Berkshire Weave Sew-In Hair Extensions - A Popular Protective Style

An Introduction to Berkshire Weave

Berkshire weave is a popular type of hair weave that provides a smooth and seamless look. It is made from 100% human hair and is designed to blend in naturally with your own hair. Berkshire weave gets its name from the county of Berkshire in England where it was first crafted. It rose to popularity in the 1990s and has been a staple in African-American hairstyles ever since.

What is Berkshire Weave?

Berkshire weave consists of machine wefted human hair tracks that are sewn horizontally into your natural hair or onto a cornrow base. Each weft of hair contains alternating directions of hair growth to create a flawless blend with your scalp and natural tresses. The wefts are delicately hand-tied to secure the hair strands and prevent shedding. Berkshire weave allows versatility in styling as it can be cut, colored, curled, straightened and styled just like natural hair.

It is considered a protective style as your natural hair remains braided underneath, preventing manipulation and breakage. The horizontal tracks distribute weight evenly across the head reducing traction compared to vertical sew-ins. High quality remy or virgin human hair is used to construct Berkshire weaves which replicates the appearance of healthy, growing hair.

Benefits of Berkshire Weave

There are many benefits that make Berkshire weave a top choice for sew-in extensions:

• Seamless blend - The horizontal tracks allow for a flat, seamless blend with your natural hairline and scalp. You can part your hair anywhere without tracks being visible.
• Versatility - Berkshire weaves can be styled in any way you wish from straight to curly allowing you to switch up your look often.
• Lightweight - The weight is distributed evenly so you don't feel pulling or tension on your natural hair.
• Protective - Your natural hair remains braided and tucked away, preventing damage from heat styling and overmanipulation.
• Long lasting - High quality human hair allows your Berkshire weave to last up to 3 months with proper care and maintenance.
• Natural look - Remy and virgin hair has cuticles facing the same direction reducing tangles and giving a natural appearance.

The Installation Process

Getting Berkshire weave takes precision and expertise. The installation is completed in several steps:

1. Braiding the natural hair - Your stylist will braid your natural hair into cornrows either straight back or in a circular pattern depending on your preference.
2. Sewing in the weft tracks - Starting at the nape of the neck, your stylist will begin sewing the weft tracks horizontally across the braids using a curved needle and special bonding thread.
3. Securing and trimming - Once the tracks are sewn across the entire head, your stylist will secure the thread ends and trim any excess hair from the weft tracks as needed.
4. Blending - The most important step is blending your own hairline and edges seamlessly with the Berkshire weave install. This gives a natural look.
5. Styling - Your new luxurious Berkshire weave is ready for cutting, coloring and styling however you wish!

The entire install process can take 2-6 hours depending on the length and thickness of hair used. Your stylist will ensure it lies flat and secures tightly for longevity.

Maintenance Tips

Berkshire weave requires some simple maintenance to keep it looking fresh. Be sure to:

• Wash 1-2 times per week with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner
• Air dry or gently blowdry on low heat
• Use a paddle brush starting at the ends to detangle
• Sleep on a satin pillowcase
• Avoid excessive heat styling which can damage the cuticle
• Get your weave tightened or redone every 6-8 weeks

With proper care, your Berkshire weave can last up to 3 months before needing to be redone. Avoid applying too much product like gels or oils which can make it look greasy or crunchy. High quality human hair weaves are an investment so maintaining them well will keep your hairlooking fabulous!

Styling Options for Berkshire Weave

One of the best aspects of Berkshire weave is the versatility it offers for hairstyling. You can choose to wear your weave exactly as it was installed by your stylist. Or get creative and switch up your look by adding curls, waves, braids, color and various parting options. Here are some of the most popular styling choices for Berkshire weave:

Straight

Wearing your Berkshire weave straight and sleek is a classic, elegant look. Have your stylist blow it out with a paddle brush for a smooth, shiny finish. Part down the middle or to the side. Finish with a serum to control frizz and flyaways.

Curly

Defining curls on your Berkshire weave is a beautiful option. Use a curling wand, flexi rods or Bantu knots to bring out waves and curls. Finish by separating curls with your fingers and apply holding mist. Finger coil any straight pieces for uniform curl pattern.

Wavy

For relaxed yet fuller waves, use a wave wand rotated away from your face. Or braid damp hair in small braids or twist sections then air dry. Run fingers through to break up the waves once fully dried. Add texturizing spray for beachy, lived-in waves.

Updos

Berkshire weave has enough body and thickness to create gorgeous updos. Try braided updos like crown braids or waterfall braids. For looser updos, use your fingers to sweep hair off your face into a messy top knot bun. Or curl into a low side ponytail for a dressier occasion.

Half Up/Half Down

This versatile half updo opens up your face while keeping hair long. Use your fingers or a brush to sweep the top section into a ponytail or bun while leaving bottom layers loose. For added polish, wrap hair around an elastic and pin into a twisted updo.

Bangs

Ask your stylist to cut blunt or wispy bangs across your forehead for an entirely new look. Side swept bangs can also softly frame the face. Use a round brush while blow drying to sweep bangs to the side andbackwards. Clip in bangs are another option.

Coloring

Human hair weaves like Berkshire can be colored to completely transform your style. Go for subtle highlights and lowlights for dimension. Or make a bold statement with ombre or all-over color. Consult your stylist to determine the best color application and products for your weave hair type.

Finding a Stylist for Berkshire Weave

The key to getting a flawless Berkshire weave depends on finding an experienced, knowledgeable stylist. Here are tips for selecting the best stylist:

• Look at social media and online reviews - Stylists will often post images of their work which helps you evaluate their skills.
• Ask for referrals - Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family are very valuable.
• Meet for a consultation - Many stylists offer free consultations which are the perfect time to ask questions and view their portfolio.
• Look for specializations - Some stylists specifically focus on natural hair, weaves, color and extensions. Opt for someone well-versed in weaves.
• Check salon hygiene - Make sure the salon space and tools look clean, sanitized and professional.
• Trust your instincts - You want an expert you feel comfortable with and can communicate desired results.

During your consultation, be sure to discuss the style, length and color you want so your stylist can make recommendations. For optimal blend and concealment, virgin or remy human hair is best. Bring examples of looks you hope to achieve. Be open to your stylist's advice for the most flattering, low maintenance options. With some research, you'll find the perfect stylist for stunning Berkshire weave!

In summary, Berkshire weave offers an easy, versatile way to get long flowing locks while protecting your natural hair. With proper installation and styling, Berkshire weaves give a flawless look that blends seamlessly with your own hair. Do your homework to find an experienced stylist. Then enjoy the endless possibilities for styling your new weave!

FAQs

How long does Berkshire weave last?

With proper care and maintenance, Berkshire weave can last up to 3 months before needing to be re-installed. Be sure to gently wash, condition, and moisturize the hair weekly to maximize longevity.

What is the cost of Berkshire weave?

The cost of Berkshire weave will vary depending on the length, thickness, and quality of hair used. Generally, expect to pay $300-$800 for the hair and installation by an experienced stylist. The investment is well worth it for long-lasting, natural looking hair.

How is Berkshire weave different from other weaves?

Berkshire weave is unique in its hand-tied horizontal weft tracks that are sewn across the head. This allows for a seamless blend and parting anywhere without showing tracks. The weight is also distributed differently than vertical track weaves.

Can you reuse Berkshire weave?

In most cases, Berkshire weave cannot be reused once removed. The process of sewing and unsewing the wefts creates too much damage for reinstallation. It is best to invest in new hair each time you get a weave installed.

What hair types work best for Berkshire weave?

For the most natural look, virgin and Remy human hair is recommended for Berkshire weaves. Synthetic hair is not suitable as it cannot withstand heat styling. Talk to your stylist about the best hair options for your weave.