Women of all ages and from all cultures have long preferred braided hairstyles. Braids have always been a versatile and fashionable way to wear your hair, from straightforward three-strand styles to intricate and elaborate looks. Braids have grown in popularity recently, thanks to social media and the popularity of the boho-chic trend.
There are countless braided hairstyle ideas, whether looking for a straightforward and elegant braid for a formal event or a playful and fun braid for a day at the beach. This article will look at 45 braided hairstyle suggestions that will delight and inspire you. Everyone can choose from traditional French braids to fashionable fishtail braids. Explore the wonderful world of braided hairstyles by starting now!
1. French Braid
The French braid is timeless and versatile. This braid is made by weaving three strands of hair together and adding hair to each strand. This creates a lovely woven effect worn in a ponytail, bun, or half-up half-down hairstyle. French braids are popular for workouts and outdoor activities because they keep hair out of your face while looking stylish.
2. Dutch Braid
The Dutch braid, also known as an inverted braid, is similar to the French braid. Instead of weaving the strands over each other, the Dutch braid weaves them under. It creates a lovely raised effect that stands out from the hair. Dutch braids can be worn in many styles, including crown and half-up half-down hairstyles.
3. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a romantic braid with cascading hair. This braid is made by weaving and dropping small sections of hair. For special occasions or everyday glamour, this braid is perfect.
4. Fishtail Braid
This intricate braid looks like a fishtail. A small piece of hair from outside each section is crossed over to the opposite section to create this braid. It creates a delicate woven effect. Any hairstyle can benefit from fishtail braids.
5. Four-strand Braid
The four-strand braid weaves four strands of hair into a pattern. This braid is made by weaving the four strands over and under each other. This braid gives any hairstyle texture and dimension and can be worn in a side ponytail or bun.
6. Five-strand Braid
Like the four-strand braid, but with one more strand. This creates a more intricate and complex woven effect that looks great in any hairstyle. This braid is made by weaving the five strands over and under each other.
7. Six-strand Braid
The six-strand braid is complicated, with six hair strands woven together. This braid is made by weaving the six strands over and under each other in a specific pattern. For special occasions or everyday glamour, this braid is perfect.
8. Seven-strand Braid
The most complicated braid on this list, the seven-strand braid uses seven hair strands in a specific pattern. This braid is made by weaving the seven strands over and under each other in a specific pattern. This braid is perfect for special occasions or adding glamour to your everyday look, but it may take some practice to master.
9. Rope Braid
A rope braid, also known as a twist braid, involves twisting two sections of hair around each other. Divide your hair into two equal sections and twist each in the same direction to achieve this style. Continue twisting and crossing until you reach the end of your hair. An elastic band finishes it. It can be dressed up or down.
10. Twisted Braid
Add texture and fun to your hairstyle with a twisted braid. Start by dividing your hair in half. Twist each section in the same direction, then cross them over and twist again. Continue until you reach the end of your hair, then secure it with an elastic band. This style works best on medium to long hair for a playful look. You can also opt for Marley Twists.
11. Cornrow Braids
Cornrow braids are a timeless hairstyle. They involve braiding hair along the scalp in a continuous, raised pattern. Beads or other hair accessories can be added to various sizes and patterns of cornrow braids. This low-maintenance style can last weeks with proper care, making it ideal for busy people.
12. Box Braids
This trendy protective hairstyle involves braiding hair into small, square-shaped sections. This style is perfect for those who want to take a break from styling. Buns, ponytails, and half-up, half-down styles can be done with box braids. They can be accessorized with beads or other hair jewelry.
13. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are cornrow braids with more detail. They involve raising large braids off the scalp in a circular or curved pattern. Goddess braids are low-maintenance and can be styled with hair jewelry. This hairstyle is one of the popular Afro-American hairstyles.
14. Lemonade Braids
Beyoncé’s Lemonade album popularized feed-in braids. They start with a small braid at the scalp and gradually add hair down the braid. This gives a natural, layered effect. For a stylish and versatile protective style, lemonade braids are a good choice.
15. Tree Braids
This weave involves braiding hair in cornrows and threading extensions through them. This creates a natural-looking, layered effect that adds length and volume to your hair. Tree braids are great for low-maintenance, stylish hairstyles.
16. Halo Braid
This sleek hairstyle braids hair around the head in a circle. Part your hair down the middle and braid each section in a three-strand braid to get this look. Wrap both braids around your head and secure them with bobby pins. It can be dressed up or down for special occasions.
17. Crown Braid
This timeless hairstyle involves braiding hair around the head to create a crown-like effect. It’s a versatile hairstyle for formal and casual occasions. First, the hair is parted down the middle, then braided on both sides from the temples to the back. The braids are wrapped around the head and secured with bobby pins for a sleek and elegant look. If you want a chic, easy updo, try the crown braid.
18. Mermaid Braid
This popular hairstyle creates the appearance of mermaid hair cascading down the back. To get this look, divide the hair into two sections and cross a small section from the left section to the right. Repeat on the other side until the hair is finished. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a unique, whimsical, and stylish look. It looks like mermaid scales.
19. Snake Braid
This trendy and unique hairstyle involves braiding a snake-like braid down the back of the head. To get this look, divide the hair into two sections and cross a small section from the left section to the right. The opposite section is repeated, creating a snake-like twist. This bold and edgy hairstyle will turn heads.
20. Zipper Braid
This trendy hairstyle combines two braids to create a zipper effect. This style is created by braiding and crossing two small sections of hair. This is repeated until the hair is entirely braided, creating a zipper-like braid. This hairstyle is ideal for modern and sophisticated creatives. Ideal to show off your peekaboo skunk stripes.
21. Feather Braid
This chic hairstyle creates a feather-like effect by weaving small sections of hair together. Small sections of hair are braided and pulled apart to create a feathery texture. The braids are then woven into a feather-like braid. This hairstyle is ideal for a romantic, retro, feminine, and soft look.
22. Pull-Through Braid
This fun and playful hairstyle involves weaving small sections of hair together to create a unique and intricate braid. This look is achieved by tying ponytails with elastic bands. Pulling the hair between elastic bands creates a voluminous braid. For a fun, modern, and creative hairstyle, try this.
23. Lace Braid
This delicate hairstyle creates a lace-like effect by weaving small sections of hair together. Small sections of hair are braided and pulled apart to create this lacy and textured look. The braids are woven together to create a lace-like braid. For a romantic and elegant feminine look, this hairstyle is ideal.
24. Butterfly Braid
This intricate hairstyle creates two small loops or wings at the top of the head, resembling butterfly wings. The remaining hair is braided into a traditional braid to secure the loops. Without extensions, this style works best for medium to long hair. For weddings and proms, the butterfly braid adds whimsy and elegance to any outfit. Use ribbons, flowers, or jewels to highlight the loops.
25. Zigzag Braid
This fun and trendy hairstyle braids hair in a zigzag pattern instead of a straight line. This hairstyle works with or without extensions for medium to long hair. Starting with a zigzag part and an elastic band, braid the hair. Braid that section’s hair and secure it with another elastic band. After braiding all sections, combine them at the back of the head. Accessories can dress up the zigzag braid for casual occasions.
26. Chain Braid
This intricate hairstyle involves braiding in a chain pattern. This hairstyle works with or without extensions for medium to long hair. Start a chain braid by dividing the hair in half. Next, cross a small section of left-side hair to the right. Cross a small section of right-side hair to the left. Repeat until the braid becomes a chain. The chain braid adds elegance to any outfit, making it ideal for weddings and black-tie events.
27. Braided Bandanas
Braided bandanas are fun and versatile hairstyles. Bandana braids create a trendy hairstyle. Fold a bandana in half and tie it around the head, leaving the ends loose. Next, braid a small section of hair with the bandana and secure it with an elastic band. Repeat until all hair is braided with the bandana. Braided bandanas look great with casual outfits. Ideal for achieving a beachy or hiking look.
28. Braided Headband
This timeless hairstyle involves braiding around the head to resemble a headband. This hairstyle works with or without extensions for medium to long hair. You can try this for short hair too, it’s possible to braid short hair. Start by sectioning the hair at the crown and braiding it. Next, bobby pins the braid to the other side. Repeat on the other side. Accessories can dress up the braided headband for any occasion.
29. Braided Bangs
Braided bangs add style and fun to your look. Section off your bangs and braid them tightly, securing the ends with a small elastic band. This style works with loose hair or a ponytail or bun. It works with straight or curly hair. Braided bangs can give you a bohemian or edgy look for casual or night outings. Use crochet if your hair is thin in texture.
30. A Classic Braided Bun
Classic braided buns are versatile hairstyles. Start by braiding your hair into a high ponytail. After braiding, secure the braid around the ponytail with bobby pins. This outfit works for formal and casual occasions. Dress the braided bun with or without bangs with hairpins or headbands.
31. French Braided Bun
This elegant updo is perfect for formal occasions—first, French braid your hair from the crown to the nape. Once you reach your neck, braid your hair into a low ponytail. Bobby pinned the braid around the ponytail base. A statement hairpin or simple accessories can complete this look.
32. Dutch Braided Bun
This stylish hairstyle is perfect for any occasion. Dutch braid your hair from crown to nape to achieve this look. Once you reach your neck, braid your hair into a low ponytail. Bobby pinned the braid around the ponytail base. A ribbon or scarf can add color to this outfit.
33. Fishtail Braided Bun
The modern and edgy bun is perfect for statement-makers. Start by tying your hair into a high ponytail with an elastic band. Next, make a fishtail braid by dividing your hair into two sections and crossing small sections of hair between them. After finishing the braid, wrap it around the ponytail and secure it with bobby pins. A hair clip or headband can accessorize this look with or without bangs.
34. Crown Braided Updo
This romantic and elegant hairstyle is perfect for weddings and other formal events. Start by braiding two sections of hair tightly. After braiding both sections, secure them with bobby pins around your crown. This bohemian look works with loose curls, straight hair, and a floral crown.
35. Braided Ponytail
This timeless hairstyle works for any occasion. You need to braid your ponytail. Dutch, French, and fishtail braids can vary in this style. Ribbons and hair cuffs can enhance it. Wear this braided ponytail for a casual day, a gym or sports session, or a formal event. Many choose it because it’s easy to do on any hair length. You can create a mohawk hairstyle too with this top braid.
36. Bohemian Braids
Loose braids give any outfit a boho-chic look. This messy, effortless style involves making multiple small braids and leaving them loose. It adds texture and volume to longer hair. Enhance the bohemian look with slightly wavy or curled hair. Flowers, feathers, and headbands add boho flair.
37. Viking Braids
Viking braids are bold and edgy. This style has multiple braids on top and shaved or undercut sides. You will have to create a complex pattern by weaving the braids. This style adds edge to short to medium-length hair. Cosplay and fantasy events favor it. Leather bands and metal charms add Viking flair.
38. Basket Weave Braid
This intricate braid resembles a basket. Two smaller braids on either side follow a French or Dutch braid down the back of the head. Weaving the smaller braids over and under the main braid creates a woven effect. Longer-haired women who want a unique occasion look should try this style. Flowers and ribbons can elevate a look.
39. Twist Braid
This elegant style can elevate any outfit. This style involves twisting two sections of hair into a rope-like effect. Pull your twisted hair into a low ponytail or bun for a polished look. It’s ideal for medium-to-long-haired people who want to look stylish while keeping their hair off their faces. A hairpin or barrette can add elegance.
40. Double Braid
This cute and playful style works best on longer hair. This half-up, half-down style involves braiding two sides of the head and joining them at the back. Use fishtail or rope braids to vary this style. This style is ideal for adding texture and volume without sacrificing comfort. A hair tie or ribbon can spice up a style.
41. Criss-Cross Braids
For this style, divide your hair into small sections and braid each in a three-strand braid. Cross all the braids to make a criss-cross pattern. This makes a fun, unique look for any occasion. Wear this criss-cross braided hairstyle in a ponytail, bun, or down for a casual look. This style works well with or without extensions for long hair.
42. Bow Braids
Fun and unique bow braids add personality to your hair. Start by sectioning your hair into small sections and braiding a three-strand braid. After braiding, twist it into a bow and secure it with bobby pins. This creates a whimsical look that is perfect for those who like to dress whimsically. You can wear this hairstyle in a ponytail, or an updo for a more casual look.
43. Tuck and Cover Braid
This elegant braiding style is unique. Starting with small sections of hair, braid each section in a three-strand braid to create this style. After braiding, tuck them under each other for a sleek, elegant look. This makes a fun, unique style for any occasion. Also, you can wear this hairstyle in a low bun or left down for a more casual look.
44. Knotted Braid
Knotted braids are fun and creative. Start by sectioning your hair and knotting each section. After tying all the knots, braid each section in a three-strand braid and tie the ends with a hair tie. This creates a whimsical look that is perfect for those who like to dress whimsically. Try styling the knotted braids in a ponytail, bun hairstyle, or down for a more casual look.
45. Side-Swept Braids
These fun braids are unique. First, section your hair to one side and braid a small three-strand braid. After braiding, pin it across your head. This creates a whimsical look that is perfect for those who like to dress whimsically. You can style this side-swept hairstyle into a ponytail, bun, or down for a more casual look.