We love the effortless glamour and classic charm of the rope braid hairstyle. It looks really complicated, but takes just seconds to achieve. Whether you’ve got a wedding to go to, are having a night out with friends, or you simply want a new day-to-day hairstyle to try out, the rope braid is the perfect option, as it can be made to look as formal or as casual as you like.

Here are a few tips to help you master one of this year’s most popular (and stylish) ‘updos’.

Preparing your hair for the rope braid

The condition of your hair is essential to getting a well-defined, tight and long-lasting rope braid. Your hair needs to be free of knots so that it can twist freely when you’re styling it, and not look bumpy when it’s finished, Tangle Teezer’s are great for this. Your hair should ideally be unwashed, as freshly washed hair can be very ‘fly-away.’ The natural state will enhance texture and will help the style to hold its form. If your hair is washed, you could spray each layer with a dry shampoo – Moroccan oil dry shampoo spray is brilliant for this, as the texture in the product creates a dry, matte effect – perfect for styling.

How to achieve a beautiful rope braid

The first step in creating a classic rope braid is to brush the hair back into a ponytail (this style looks amazing as a high, low or side ponytail), securing it with a hairband and smoothing the strays with Redken’s quick dry hairspray. Then, simply divide the ponytail into two, and twist each section to the right (the twisting action ensures that the braid doesn’t unravel when you let go of it at the end). Next, keep crossing the right section over the left until your rope braid takes shape. Finally, secure it with a hairband.

This simple braid can also be turned into a French style, where the rope shape starts at the roots and runs elegantly down one side or the back of your head. You’d approach this much like you would a French plait – dividing up the hair and adding in bits as you go, and then following the above steps once you’ve got all the hair in your hands. If you want the braid to look loose and effortless, you can gently pull each section outwards so that it’s not as tight.

Twist it, plait it or wear it loose – it’s up to you!

Now that you’ve perfected the basic idea, you can adapt the rope braid to your own style. If you want to keep it casual, for example, why not twist it into a gorgeous, textured bun? Or, if you’re going to a wedding or formal occasion, you could plait it into a beautiful chignon, finished with a delicate flower clip just behind the ear. The rope braid is really versatile, and can be pulled about to create an effortless, messy look, or smoothed out for a classic effect.

If you are attending a wedding or a special event, our team can create a beautiful rope braid to complement your outfit perfectly. Contact us at The House of Klamer to find out more.

View our prices

Our full range of services and prices

Meet the team