English braids are also known as basic braids.
An English braid, also called a basic braid, is the simplest form of three-strand braids. This hairstyle involves pulling the hair together to braid it into a curl, dividing that curl into three sections, and alternating moving the right and left sections over the middle section. The outer section that was moved becomes the new middle section and the process continues on the opposite side. English braids usually start at the nape of the neck, but are commonly modified into a side braid or ponytail. This braiding technique is used in many more complex braids and can be considered the building block of many hairstyles.
When doing an English braid, the outer sections of the hair can be braided under or over the middle section without drastically altering the look of the braid. The instructions generally recommend going over the middle section. Some people normally braid the middle section when they braid other people’s hair, but then braid their own hair underneath. This often happens when people braid their hair with their arms overhead or at an awkward angle, as it is often necessary to stretch the arms back to start the braid at the back of the neck.
Other three-strand braids, such as the French braid, differ from English braids in the way the hair is gathered at the starting point of the braid. While French and Dutch braids gradually incorporate small strands of hair into the braid, English braids incorporate the entire section of hair to be braided at first. Three-strand braids use the basic English braiding technique because there are no other ways to combine three strands into one braid.
A hair tie is commonly used in everyday situations to secure English braids. The ends of the braid can also be tucked into the braid itself and secured with a bobby pin. Some people have hair that tapers towards the ends, and these people may braid their hair in such a way that the hair stands on its own. In this case, the hair is braided to the ends, and the braid itself holds the hair in place. An English braid should be as long as the wearer wants and can be tied at any point.
The tightness of the braid is determined by the tension to which the hair is held during the braid. If the hair is held taut during the braiding process, the braid will be somewhat taut and stay smooth. If the hair is loose, the braid will be smoother and slightly rounder. By modifying the tension, you can change the look and possible uses of the braid. Between hair adornments and minor technical modifications, English braids can be transformed into a hairstyle suitable for almost any occasion.