'The Braid Up': How to Do Bantu Knots with Crochet Braids 2023

May 06, 2023

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Your classic crochet curls just got a major upgrade.

Today's style on The Braid Up is giving major volume and glamour, and I’m oh-so-very here for it. If you haven't yet ventured into crochet-braid territory, I suggest trying them out for the versatility alone. These braids are a great foundation for weaving in a wide range of added hair, like the bright-red, kinky-curly bundles in this ep. But when it comes down to it, the crown of Bantu knots at the front of today's look really cements this protective hairstyle as pure magic.

Brooklyn-based braider Sherrell Gittens spun this beauty together, so you’re wanna watch and learn. Below, check out some tips for keeping this look in top shape.

1. Oil your scalp. Dry scalp? No, thanks. It's totally okay to moisturize your roots with some castor or jojoba oil—just be sure to avoid getting oil on your added braiding hair. Pro tip: To make things less messy, saturate a cotton ball with your oil of choice, then dab it to your scalp in between the braided rows.

2. Avoid matting. We don't want this hair to look too old too quickly. To keep tangles/matting a bay, do not use a brush or a comb on your synthetic hair. Instead, separate your curls with your fingers, and trim any knots with mini scissors.

3. Wear a satin bonnet to bed. This is another necessary step to keep the tangles away. Before you go to sleep, tie your hair back in a low bun, and slip on an oversized adjustable bonnet to keep your hair protected.

4. Deck out our knots. We all know that the Bantu knots are the icing on the cake today, so make them shine in the way they deserve by adding some braid rings like Sherrell did in this episode. Trust me: The final look will not disappoint.

Hair: In collaboration with Stasha Harris of Magic Fingers StudioMakeup: Ashley JohnsonVideographer: Rob MroczkoProduction assistant: Jay AguirreDirector of digital series: Tara O’Connell

Annabel Iwegbue is an assistant editor at Cosmopolitan who covers entertainment, lifestyle, career, beauty, and astrology. Just, you know, all the things. You can check out some of Annabel's work here and, also find her on Instagram and Twitter.

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