Back in 2015 the most popular Instagram photo of the year was already chosen by May 25 when Kendall Jenner shared a simple photo of her in an elegant lace dress lying on the carpet with her hair (and extensions) delicately placed into a ring of seven hearts.
With Valentine’s Day almost upon us, if you find yourself wanting to embrace the season of love with a hairstyle to dazzle someone special in your life, we present our own braided interpretation of #ValentinesDayHair that is easy to do at home with the right length to work with, thanks to human hair extensions!
We also show you below two variations on this theme incorporating different types of braids to show a little heart of your own in your hair.
“BE MY VALENTINE” BRAID
TOOLS NEEDED: Wide-tooth comb, fine-tooth comb, decorative hair clip, ponytail holders, good firm holiday hairspray.
- Starting with damp hair (either towel-dried or misted), use a wide-tooth comb to detangle. Then, using a fine-tooth comb, part the hair down the middle of the head. Clip one side up right above the ear.
- On the other side of the part, use the fine comb to gather a thin section of hair from the crown. This section should measure about 2 inches from the hairline to the top of the head.
- Divide this section into three, and begin a French braid starting at the crown and curving toward the temple, then toward the back of the head, like the top lobe of a heart. You will be lifting hair into the braid only from this side of the part. Leave no loose hair in front of the ears.
- When you reach the center part at the back of the head, secure the braid with a ponytail holder. If hair is very long, end the braid about mid-ear; the ends will hang down the back.
- Unclip the hair on the other side of the part and repeat the process. Secure with a ponytail holder.
- Join the ends of the braids together in the center of head and secure with ponytail holder. Finish with a decorative clip. Finish with a good holding hairspray that has shine and for shine, control and for style memory.
Simple & Understated
If you wanted to go for a look that was simpler and understated, you can also opt for this heart shaped half ponytail that you can do in just a few easy steps.
Option #3
Classic Romance
For a classic romantic look, you can also plait two side braids and spiral into a heart shape, fixing it place with bobby pins.
Valentine's Day Braids with Extensions
"Braided styles for Valentine's Day hit a sweet spot between effort and elegance - they look like you tried without looking overdone. Extensions add the thickness that makes braids look full and luxurious rather than wispy."
- Priyanka Swamy, Founder of Perfect Locks
3 Easy Braided Valentine's Styles
1. The loose fishtail braid: A fishtail braid worn to one side with pieces pulled out for a romantic, undone effect. Install clip-in extensions first, then braid using both natural and extension hair. Pull individual sections of the braid outward after finishing to create the loose, voluminous look. Secure with a satin scrunchie or delicate ribbon for a romantic finish.
2. The braided half-up: Take two sections from each side of the face, braid them loosely toward the back, and secure together while leaving the rest down. Takes 5 minutes, looks intentional and romantic. The extension hair that falls down around the braid adds length and volume to frame the face beautifully.
3. The Dutch braid crown: Create a Dutch braid starting at the nape on one side, traveling up and around the head like a crown, and securing at the opposite ear. Face-framing, romantic, and photogenic from every angle. Extensions woven into the braid make it significantly thicker and more dramatic than a braid from natural hair alone.
Braiding Tips for Extension Wearers
Always install extensions before braiding rather than braiding first and clipping in after - the extension hair needs to be part of the braid from the beginning for a natural result. Apply a light texturizing spray before braiding for grip that keeps the braid structured. Braid slightly looser than you think necessary - braids tighten as they're pulled and loosened for the final look.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you do romantic braids for Valentine's Day?
The most romantic braided styles are loose and textured rather than tight and structured: the loose side fishtail, the half-up with braided detail, or the Dutch braid crown. Pull individual sections outward after braiding to create the effortless, voluminous look. Extensions woven into the braid add the thickness that makes these styles look full and intentional.
Can you do a fishtail braid with extensions?
Yes - extensions make fishtail braids look significantly better. Install extensions first, then include both natural and extension hair in the braid. The extension hair adds mass that creates a thick, full fishtail braid. Pull sections outward after completing for the loose, romantic look that photographs beautifully.
Author and Founder of Perfect Locks LLC
Priyanka Swamy, the visionary founder of Perfect Locks LLC, is a passionate advocate for empowering women and promoting cultural diversity. With an unwavering commitment to ethical sourcing and quality craftsmanship, she redefined the hair extension market and created a supportive community that celebrates individuality.
Priyanka's dedication to sustainability and social responsibility continues to inspire positive change within the industry. Her journey with Perfect Locks remains an inspiration, unlocking the true potential and confidence of countless individuals worldwide.
