Braids have endless stylistic variations, evolving through trends over time. Whether you’re going for a practical, everyday look or a bold statement, braids offer versatility, elegance and creativity. One specific style, the French curl braid, combines the classic French braid technique with soft, voluminous curls, creating a look that’s both intricate and playful. Here’s everything you need to know about this distinct and chic style.

What Are French Curl Braids?

French curl braids are tight, braided sections paired with looser, curled portions of hair. The combination of smooth braiding and soft curls creates a dramatic, yet soft look.

In a standard French braid, the hair is braided into the scalp, and each section is added progressively, which gives the braid a tight, sculpted appearance. However, with French curl braids, the hair is styled in a way that gives it more volume and body through curls at the ends of the braid or along the length of the braid itself. The result is a playful, bouncy look that brings an element of softness to the structured nature of braids. This style has become a favorite, due to its versatility and effortless elegance. 

How to Do French Curl Braids

Luckily, executing this style is not as complicated as it might seem. 

Materials Needed

  • Hairbrush or Comb: To detangle your hair and ensure it’s smooth before braiding.
  • Hair Ties: Clear elastic bands are ideal for securing sections of hair.
  • Curling Iron or Wand: To create soft curls at the end of the braid (or throughout the braid).
  • Bobby Pins: To secure any loose strands or to shape the curls.
  • Texturizing Spray: This helps give the hair volume and grip, making it easier to braid.
  • Hair Spray: To hold the style in place once you’re finished.

French Curl Braids Tutorial

  1. Prep Your Hair: Start by washing and conditioning your hair. After towel drying your hair, apply a texturizing spray or mousse for volume and grip. This will make the braiding process easier and will give your curls more texture when you style them later.
  2. Section the Hair: Part your hair down the middle or to the side, depending on your preference. Take a small section of hair from the top of your head, near the hairline, to begin braiding. 
  3. Begin the French Braid: Start a standard French braid by dividing the section into three equal parts. Begin braiding close to your scalp, adding small sections of hair to each side as you go. Continue this process down the back of your head until you reach the nape of your neck. Keep the braid tight and even.
  4. Curl the Ends: Once you’ve braided down to the nape of your neck, it’s time to add those signature curls. You can either curl the ends of the braid or curl small sections of hair along the braid as you go. If you’re curling the ends, wrap small sections of the loose hair around a curling iron or wand and hold for a few seconds, releasing the curls to cool. For a more dramatic French curl braid, you can also curl the braid itself as you go along, creating soft, bouncy waves mixed with your tight braid.
  5. Secure the Braids: Once you’ve finished the braid, secure the end with a hair tie. Use bobby pins to pin any stray pieces of hair and secure curls where necessary. If your curls loosen over time, gently twist them back into place and pin them.
  6. Set the Style: Finish off your look by lightly spritzing your hair with hairspray. This will help keep the braid and curls intact throughout the day, while also ensuring your French curl braids maintain their structure.