At the top of this year’s styling trend list are Whip Braids.  This is the opposite of the laidback beachy, messy, frizzy braids of the last few warmer seasons.  Instead, these low and long braids are tight, precise, slick and shiny.  Consider them a modern version of the 1980’s Robert Palmer “Simply Irresistible” music video or the style made famous by popular 80’s singer Sade.

This look works best on super long hair or medium length hair where extensions or a faux ponytail can be added.  Long hair is parted dead-center smoothed sleek to each side and tied in a low ponytail at the nape and braided into one long single braid.  But high crown ponytail braids are on trend too!  Bright pattern scarves can be woven into these braids as well for extra 80’s style power.

To achieve this glossy look, you need a 1-2 punch when it comes to styling products!  First, apply a moveable pliable hair groom to damp or dry hair from root to end.  Don’t be shy on application, more is better.  Try our P2 by Philip Pelusi Honey.  Honey Extracts help hydrate the hair and cuts down on friction when braiding helping protect the hair.  Pliability is important here because you want to be able to use a wide tooth comb through the hair next.  Comb hair all the way back off the face or create a side or center part and pull the hair back into a long and low or high and tight ponytail and secure with a hand band.

Next open a jar of a super hold hair gel.  We recommend our P2 Hard Stuff.  It is seven times firmer than any other gel on the marketplace.  Then take small equal amounts of P2 Honey and P2 Hard Stuff and mix on your fingertips and start your braid.  You will simultaneously be applying product while forming your braid and this makes braiding easier and last longer.

Once you finish your braid secure the end with a hair band.  Then smooth fingertip amounts of the P2 Hard Stuff, glossing over the front of the hair smoothing in fine stay hairs with your fingertips and a fine-tooth comb.  If gel starts to harden, mist with a bit of water or our favorite P2 Lite Leave In Conditioner to rehydrate the hair.  Then continue combing and smoothing.  P2 Hard Stuff gives that glossy brilliant shine demanded by this style!  And viola’ your braid is done and ready to whip!