The Braided Baldie Is the Intricate Protecting Fashion Taking Over Our Feeds

Protecting types, particularly braids, may be an effective way to experiment with totally different lengths. For these desirous to attempt a shorter model, look no additional than the “braided baldie.” The TikTok-viral model dates again many years however was repopularized by Los Angeles-based braider Monteria Chisholm (identified on social media as Tookie Did It). The look, that includes intricate cornrows, permits you to pretend the look of a super-cropped haircut (therefore the identify).

In latest months, numerous hairstylists have taken to social media to point out off their variations of braided baldies. A number of celebrities and influencers have additionally given the protecting model their very own spin. In different phrases, the fashionable model is right here to remain.

Wish to know extra? We spoke with prime braiders Kaisha Beckles, Talia Moses, and Neyhairs to study extra about braided baldies, how the model is achieved, and how one can keep it. 

What Is a Braided Baldie?

Whereas many braided types characteristic free-flowing plaits that body your face, the braided baldie provides the other. “The braided baldie is a protecting model with one or two [interconnected] braids in order to create the look of a bald head,” Beckles says. “It has intricate designs that just about resemble a maze.” With this look, all of this hair is saved off the neck by tucking the ends of every braid in utilizing a crochet technique.

Obtain the Fashion

Making ready your hair earlier than the appointment is significant for any braided model. After totally washing and conditioning your hair, make sure that it’s totally detangled earlier than drying. “Make sure the hair has been blow-dried correctly earlier than sectioning it with hair clips,” Neyhairs says. As soon as the hair has been sectioned, then the braiding can start. Your hairstylist will then cornrow your hair based mostly in your chosen design. Some widespread patterns embody zig-zags, flowers, and hearts, however you may customise your look any approach you see match. “Whether or not it is zig-zags, flowers, and even hearts, something works on a braided baldie,” Beckles provides.

To complete the look, your stylist will use a setting mousse to scale back frizz and add shine. “When the model has been set, wrap the hair in a durag and sit beneath the dryer till the braids have dried,” Neyhairs says.

Preserve the Fashion

With correct upkeep, a braided baldie can final 4 to 6 weeks. Fortunately, your day-to-day upkeep routine is extremely simple with this look. “Sustaining the braided baldie is straightforward and straightforward,” Beckles says. “All you must do is oil your scalp each two to 3 days, relying on how briskly your scalp dries.” She additionally recommends making use of mousse each from time to time and masking your head with a shawl or durag in order that your hair can keep its flat look. Moses and Neyhairs suggest masking your braids with a shawl, bonnet, or durag at night time to assist stop frizz.

The Closing Takeaway

The braided baldie is likely one of the most revolutionary and complex protecting types. It is good for individuals who wish to embrace shorter hair with out dedication. Plus, the look may be extremely personalised, as you may customise the braid sample you need (from zig-zags to flowers). As if that weren’t sufficient, this stylish protecting model is low-maintenance. A braided baldie can final 4 to 6 weeks with minor styling, like oiling your scalp and making use of mousse each few days.