You can wear braids in various ways depending on their style and preference. Many different braids have come out over the years, but French and Dutch braids are two of the most popular. Let’s check how Dutch Braid vs. French Braid performs in differences and similarities.
Even though these two hairstyles might look similar, there are some apparent differences between them. The purpose of this article is to go over some of how Dutch braids and French braids differ. Let’s get started!
French Braid vs. Dutch Braid: What’s The Differences?
#1 Difference in Technique
In terms of techniques, there’s not too much to differentiate between Dutch Braid vs. French Braid. Both hairstyles create sections of hair that fall across your face.
Therefore, the most defining difference is how many strands each braid contains. A dutch braid can have as few as two strands, while a french braid will collect three or more. Also, if you are really interested in having Dutch Braid Bun you can check our detailed DIY Tutorial: How To Make Dutch Braid Bun.
#2 Appearance Of Braids
The look of a dutch braid differs from that of a french braid because a dutch braid tends to be thicker than its French counterpart. Due to its size, a dutch braid takes more time to complete than a french one. It is also evident when one hair is left out when creating a dutch braid.
On the other hand, a French braid appears identical on both sides as it only goes over rather than under. It is also thinner and smoother overall. Both styles can appear messy and sleek depending on how you pull or tie off at the end.
#3 Crossing Patterns: Is Dutch Braid a Reverse French Braid?
There is a difference between a dutch braid and a french braid when it comes to crossing patterns. A french braid tends to follow an S pattern, while a dutch braid will follow more of an X pattern. This X-shape is typically less bulky than an S-patterned one.
The fundamental distinction is that a French braid crosses hair portions over one another, whereas a Dutch braid crosses hair sections underneath another. Therefore, the Dutch braid is a reverse French braid because of this approach.
#4 Braid formation/Creation
The easiest way to describe Dutch Braid vs. French Braid is to say that a French braid consists of three individual braids. The first braid is formed by taking a section of hair from one side and adding a new piece of hair from underneath. That piece goes over another, which then moves into position for further additions. Use all sections to create your basic three-strand braid.
On the other hand, a Dutch braid comprises five individual braids. You start by taking a section of hair from one side and adding it to an existing strand as you would with a traditional braid. You then bring the strand to another new piece before being moved into position to add a new bit underneath it. This part continues until you utilize all sections creating your basic five-strand braid.
#5 Tools of Use
Another significant distinction comparing Dutch Braid vs. French Braid is that you can use tools to create each type of braid (particularly if you want super-straight lines). However, most french braiding tutorials specify that you should not use tools to make your braid unless you’re just starting with intricate styles.
Final Thoughts
The Dutch and French braids are two lovely and uncomplicated hairstyles that are similar yet possess several differences, as discussed above. You don’t need to go to a salon to get these hairstyles done as you can do it on your own if at all you have ample time to spare. So, what are you waiting for? Try these hairstyles out today, and you might find your new favorite, go-to style.
FAQ On Dutch Braid Vs. French Braid
Is French Braid Or Dutch Braid Better For Everyday Use?
For a longer-lasting style, opt for a french braid. While a traditional dutch braid is ideal for keeping hair out of your face, it’s hard to maintain throughout an entire day. You can do both braids on wet or dry hair; once you learn how to do either, they only take minutes to do.
How Long Does It Take To Do Dutch Braids?
It can take several minutes to create a single braid by hand. You can use hair extensions or a braid enhancer to speed up your creation process. These attachments will decrease your styling time, which can be beneficial if you’re short on time or working with little girls who don’t like to sit still for long periods.
Are Dutch Braids Easier Than French For Beginners?
Neither braiding style is easy to master, but one might be easier to learn than the other. A dutch braid features two separate braids running along both sides of your head and meeting at a center point. Because you’re creating two individual braids, it will likely take longer for you to master than a french braid. The latter is simply three individual braids woven together at each section of hair.