Comprehensive Double French Braid Ponytail Tutorial

Looking for a versatile and chic hairstyle that works for any occasion? The double French braid ponytail is a perfect choice! Whether you’re getting ready for prom, a casual day out, or a formal event, this braided hairstyle adds elegance and structure to your look.

It’s especially flattering for those with longer hair, layers, or even bangs, offering a seamless blend of style and functionality. In this step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn how to master the double French braid ponytail with ease, making it a go-to option for any hair type. Let’s get started!

Comprehensive Double French Braid Ponytail Tutorial

Master the art of creating a stunning Double French Braid Ponytail with this detailed guide. This elegant yet practical hairstyle is perfect for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events.

What You’ll Need:

• Paddle hairbrush
• Fine-toothed comb
• Hair ties (small clear elastics and a larger one for the ponytail)
• Bobby pins
• Texturizing spray (optional)
• Hair spray
• Shine serum (optional)

Step 1: Prepare Your Hair

Thoroughly brush your hair to remove any tangles or knots. Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid breakage. If your hair is freshly washed, consider adding some texturizing spray for better grip and hold.

Pro Tip: This style works best on second-day hair as it has more texture and grip.

Step 2: Part Your Hair

Using the fine-toothed comb, create a clean center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Ensure the part is straight and divides your hair into two equal sections. Take your time with this step, as it sets the foundation for the entire hairstyle.

Technique: To get a perfectly straight part, align the comb with the center of your nose and draw it back across your scalp.

Step 3: Section Off One Side

To keep your work area manageable, clip one side of your hair out of the way. Use a large hair clip or a soft scrunchie to avoid creating creases in your hair.

Tip: If your hair is very thick, you might want to divide each side into upper and lower sections for easier management.

Step 4: Start the French Braid

Begin the French braid at the top of one side, close to your part. Take a small section of hair (about 1-2 inches wide) near your part and divide it into three equal strands.

Technique: Hold the right strand in your right hand, the left strand in your left hand, and the middle strand between your thumb and forefinger of either hand.

Step 5: Braid and Incorporate Hair

Start braiding by crossing the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the new middle. As you braid, incorporate new hair from along the hairline and the back of your head with each cross-over.

Key Points:

• Keep the braid tight and close to the scalp for a neater look.
• Try to incorporate equal amounts of hair with each cross-over.
• Angle your hands slightly downward to guide the braid towards the nape of your neck.

Continue this process until you reach the nape of your neck.

Step 6: Finish the Braid

Once you’ve reached the nape of your neck and incorporated all the hair on that side, continue braiding the remaining hair as a regular three-strand braid. Keep the braid tight and neat all the way to the ends.

Tip: If you have layers or shorter pieces that fall out, secure them with bobby pins as you go.

Secure the end of the braid with a small, clear elastic band. If your hair is very long, you might want to tie it off a few inches from the end to prevent it from unraveling.

Step 7: Repeat on the Other Side

Unclip the other side of your hair and repeat steps 4-6 to create the second French braid. Try to make this braid as symmetrical as possible to the first one.

Tip: Use a hand mirror in combination with your main mirror to check the back of your head for symmetry and neatness.

Step 8: Create the Ponytail

Gently gather both braids and any loose hair at the nape of your neck. Combine them into a ponytail, ensuring that the braids don’t twist or loosen.

Technique: Use one hand to hold the braids together while the other smooths any bumps or loose strands. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie that matches your hair color.

Tip: For a more polished look, take a small section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the hair tie, and secure it underneath with a bobby pin.

Step 9: Finishing Touches

1. Gently tug on the edges of your braids to loosen them slightly. This creates a softer, more romantic look and can make fine hair appear fuller.
2. Use bobby pins to secure any loose strands or smooth down any flyaways.
3. For a sleeker look, apply a small amount of shine serum to the ponytail.
4. Spray with hairspray to hold the style in place. Hold the can about 12 inches away from your hair and spray in a light, even layer.
5. For an extra elegant touch, consider adding a decorative hair accessory like a jeweled clip or a silk ribbon tied around the base of the ponytail.