Our Editor In Chief is quite the ambassador of bohemian style, whether she is rocking a missoni crochet dress or an ethereal caftan, so when she strolled into the office with this effortless braid we had to recreate it. Here is a step-by-step tutorial to score the easy summer look that works post-pool, post-beach or for the ubiquitous humid hair day.
Step 1
Textured Hair
The style works best on air-dried hair, whether you need to add a little dry shampoo or salt spray to achieve that texture is up to you.
Step 2
Front Section
Use a deep side part, and section off the front 3 inches of hair.
Step 3
Braid To The Ear
Using the traditional french braiding technique (gradually incorporate more hair as you lengthen the braid), continue until just behind the ear and fasten with a hair tie.
Step 4
Wrap The Elastic
Using a ribbon of hair from the subsequent ponytail, wrap it around the hair elastic so that it is concealed, then use a bobby pin to secure.
Step 5
Larger Braid
Using the rest of the head of hair, separate into three sections, using the ponytail from the mini braid as one section.
Step 6
Get Twisting
Twist each piece of hair before you incorporate it into the braid, this adds to the unkempt, beachy vibe of the look.
Step 7
Fasten With Elastic
Fasten the full braid with an elastic.
Step 8
Scrunch and Tease
Add a lived-in feel by gently teasing and loosening the braid, pulling out a few strands and adding volume to the tail.
Final Product
The final look is intentionally undone. We suggest pairing with a Rachel-approved combination of a stained lip, oversized glasses and a printed maxidress.