What is a Dutch Braid?

A reader asked me this question (so psyched about my first question!!! :):):)) :
Hi, I am just wondering, is a Dutch braid the same as a French braid?

I am so glad you asked Raych. The simple answer is no, a Dutch braid is not the same as a French braid.

But they are REALLY similar. If it helps, Dutch braids are also called Inside-out French Braids, Outtie Braids, or Underhand French Braid. They are occasionally referred to as Cornrows also, but that is incorrect as Cornrowing calls for a different braiding technique than Dutch braids (although the end result is quite similar).

The standard braid requires the braider to cross the outside strand OVER the middle strand. When French braiding, you are still crossing the strands OVER the middle, but as you cross each section you are adding in hair to anchor the braid to the head. (clear as mud right?)
Now Dutch braids, or however you want to call them, are made with only one change: you cross the outer strands UNDER the middle section (hence the Underhand braid title).
Here are some pictures to show the different results.

French

Dutch

French

Dutch

A lot of people naturally braid in the underhand way, thus producing the popping out braid when adding hair.Some find it difficult to train their hands (and brain) to cross the hair the way they are not used to, but I promise you if you can do one style of braid you can do both. It just takes a little practice at first.

Both styles of braid are really cute and can usually be used interchangeably in styles, for a slightly different look. Occasionally one of the variations will lend itself better to a style, as is the case with this one (where the question came from. In this style I use the Dutch Braid because it pops out from the head. This is useful because I think it help emphasize the braid and it make it easier to lace the ribbon through it. You could of do it with a regular French braid, it would just yield a different end result. If you do try it out with a regular French Braid I would LOVE to see pictures so be sure to email me!