Versatile Sew-Ins: Cost, Maintenance, and Photos
Versatile Sew-Ins Will Help You Scale Back Your Summer Hair-Care Routine
For many people, the start of summer means the end to long, drawn-out beauty routines. Now more than ever you may be looking to pare back in order to maximise the amount of that you spend outside, which is why you may want an equally low-key hairstyle to stick to throughout the warmer months. Styles like braids or cornrows are staples, but if you've never considered versatile sew-ins, it's time for you to do so.
So what exactly are versatile sew-ins? Unlike traditional sew-ins, these are extremely customizable when it comes to styling options. "A versatile sew-in is a style that gives people the option to wear their extensions up or dow, and modify a left or right part for their choosing," hairstylist and educator, Patricia Flournoy, tells POPSUGAR. "Versatile sew-ins make your hair look as natural as possible." The magic of this style is in the overall look and placement of the hair once the extensions are sewn in. "Versatile sew-ins are flatter, more smooth, and incorporate more natural hair leave out. Typically, the entire head is used for a traditional sew-in and the braids may be larger."
Should you want to give this style a try, there are some tips to keep in mind. First, human hair extensions are often recommended for longevity of the style, which may cost more money than synthetic versions. Speaking of prices: while the overall cost depends on the market and number of hair packs you personally need to install, you can generally expect to pay at least $225 or more, Flournoy says. Lastly, the length of your hair matters: "Usually, clients with longer hair are considered for the versatile sew in, since quite a bit of natural leave out is needed for the style," she says. "Most shorter-haired clients won't have enough for coverage."
Additionally, make sure that the stylist you go to is well-versed in all aspects of versatile sew-ins, including the steps it takes to prepare for the install. "Clients should look for a stylist with extensive experience in braiding techniques as well as hair and net install to ensure that the client's natural hair is not damaged," Flournoy says. "Braids must be small, close together, and tracks need to be put in correctly. The more well-versed the hairstylist is, the better your experience with this style will be."
Maintenance for versatile sew-ins is the same as wearing a normal sew-in or your natural hair: keep it detangled and sleep with a satin bonnet on at night. Otherwise, you can wake up each morning and keep your hair natural or put it in ponytails, plaits, or switch up your parts. The options to make this style your own are truly endless.
If you need some inspiration for what your own versatile sew-in can look like, take a look at these pictures of the style on Instagram to spark your imagination.
