Are you a die-hard fan of braided hairstyles like us? Many get confused between the two gorgeous braid styles: the French braid and the Dutch braid. Let’s explore both to understand what sets them apart.
There are numerous types of braids that people practice and love to wear for different occasions. Some braids have a more formal texture and suit special events, while others are better suited for everyday wear. The most popular braids among women are the Dutch braid and the French braid.
The two are often confused with each other, so this article will give you a clear picture of the key differences between the Dutch braid and the French braid.
What Is a French Braid?
The French braid is a classic style in which three strands of hair are woven together. What makes it distinctive is that at each pass, a few additional strands are incorporated, giving it its signature look.
The braiding technique follows a consistent pattern: strands from the left are crossed over the middle strand, and the same is repeated on the right. This method allows for a wide range of textures and finished styles.
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What Is a Dutch Braid?
The Dutch braid is essentially the reverse of the French braid and is also known as the inside-out braid. The technique is similar, but instead of bringing the outer strand over the middle section, you bring it under — which is what gives the Dutch braid its bold, raised appearance.
French Braid vs. Dutch Braid: Key Differences at a Glance
The comparison table below breaks down the key differences between the Dutch braid and the French braid in a simple, easy-to-read format.
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Dutch Braid |
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What They Have in Common
Despite their differences, Dutch braids and French braids share quite a bit in common — and both deliver a distinctly polished finish when done well.
Both styles are versatile enough to wear for casual and formal occasions alike — from school days to bridal showers to wedding events.
Hair accessories like flowers, jeweled pins, and gemstone clips can be added to either braid to elevate the look and add a touch of elegance.
Both braid styles add elegance to any look and personality to any outfit. A practical bonus: they keep loose strands tucked away, making them ideal for yoga and workouts.
Whether you prefer one over the other, both styles offer a beautiful, effortlessly polished finish that works for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are both pretty easy. What’s easier for you will depend on what you learned to do first. So if you learned to French braid first, Dutch braids might feel a little awkward at first, and vice versa.
They are similar in that both run in lines along the head with the remaining length of hair braided normally. Otherwise, they look quite different.
The loops of a Dutch braid sit on the surface of the hair, while the loops of a French braid sit underneath the braid. This is why Dutch braids appear puffier.
Viking braids are distressed Dutch braids styled on the top of the head and pulled back. They are secured in a ponytail (avoid tying too tightly to prevent tension damage) and banded at intervals down to the tips. The sides of the hair can be shaved or Dutch braided into smaller braids.
Although milkmaid braids run along the head, they are not French or Dutch braids. They are pigtails that have been wound around the head.
A mermaid braid is a single French braid that uses very small sections to create an intricate and delicate look. It is sometimes created with a Dutch braid, but it is usually French.
Boxer braids is a modern mainstream term used for two straight-back cornrows. This protective style is deeply rooted in African and Black culture, long before it became popular in the UFC.
A waterfall braid is created as half a French braid, while the other half hangs down like a “waterfall.” If you already know how to braid, you simply manipulate the hair to leave one side open as you go.
Yes.
Africans were the first to wear braids.
The name originated with enslaved Africans in the Americas, who styled their hair in continuous raised rows that visually resembled the agricultural fields of corn and sugarcane they were forced to work in.
Cornrows are made using the underhand Dutch braiding technique, which causes them to sit raised on the scalp. They are not created with the French braiding method, which lies flat.
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