How to Do Double Dutch Braids: Easy Heatless Hairstyle Tutorial

Hair

Who else is obsessed with double Dutch braids?! I’ve been saving this hairstyle to my Pinterest hair inspiration board for years, but I always thought it looked way too complicated to recreate. Turns out, it’s easier than you think! Today I’m sharing a simple double Dutch braids tutorial for beginners that requires no heat and looks adorable for everything from running errands to a casual night out. Bonus: take your braids out once your hair is dry for beautiful heatless waves!

How to Do Double Dutch Braids Step by Step

Double Dutch Braids For Beginners by popular Orlando beauty blogger Mash Elle | beauty blogger Mash Elle | dutch braids tutorial | beginner hair tutorial

Step 1: Wash and Prep Your Hair

The secret to beautiful double Dutch braids starts with properly prepped hair! I like to begin with freshly washed hair using a shampoo and conditioner suited to my hair type. If you have dry, damaged or color-treated hair, consider using a moisturizing conditioner to help keep your strands soft and manageable. Gently detangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb before braiding to make the process easier and minimize knots. For this heatless hairstyle, I prefer working with slightly damp hair because it’s easier for me to keep everything in place. However, you can absolutely create double Dutch braids on dry hair, too! If you’re looking for more ways to keep your hair looking healthy, check out my 5 hair hacks for longer, healthier hair.

Step 2: Part Your Hair Into Two Sections

Once your hair is prepped, it’s time to create your sections! Start by parting your hair straight down the middle, beginning at your forehead and continuing all the way to the nape of your neck. This will create two equal sections of hair, one on each side of your head. I recommend using a comb to make your part as neat as possible, especially if you want a more polished finished look. Secure one side with a hair elastic or clip so it stays out of the way while you work on the first braid. If you’re working with damp hair, make sure it isn’t dripping wet, since very wet hair can be more fragile and prone to breakage when pulled tightly. Personally, I love how this hairstyle keeps my hair out of my face while still looking cute and put-together!

Step 3: Create Your First Dutch Braid

Now for the fun part: braiding! Start near your hairline on one side of your head and separate a small section of hair into three equal strands. If you’ve ever French braided your hair, the technique will feel familiar, but there’s one important difference: with a Dutch braid, you cross the outer strands underneath the middle strand instead of over it. Begin by crossing the right strand under the middle strand, then cross the left strand under the new middle strand. As you continue braiding, add a small amount of loose hair to each outer strand before crossing it underneath the middle. Keep working your way down the side of your head, incorporating more hair as you go. Once you’ve reached the nape of your neck and added all the loose hair from that side, continue with a regular three-strand braid down to the ends and secure it with a hair elastic. Don’t worry if your first attempt isn’t perfect! Dutch braiding takes a little practice, and even slightly messy braids can look adorable.

Step 4: Repeat on the Other Side

Once you’ve completed your first Dutch braid, it’s time to repeat the process on the opposite side of your head. Remove the clip or elastic holding your second section of hair and divide a small piece near your hairline into three strands. Just like before, cross the outer strands underneath the middle strand, adding small sections of hair as you work toward the nape of your neck. Try to keep the braid positioned similarly to the first side for a balanced look. Once all your hair has been incorporated, finish with a regular three-strand braid and secure the ends with an elastic. If one braid looks slightly different from the other, don’t stress! Mine aren’t always perfectly symmetrical either, and that’s part of the charm of this casual braided hairstyle.

Step 5: Make Your Double Dutch Braids Look Fuller

Want to know my favorite trick for making double Dutch braids look thicker and more voluminous? Gently pull apart the outer edges of each braid! This technique is often called pancaking, and it’s an easy way to create the appearance of fuller braids without adding extensions. Start near the bottom of your braid and carefully tug on the outer loops, working your way upward until you’ve achieved your desired volume. Be gentle so you don’t loosen the entire hairstyle or put unnecessary tension on your hair. I love this step because it gives the braids a softer, more relaxed appearance and makes them look a little more effortless. Whether you prefer sleek, tight Dutch braids or a fuller, slightly messy style, you can customize the finished look to match your personal preference.

The Finished Look: Cute Double Dutch Braid Pigtails

And voilà! You’ve officially created your own double Dutch braids! I absolutely love this hairstyle because it’s practical, feminine and surprisingly versatile. You can wear your braids to work, while running errands, during a workout or even for a casual dinner with friends. They’re also a great option for those days when you want your hair to look styled without spending forever getting ready. Once you’ve mastered the basic Dutch braiding technique, you can experiment with different variations, including looser braids, braided buns and half-up braided hairstyles. If you’re a fan of easy hairstyles that don’t require a curling iron or straightener, you’ll also love my easy heatless hairstyle for spring.

How to Get Heatless Waves From Double Dutch Braids

One of my favorite things about this hairstyle is that you can get two looks from one styling session! If you create your double Dutch braids on slightly damp hair and leave them in until your hair is completely dry, you may be able to achieve soft, natural-looking waves when you take them out. The finished texture will depend on your hair type, braid size and how well your hair holds a wave. For best results, avoid braiding soaking-wet hair, since tightly braided sections can take a long time to dry. Once your hair is fully dry, gently remove the elastics and unravel each braid using your fingers. Try not to brush through the waves too much if you want to maintain their definition. I love how this technique can add texture and movement without relying on hot styling tools! For another easy warm-weather hairstyle, check out my 5-minute heatless summer hairstyle.

Tips for Making Double Dutch Braids Last Longer

If you want your double Dutch braids to stay looking cute throughout the day, a little preparation goes a long way. Start by detangling your hair thoroughly so you can create smooth, even sections. Try to maintain consistent tension while braiding, but avoid pulling too tightly, especially around your hairline. A small amount of lightweight styling cream or mousse may help control flyaways, depending on your hair type. I also recommend using snag-free elastics to secure the ends and prevent unnecessary pulling. If your hair is especially silky or slippery, a little texture spray on dry hair can help make the braids easier to manage. And remember, double Dutch braids don’t need to be perfectly neat to look beautiful! Sometimes a few loose pieces around your face make the finished hairstyle look even cuter.

Frequently Asked Questions About Double Dutch Braids

What Is the Difference Between Dutch Braids and French Braids?

The biggest difference is how you cross the strands while braiding. With French braids, the outer strands cross over the middle strand, creating a braid that sits closer to the head. With Dutch braids, the outer strands cross underneath the middle strand, creating a raised braid that stands out more prominently.

Are Double Dutch Braids Easy for Beginners?

Double Dutch braids can take a little practice, especially if you’re braiding your own hair. However, once you understand the basic three-strand technique and how to add hair as you go, the process becomes much easier. Starting with two clearly separated sections can help make the hairstyle more manageable.

Can You Do Double Dutch Braids on Short Hair?

Yes! Double Dutch braids can work on many hair lengths, although longer hair generally makes it easier to complete the braided pigtails. If you have shorter layers, try using small hair clips or styling products to help keep loose pieces in place.

Should You Dutch Braid Wet or Dry Hair?

You can Dutch braid either wet or dry hair, but slightly damp or dry hair is generally easier to manage than soaking-wet hair. Damp braids may create waves as they dry, while dry hair is a good option if you want to wear the style immediately.

Are Dutch Braids a Good Heatless Hairstyle?

Absolutely! Double Dutch braids are a great heatless hairstyle because they don’t require curling irons, straighteners or other heated styling tools. They can also create waves when braided hair is allowed to dry completely before being released.

How Long Do Double Dutch Braids Last?

Double Dutch braids can stay in place for a full day or longer, depending on your hair type, how securely they’re braided and your activities. Avoid wearing them too tightly or keeping them in if they’re causing scalp discomfort.

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If you love discovering cute hairstyles that are easy to recreate at home, here are a few more Mash Elle hair tutorials and beauty posts to check out!

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