Besides flowers and rhinestones, ribbons, scarves and other strips of fabric can add a twist to a standard braid. In no time at all, they can give a style a certain touch of elegance. Take a look at the following three hairstyles spotted on Instagram to try out the “fabric braid”.

A new take on the African braid

Behind the handle @da-da-daans, there’s a young Finn who is a fan of braids. On her account, she creates an array of refined hairstyles, one of which being the African braid enhanced with a two-tone scarf.

To create this hairstyle, you will need:

– Anti-frizz serum
– A scarf
– Flat hairpins to match your highlights
– An elasticated hairband

The tutorial. Detangle your locks and apply a small amount of anti-frizz serum. Select a section of hair (as you would to create a high half-ponytail ) and tie it up with one of the ends of your chosen scarf. Then divide the hair into two equal sections. Counting the fabric, you will have the three “strands” needed to do the hairstyle. Start by doing a standard braid for the first 2 twists. Then, start adding in strands (from the hair left loose) to each section you take over to the other side to form a braid which lies flat against your head. Continue down to the tips and finish it off by fastening the ends with an elasticated hairband.

The low chignon-braid combo