There are some hairstyles that also double as the best hair hacks. Case in point? Crochet hairstyles. This extensions technique became wildly popular in the '90s and again in the mid-'00s, during the DIY natural-hair era of YouTube. When you think about convenience, this is a style that should be at the forefront of your mind.
Not to be confused with feed-in braids, crochet hairstyles have a myriad of benefits that many of its predecessors don't. "The best part about crochet hair is that it doesn't take too long," hairstylist and author Kee Taylor, tells PS UK. "Other extensions can take several hours to apply and cause a bit of tension on your scalp." On the other hand, crocheting your hair extensions can be a breeze, as long as you know exactly what you're doing.
The look seems to trend periodically because it is an easier way to get those gorgeous '90s hairstyles like jumbo twists with a lot less effort. Additionally, you won't have some of the side effects of doing your braids, twists, or other traditional hair extensions the old-fashioned way.
To help you further understand the technique, Taylor breaks down everything you need to know about crochet hairstyles.
What Is the Crochet Hair Technique?
Think of it like crocheting fabric. "It's the process of adding hair extensions to cornrows or braided hair using a latch hook," Taylor says. "Once the hair extensions are placed in position, they are then looped through the pre-braided cornrows.
"Since these extensions are hooked into the cornrows, they won't tug on your roots as much, which leads to less breakage. They are also a bit more versatile than the versions of the styles that need a manual install. With the crochet, you can leave some of your natural hair out depending on how far apart your braids are and how much you are willing to style it in the mornings," she adds.
Speaking of styling your hair, the best way to make sure that your crochet extensions are actually blended is to take it back to your roots. "Make sure your braids are really close at the part. That way, your natural hair isn't showing through and your closure will look as melted as possible," Taylor suggests.
Crochet Braids Review
As with any trend, the crochet hairstyle has piqued interest again, and this time TikTok influencers are using the technique to cut down installation time and try out the iconic Boho, Goddess Braids at home. Editorial coordinator Lauren Gordon tried out the style, using a pack of crochet, pre-looped braids from Amazon.
"My friend Jasmine swears by the crochet technique for all of her braided styles, from boho twists to faux locs and she encouraged me to give it a go, not only to save my pennies, but to experience the versatility of the style. With the Goddess braids look in mind, I started by cornrowing my natural hair down, making sure to space out the parts at the front of my head, to emulate the look of individual braids," Gordon explains. "Taking the crochet hook, I passed the braid under my cornrows, looped it and created a small knot to secure it in place."
Image Source: PS Photography/Lauren Gordon
"Even though it took a bit of pulling and tugging, I eventually got into the swing of things, and was able to swiftly secure each crochet braid in place. Usually, individual Goddess braids would take up half a day in the salon chair plus, of course, the cost of installation. Considering I bought the hair for £40 and installed it myself in under two hours, the crochet technique is incredibly tempting," Gordon says.
"Whether it's last minute plans, or an impromptu style-change, I think the crochet technique is the DIY hair trend you need to have on your radar."
Crochet Hairstyle Inspiration
The best part is that crochet hairstyles work for any hair type, as long as your natural hair is cornrowed beforehand. Ready for proof? Take a look at some of the best versions of the trend ahead.