beauty
Paging Ariel
By Chelsea Candelario
•
Published Nov 29, 2024
Getty Images/Chelsea Candelario
When I decided to be Halle Bailey’s Ariel for Halloween last year, I wanted to go all out with my hair. Although she wore locs in the live action film The Little Mermaid, I found the next best thing which gave very much “Under the Sea” vibes—and it just so happens the style I chose will be a popular look this upcoming season. Meet Mermaid braids, a protective style I predict is going to be the most requested look for winter. To further my theory, I chatted with two hairstylists to learn more about the latest trend and how you can try it right now.
Meet the Experts
- Maya Smith is a hairstylist and co-founder of The Doux, a haircare brand for natural hair. She has two decades of experience as a licensed cosmetologist and a salon owner. Aside from her brand, she has launched two salons that specialize in textured hair.
- T. Cooper is a celebrity hair and makeup artist, beauty expert and founder of Major Face. Known for her expertise in commercial, editorial and red carpet beauty, she has collaborated with top brands like Carol’s Daughter, Amika and Pacifica. Her clients include Megan Thee Stallion, Tiffany Haddish and Billy Porter.
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What Are Mermaid Braids?
If you’re familiar with knotless braids, mermaid braids are not far from that technique. As Cooper explains, “Mermaid braids are a protective style that consist of full, flowing braids that incorporate a technique called ‘pick and drop,’ where loose extension hair is added into the braid for additional texture and volume. While the style is typically a combination of traditional braids with loose waves, some people may choose to wear their mermaid braids with straight extension hair. It all depends on the client’s preference.”
Jeremy Moeller/Araya Doheny/Michael Hickey/Getty Images
Why Are Mermaid Braids So Popular Right Now?
Despite braids often being viewed as a ‘summer style,’ I can assure you mermaid braids are proving this myth wrong. “They are popular because they are beautiful, customizable with size and color, give hair a break from styling manipulation and they are long lasting,” says Cooper.
Spotted on celebs like India Amarteifio, Tyla and Halle Bailey, this low-maintenance style is versatile—and the wavy tendrils add a gorgeous extra touch for any season. Surprisingly, I saw this trend pop up last fall (hence why I got mine done in October 2023), but most recently I’ve seen variations of mermaid braids all over my social feed. Simply put, it gives us a beachy feel we’ve been looking for even if it's the dead of winter.
Are Mermaid Braids the Same as Boho Braids?
Mermaid braids often get mistaken for bohemian (boho) and goddess braids, but they’re actually quite different. “Mermaid braids are all about combining braids with soft, flowy hair, while boho braids focus more on smaller braids with accessories like beads and feathers for that bohemian feel,” explains Smith. Other differences include the technique and supplies. Cooper adds, “Mermaid braids are typically not braided all the way to the ends like Boho braids, which gives them a more luminous, flowing appearance. Another difference is that mermaid braids are often created using human hair for the loose sections, making them more versatile and durable.”
How to Achieve Mermaid Braids
If you’re not an experienced braider, consider getting this style done at the salon. It’s helpful to come in with visuals of what exactly you want. As mentioned, mermaid braids can be altered in regards to length, color or even how wavy (or straight) you want the tendrils. I remember wanting a reddish blend and a waist-length look to mimic flowy hair like the Disney princess. FYI: This look can take four to six hours depending on the length and thickness of your braids, so be prepared to have your day blocked.
For skilled braiders, gather your supplies—comb, gel, mousse, hair clips, wavy/curly braiding hair and regular braiding hair—and begin following these instructions:
- Wash your hair before drying and blowing out your strands.
- Use a rat tail comb to divide your hair into four equal sections. Start with parting your hair down the center before running the comb from ear to ear to create two sections on the top and bottom.
- Focus on one section at a time and clip any sections you’re not working with. Then, use your comb to divide the section into smaller, one-inch squares.
- Apply a generous amount of gel to each small section before you begin braiding. Start incorporating a third of braiding hair (for added thickness) with your natural hair. Once you braid about an inch or so, add some of the wavy braiding hair into the mix. Wrap it around once before leaving it out and continuing with the initial braid. Every few inches continue feeding in about three to four wavy pieces.
- Repeat steps three and four until your entire head is complete. Finish off with mousse to prevent frizz and add shine to your new look.
How Do You Maintain Mermaid Braids?
Mermaid braids can last six to eight weeks if treated with proper care, so I suggest investing in a haircare routine that keeps your scalp clean and your braids frizz-free. Similar to when I had French Curl Braids, I relied on a scalp rinse when washing my hair and a scalp serum to relieve the tension. Smith notes a lightweight oil or leave-in conditioner (like The Doux Fresh to Def Refresher Spray) is also great for hydrating the area in between washes. And if you’re dealing with tangled tendrils after a few weeks, Cooper recommends washing hair with a diluted shampoo (like Kinky Curly Come Clean) before gently detangling the loose hair extensions with a wide-toothed comb and styling them again using mousse, flexi rods or a curling iron.
Need some inspiration? Here are a few mermaid braid ideas I’ve been loving lately.
1. Highlights
If you want a pop of color, ‘highlights’ are a great way to add depth and dimension to your look. Match the regular braids to your natural hair color, but consider a contrasting shade for the wavy pieces to really elevate your mermaid braids.
Chelsea Candelario
2. Ruby Red
Consider doing a full color change for your mermaid braids. I have naturally dark hair, so I was excited to rock a blend of red tones without actually committing to the new shade. So go forth and experiment with a new hue.
Mike Marsland/Getty Images
3. Low Bun
There are plenty of hairstyles you can rock with mermaid braids, but if you’re looking for an updo, you simply can’t go wrong with a low bun. The key here is leaving some wavy tendrils out to frame your face.
Taylor Hill/Getty Images
4. Top Knot
Speaking of bun styles, a top knot switches things up and keeping a few pieces out is the icing on the cake.
5. High Ponytail
TikTok creator Analia shared a variety of styles in her video, but I’m obsessed with her high ponytail. Once you gather all your braids at the crown of your head, place a silk scrunchie on and marvel at your wavy pony.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Do Mermaid Braids Cost?
The cost will vary depending on your location, the salon and your preferred length. The average ranges from $150 to over $400.
How Do You Sleep with Mermaid Braids?
The best way to sleep with mermaid braids is by wrapping them up at night. Both experts recommend a satin scarf or bonnet to protect your hair. A helpful tip from Cooper: “Loosely gather your braids at the top of your head in either a big braid or a twist to prevent tangling.” Also invest in a silk or satin pillowcase just in case your bonnet wasn’t as secured as you thought and you sleep better knowing you have some added protection.
Chelsea Candelario
Beauty and Cultures Editor
- Writes trend stories, product reviews and how-tos across beauty, cultures, fashion and entertainment
- Over 5 years of experience as a Beauty Editor
- Studied journalism with a minor in creative writing at SUNY New Paltz
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