This tutorial will show you how to make this late 1870s/ early 1880s braided hairstyle.

Part the hair into three sections: the front hair from ear to ear, and two hair sections at the back of the head. Braid each of the last into a braid, and join them in a loop. Hide the ends, and add a hair clip.

Use a hair rat (I’ve used brown wool), …

… comb the front hair over it, and secure it with a hair comb.

Draw the rest of the hair through the middle between the braids …

… and secure it with pins.

My inspiration for this natural form hairstyle was this 1878 fashion plate, and this 1882 instructions for a braided hairstyle (Figs. 11 and 12).