Do you know what I love the most about stitch braids? Their versatility. Whether you want a simple straight-back look or get ~fancy~ with parted designs, stitch braids just work. Which brings me to today's protective style: These double-stitch braids that will both slay and allow your hair to thrive. In lieu of a standard middle part, this look incorporates cool triangle-shaped braids down the middle of your head to add some edge. Basically, New Jersey-based stylist Sasha Griffin ate this one up. Watch along to peep the whole process, and check out our tips down below to make your dreams of these braids a reality:
1. Use gel for super-precise parts. Smooth holding jam on your scalp to add definition to your braids' parting. With this style, you can use a rat tail comb to create a fun zigzag pattern or even replicate Griffin's unique middle-triangle design featured in today's episode.
2. Let your edges take center stage. With a pulled-back look, your baby hairs get a real chance to shine. Slick them down with an edge control infused with sealing oils (like castor oil or jojoba oil) to lock in moisture and cut down on some potential damage.
3. Seal your braids. Coat your braids with a dollop of mousse once or twice a week to smooth any flyaways. And if you wanna get ~extra~, wrap your braids up with a satin scarf for 10 minutes to really set 'em down.
Eden Body Works Citrus Fusion Styling Mousse
Design Essentials Curl-Enhancing Mousse
Aphogee Style and Wrap Mousse
4. Take your braids down after four weeks. Braids that overstay their welcome can potentially lead to breakage, so you should definitely consider switching out your style once the four week mark hits.
Hair: In collaboration with Stasha Harris of Magic Fingers Studio
Makeup: Ashley Johnson
Videographer: Rob Mroczko
Production Assistant: Jay Aguirre
Director of Digital Series: Tara O’Connell
Annabel Iwegbue is a culture editor at Cosmopolitan, where she primarily covers pop culture, lifestyle, relationships, and digital trends. She previously wrote for Harper's Bazaar, The Knockturnal, and Black Film. She's originally from Charleston, South Carolina, and is currently based in Brooklyn, New York. She holds a B.A. in Journalism and Cinema Studies from New York University. You can check out some of Annabel’s work here and also find her on Instagram and Twitter.
