Braids have been a staple in women’s hairstyling for centuries, evolving from practical solutions to intricate works of art. Today, we’re exploring 20 diverse and beautiful braid hairstyles that cater to various hair types, lengths, and occasions. Whether you’re looking for a casual everyday look or an elegant updo for a special event, these braided styles are sure to inspire and elevate your hair game.
1. Classic French Braid
The French braid is a timeless favourite, known for its elegant simplicity and versatility. This style involves weaving three sections of hair together, incorporating additional hair as you move down the head.
Perfect for both casual and formal occasions, the French braid keeps hair neat and tidy while offering a polished appearance. It works well with all hair lengths and can be adapted to suit various face shapes.
“The French braid is like the little black dress of hairstyles – it never goes out of style and suits everyone.” – Celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin
Pro Tip: For a more relaxed look, gently pull apart the braid after securing it. This technique, known as “pancaking,” creates a fuller, more voluminous appearance.
2. Dutch Braid
Also known as the reverse French braid or inside-out braid, the Dutch braid creates a striking 3D effect by weaving the hair under instead of over. This technique makes the braid stand out from the head, creating a bold and eye-catching style.
Dutch braids are particularly stunning on those with highlighted or multi-toned hair, as the technique showcases different colours beautifully. They’re also great for active lifestyles, and keeping hair secure during workouts or outdoor activities.
Pro Tip: To add extra hold and shine to your Dutch braid, apply a small amount of hair oil or serum to your hands before braiding. This will help tame flyaways and give your braid a polished finish.
3. Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid, with its intricate woven pattern, offers a bohemian and slightly edgy vibe. This style involves dividing the hair into two sections and repeatedly crossing small strands from one side to the other.
While it may look complex, the fishtail braid is surprisingly easy to master with practice. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to add texture and interest to their hair, especially when worn loosely for a more relaxed, beachy look.
Pro Tip: For an effortlessly chic look, create a messy fishtail braid by gently tugging at the edges of the braid after securing it. This technique adds volume and gives the style a lived-in, carefree appearance.
4. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a romantic and whimsical style that creates the illusion of hair cascading down like a waterfall. This technique involves dropping a section of hair with each weave, resulting in a beautiful, flowing pattern.
Ideal for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of elegance to your everyday look, the waterfall braid works best on medium to long hair. It’s particularly stunning when incorporated into half-up, half-down styles.
Pro Tip: Enhance the waterfall effect by curling the loose sections of hair that fall from the braid. This adds dimension and emphasizes the flowing nature of the style.
5. Rope Braid
The rope braid, also known as a twist braid, is a sleek and modern take on traditional braiding. Created by twisting two sections of hair together, this style offers a clean, polished look that’s perfect for both casual and formal settings.
Rope braids are an excellent choice for those with fine hair, as the twisting technique can create the illusion of fuller, thicker locks. They’re also quick and easy to create, making them ideal for busy mornings or last-minute styling.
Pro Tip: To add extra hold and prevent flyaways, apply a small amount of styling cream or gel to your hair before creating the rope braid. This will help keep the twist tight and neat throughout the day.
6. Crown Braid
The crown braid, also known as a halo braid, is a regal and romantic style that encircles the head like a crown. This versatile look can be achieved using various braiding techniques, from a simple three-strand braid to more complex patterns.
Perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel like royalty, the crown braid works well with all hair types and lengths. It’s particularly stunning on those with long, thick hair, as it allows for a fuller, more dramatic crown.
Pro Tip: If you have shorter or thinner hair, consider using a hair doughnut or padding to create a fuller base for your crown braid. This will give the illusion of thicker hair and help maintain the braid’s shape.
7. Braided Updo
Braided updos combine the elegance of an updo with the intricate beauty of braids. These styles can range from simple and sleek to complex and ornate, making them suitable for various occasions, from weddings to red-carpet events.
The versatility of braided updos allows for endless creativity. You can incorporate multiple braiding techniques, add accessories, or play with texture to create a truly unique and personalized look.
Pro Tip: To ensure your braided updo lasts all day (or night), prep your hair with a texturizing spray before styling. This will add grip to your hair, making it easier to braid and helping the style hold its shape.
8. Side Braid
The side braid is a chic and effortless style that’s perfect for both casual and dressy occasions. This versatile look can be achieved with various braiding techniques, from a simple three-strand braid to more complex patterns like fishtail or Dutch braids.
Side braids are particularly flattering for those with long faces, as they create the illusion of width. They also work well for hiding second-day hair or managing unruly locks on humid days.
Pro Tip: For a bohemian-inspired look, try incorporating small, thin braids throughout your side braid. This adds texture and interest to the style, creating a more intricate and eye-catching appearance.
9. Boxer Braids
Boxer braids, also known as double Dutch braids, have gained popularity in recent years thanks to their sporty yet stylish appearance. This style features two Dutch braids running parallel from the front of the head to the nape of the neck.
Perfect for workouts, festivals, or casual outings, boxer braids keep hair secure and off the face while looking effortlessly cool. They work well with all hair types and are particularly striking on those with long, thick hair.
Pro Tip: To achieve ultra-sleek boxer braids, apply a small amount of edge control gel to your hairline and the parts between the braids. This will help tame flyaways and give your style a polished, professional finish.
10. Lace Braid
The lace braid is a delicate and feminine style that involves braiding a section of hair along the hairline, incorporating loose hair as you go. This technique creates a beautiful, lace-like pattern that can be incorporated into various hairstyles.
Lace braids are versatile and can be used to create half-up styles, accent ponytails, or serve as the base for more complex updos. They’re particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces, as they draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones.
Pro Tip: To make your lace braid stand out, try using a contrasting hair colour or adding subtle highlights to the section you’ll be braiding. This will create a beautiful, dimensional effect that emphasizes the intricate pattern of the braid.
11. Braided Bangs
Braided bangs offer a creative way to style fringe or manage growing-out bangs. This technique involves braiding the front section of hair, either to the side or across the forehead and can be incorporated into various hairstyles.
Perfect for those looking to change up their look without committing to a new cut, braided bangs can add interest to simple styles like ponytails or buns. They’re also a great solution for keeping bangs out of your face during hot weather or workouts.
Pro Tip: If your bangs are too short to braid on their own, try incorporating them into a French or Dutch braid that starts at your hairline. This will help blend the shorter pieces seamlessly into the rest of your hair.
12. Braided Ponytail
The braided ponytail is a chic and practical style that combines the simplicity of a ponytail with the elegance of a braid. This versatile look can be achieved in various ways, from braiding the entire length of the ponytail to incorporating braids into the base of the style.
Ideal for both casual and formal occasions, braided ponytails offer a polished appearance while keeping hair secure and off the face. They’re particularly flattering for those with long necks and high cheekbones.
Pro Tip: To add volume and texture to your braided ponytail, try teasing the crown of your hair before styling. This will create lift at the roots and prevent the style from looking flat or lifeless.
13. Milkmaid Braids
Milkmaid braids, also known as crown braids or halo braids, are a romantic and whimsical style that wraps around the head like a crown. This look is achieved by creating two braids and pinning them across the top of the head in a circular pattern.
Perfect for special occasions or when you want to channel your inner fairy princess, milkmaid braids work best on medium to long hair. They’re particularly stunning when adorned with flowers or delicate hair accessories.
Pro Tip: To keep your milkmaid braids in place all day, use small clear elastic bands to secure the ends of each braid before pinning them in place. This will prevent the braids from unravelling and help maintain the circular shape of the style.
14. Braided Bun
The braided bun combines the elegance of an updo with the intricate beauty of braids. This versatile style can be achieved in various ways, from wrapping a single braid around the base of a bun to incorporating multiple braided elements into a more complex design.
Suitable for both casual and formal occasions, braided buns offer a polished and sophisticated look while keeping hair secure and off the neck. They’re particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces.
Pro Tip: To create a fuller, more dramatic braided bun, try using a hair donut or sock bun as a base. This will give your style more volume and help maintain its shape throughout the day.
15. Accent Braid
Accent braids are small braids incorporated into larger hairstyles to add interest and texture. These can be simple three-strand braids, fishtail braids, or even tiny Dutch braids woven into loose waves or updos.
Perfect for those who want to experiment with braids without committing to a full braided style, accent braids offer endless possibilities for customization. They’re particularly effective for adding a boho-chic vibe to everyday looks.
Pro Tip: For a subtle yet eye-catching accent braid, try creating a thin braid with a section of hair near your temple and tucking it behind your ear. This adds a delicate touch of interest to even the simplest hairstyles.
16. Five-Strand Braid
The five-strand braid is a more intricate version of the classic three-strand braid, offering a unique and eye-catching pattern. While it may look complex, this technique can be mastered with practice and patience.
Ideal for those looking to elevate their braiding game, the five-strand braid creates a fuller, more textured appearance than traditional braids. It’s particularly stunning on those with long, thick hair.
Pro Tip: When learning the five-strand braid technique, try using five different coloured ribbons to practice. This will help you keep track of each strand and understand the weaving pattern more easily.
17. Braided Headband
The braided headband is a charming and practical style that keeps hair off the face while adding a touch of bohemian flair. This look can be achieved by creating a braid across the crown of the head, either with your own hair or with a braided hair extension.
Perfect for both casual outings and special events, braided headbands work well with various hair types and lengths. They’re particularly flattering for those with round faces, as they create the illusion of length.
Pro Tip: To make your braided headband stand out, try incorporating small flowers or delicate hair pins along its length. This adds a whimsical touch and transforms the style into a statement piece.
18. Bubble Braid
The bubble braid is a fun and playful style that puts a unique twist on the classic ponytail. This look is achieved by securing sections of a ponytail or braid with elastic bands at regular intervals, then gently pulling apart each section to create a “bubble” effect.
Ideal for those looking for a quick and easy way to jazz up their everyday style, bubble braids work well with all hair types and lengths. They’re particularly striking on those with highlighted or multi-toned hair.
Pro Tip: For a more polished look, wrap a small section of hair around each elastic band to conceal it. This adds a touch of elegance to the playful style and creates a more cohesive appearance.
19. Braided Mohawk
The braided mohawk offers an edgy, rock-inspired take on traditional braiding. This style typically features tight braids on the sides of the head, with a fuller, often textured or braided section running down the centre.
Perfect for those looking to make a bold statement, braided mohawks can be adapted to suit various personal styles and occasions. They’re particularly striking on those with undercut hairstyles or vibrant hair colours.
Pro Tip: To add extra drama to your braided mohawk, try incorporating different braiding techniques or varying the size of the braids. This creates visual interest and allows for a truly personalized look.
20. Infinity Braid
The infinity braid, also known as the figure-8 braid, is a unique and eye-catching style that creates a continuous loop pattern. This advanced technique requires practice but results in a stunning, intricate braid that’s sure to turn heads.
Ideal for special occasions or when you want to showcase your braiding skills, the infinity braid works best on long, thick hair. It’s particularly beautiful when incorporated into half-up, half-down styles or as part of a more complex updo.
Pro Tip: To make your infinity braid easier to manage, try securing each loop with a small clear elastic band as you go. This will help maintain the braid’s shape and prevent it from unravelling as you work.
Choosing the Right Braid for You
When selecting a braid hairstyle, consider the following factors:
- Hair length and thickness
- Face shape
- Occasion or setting
- Personal style and preferences
- Time and skill level required
| Face Shape | Recommended Braid Styles |
|---|---|
| Oval | Any style |
| Round | Side braid, Fishtail braid |
| Square | Soft Crown braid, Waterfall braid |
| Heart | Braided bangs, Lace braid |
| Long | Milkmaid braids, Boxer braids |
Remember, these are just guidelines. The most important factor is how confident and comfortable you feel with your chosen style.
Essential Tools for Perfect Braids
To achieve stunning braid hairstyles, make sure you have these tools on hand:
- Wide-tooth comb
- Fine-tooth comb
- Hair ties or elastics
- Bobby pins
- Texturizing spray
- Hair spray
- Smoothing serum
- Tail comb (for precise parting)
With these tools and the inspiration from our 20 braid hairstyles, you’re well-equipped to create beautiful, head-turning looks for any occasion. Happy braiding!