Beauty Bit, The Braiding Handbook

Illustrated by Jacqueline Davis Moranti

When the humidity sky rockets and the the temperatures become unbearable, my hair turns into the biggest frizz fest that the world has ever seen! There can only be but so many days that I can take wearing my hair out, on the other days I like to bun it. Unfortunately, wearing the same style over and over can be quite a drag! Something that's been helping me revive the tired ol' hairstyle is The Braiding Handbook by Abby Smith. The "hair braiding bible!"

The Braiding Handbook is filled with plenty of new updo ideas like fishtail braids, french braids, bohemian twists and tons more. This book has been teaching me new braiding skills, honestly I couldn't get a basic plait to look normal! The book provides about 60 gorgeous updos, with easy to follow instructions and step by step photos, making it attainable for hairstyles for any and every occasion. Also a natural haired person, these styles can be achieved, believe me, I've tested out many of them! I've gathered a few of my favorite updos from the "braiding bible" that i've tried and loved. 

The Bohemian Crown is definitely one of my favorites, its quite simple and looks very elegant. Also like the name states, it looks like one major crown! This look helps hide away any frizzies too,  and by adding in flowers or other fun accessories this updo looks even more amazing! All you have to do is begin a basic (Dutch) braid at top of your head, close to your hairline and continue it all the way around. one big braid. At the end of it, pin it underneath the braid. Viola! 

The Side Dutch Braid is a fantastic updo for those days that the humidity just won't give up! Every time I've worn this 'do, i've gotten do many compliments on it. All you have to do is start off with a deep side part and begin braiding, keeping it close to the hairline. Keep braiding it downward and when you run out of hair to add in just continue it it as you would a normal braid. And there you have it, a style to make many envious to try it! 

Images via The Braiding Handbook

The French Braided Messy Bun, the best hair style for running errands, sweating it out at the gym, last minute rendezvous and many more occasions. This has been my go to 'do for 75% of the time! Start of by beginning a french braid, at a deep side part. Continue braiding until you reach your ear then from there a regular three stranded braid. Then the last part is to tie the rest of the hair into a messy bun, simple as that! 

If you find yourself in a rut, with your hair, try The Braiding Handbook for some great ideas. This book has endless possibilities for literally any event you might find yourself in! Ever since this book, my braids have been better than ever and they have also been anything but boring! Most of the styles featured in the hair braiding bible can be done on hair of any texture too, so don't shy away if you're a natural chica like me. Bad hair days be gone!