Hair Color

Voluminous Viking Braid

May 5, 2015·1 min read

50130Festival Hair SBS_orig
Every day clients and brides-to-be are always looking for hot new styles. Which is why Heather Chapman is constantly finding creative and interesting ways to dress up any look, especially when it comes to those beloved plaits. For a braid with plenty of body and texture try this voluminous Viking braid. Start with a simple Dutch braid down the side, then add volume and a crimping texture to the hair to create a fun, youthful look that’s all about the “WOW” factor. More How-Tos Braided Ballerina Bun Lace Ponytail Wrap Laced Top Knot Braid (more…)
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    Take a curved section on the left 1/4 of the head from the top of the eyebrow to behind the ear, slightly into the nape. Section the heavy side away using dry sectioning clips.

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    For the side with less hair, you will texturize this entire section using the Sam Villa Texturizing Iron to increase the volume of the hair. This will make the braid you are about to create thicker and full of volume! Make sure you use a heat protectant spray prior to using the iron to protect the hair from heat damage.

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    After you have finished texturizing the right side of the head, place the hair from your other section into a mid-height ponytail. Don't place the ponytail too high or the end result won't look right.

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    Once the ponytail is in place, take your textured section and create a Dutch braid beginning at the front hairline until you reach just behind the ear, leaving plenty of length out, then secure with an elastic. Next, pancake or pull apart the Dutch braid to make it appear thicker and flatter against the head. After you pull the braid apart, secure the braid to your existing ponytail.

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    From here, pick up the leftover hair in the ponytail that was texturized and instead of finishing with a traditional braid, create a simple fishtail braid, leaving out 2 to 3 inches at the end.

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    Secure with an elastic and then gently pull the fishtail braid apart to your liking.

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    Using a 19mm curling wand, curl the rest of the ponytail, then back-brush lightly for volume. Additionally, you can use your hands to break the curls apart and create more texture.

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    Mist with your favorite hairspray from at least 6 to 8 inches away to complete the look and keep your hairstyle in place.

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