Protecting types, particularly braids, will be a good way to experiment with completely different lengths. For these eager to attempt a shorter fashion, look no additional than the “braided baldie.” The TikTok-viral fashion dates again a long time however was repopularized by Los Angeles-based braider Monteria Chisholm (recognized on social media as Tookie Did It). The look, that includes intricate cornrows, lets you faux the look of a super-cropped haircut (therefore the identify).
In latest months, numerous hairstylists have taken to social media to point out off their variations of braided baldies. A number of celebrities and influencers have additionally given the protecting fashion their very own spin. In different phrases, the fashionable fashion is right here to remain.
Wish to know extra? We spoke with high braiders Kaisha Beckles, Talia Moses, and Neyhairs to be taught extra about braided baldies, how the fashion is achieved, and keep it.
Meet the Professional
- Kaisha Beckles is a braider based mostly in Pineland, St.Michael, Barbados.
- Talia Moses is a celeb braider based mostly in New York Metropolis.
- Neyhairs is a braider based mostly in London, England.
What Is a Braided Baldie?
Whereas many braided types function free-flowing plaits that body your face, the braided baldie presents the alternative. “The braided baldie is a protecting fashion with one or two [interconnected] braids in order to create the look of a bald head,” Beckles says. “It has intricate designs that nearly resemble a maze.” With this look, all of this hair is stored off the neck by tucking the ends of every braid in utilizing a crochet technique.
@darealbbjudy / instagram
The best way to Obtain the Fashion
Making ready your hair earlier than the appointment is important for any braided fashion. After completely washing and conditioning your hair, be certain that it’s completely detangled earlier than drying. “Make sure the hair has been blow-dried correctly earlier than sectioning it with hair clips,” Neyhairs says. As soon as the hair has been sectioned, then the braiding can start. Your hairstylist will then cornrow your hair based mostly in your chosen design. Some common patterns embody zig-zags, flowers, and hearts, however you possibly can customise your look any means you see match. “Whether or not it is zig-zags, flowers, and even hearts, something works on a braided baldie,” Beckles provides.
To complete the look, your stylist will use a setting mousse to cut back frizz and add shine. “When the fashion has been set, wrap the hair in a durag and sit beneath the dryer till the braids have dried,” Neyhairs says.
Byrdie Tip
Based on our consultants, the braided baldie works finest on wonderful and quick hair. In case your hair is thick, it’s possible you’ll want so as to add an additional braid so the completed fashion will not look cumbersome.
The best way to Preserve the Fashion
With correct upkeep, a braided baldie can final 4 to 6 weeks. Fortunately, your day-to-day upkeep routine is extremely simple with this look. “Sustaining the braided baldie is straightforward and simple,” Beckles says. “All you should do is oil your scalp each two to a few days, relying on how briskly your scalp dries.” She additionally recommends making use of mousse each every now and then and overlaying your head with a shawl or durag in order that your hair can keep its flat look. Moses and Neyhairs suggest overlaying your braids with a shawl, bonnet, or durag at evening to assist forestall frizz.
@braidedbeautiesbds / instagram
The Last Takeaway
The braided baldie is without doubt one of the most revolutionary and complex protecting types. It is good for individuals who need to embrace shorter hair with out dedication. Plus, the look will be extremely personalised, as you possibly can customise the braid sample you need (from zig-zags to flowers). As if that weren’t sufficient, this stylish protecting fashion is low-maintenance. A braided baldie can final 4 to 6 weeks with minor styling, like oiling your scalp and making use of mousse each few days.