A plait braid is essentially another way of saying braid.
The word plait is used especially in British English, while braid is more common in American English.
Both describe hair that has been divided into sections and interwoven to create a single woven strand.
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What Is a Plait Braid?
The simplest plait is the familiar three-strand braid.
You divide the hair into three sections and repeatedly cross the outer sections over the middle section.
As you continue, the three sections form the characteristic overlapping pattern of a braid.
A plait doesn’t have to be just one braid hanging down the back.
The term can describe a wide range of braided hairstyles, including:
- Single plait — one braid, usually worn down the back or over one shoulder.
- Two plaits — the hair is divided into two sections and braided separately.
- French plait — hair is gradually incorporated into the braid as you work down the head.
- Dutch braid — similar to a French braid but with the sections crossed underneath rather than over the middle.
- Fishtail braid — made by repeatedly taking small sections from the outside of two larger sections.
- Box braids — individual sections of hair are braided from the roots, usually with or without added hair.
- Cornrows — narrow braids created close to the scalp, following straight or decorative patterns.
- Multiple small plaits — numerous individual braids that can be worn loose, gathered into a ponytail, or styled into an updo.
So, while someone might specifically say “plait braid,” the two words are largely redundant because plait already means a braid. In British usage, plait is the more natural term, while braid is generally preferred in American English.
Plaited Hair Braids on Natural Black Hair
Plaits work particularly well with textured hair because the natural texture can give the strands plenty of grip.
A simple three-strand plait can be made on loose natural hair, stretched hair, or hair that has been detangled and sectioned.
For tightly coiled hair, sectioning and detangling are important. A clean, well-defined section makes the finished plait neater and can make the braiding process considerably easier. Depending on the desired result, the hair may be moisturized and stretched beforehand.
Plaits can also be made with added braiding hair. Adding hair allows the braid to be longer or fuller than the natural hair and opens up considerably more styling possibilities.
Is plait Hair a protective hairstyle?
It can be, but a plait isn’t automatically protective simply because it is a braid. How the hair is prepared, how tightly it is braided, how long it is left in, and how much tension is placed on the scalp all matter.
A loose single plait, for example, puts considerably less tension on the scalp than very tight braids attached firmly at the roots. Excessive tension from braiding can contribute to traction-related hair problems, so a comfortable braid is preferable to one that feels painfully tight.
Why people like plait Braids
One of the biggest advantages of a plait is its simplicity. A basic three-strand plait requires no complicated technique, yet it can look polished and intentional.
It is also remarkably versatile. A single plait can be worn casually, while several neat plaits can form the foundation for more elaborate hairstyles.
Plaits can be decorated with beads, cuffs, ribbons, thread or other accessories, or gathered into buns and ponytails.
And unlike some highly elaborate braid patterns, the basic plait is something you can learn to do yourself with practice.
Photo Credits: Focus on Hair