Braids are a gorgeous way to style medium-length hair. Specifically, 2 layer braids with a side part on medium hair create a beautiful and eye-catching look. This braided hairstyle is versatile, trendy, and can be customized in many different ways.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about achieving stunning 2 layer braids side part medium hairstyles.
2 Layer Braids Side Part Medium Hairstyles
2 layer braids side part medium hairstyles have become hugely popular in recent years. This braided look flatters all face shapes and allows you to show off the beauty of medium-length hair.
There are many different ways to create 2 layer braids with a side part on medium hair. You can use your natural hair, add in hair extensions, experiment with different parting locations, and finish the style in creative ways. The options are endless!
In addition to walking you through how to create 2 two-layer braids side part medium, we will also share over 20 gorgeous hairstyle ideas. From boho braids to halo braids and more, be inspired to try this hot style yourself!
Understanding proper maintenance is also key for healthy hair and long-lasting braids. We’ll share tips on washing, conditioning, moisturizing, and preventing frizz.
So if you’re eager to hop on the 2 layer braids side part medium trend, read on!
How to Create 2 Layer Braids Side Part Medium
Creating neat 2-layer braids side part medium requires a bit of practice. But once you get the basic technique down, you can style this look in many different ways.
Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving polished 2 layer braids with a side part on medium-length hair.
What You Need
Before getting started, gather the following supplies:
- Hair elastics
- Edge control or styling gel
- Leave-in conditioner
- Small rubber bands
- Duck bill clips
- Rat tail comb
- Hair oil or serum
- Braiding hair (optional)
Make sure to start with clean, tangle-free medium length hair. Apply leave-in conditioner to hydrate and prime hair for braiding.
Step 1: Create the Side Part
First, part clean medium length hair where you want the side part to lie. Use the edge control to create and hold the part line in place. Clip away one side.
Tip:Â Look straight ahead in the mirror and use the arch of your eyebrow as a guide for placing the side part.
Step 2: Apply Edge Control
Next, apply edge control gel around the hairline edges to smooth flyaways and neaten hair. Brush hair into place.
Step 3: Section the Back
Moving to the back of your hair, create a straight line part from ear to ear. Clip away the front section, allowing it to fall forward.
Separate the back into two even sections. Make sure no stray hairs overlap from one section to the next.
Step 4: Complete Two Layer Braids
With your two back sections completely separated, now complete two neat braids.
Work with very clean, defined sections to prevent bulkiness. Feed in additional hair evenly on both sides as you braid straight back.
Secure ends with clear elastic bands.
Step 5: Part Front Section
Now release the front section of hair and create a straight middle part. Clip one side out of the way.
On the remaining section, create another two layer braid as you did in the back. Feed in hair evenly from both sides as you braid towards your face.
Complete the braid and secure the ends with an elastic.
Step 6: Repeat on the Other Side
Repeat Step 5 to complete a matching two layer braid on the other front section.
You should now have a total of four neat two layer braids – two in the back and one on each front side.
Step 7: Style and Finish
Release the braids you clipped up and gently pull on them to loosen as desired. Feel free to pancake the braids for added volume too.
Finish off your gorgeous 2 layer braids side part medium look by adding hair accessories like cuffs or jewels. Mist hair with serum for shine and flyaway control.
Voila, your beautiful braided hairstyle is complete!
Tip:Â Add hair extensions to your two layer braids for extra length and fullness. Simply pinch small sections and integrate extensions as you complete each braid.
20+ Two Layer Braids Side Part Medium Hairstyle Ideas
The wonderful thing about 2 layer braids with a side part on medium hair is all the styling possibilities!
From there you can create braided ponytails, updos, half up styles and so much more.
Here are over 20 fabulous 2 layer braids side part medium hairstyle ideas to inspire your next look:
1. Half Up Half Down Braids
For a chic and sophisticated take, sweep two of the braids back and secure in an elastic just behind the crown. Leave two free framing the face. Add a gorgeous headband for extra polish.
2. Ponytail Braids
Pull all four neat braids back carefully and secure in a low ponytail holder. This elongated look is perfect for ballet buns too. Finish with a scrunchie that matches your hair color.
3. Fishtail Updo
Jazz up basic two layer braids by fishtailing them before sweeping them into a twisted updo. Drape the ends for an organic finish. Add twisting strands around the updo for a halo crown effect.
4. Messy Feathered Braids
Embrace an undone vibe by gently tugging and feathering your two layer braids. Soften the side part as well. Finish with sea salt spray for beachy waves. Add small white flowers for a boho vibe.
5. Half Loop Pony
Here’s an unconventional approach to styling 2 braids with a middle part. Loop two braids like a figure eight, creating a hole in the middle. Then feed the ponytail through the hole and adjust to perfection!
6. Flower Halo Braids
Weave faux flowers into one of your two layer braids before wrapping from ear to ear. Leave the remaining three braids down in the back for a luscious combo look.
7. Heart Shaped Braided Updo
Sweep two of your medium length two layer braids into an inverted heart-shaped updo at the crown. Leave two free in the back for a geometric yet feminine style.
8. Bold Triangle Part
Make a dramatic statement by parting clean medium hair into a bold triangle section before weaving two layer braids. Finish with a striking hair brooch.
9. Boho Side Swept Braids
Channel flower child vibes by draping four long two layer braids over one shoulder. Soften the side part and finish with a decorative leather wrap on the ends.
10. Half Crown Braid
For special occasions like weddings and events, beautifully sweep two long two layer braids into a half crown. Wrap the ends elegantly in the back leaving a romantic, face-framing style.
11. Messy Side Pony Braids
Who says ponytails have to be neat and tight? Embrace imperfectly undone braids swept into a cute messy low side pony. Extensions give this look extra mermaid length.
12. Princess Braided Headband
Intertwine two of the two layer braids to create a regal headband effect resting behind the side part. Extra dazzling with a crystal or pearl accessory!
13. Long Braided Pigtails
Recall childhood nostalgia with extra long braided pigtails. Part medium length hair down the center first before sweeping two braids low on each side. Add fun hair cuffs on the ends.
14. Bold Box Braids
For a head-turning look, section hair cleanly into a gorgeous large box pattern before weaving two layer braids inside each block. Striking and graphic finished style!
15. Half Up Knotted Braids
Here’s a chic take on half up half down braids. Sweep the two front braids back while knotting them to secure at the crown. Leave the two back braids long and loose.
16. Woven Faux Hawk
Bend the braid rules by creating one central Dutch braid at the crown before sweeping the two layers braids symmetrically over it. Sleek and modern style works on short and medium length hair.
17. Criss Cross Chignon Braids
Crisscross two of the two layer braids at the nape of the neck to form the base of a chignon bun shape. Wrap the remaining two braids elegantly around into a pretty twisted updo style.
18. Double Waterfall Braids
Start each two layer braid a few inches from the hairline on one side, carefully weaving towards the back around the ear. Create matching double waterfall braids on the other side as well. Gorgeous!
19. Mermaid Fishtail Crown
loom two of the two layer braids together into an intricate fishtail effect. Then sweep up to create a mermaid crown wrapped elegantly around the head. Let the two remaining braids flow loosely.
20. Blended Triangle Braids
Subtly enhance two layer braids by sweeping them elegantly into a triangle section at the back of the head. Sleek and clean look perfect for events and weddings.
Play with additional accessorizing ideas like pearls, leather cords, cuff bracelets to take these versatile braided styles to the next level!
Tips for Maintaining 2 Layer Braids with Side Part Medium
Achieving flawless 2 layer braids with a side part on medium hair is the first step. Maintaining tidy, healthy braids over the long term is also essential though.
Use these pro tips for keeping your medium length two layer braids looking perfect for as long as possible:
Moisturize Daily
Hydration is key for healthy looking braids and avoiding dryness. After shampooing, apply leave-in conditioner from roots to ends. Then seal with hair oil like argan, coconut or jojoba oil daily. These natural oils will penetrate each braid better than traditional conditioners alone.
Do Regular Deep Conditioning
Over time braids can cause breakage, split ends and general hair damage. That’s why weekly deep conditioning is a must. Allow an intensive hair mask to soak in 20+ minutes underneath a shower cap before rinsing out. Focus conditioner mid-length down the ends where dryness most often occurs.
Only Shampoo 1-2 Times Per Week
Frequently shampooing braided hair will strip the moisture and cause frizz over time. Limit cleansing to only 1-2 times per week max. And always follow shampoo with intensive conditioning treatments.
Work in Small Sections
When redoing your two layer braids after washing, work in very small, clean sections for the neatest outcome. Keep hair tight as you recreate each braid, but not so tight that pulling and damage occurs at the roots.
Use Satin Pillowcases
Cotton pillowcases can seriously dry braided hair and cause breakage overnight. Protect those beautiful braids by switching to luxurious satin pillowcases instead. The silky fabric creates less friction allowing braids to freely glide versus getting caught and pulled on basic cotton.
Don’t Forget the Edges
Crisp hair edges take braided styles to the next level. After washing, be sure to re-define and smooth flyaways using edge control gel for polished perfection. Care should be taken not to pull too tightly when re-braiding slicked baby hair edges.
Conclusion
As you can see, 2 layer braids side part medium offers gorgeous versatility for showcasing medium length hair. Whether you enhance the braids with accessories, sweep into updos or keep them long and loose, options for styling this on-trend look are endless.
We hope this guide has equipped you with the skills and inspiration to achieve stunning braided hairstyles that turn heads. Don’t be afraid to experiment with techniques and customize the style to match your personal taste.
Just be sure not to neglect moisture and care in between wears. Proper maintenance is crucial for maintaining the health of medium length hair in any elaborate hairstyle like creative braiding.
Have fun styling your freshly braided ‘do! We can’t wait to see beautiful pics of your 2 layer braids side part medium creation on Instagram!
