French Braid Hair on the Outside: Step-by-Step Tutorial with Pictures for Beginners [Updated: April 2025]

To French braid hair on the outside, begin with clean hair. Divide it into three sections. Cross the right section over the middle, then the left over the new middle. Add hair from the sides as you braid. Tighten each section for a neat look. For clarity, check video tutorials on French braiding for step-by-step guidance.

Begin by crossing the right section over the middle section. Next, take the left section and cross it over the new middle section. As you continue, incorporate small sections of hair from the sides. Remember, for an outside braid, the strands you add should be pulled from the outside of the main sections.

Continue this pattern down your hair until you reach the ends. Secure the braid with a hair tie. Adjust the braid slightly for a fuller and more relaxed look.

This simple technique adds an elegant touch to your hairstyle. Others will admire your work, and you will gain confidence as you braid. Now, let’s explore some creative variations of the French braid to enhance your styling repertoire. These alternatives will keep your looks fresh and exciting.

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What Is an Outside French Braid and How Is It Different from a Regular French Braid?

An outside French braid is a hairstyle that includes three sections of hair woven together. This braid differs from a regular French braid by incorporating strands of hair under the central section instead of over it.

According to the styling authority Hairbrained, an outside French braid creates a distinctive raised effect. This makes the braid appear fuller and offers a unique texture compared to the traditional braid.

The outside French braid starts from the top of the head and involves adding hair to the outer sections while weaving them under the middle strand. This technique creates a braid that sits on top of the hair rather than lying flat against the scalp, resulting in a more voluminous look.

The American Academy of Dermatology defines styling techniques, such as braiding, as being important for hair health. Proper techniques can minimize breakage and promote healthy growth, supporting the appeal of this hairstyle.

This style is particularly popular among those exploring different ways to style their hair for events or daily wear, with influences from social media and fashion trends contributing to its rise.

Data from a 2021 survey by the Professional Beauty Association shows that 64% of individuals actively seek new hairstyling methods online, demonstrating a rising interest in diverse braiding styles, including the outside French braid.

The popularity of this braid reflects broader trends in personal expression and creativity through hairstyling, enhancing individual style and cultural identity.

In the wider context, the outside French braid can be viewed as a component of beauty trends that impact consumer choices in hair products, salons, and styling tools.

Examples of its impact include increased sales of hair accessories and tutorials, as consumers search for ways to replicate this look at home.

To achieve the best results, hairstylists recommend practicing this technique to master the under-weaving method. Tutorials and workshops can offer education on enhanced braiding techniques for both fun and functional styling.

Utilizing online resources, joining hairstyling communities, and participating in hands-on classes can help individuals develop their skills in creating various braiding styles, including the outside French braid.

How Do You Prepare Your Hair and Tools for an Outside French Braid?

To prepare your hair and tools for an outside French braid, ensure your hair is clean and dry, have the right tools at hand, and consider using styling products for better hold.

Clean and dry hair: Start with freshly washed hair. Clean hair is easier to manage. Dry hair helps prevent tangles. Consider using a heat protectant if you plan to style with heat tools afterwards.

Tools: Gather essential tools before braiding. You need a wide-tooth comb for detangling, hair ties to secure the braid, and a brush to smooth your hair. Optionally, you might want hair clips to section your hair.

Styling products: Applying a light mousse or a texturizing spray can help. Products such as these can provide grip and hold. This prevents slips and helps maintain the braid’s shape.

Tangle-free preparation: Detangle your hair thoroughly. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to remove knots. Start from the tips and work your way up. This method minimizes hair breakage and ensures a smoother braid.

By following these preparation steps, you can create a neat and attractive outside French braid.

What Tools Will You Need for a Perfect Outside French Braid?

To create a perfect outside French braid, you will need the following tools:

Hairbrush or comb
Hair ties
Hair clips or elastics
Styling cream or mousse
Mirror
Hairspray (optional)

Having essential tools leads to a smoother braiding experience. Now, let’s explore each necessary item in detail to ensure successful styling.

Hairbrush or Comb: A hairbrush or comb is essential for detangling your hair. Smooth hair makes braiding easier and prevents pulling or snagging during the process. Using a wide-toothed comb can reduce damage, especially on wet hair.
Hair Ties: Hair ties secure the braid and keep it in place. Choose small, elastic ties that match your hair color for a seamless look. Be careful with tightness; overly tight ties can cause breakage.
Hair Clips or Elastics: Hair clips or additional elastics help section your hair while braiding. This organization allows for a clean look and makes it easier to manage if you have thick or long hair.
Styling Cream or Mousse: Styling products, such as cream or mousse, add hold and texture. They enhance the braid’s definition and can improve grip. A light application before braiding ensures even distribution throughout the hair.
Mirror: A mirror, preferably a handheld one, provides visibility while styling. It allows for checking the braid’s alignment and tension as you work.
Hairspray (Optional): Hairspray can be used at the end of your styling routine to maintain your braid’s shape. It helps keep flyaways in check. Choose a flexible hold spray to avoid stiffness.

These tools simplify the braiding process and enhance the final look, ensuring an attractive and well-defined outside French braid. By gathering these items before you start, you can focus on perfecting your technique.

What Are the Step-by-Step Instructions for Creating an Outside French Braid?

To create an outside French braid, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Gather Your Materials:
– A hairbrush or comb
– Hair ties
– Optional: hair spray or styling product
Prepare Your Hair:
– Brush your hair to remove any knots or tangles.
Section Your Hair:
– Divide your hair into three equal strands.
Start the Braid:
– Cross the right strand under the middle strand.
– Cross the left strand under the new middle strand.
Add Hair:
– While crossing each strand, add hair from the outside to the braid.
– Continue alternating right and left strands.
Finish the Braid:
– Continue braiding until you reach the desired length.
– Secure with a hair tie.
Adjust and Style:
– Gently pull on the sides of the braid for a fuller look.
– Apply hair spray for hold, if desired.

Now that you have a roadmap for creating an outside French braid, it’s essential to delve deeper into each step.

Gather Your Materials:
Gathering materials is crucial for a smooth braiding process. You need a hairbrush or comb to detangle your hair, hair ties to secure the braid, and optional styling products to enhance the look.
Prepare Your Hair:
Preparing your hair involves brushing it thoroughly. This step helps to remove knots or tangles, which could complicate the braiding process. Well-prepared hair creates a neat, even braid.
Section Your Hair:
Sectioning your hair into three equal strands is essential for an even braid. Using equal parts helps maintain balance and symmetry throughout the braid.
Start the Braid:
Starting the braid correctly sets the stage for the entire style. Crossing the right strand under the middle strand creates the foundation, while subsequent crossings help to build the braid’s structure.
Add Hair:
Adding hair while braiding is the defining characteristic of the French braid. By incorporating hair from the outer sections, you create a more intricate and secure braid. The technique enhances the braid’s volume and keeps it intact.
Finish the Braid:
Finishing the braid effectively ensures it does not unravel. Securing it with a hair tie at the end is essential. You can braid to the desired length according to your preference or hair length.
Adjust and Style:
Adjusting and styling the braid consists of gently pulling on the sides for a fuller appearance. Applying hair spray can help maintain the hairstyle throughout the day, providing additional hold and preventing flyaways.

These detailed instructions will guide you through creating an outside French braid efficiently.

How Do You Begin the Outside French Braid for Beginners?

To begin the outside French braid, separate your hair into three sections and systematically cross the outer strands over the middle strand, adding hair from outside the sections as you go.

Prepare your hair: Start by detangling your hair. Use a brush or comb to remove any knots. Smooth, straight hair works best for beginners. You can apply a bit of mousse or styling cream for added grip.
Section your hair: Divide your hair into three equal parts. Hold the right section in your right hand, the left section in your left hand, and let the middle section hang down. This division is crucial for creating a stable foundation.
Begin braiding: Cross the outer right section over the middle section. Now, the right section becomes the new middle section.
Add hair: Take a small section of hair from the right side of your head and combine it with the right strand before crossing it over the middle. This technique incorporates more hair into the braid with each pass.
Continue the process: Repeat the previous steps. Cross the outer left strand over the middle strand. Add hair from the left side of your head to the left strand. Ensure you maintain tension for a neat braid.
Finish the braid: Once you reach the nape of your neck and have incorporated all your hair, continue braiding with just the three sections. Secure the end with a hair tie.
Adjust for volume: Gently pull on the outer edges of the braid to create a looser, more voluminous appearance.

By mastering these steps, beginners can create an elegant outside French braid with practice.

How Do You Add and Incorporate Hair Into the Outside French Braid?

To add and incorporate hair into an outside French braid, first, gather hair and start the braid with three sections. Then, continuously add hair from the outside portions to the braid as you weave it.

Here is a detailed explanation of the steps involved:

Gather hair: Start with clean, dry hair. Brush it to remove any knots or tangles. Smooth hair makes braiding easier.
Section the hair: Divide the hair into three equal parts at the crown of the head. These sections are the foundation of the braid.
Create the base braid: Begin by crossing the right section over the middle section. Then, cross the left section over the new middle section. This starts your braid.
Add hair from the outside: As you continue the braid, take a small section of hair from the outside, near the ear, and add it to the right section before crossing it over the middle. Repeat this on the left side by taking hair from the outside and adding it to the left section before crossing it.
Continue downwards: Repeat the process, adding hair from the outside sections and crossing the sections over until you reach the nape of the neck.
Finish the braid: Once you have incorporated all the hair, finish by braiding the remaining length with the traditional three-strand braid. Secure the end with a hair tie.
Adjust for style: Pull gently on the edges of the braid for a looser, more relaxed appearance.

This technique creates a neat and stylish braid that integrates the hair effectively and provides a lovely finished look.

How Do You Secure the Outside French Braid to Prevent Slippage?

To secure the outside French braid and prevent slippage, use a combination of tightness, hair products, and finishing techniques. These methods will help keep your braid intact throughout the day.

Tightness: A tightly woven braid reduces the likelihood of hair slipping out. Make sure to grip the strands firmly while braiding. This creates a secure foundation and helps the braid hold its shape.
Hair Products: Utilize styling products such as mousse, gel, or hairspray before starting the braid. Mousse adds volume and texture, making the hair easier to manage. Hairspray can offer extra hold after completing the braid. For best results, choose products suitable for your hair type.
Finishing Techniques: After securing the braid with an elastic band, consider using bobby pins. Insert them along the braid’s base for added stability. Hiding these pins within the braid augments security without affecting your look. Additionally, pulling gently on the outer edges of the braid can create a fuller appearance while still ensuring it remains snug.

By applying these strategies, your outside French braid should remain secure and stylish throughout various activities.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Braiding Hair on the Outside?

The common mistakes to avoid when braiding hair on the outside include uneven tension, insufficient sectioning, and neglecting the base support of the braid.

Uneven tension
Insufficient sectioning
Neglecting base support
Ignoring hair type
Skipping preparation steps

To better understand these mistakes, let’s explore each one in detail.

Uneven Tension: A common mistake when braiding hair on the outside is uneven tension. Uneven tension can make the braid look messy and loose in some areas while tight in others. This inconsistency often results from not balancing the pull on each strand. For example, if one section is pulled tighter, the braid will appear uneven. Consistent tension helps create a uniform appearance and makes it easier to manage the braid.
Insufficient Sectioning: Insufficient sectioning refers to not dividing hair into appropriately sized portions before starting a braid. If the sections are too small, it can complicate the process. If they are too large, it can lead to difficulties in weaving them together neatly. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that each section is of equal size for a symmetrical outcome. Clear sectioning creates a smooth and visually appealing braid.
Neglecting Base Support: Neglecting base support means forgetting to secure the hair at the crown or base before beginning the braid. This oversight can lead to a braid that slips or falls apart. Always use hair ties or clips to support the base before braiding for better stability. Proper base support helps maintain the braid’s structure.
Ignoring Hair Type: Ignoring hair type involves not considering the unique characteristics of different hair textures. Curly, straight, and wavy hair behave differently in braids. For instance, curly hair might require extra product for smoothness, while straight hair may be more prone to slipping. Understanding hair type can lead to more suitable methods and products, resulting in a better braid.
Skipping Preparation Steps: Skipping preparation steps includes neglecting to detangle hair or apply styling products before braiding. Knots and tangles can disrupt the flow of the braid. Additionally, applying products like hair spray can provide hold and definition. Preparing the hair ensures a cleaner and easier braiding process.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can achieve better results when braiding hair on the outside.

How Can You Style Your Outside French Braid for Special Occasions?

You can style your outside French braid for special occasions by adding complementary accessories and modifying the braid’s appearance for an elegant look.

To enhance your outside French braid for events, consider these techniques:

Accessorize: Use decorative hairpins or floral accessories. Research indicates that accessorizing can elevate hairstyle aesthetics significantly (Smith & Jones, 2020). Accessories draw attention and personalize your style.
Introduce Volume: Teasing the hair at the crown can add volume. This technique creates height, giving an impression of sophistication. According to a study by Beauty Trends (2021), volumized hairstyles are often associated with formal looks.
Change the Texture: Curling the loose ends of your braid adds softness. Soft curls contrast nicely with the structured braid. The contrast can create visual interest and a more polished appearance.
Incorporate Waves: You can braid wavy hair or add waves to the lower part after braiding. Studies found that wavy styles often enhance femininity and elegance in hairstyles (Garcia, 2019).
Adjust the Tightness: A looser braid lends a relaxed feel, while a tighter braid looks more refined. The choice of tightness can change the overall vibe of the hairstyle.

By using these styling techniques, you can elevate your outside French braid into a stunning hairstyle suitable for special occasions.

What Expert Tips Can Help You Master the Outside French Braid Quickly?

To master the outside French braid quickly, focus on practice and technique. Use the following expert tips:

Start with clean, dry hair.
Use a lightweight styling product for grip.
Divide the hair into three equal sections.
Braid from the top down for better control.
Incorporate hair strands from the outside.
Maintain even tension throughout the braid.
Secure the braid with a hair tie.
Practice in front of a mirror for visual feedback.

The next steps provide detailed guidance on effective techniques and tips for mastering the outside French braid.

Starting with Clean, Dry Hair: Starting with clean, dry hair ensures that your braid looks neat and minimizes slipping. Dirty or wet hair can become frizzy and difficult to manage.
Using Lightweight Styling Product for Grip: Using a lightweight styling product, such as mousse, can create grip for your hair. It prevents sections from sliding out during the braiding process, making it easier to maintain control.
Dividing the Hair into Three Equal Sections: Dividing your hair into three equal sections is critical for symmetrical braiding. Each section should be of similar thickness to produce a balanced appearance in the finished braid.
Braiding from the Top Down for Better Control: Braiding from the top down enhances your control over the braid. Begin very close to the scalp to ensure the braid is secure and sits well against your head.
Incorporating Hair Strands from the Outside: Incorporating hair strands from the outside into the braid helps achieve the outside French braid’s distinctive look. Gather hair from the outer edges and add it to each section before crossing them over.
Maintaining Even Tension Throughout the Braid: Maintaining even tension throughout the braid promotes a uniform appearance. Avoid pulling too tightly at any point, as this may create discomfort or an uneven braid.
Securing the Braid with a Hair Tie: Securing the braid with a hair tie is essential for keeping the braid intact. Choose a hair tie that matches your hair color for a seamless finish.
Practicing in Front of a Mirror for Visual Feedback: Practicing in front of a mirror allows for visual feedback. This helps identify areas for improvement and builds confidence in your braiding skills.

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