This Braided Headband DIY Is an Unexpected Bridesmaids Hairstyle Idea

Updated on July 7, 2016 at 5:05 PM

You're probably sick of every blow-dry bar bridesmaid menu option: the fishtail, the half-up bun, the waterfall, etc. Been there. Instagrammed that. This season, try something dainty and unexpected: a braided headband. We love this style because it allows you to wear your hair down; it works with waves, curls, and sleek styles; and it looks just as pretty on longer lengths as it does lobs. Plus, the style functionally pulls some of your strands out of your face.

Hairstylist Gina Schiappacasse from NYC salon Hairstory broke down how to DIY (it's actually pretty simple!). Keep reading to learn her techniques for a gorgeous wavy blowout complemented by a mini headband braid.

Start with freshly washed, towel-dried hair. Make sure to have the following tools on hand: two tiny hair elastics, about four bobby pins, a round brush, a blow dryer, and sectioning clips.

Distribute two to four pumps of a styling cream, such as Hairstory’s Dressed Up, into your hands. Emulsify the product between your palms, and work it evenly through your strands from roots to ends.

Rough-dry the product into your hair. Use your hands to gently section your mane as you go, while running the nozzle down the shaft from roots to ends.

Divide rough-dried hair into four even sections. Twist and secure three pieces with sectioning clips.

Divide your fourth section in half; twist and secure one half, and put it away. With the remaining half, begin to blow-dry with a round brush, carefully rolling hair up and back down the brush while directing the dryer down the hair shaft.

Repeat on the second half of your section. Direct hair and dryer up and away from your face for added lift and volume.

This is what the blow-dried wave should look like.

If you just want to do a simple blow-dry, feel free to stop here. For the final braided look, continue on!

Section off a small amount of your hair near your temple. The piece should be about an inch and a half square. Be sure to have your bobby pins and tiny elastics close at hand. Divide this section of hair into three equal parts and braid it. As you plait, be sure to direct the hair up and away from your head, as this will allow your final braid to be placed on top of your head more easily.

Section off an equal part of hair on the other side of your head.

Braid this one — and again, be sure to angle hair up as you plait.

Pull your first braid up and over your head.

Lay the braid down on top of your head. Make sure that the rest of your hair is pulled back underneath the plait.

While holding first braid securely to your head, pull your second braid up and across the first one.

Be careful to tuck the ends of each braid under the other one, and secure each side with a bobby pin. Tuck the pin into the plaits to better camouflage them.

The finished look is sexy, minimal, and perfect for Summer.

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