Braids have been a timeless and versatile hairstyle choice across cultures and centuries. For those with a diamond face shape, selecting the right braid style can enhance your natural features, balance your face’s angles, and highlight your best attributes. In this article, I will guide you through understanding the diamond face shape and how to choose, create, and care for braids that perfectly complement it. We will explore various braid types, styling tips, and practical advice so you can confidently wear braids that flatter your unique face shape.
Understanding the Diamond Face Shape
Before diving into braid styles, it’s essential to understand what defines a diamond face shape. A diamond face is characterized by:
- A narrow forehead and jawline
- Broad, high cheekbones that form the widest part of the face
- A pointed chin and sometimes a slightly angular jaw
This shape tends to be the most angular among common face shapes. The goal of hairstyling for diamond faces is to soften the cheekbones and balance the narrowness of the forehead and jawline. Hairstyles that add width at the forehead or jawline while framing the cheekbones can achieve a harmonious look.
Why Braids Work Well for Diamond Faces
Braids are incredibly flexible and can be styled in ways that accentuate or soften facial features. For diamond-shaped faces, braids offer these advantages:
Framing the Face: Braids can be positioned to frame the face in soft layers, drawing attention away from the widest cheekbones.
Adding Volume Strategically: Certain braids can add volume near the forehead or jawline, balancing the narrow points of the face.
Versatility: Braids can be worn up, down, or partially pinned to create different illusions of shape.
Elegance and Practicality: Braids are practical for keeping hair controlled, yet they can look very elegant or casual depending on styling.
Choosing the Right Braid Styles
Different braid styles create varying effects on the face. For diamond face shapes, some braids work better than others to enhance facial balance and softness.
1. Side-Swept Braids
Side-swept braids help to soften the angularity of a diamond face by pulling hair over one side and creating asymmetry. This style reduces the emphasis on the cheekbones and narrows the look of the face. Popular variations include:
Side Fishtail Braid: A loose fishtail braid draped over one shoulder adds texture and softness.
Side French Braid: Starting from one temple and sweeping across the head, this braid frames the face beautifully.
Side Dutch Braid: Similar to the French braid but with raised sections, this braid adds volume and dimension.
2. Crown Braids
Crown braids wrap around the head and create a halo effect. This style lifts hair away from the face, highlighting your cheekbones while balancing the narrow forehead and chin by distributing hair evenly. Crown braids can be done tightly or loosely depending on how soft or structured you want the look.
3. Half-Up Braids
Half-up hairstyles with braids provide volume on the top of the head and soften the face shape by not pulling all hair back tightly. This adds width around the forehead and temples, which is flattering for diamond faces. Consider:
Half-Up French Braid: Braiding the front section and letting the rest flow freely.
Boho Half-Up Braids: Multiple small braids pinned back for a relaxed, textured effect.
4. Loose and Messy Braids
Loose braids with wisps of hair around the face help to soften the sharp angles typical of a diamond face. Messy braid styles, such as loose fishtails or bohemian braids, create a romantic and flattering silhouette by framing the face gently.
5. Braided Updos
Updos that incorporate braids can elevate your look for special occasions. Soft, braided buns placed low or to the side add softness to the jawline and minimize the pointy chin. Avoid sleek, tight buns centered at the crown as they can exaggerate the narrowness of the forehead.
Styling Tips for Braids on Diamond Faces
To make the most of your braided hairstyle, keep these tips in mind:
Add Volume at the Temples and Jawline: This balances the narrow parts of the face.
Create Soft Face-Framing Tendrils: Leave loose strands of hair around the face to soften angles.
Avoid Center Parts with Tight Braids: A strict center part may emphasize the cheekbones. Opt for side parts or slightly off-center parts.
Choose Loose Braids Over Tight Ones: Tight braids can pull the face taut, highlighting sharp angles. Looser, more relaxed braids add softness.
Use Accessories Wisely: Decorative pins, flowers, or beads near the forehead or jawline can draw attention to these areas, balancing your face shape.
Experiment with Different Braid Types: Don’t hesitate to try multiple braid styles to find which complements your face best.
How to Braid for a Diamond Face Step-by-Step
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for a side-swept fishtail braid, a highly recommended style for diamond face shapes:
Prep Your Hair: Start with dry, detangled hair. Apply a bit of texturizing spray or mousse for grip.
Part Your Hair: Create a deep side part, placing the larger section on the side of the face you want to soften.
Gather Hair to One Side: Sweep all your hair over the shoulder on your chosen side.
Begin the Fishtail Braid: Split the hair into two sections. Take a small strand from the outside of the right section and cross it over to the left section. Repeat with the left side, crossing strands alternately.
Continue Braiding: Work down the length of the hair until you reach the ends.
Secure the Braid: Use a small elastic band to hold the braid.
Loosen the Braid: Gently pull at the sides of the braid to create volume and softness.
Pull Face-Framing Strands: Tug out small pieces around your face to soften the cheekbones.
Set with Hairspray: Finish with a light mist of hairspray to hold the style.
Caring for Braids to Maintain Health and Style
Braids, while protective, require care to keep hair healthy and looking great:
Avoid Excessive Tightness: Braids that are too tight can cause scalp pain and hair breakage.
Keep Hair Moisturized: Use leave-in conditioners or oils to prevent dryness.
Cleanse the Scalp: Wash hair gently to keep the scalp clean without undoing the braid too often.
Sleep with Protection: Use a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase to reduce friction and frizz.
Don’t Keep Braids Too Long: Leaving braids in for too long can cause matting and damage.
Braids for Different Hair Types on Diamond Faces
Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily, there are braid options suited to your texture that flatter diamond face shapes:
Straight Hair: Loose, textured braids such as fishtail or rope braids add dimension and softness.
Wavy Hair: Natural waves enhance the fullness of messy or boho braids, creating a romantic look.
Curly Hair: Larger, chunkier braids work well to maintain curl integrity while framing the face.
Coily Hair: Intricate cornrows or box braids offer definition and versatility, balancing facial angles with volume and patterns.
Conclusion
Braids offer endless styling possibilities for those with a diamond face shape. By selecting braid styles that add softness and balance, you can highlight your unique beauty while complementing your facial structure. Side-swept braids, crown braids, half-up styles, and loose braids are particularly effective for diamond faces. Remember to keep braids loose and add face-framing strands to soften your angles. With the right braiding techniques and care, your diamond face can shine with every braid you wear.
Whether you want a casual day look or an elegant evening style, braids can be your go-to hairstyle for enhancing your diamond-shaped face. Experiment with different braid types and find your perfect look today!
Related Topics: