Braids are one of the most versatile and easiest ways to style your hair. You can wear box braids as a protective style for weeks or rock an intricate one-night-only look (there’s a reason everyone’s favorite celebrities love braids for a red carpet moment) . The options are endless and there is a braided hairstyle that suits almost everyone.

Two popular looks, French braids and Dutch braids, often get confused. Although similar in appearance and technique, there is a light difference. For a comprehensive guide to the two, Bustle asked celebrity hairstylist Angela C. Stevens and TRESemmé global stylist Justine Marjan to explain how to tell the difference between the two and break down a step-by-step guide on how. to do each.

What is the difference between a French and Dutch braid?

The TL;DR: A French braid is achieved when each section of hair is crossed over the middle piece when braiding while a Dutch braid is crossed underneath. Braids also differ in appearance. “Both braiding techniques are similar but they differ based on the direction the hair is manipulated, resulting in a different visual result,” Stevens explains. “The French braid appears flat and the Dutch braid appears raised,” adds Marjan.

How to French braid

Stevens says a French braid is a braid that looks reversed. “[It’s] where the hair is divided into 3 sections and intersect more alternating pieces to make a connection on the head braid,” she says.

First, divide the hair you want to braid into three sections. Stevens then says to cross them on top of each other, while alternating the pieces. Once these three pieces intersect, you will start to catch strands of hair as you braid.

Marjan says to grab the right section with your right hand, then cross your right hand over the middle piece and put it in your left hand, making sure to grab another piece of hair to add to the braid as you go. as you go. Then, cross the piece from your left hand to your right hand, always making sure to grab the hair as you cross. Continue this pattern throughout the length of the hair.

Pro tip: Stevens recommends using an edge-control pomade or gel, like Cantu Extra Hold Edge Stay Gel, to manage frizz. She says to apply as needed to the base of the hair to help manage frizz and flyaways. She also recommends moisturizing the hair with a good serum. Try a smooth product like TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Keratin Infusing Serum or Crown Affair The Hair Oil to nourish strands.

How to Do a Dutch Braid

Similar to the French braid, you will want to part the hair into three sections. Start from the right and cross the piece under the middle section instead of crossing it like you would when doing a French braid. As you go through, you will always want to remember to add more strands of hair each time you braid. Then on the left side, Marjan says to cross the piece of your left hand under the middle strand, passing it through your right hand. Continue this pattern throughout the length of the hair.

Once you have practiced, doing French and Dutch braids is quite easy and you can make it one of your favorite hairstyles to keep your hair out of your face.