scalp feels itchy or your braids look dull, it may be time to restyle. Regular maintenance will keep your hairstyle looking vibrant and will enhance its longevity.

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