Crochet braids are trending nowadays because of all the right reasons. Get voluminous and stunning hairstyles with this styling technique. Crochet braids suit every woman so gear up to have the best hairstyles. Faux hair never looked this real and was never this easy to work with.
Whatever colour, texture or volume you are obsessed with, crochet braids are available in all of them. Why harm your natural hair when crochet braids have your back? This method of hairstyling is widely popular as it can give you length, volume and protect your natural hair at the same time.
Crochet braids simply sit on your hair effortlessly and allow your scalp to breathe. Since there are endless options available when it comes to crochet braids, we have curated an in-depth article for you. Keep reading to know everything that you need to know about crochet braids.
What are crochet braids?
Crochet method or crochet braiding is the process of adding hair extensions to natural hair. After cornrowing the hair, the extensions are connected to the cornrows. Crochet hair is looped under these cornrows with a crochet needle and secured with knots. There are several valid reasons why crochet braids are so trendy.
One of the reasons is that you can protect your hair from heat damage as well as styling. Whether your hair is pressed, transitioning, natural or relaxed, these braids will suit every hair texture and length. Also, if you are thinking of changing the look of your hair, crochet braids will give you an idea of how they will look on you.
Apart from that, women with transitioning hair can avail the benefits of crochet hair and can save themselves from dealing with two textures of hair at the same time. Not only are they inexpensive but they also are easy to install and take around 2.5 hours for setting up completely. Alongside, you can style your hair in different ways on your own without going to a stylist. Nothing is more satisfying than doing your own hair at your own pace.
Natural or synthetic?
When it comes to opting for crochet braids, everyone is confused about whether to go for natural braids or synthetic ones. It depends on what you are looking for in a crochet braid. Be it natural or synthetic, both types look stunning but it is all about what suits you better. Here are some basic differences between both types so you can easily come to a decision.
1. Natural Crochet Braids
What we like: As the name clarifies itself, natural crochet braids are made up of human hair. No matter how great the synthetic hair looks, it cannot come close to the glossiness as well as the texture of natural hair. The most important advantage of this type of braid is that it does not dry out your hair or your scalp.
You can clean and moisturize your scalp easily, especially if you have a dry scalp. Another benefit is that you can style the natural crochet braids however you wish to without worrying that the braids are going to be damaged.
Since they are made with natural hair, they have the potential of handling heat without breaking or ruining the crochet braids. Being able to style crochet braids is a dream come true for every woman. However, there are some downsides to using natural crochet braids.
What we don’t like: Working your way with natural braids is not the easiest thing. Even after spending several hours on installation, it still won’t be perfect. You will have to carefully knot each end and seal the strands appropriately or else they will start coming out in no time.
Natural crochet raids are quite slippery that makes the installation part a lot harder. Apart from this, the knots that you will use to secure the hairstyle tend to slip too so it can be quite a challenge. Not only this but these braids are quite costly which is contrary to the belief of crochet braids being inexpensive.
Natural braids do not age pleasingly so they are bound to tangle if you wear them loose. In terms of longevity, these braids are surely not the way to go as they will loosen up after every hair wash, eventually dropping out of place.
Also, natural crochet braids undergo chemical treatment that may prove to be harmful to your scalp in the long run. Especially if you like to swim or do water activities, the chemicals may react with Chlorine to give some side effects.
2. Synthetic Crochet Braids
What we like: Synthetic crochet braids are widely loved by everyone because of their endless benefits. First and foremost, they are highly affordable. When compared to natural crochet braids, synthetic ones are relatively cheap. From the texture, length, colour to style, you will find a huge variety of crochet braids in synthetic type.
Whether you are going for a new look, wish to have a unique hairstyle or just trying out how different styles look on you, synthetic crochet braids are perfect for all purposes. This point is a big plus because when you like your hair, your self-esteem boosts automatically. Since these braids are not as slippery, you will be comfortable while working with them.
If you are switching from natural to synthetic braids then you will notice a world of difference in the installation part. Moreover, the best part about these braids is that you can seal them with hot water. Unlike natural crochet braids, you can wear these synthetic ones loose and the ends will still not get tangled. Alongside, the braids will stay in place even if there is a lot of moisture around you.
There is no need of tying knots to keep the braids settled as they are dense enough to stay where they are. Installing synthetic braids is a piece of cake when compared to natural crochet braids and the process is quick. Lastly, these braids last very long so they are more of a one-time investment. The more you wear synthetic braids, the more gorgeous they will look. Unlike natural ones, these do not wear down with time.
What we don’t like: You simply cannot use styling products like curling iron on synthetic braids. It may ruin the crochet braid or will make the situation worse. There are some synthetic braids that claim to be heating tools friendly but then such braids are not of the best quality.
Also, if you do not moisturize and clean your scalp regularly then synthetic crochet braids can dry out the scalp easily. Women usually hesitate in buying these braids because of their appearance. Since they are just a bunch of synthetic fibre, they do not look real or even close to it.
Some of them can be too shiny that anyone can make out if the braids are fake even from a certain distance. Cheap quality braids will either look too dull or too glossy and you don’t want any of that. If you are particular about the appearance of the braids then this type won’t be the best option.
Crochet braids based on the length of hair
Crochet braids suit every hair length, be it small, medium or long. Here is an insight into all of the hair types so you can decide what suits you better.
1. Short Hair
If you are going for a fun and chic look then short hair is perfect. Women who like to have their hair down all the time can opt for shorter crochet braids. They are bouncy, flowy and look super cute. Since they are short, they are bound to be denser so if it is volume that you want then this option is the one for you. Short hair goes with all outfits and occasions. This one hairstyle can get you through the day events as well as the night events without having to redo anything.
2. Medium Hair
For those who can’t handle long hair but short hair is just too short for them, this type of braid is a match for you. These braids are usually anywhere from 12-14 inches long. Do watch out for the width of the crochet braids as this factor determines the volume of the braids. If you wish to have a bouncy hair look then opt for braids with a larger width. Medium hair length allows you to create several hairstyles with ease.
3. Long Hair
Sleek, elegant and stunning are the words that describe long hair. We all have wanted long hair at some point and now you can create your dream look. You can style them however you wish to! See to it that you have the patience to manage long hair as it is not an easy task. Apart from that, wearing long hair cannot be done by everyone so ensure that you really want it. This type of hair is perfect for special dates and occasions where you want to look your best.
Choosing the right colour
Picking up the right colour is one of the most important things. Otherwise, you will end up looking strange and unusual. There are a variety of colours available but choose one that looks great on you.
1. Natural coloured
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This type is particularly popular as they are supremely low maintenance and you can wear them anywhere you want. Since they are already naturally coloured, you will not have to worry about the colour fading away. Such crochet braids will last you long so they are worth every penny of yours.
2. Single coloured
Single-coloured crochet braids look simple yet chic and give you an elegant overall look. From the office to parties, you can wear them everywhere without any worries. These too, do not require much maintenance as they are single coloured.
3. Multicoloured
If you want a funky appearance then multi-coloured crochet braids will work the best for you. Style it in fun ways and wear it to the most happening events. However, you will have to take care of these braids a little more since their colours may fade. Be sure of the colours that you want in your crochet braid before buying one.
Types of Crochet Braids
- Curly Crochet Braids
- Marley Crochet Hair
- Straight crochet braids
- Bold curls
- Crochet Micro Braids
- Shaggy Curls
1. Curly Crochet Braids
Do you want a head full of curls that bounce every time you make a move? If yes then this hairstyle is great for you. From tight curls to soft wavy curls, you can choose whatever you like the best.
2. Marley Crochet Hair
Get natural-looking and thicker hair that can be worn in twists as well as curls. Since it is installed using an invisible root technique, the braids will look totally natural. This hairstyle is possible in all hair lengths and textures.
3. Straight crochet braids
Nothing looks as sleek as straight long hair. Crochet braids create an excellent look with straight hair and you can style them in multiple ways. Let your hair down or throw it up in a ponytail for a bossy look, the possibilities are endless.
4. Bold curls
If looking like an Insta baddie is your thing then bold curls will definitely suit you. Create dramatic looks that look bold and classy at the same time. In this hairstyle, the curls are well defined along with being structured.
5. Crochet Micro Braids
This hairstyle is based on the beehive pattern. It is super easy to install and looks stunning on all hair lengths. If there had to be one sleek hairstyle that is suitable for every occasion then it would be micro braids for sure.
6. Shaggy Curls
Although this hairstyle takes forever to get completed, it still is worth it because of the marvellous outcome. Simply part your hair in two sections, braid till you reach the roots and brush it off to get perfectly shaggy curls.
Rock any hairstyle with crochet braids to get those amazing curls. Do any hairstyle that you want without damaging your natural hair. Have fun playing with colours, textures, lengths and different types of crochet braids. Keep your hair game strong and look like a diva all the time.
Bruno Lee
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