Braids are easy, fun and just about anyone can do this style effectively.  Unlike the Afro, braids can be done on chemically-treated hair, naturally straight hair, naturally curly hair and of course, natural African/Black hair. 

Braids have been around since...well I don't know how long but we love them for their versatility and ease of maintenance.  Where your Level of braiding skills are acquired through practice and time, virtually anyone create beautiful braids and the intricacy of the end hair style will only be limited by your imagination.

The length needed to achieve this look varies and depends solely upon the person doing the hair. You or the stylist need only have enough hair to grip in order to form the braid.

Picture of naani's naturals no more frizzies aloe vera jelly. Available at naani.com
This method is achieved by parting the hair into sections of a desired size and using three strands of hair to form the braid. Be sure not to braid the hair too tightly.

Contrary to popular opinion, tighter is not always better. I'm sure you've seen girls whose braids are so tight the corners of their eyes touch their ears. If the braids are too tight, you may actually be extracting the hair from the root and could even give yourself a headache. If your stylist is braiding too tightly, politely ask her/him to ease up.

Alcohol-Free No-More Frizzies Styling Gel or Aloe Vera Jelly, small rubber bands, Beads and other adorning elements can be put at the end of the braid to keep it from unraveling. To preserve this style sleep with a satin scarf and spray with a light oil/braid spray such as naani's naturals Moisturizing Hair & Body Mist to maintain sheen.