Every so often, a protective style comes along that completely shakes up the hair community. Boho braids are a perfect example, going from a simple concept to a cult favorite almost overnight. Now, a new style, a hybrid of a sew-in and micro braids, is poised for its own breakout moment.
Over the last few months, you’ve likely seen viral videos of Brooke Devard, the host of the Naked Beauty podcast, showcasing her hybrid sew-in braids. While she didn’t invent the look, Devard and her team of stylists have certainly put it on the map. Caroline Robinson, MD, a dermatologist and founder of Tone Dermatology, counts Devard as the inspiration behind her platinum sew-in with micro braids. “I loved the idea of micro braids, but never enough to sit for a full look. Seeing Brooke’s hybrid approach made me brave enough to try them finally,” she says. If you’re considering giving the look a go, you’re in luck. We tapped two hairstylists for the details on this trendy protective style.
What Is a Hybrid Sew-In?
As the name suggests, this look blends two protective styles: micro braids and a traditional sew-in weave. In this style, most of the natural hair is cornrowed to form the base of the weave, while the remaining hair is plaited into tiny micro braids. “With the braided leave-out, you don’t have to settle for one texture, and can play around with different styles without damaging your real hair,” says Je’Ne Sais Quoi Hearn, an LA-based braider who specializes in micro braids and this style in particular. While many people opt for bone-straight bundles, you can also choose a kinky, curly, or wavy style.
With its numerous protective benefits, it’s easy to see why this style has become so favored. But its rise to viral fame is more rooted in creativity. “Black women have always been innovative in how we style our hair, constantly dreaming up new ways to highlight our beauty and have versatility with our hair,” says Lacy Redway, SheaMoisture education partner and celebrity hairstylist.
As a stylist and wearer of the style for over 20 years, Redway is not surprised that it has become a trend. “Styles like this remind people that we can express ourselves in endless ways,” she says. “[It’s about] keeping our hair protected, polished, playful, or powerful, and still showing up fully as ourselves.”
What Hair Do I Need For This Style?
To get the most out of your style, the pros recommend using human hair for both the weave and braids. “Matching the braided hair with the texture of the sew-in will give you the seamless blend this style depends on,” Redway says. According to Hearn, human hair also increases the longevity of the style, keeping it intact for over six weeks, and allows for more movement.
You’ll want to use long bundles to start— your stylist can cut them later, if desired. “Long bundles work best with the weave because you can cut and shape the hair,” Redway says.
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What To Expect During Your Appointment
This hybrid hairstyle may be popular, but it’s also highly specialized. “It is really important to do your research and find stylists who are experts at each style,” Robinson says. “Talk to both of them about your goals, bring reference photos, and keep an open mind.”
Each hairstylist needs to understand the final vision to bring it to life. For example, the person who installs your sew-in needs to “leave out enough hair to form micro braids that will properly cover the wefts from the sew-in,” says Redway.
Since you’re essentially getting two styles, installing them could take all day, depending on how much hair you’re leaving out. “Breaking up the appointment into two days helps and allows the stylist to devote the proper attention and detail each portion of the style deserves,” Hearn says.
How To Maintain the Style
To maintain this style, you’ll need to ensure that your natural hair, the sew-in, and the braids are properly cared for. The key is finding a balance of products that keep your scalp hydrated while maintaining the integrity of the extensions. “Scalp care is essential with sew-ins,” Robinson says. “With this style, I wash my hair weekly, gently cleansing the braided areas and the extensions separately before drying fully to prevent buildup.”
Maintaining the extensions is just as important. Redway suggests building a routine based on the type of bundles installed. “Curlier textures need lightweight products to keep the pattern defined, such as SheaMoisture’s Curl Stretch Refresher Spray, while loose waves work better with a moisturizing curl mousse.”
