Hair trends come and go faster than I can say ‘balayage,’ and trust me, as a stylist who’s seen it all, some braids just need to retire. When clients walk in with certain styles, I mentally prepare my scissors for an intervention. Let’s chat about which braided looks are aging your style and the habits that might be sabotaging your hair game.
1. The Crispy Fishtail Braid
Remember when fishtails were fresh? Now I see them hanging like sad, stiff ropes down clients’ backs. Too much hairspray turns these delicate plaits into something resembling dried seaweed. Loosen up that braid and use texturizing spray instead of that cement-like holding product.
2. The Half-Hearted Crown Braid
Honey, if your crown braid is falling apart before lunch, why bother? I’ve watched too many clients attempt this regal style without proper pinning or prep. The result? A droopy circle that screams ‘I gave up halfway.’ Either commit to securing it properly or choose something else entirely.
3. The Tight-As-Can-Be Cornrows
While cornrows remain a classic, pulling them tighter than your skinny jeans isn’t doing your hairline any favors. I’ve seen too many edges disappear from excessive tension. Your scalp shouldn’t be screaming for mercy! Opt for medium tension that protects your precious hairline.
4. The Sloppy Side Braid
Throwing your hair into a messy side braid might seem effortless, but there’s a fine line between “artfully undone” and “just rolled out of bed.” Though Pinterest promised casual chic, without proper sectioning or finishing, you’re left with a droopy, uneven plait that lacks intention.
5. The Micro-Braids Time Capsule
Listen, I adore protective styles, but those pencil-thin micro-braids from 2003 aren’t protecting your image. They scream Y2K in all the wrong ways. The maintenance alone is criminal! Modern alternatives like knotless braids or medium-sized box braids offer similar benefits without the dated vibe.
6. The Gym-Only French Braid
Just because you wear it to spin class doesn’t mean your French braid should look like it’s been through a workout! Those bumpy, uneven sections and random loose pieces make it look accidental rather than intentional. Practice even tension or visit me for a quick tutorial.
7. The Stick-Straight Boxer Braids
Kardashian-inspired boxer braids had their moment, but wearing them poker-straight without texture or dimension is like serving plain toast at a dinner party. Where’s the flavor? Add some volume at the roots or incorporate subtle highlights beforehand to give this style the depth it desperately needs.
8. The Never-Ending Goddess Braids
Waist-length goddess braids can be stunning, but when they’re dragging on your kitchen floor, we’ve gone too far! I’ve seen clients tripping over their own hair. Proportions matter, darling! Keep them to mid-back length max for a look that’s striking without becoming a safety hazard.
9. The Kindergarten Bubble Braids
Unless you’re actually five years old or heading to a theme party, those bubble braids with neon scrunchies aren’t serving your adult style. I’ve winced watching grown professionals sport these playground-ready puffs at serious events. Try a sleek segmented ponytail instead for a mature take.
10. The Fuzzy Waterfall Braid
Waterfall braids should cascade like a gentle stream, not explode like a frizzy fire hydrant! Without proper smoothing products, this romantic style quickly devolves into a mess. The loose strands should flow, not fly away in seventeen different directions. Invest in a good anti-frizz serum.
11. Using Dollar Store Hair Ties
Those flimsy, metal-clasped hair elastics aren’t just breaking your hair—they’re breaking my heart! I can spot cheap accessories from across the salon. The constant snagging and snapping leaves damaged strands in their wake. Invest in proper fabric hair ties or seamless silicone bands.
12. Skipping Heat Protectant
Grabbing that flat iron without heat protectant is like jumping into a volcano wearing paper shoes! The sizzling sound when styling unprotected hair isn’t satisfaction—it’s destruction. Your poor cuticles are literally frying. No braid, no matter how trendy, can disguise that straw-like damage.
13. Over-Brushing Wet Hair
Attacking sopping wet hair with a brush before braiding is a crime I wish I could ticket for! Your fragile wet strands stretch and snap like cheap rubber bands. Detangle with a wide-tooth comb or fingers instead, working from ends to roots. Your future self will thank you.
14. Sleeping With Tight Braids
Going to bed with your hair in tight braids isn’t beauty sleep—it’s a beauty nightmare! The constant tension overnight leads to breakage and can even contribute to traction alopecia. Switch to loose, low braids or a silk scrunchie top-knot if you must sleep with your hair up.
15. Braiding Dirty Hair
Contrary to popular belief, braiding three-day-old, product-laden hair isn’t a clever hack—it’s a recipe for scalp issues! Those oils and products become trapped against your scalp, potentially leading to irritation or folliculitis. Always start with clean, conditioned strands for any braided style.