Double Dutch Braid Updo Tutorial

If you’re ready to up your hair game with a fun, on-trend braided hairstyle, we have a great hair tutorial for you. The Double Dutch Braid Updo is an elegant and fun braided style, perfect for a chic party or a casual brunch with friends.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time for complicated updos and styling techniques. So we chose this look because it’s surprisingly easier to master than you might think. I’ll walk you through each step with easy-to-follow instructions and tips to ensure you nail these braids like a pro.

Step 1: Preparation and Sectioning

Required Tools:

1. Hairbrush: To detangle and smooth your hair before starting the braids.
2. Tail Comb: Useful for creating precise parts and managing small sections of hair.
3. Hair Elastics: To secure your braids and the final look.
4. Bobby Pins: Essential for securing the braids and any loose strands neatly in place.
5. Hairspray: To set the hairstyle and tame any flyaways for a polished look.
6. Optional – Texturizing Spray or Mousse: To add grip and volume to your hair, making the braiding process easier and the final look more voluminous.

Begin by thoroughly brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Optionally, you can apply a small amount of texturizing spray or mousse evenly throughout your damp or dry hair. This step helps add volume and provides extra grip, making your hair easier to manage and braid. The texturizing product will ensure that the braids hold better and don’t slip, especially if your hair is very fine or has a silky texture.

Once smooth, use a tail comb to create a clean center part from your forehead to the nape of your neck, effectively dividing your hair into two equal sections. Secure each section with a hair tie just above the nape to keep them separated and manageable.

Step 2: Start the Dutch Braid

Starting at the top of your head on one side, grab a small section of hair about two inches wide from your part down to your forehead. This will be the starting point of our Dutch braid, also known as the “reverse French braid.” Why? Because unlike the French braid, where strands are crossed over each other, we’ll be crossing them under to give it that standout, pop-off-your-head look.

Divide this initial section into three even strands. Now, here’s where the braiding magic begins:

1. Crossing Under Technique: Take the right strand and cross it under the middle strand. Next, take the left strand and cross it under the new middle strand. This is your basic one cycle of a Dutch braid.
2. Adding Hair: Now, as you prepare to cross the right strand under again, add a little more hair from the right side of your head to the strand. Think of it as gathering new recruits into your braid army. 🤪 Cross this thicker strand under the middle.
3. Repeat on the Left: Do the same on the left side. Before crossing the left strand under the middle, grab some additional hair from the left side of your head, merge it with the current left strand, and then cross it under the middle.
4. Continue the Pattern: Keep alternating sides, adding more hair each time you cross under. Make sure to smooth each strand as you go to avoid bumps and keep the braid tight. It helps maintain neatness and gives your braid a polished look.
5. Consistent Tension: It’s important to keep consistent tension as you braid. This doesn’t mean pulling too hard on your hair (ouch!) but rather keeping a steady, gentle pull to ensure the braid is snug and doesn’t loosen up. This tension is what gives the Dutch braid its signature look.

Step 3: Continue the Braid

Continue this technique, working your way down to the nape of your neck. The key here is to be systematic and steady! As you move down, you’ll see the braid taking shape along the side of your head, standing out against your scalp.

Once all your hair from this side is incorporated and you reach the nape of your neck, continue braiding in a traditional three-strand style (that’s the easy part, right?) down the length of your hair and secure with a hair tie. You’ve now completed one side!

Step 4: Complete the Second Braid

With one braid finished, it’s time to tackle the other side. Start by repeating the same Dutch braid technique: grab a small section at the top, divide it into three strands, and begin weaving by passing each side strand under the middle one while incorporating more hair into the braid as you work your way down.

As you add hair, keep the strands smooth and maintain even tension to ensure the braid remains tight and neat. This consistency is key to achieving a symmetrical look with the braid on the opposite side.

Continue braiding until you reach the nape of your neck. Then, switch to a regular three-strand braid for the remaining length of your hair and tie it with an elastic or hair tie. Take a moment to check both braids for symmetry and make any necessary adjustments before moving on to the next styling step.

Step 5: Secure the Braids

Now that your hair is securely braided into two neat Dutch braids, it’s time to create the final look. Start by holding the ends of both braids and gently wrapping them around each other at the base where they meet at the nape of your neck. This will form the foundation of your updo.

Twist the braids around each other and coil them into a circular shape against your head, ensuring the braids lay flat and the pattern remains visible. Tuck the ends of the braids underneath the updo to keep the look clean.

Step 6: Create the Braided Updo

Twist the unified braids around the base where they are tied together, gradually forming a U shape. Tuck the ends under the updo to keep it neat. Use bobby pins to secure the updo in place, inserting them discreetly so they are hidden within the braids. Ensure the updo is firm and unlikely to unravel.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

For added security and to ensure a polished look, add additional bobby pins around the braids, especially in any loose areas. Optionally, apply a light mist of hairspray to tame any flyaways and add a slight shine for a more refined appearance. Double-check the symmetry and balance of the updo, making adjustments with bobby pins as necessary.

And there you have it, a stunning Double Dutch Braid Updo!

Remember, practice makes perfect! And please don’t worry if it doesn’t turn out exactly how you envisioned on the first try. Each attempt will help you refine your technique and adapt the style to suit your hair type and length. You’ll soon be able to whip up this beautiful updo with ease.

Feel free to experiment with variations of this style, too—perhaps incorporating different types of braids or adding decorative hair accessories like flowers or jeweled clips (perfect for prom) for that extra sparkle.