When it comes to intricate hairstyles, oftentimes a braid can help bring the look to life. With lots of different hair braiding ideas, it’s the perfect time to try out these gorgeous looks that we love for their longevity, intricate appearance and the fact that they’re so versatile. Whether you’re looking for a more laid-back look for the gym or want to rock some cool braids styles for work, we’ve got you covered with our round-up of some of the most popular hair braiding styles featuring some classics (we’re looking at you, fishtailbraid) to those with a twist, quite literally.
Read on to check out some of these hair braiding ideas we have in rotation this season and plan on wearing throughout the year.
34 Hair Braiding Ideas You’ve Got to Try
1. French Braided Pigtails
We loved this hair braiding idea when we were little and now that we’re #adulting we love them even more. Perfect for a brisk run, a trip to the supermarket or even a night on the town, French braided pigtails are the epitome of not having to sacrifice style for comfort. This pulled back look not only keeps your hair out of your face, but it also provides a mini facelift depending on how tight your braids are.
2. Side-Swept Three Strand Braid
Best for long hair, aside-swept braid keeps everything in place without taking away from the exquisite feel of flowing locks. When you pair the side-swept braid with an off-center part, you allow your hair to swaynicely over your eye for a more laid-back, mysterious vibe to an otherwise demure look.
3. Milkmaid Braids
You can create two braids situated just right on top of your head, and in seconds, can look like you stepped right out of Pinterest. This super simple hair braiding idea looks much harder than it is when in reality, it’s just two traditional braids wrapped around your crown and secured with a few bobby pins. To keep things extra whimsical, gently tug out a small face-framing section on each side and add a soft curl with a curling wand or iron. To get these royal braid hairstyles to stay put all day look, use Dove Style+Care Extra Hold Hairspray. Not only will it lock in your style, but it’ll also add a touch ofshine too.
Dove
Dove Style+Care Compressed Extra Hold Hairspray
4. Double to Single Braid
There’s just something about the symmetry of mirror-imaged French braids to frame your face. Similarly so, there’s a certain air to pigtails, too. If you’re looking for the added oomph up front but want to keep it clean-cut in the back, we recommend merging two french braids into one traditional braid.
5. Modern Braided Messy Bun
As if the braided bun hairstyles on the red carpet weren’t enough. This hairstyle is our go-to transitional hair braiding idea. It’s professional enough for an interview and fancy enough for a gala. Bonus points: You actually don’t need to use any heat styling tools to achieve the look. Just make sure you seal the look with a strong-hold hairspray.
6. Braided Ponytail
Braided ponytails are that one easy hairstyle every girl needs in her hairstyling arsenal. And, they’re also a great way to turning your boring ponytail into a fresh new look. To create this hair braiding idea, simply apply a serum, like TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum, to the ends of your hair to tame frizz, and braid all the way down to the ends.
TRESemmé
TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum
7. Mermaid Braid
This dreamy look is all about loose braids that feature a half-up style. We love this modern-day hair braiding idea that you can easily master in our mermaid braid tutorial.
8. Colored Box Braids
We were deeply inspired by the green box braids worn by wardrobe stylist Hope Morgan. As Hope predicted, color braids aren’t going anywhere any time soon. This year we are loving the colored box braid hair trend. It’s a great protective style and a fun way to play around with hair color without the commitment. If you plan on wearing this trend, be sure to use dry shampooto refresh your hair in between washes.
9. Upside-Down Braided Ponytail
This hair braiding idea trend is a major hit and we just can’t get enough of this upside-down braid. When recreating this look, you can play around with many different variations. Opt for big braids for a bold look, or fine cornrow braids for a look that’s on the subtle side. Don’t want multiple braids at all? A single braid will do.
10. Scarf Braid
Take advantage of the restful Sunday-night sleep you got the night before and rock an intricate scarf braid for Monday. The first day of the week always sets the tone—and let’s not forget what a great hair day does for your mood!—and this pretty, polished look shows you made an effort to show up and dress up. It also keeps hair out of your face while you deal with those dreadful Monday emails, and stylishly coasts you through until after-hours co*cktails with the work buds.
11.Accent Braid
A skinny plait, whether worn hidden or as an accent braid hairstyle near the hairline, is a clever way to upgrade a normal blowout. It gives a cute, slightly schoolgirlish feel (especially when paired with fall’s buttoned-up silhouettes). It’s also the quickest hair braiding idea you can do en route to work while stuck in your commute, so feel free to wing it—the regular three-strand braid is technically foolproof.
12. Upside-Down Braided Bun
Snap yourself out of the hump-day slump with a perky, super Instagrammable upside-down braided bun. This braided hairstyle features a French braid that starts at your neckline and goes upwards, joining the rest of your hair in a cool top knot. To achieve, simply flip hair over and start French-braiding upwards—or just hack it with a regular three-strand braid pinned in the middle. Either way, it’s no-nonsense but also stunningly cute, a.k.a. #hotd goals.
13. Perky Fishtail
Just in case you went overboard with the ladies’ night mojitos the night before, a high-perched fishtail plait can give an instant facelift. All it takes is gathering hair into a cheerleader pony and creating that herringbone braid after it’s been tied. Pancake the weaves so they’re artfully undone (you know, like your morning-after eyeliner), secure with a hair tie and just prep for some low-key hair-flipping all day.
14. Crown Half-Updo
Confession: We’re all about double-duty hair, and nowhere else does it come to the fore as much as our Fri-yay looks. The crown braid—which is just a horizontal French braid, worn from ear to ear like a headband—is the epitome of work all day, party all night. It keeps our vision free to crunch in those numbers and also instantly unfurls to sexy, loose, flattering waves around your hairline the moment the clock strikes happy hour.
15. Box Braids
If you’re planning to have a low-maintenance summer when it comes to your hair, opt for box braids. This hairstyle can be worn long-term, but be sure to wash and care for your hair as usual. Keep your braids shiny looking all summer long with the help of hair oil. Use a gel to keep your hairline in control. While wearing box braids you can try a multitude of hairstyles, we fancy this half-up bun hairstyle.
16. Loose Braid
Need a mid-week refresher? Other than using dry shampoo to soak up excess oils from your hair, update your look with a loose braid. After spritzing your roots with dry shampoo, like , which removes oil from roots without leaving visible residue, massage it in then move on to braiding the ends of your hair. If you happen to create a tighter braid than expected, no sweat! Tug at your braid on each side to loosen. Back-comb the end of the braid to lock in the braid. No need for hairpins or hair ties!
Dove
17. Triple Cornrow Braided Bun
Cornrows, or as many love to call it, boxer braids, are one of the coolest braided hairstyle ideas and it’s just as ideal for a tennis match, as it is for a boxing match. Prep your hair with a styling oil, like Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Styling Oil, for some instant shine. Then, part your hairinto three sections and clip away. Cornrow each section down to your nape, then roll the ends into a low bun.
Suave
Suave Moroccan Infusion Styling Oil
18. Crown Braid Low-Do
Crown braids aren’t just for festivals. Bring your A-game to the tennis court by rocking this easy and quick hairstyle. Simply part your hair at the crown as you create a French or Dutch braid. Then, gather the back section of your hair into a low bun.
19. Side Braided Box Braids
Transform a stylish protective hairstyle like box braids into a style that works for your superb tennis skills. Sure, you’d love to whip your hair back and forth, but that may not feel good against your face while in your element. If needed, refresh your roots with dry shampoo. Gather hair to one side, create a thick braid and secure the ends with a hair elastic.
20. Half-Up Cornrows
Since half-up hairstyles are having a serious moment, it’s no wonder why a braided rendition makes our list of top hair braiding ideas. Depending on the look you’re trying to go for, you can create any number of cornrows leading into a top knot, messy bun or even half-up ponytail. Ideal for a weekend stroll and spotted at trendy fashion shows just last September, cornrows are sure to make you stand out.
21. Half-Up Flower Braids
Love the look of space buns, but want to take it up a notch? Instead of simply twisting your hair into clubby-looking, matching top knots, start with braids and carefullycoilthem around themselves to create a bud-looking chignon.Say it with flowers!
22. Undone Accent Braid
There’s just something about an undone braid that makes thingslook that much more effortless. To achieve, simply usea texturizing sprayto give your hair a little extra grit in order to help your undone braid stay in place. Next, begin a regular three-strand plait from your partline to your earline and secure with pins or a clear elastic. Once you have woven your masterpiece, add a few spritzes of a medium-hold hairspray to make the look last all day.
23. Half-Shaven Braid
Want to roughup your regular hair braiding styles? Create some buzz, quite literally. For those of you working with a half-shaven head or are rocking the super-trendy undercut, braids are a totally rad way to take your edgy look one step further. To get the look, check out our tutorial on how to create a super easy half-shaven braid.
24. Fishtail Tie Backs
Every once in awhile, it’s nice to embrace your inner goddess and let it shine through the way you do your hair. One of our very favorite hair braiding ideas is this super simple pull-back created with fishtail braids. Simply take a small section on each side of your head and create a mini fishtail braid. Once you have both braids, secure them together with a clear mini elastic. And just like that, voilà: hair braiding ideas come to life.
25. Double French Braids
While these braids are fun to wear for play, they are just as good for work. Pair this hairstyle up with chic work attire to make them a bit more office-friendly. To style, part hair down the center, then create a Dutch or French braid on each side. Use some serum or oiladd shine and tame flyaways.
26. Half-Up French Braid
It’s no secret that we’re swooning over the half-up trend right now, which is why it made it to our top edit of braid styles. Part hair from ear to ear and clip the back section away. Braid your hair on a diagonal angle on each side of your face, all the way to the ends. Bring each braid to meet at the back of your hair then pin together. Release the back section of your hair, create loose curls for a more playful look or leave it straight.
27. Transitional Crown Braid
We love this crown braid for days when you have an after-work event on your agenda with no time to head home to get prepared. Whip your hair up into this transitional braid style in the morning. Gently detangle your hair with a brush (we love the boar bristle brush). Then, part your hair to the side and begin to braid against your hairline all the way around.
28. Hidden Braid
Hidden hair braiding ideas are great when you want to showcase your natural hair texture with a subtle braid. Prep your clean hair with some heat protectant, then flat iron your hair until it’s completely straight. Make one braid or twist to frame your face and pin back to the side. Create another braid that hangs down with the rest of your hair. To make sure that your braid doesn’t come undone, backcomb the ends or tie with a fun yet work-appropriate hair accessory.
29. Half-Crown Braid with Bun
This is the minimalapproach to the full-on crown braid. Part the front section of hair and set aside for your braid. Gather your back section into a low bun and secure with hairpins. Braid your front sections, wrap the ends around the base of your bun and pin in place.
30. Textured Fishtail Bun
Fishtail braids on a pigtail ponytails may not be your type of work hairstyle. Pile your fishtail braids up loosely into this eye-catching bun. Pull hair to pancake and create texture and a fuller effect. Spray some hairspray ontoyour chic bun to set it in place.
31. Messy Braided Pigtails
For casual get-togethers, we love these casual braided pigtails because they look cute with a hat on, and they can handle the resulting hat hair. Start by creating two braids ending the braid in line with your ears. For a wavy effect on the ends of your hair, spray a sea salt spray onto your hair and you’ll be good to go.
32. Twisted Braid
This twisted braid is one of the hair braiding ideas that’s simply gorgeous for the holidays. And you want to know the best part about this look? It’s way easier than it looks. All you need to do is a traditional braid but leave out a one-inch section of hair at the nape of your neck. End the braid a couple of inches above the ends of your hair. You can curl the ends for even more texture and depth. Take that one-inch section and wrap it around the braid and use it to cover your hair tie. See? Super simple. Seal in your style with some hairspray to ensure that your look stays in place all day long.
33. Snake Braid
We love this snake braid updo that adds a cool edge to your holiday look. Check out our full tutorial on how you can master thesnake braid updofor your next holiday party. Just be sure to have enough bobby pins to secure this look in place.
34. Half-Up Crown Braid
As much as we love the traditional crown braid, sometimes you want to keep your length too! This style is great because it works for all hair types. You can totally rock this style with straight hair, curly hair, and box braided hair, too. Get the look by sectioning off just the front part of your hair from ear to ear. Then, create a braid following your hairline and secure with a hair tie behind one of your ears. Then, just leave the rest of your length down and you’ll be set!
Tutorial: Twisted Updo Hair Braiding Ideas
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Start with clean hair.
This is one of our fave hair braiding ideas. To start, shampoo and condition your hair with a lightweight strengthening system, such as Suave Professionals Biotin Infusion Strengthening Shampooand Conditioner. Prep with a heat protectant (we like TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray)before blow-drying till 90 percent dry.
Suave
Suave Professionals Biotin Infusion Strengthening Shampoo
Suave
Suave Professionals Biotin Infusion Strengthening Conditioner
TRESemmé
TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray
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Begin curling the mid-lengths to ends.
Starting a little lower than mid-shaft, begin twirling hair around a 1/2″ curling iron (you can vary the thickness of the barrel depending on your desired curl size).
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Curl all sections.
Finish curling all sections of your hair, making sure to go in opposite directions for a more relaxed, casual feel to your ringlets.
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Gather two small sections at the crown.
Take small sections from both the top left and top right areas of your crown. Gather these two sections by twisting eachtowards the middle.
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Secure the twists.
Using bobby pins, secure the twists at the middle of your head as if creating a half-updo. A simple up-and-over twist technique is all you need to do, then affix with a pin!
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Repeat one section lower.
Moving an inch downward, repeat the process of gathering sections from each side and twisting them towards the middle.
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Continue until your neckline.
Repeat twisting and pinning horizontal sections until you reach the base of your neck, incorporating the tail of the higher twist into the lower one for a French braid-like look.
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Continue midway down the ponytail.
For a more continuous-looking plait, create a few moretwists down your main ponytail. No need to secure with a hair tie, as bobby pins will mostly be enough to hold hair in place.
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Loop your pony into a bun.
Curl your pony underneath itself to create a low bun. Affix pins where the hair overlaps.
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Secure onto your nape.
For added control, secure your bun directly onto the base of yourneckline with some bobby pins.
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Done!
Get ready to rock your awesome braided style! Another hair braiding idea brought to life.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
When it comes to intricate hairstyles, braids are often used to bring the look to life. There are many different hair braiding ideas that are popular for their longevity, intricate appearance, and versatility. Whether you're looking for a laid-back look for the gym or a stylish hairstyle for work, there are braiding styles to suit every occasion.
Here are some of the hair braiding ideas mentioned in the article:
French Braided Pigtails
French braided pigtails are a classic hairstyle that is perfect for a brisk run, a trip to the supermarket, or a night out. They not only keep your hair out of your face but also provide a mini facelift depending on how tight your braids are.
Side-Swept Three Strand Braid
The side-swept three-strand braid is best for long hair and keeps everything in place without taking away from the flowing locks. It creates a laid-back and mysterious vibe when paired with an off-center part.
Milkmaid Braids
Milkmaid braids are a simple and whimsical hair braiding idea. They involve creating two traditional braids wrapped around your crown and secured with bobby pins. To add a touch of softness, you can gently tug out a small face-framing section on each side and add a soft curl.
Double to Single Braid
Merging two French braids into one traditional braid creates a clean-cut look in the back while adding oomph up front. It provides symmetry and frames the face beautifully.
Modern Braided Messy Bun
The modern braided messy bun is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn for both professional and formal occasions. It doesn't require any heat styling tools and can be achieved by simply gathering the hair into a bun and securing it with a strong-hold hairspray.
Braided Ponytail
Braided ponytails are easy to create and can instantly transform a boring ponytail into a fresh new look. Simply apply a serum to the ends of your hair to tame frizz, and braid all the way down to the ends.
Mermaid Braid
The mermaid braid is a dreamy look that features loose braids in a half-up style. It's a modern-day hair braiding idea that can be easily mastered.
Colored Box Braids
Colored box braids are a trendy and fun way to play around with hair color without the commitment. They are a great protective style and can be refreshed with dry shampoo in between washes.
Upside-Down Braided Ponytail
The upside-down braided ponytail is a major hit and offers various styling options. You can opt for big braids for a bold look or fine cornrow braids for a more subtle style. A single braid is also an option.
Scarf Braid
An intricate scarf braid is a great way to add a stylish touch to your hair. It's perfect for a restful Sunday-night sleep and can elevate your Monday look.
Accent Braid
An accent braid, whether hidden or near the hairline, is a clever way to upgrade a normal blowout. It adds a cute and slightly schoolgirlish feel to the hairstyle.
Upside-Down Braided Bun
The upside-down braided bun is a perky and Instagrammable hairstyle. It features a French braid that starts at the neckline and goes upwards, joining the rest of the hair in a top knot.
Perky Fishtail
A high-perched fishtail plait can give an instant facelift and is perfect for days when you need a quick hairstyle. It involves gathering the hair into a ponytail and creating a fishtail braid.
Crown Half-Updo
The crown braid is a horizontal French braid worn from ear to ear like a headband. It's a versatile hairstyle that can be worn all day for work and then unfurled into loose waves for a sexy look in the evening.
Box Braids
Box braids are a low-maintenance hairstyle that can be worn long-term. They can be styled in various ways, and a half-up bun is a popular choice.
Loose Braid
A loose braid is a great mid-week refresher. After applying dry shampoo to soak up excess oils, update your look by braiding the ends of your hair. If the braid is too tight, you can loosen it by gently tugging at the sides.
Triple Cornrow Braided Bun
Cornrows, also known as boxer braids, are a cool and ideal braided hairstyle. They can be styled into a low bun by parting the hair into three sections, cornrowing each section down to the nape, and rolling the ends into a bun.
Crown Braid Low-Do
The crown braid is not just for festivals. It can be worn for various occasions, including a tennis match. Simply create a French or Dutch braid at the crown and gather the back section of the hair into a low bun.
Side Braided Box Braids
Transform box braids into a style that works for your tennis skills by gathering the hair to one side and creating a thick braid. This hairstyle keeps the hair out of your face while adding a stylish touch.
Half-Up Cornrows
Half-up cornrows are a trendy hairstyle that can be created with any number of cornrows leading into a top knot, messy bun, or half-up ponytail. They are ideal for a weekend stroll or a trendy fashion show.
Half-Up Flower Braids
Instead of traditional space buns, start with braids and coil them around themselves to create a bud-looking chignon. This hairstyle adds a floral touch to your look.
Undone Accent Braid
An undone braid adds an effortless touch to your hairstyle. To achieve this look, use a texturizing spray to give your hair extra grit and create a regular three-strand plait from your part line to your ear line.
Half-Shaven Braid
For those with a half-shaven head or an undercut, braids can take your edgy look one step further. There are tutorials available on how to create a half-shaven braid.
Fishtail Tie Backs
Fishtail braids can be used to create a simple pull-back hairstyle. Take a small section on each side of your head and create mini fishtail braids. Secure them together with a clear mini elastic.
Double French Braids
Double French braids are not only fun to wear for play but also suitable for work. They can be paired with chic work attire and styled with serum or oil for added shine and to tame flyaways.
Half-Up French Braid
The half-up French braid is a trendy hairstyle that works well with the half-up trend. It involves creating a diagonal braid on each side of the face and bringing them together at the back of the hair.
Transitional Crown Braid
The transitional crown braid is a convenient hairstyle for after-work events. It can be created in the morning by braiding against the hairline all the way around the head.
Hidden Braid
Hidden braids are a great way to showcase your natural hair texture with a subtle touch. They can be created by flat ironing the hair until it's straight and adding a braid or twist to frame the face.
Half-Crown Braid with Bun
The half-crown braid with bun is a minimal approach to the full-on crown braid. It involves parting the front section of the hair, creating braids on each side, and wrapping the ends around a low bun.
Textured Fishtail Bun
A fishtail bun is an eye-catching hairstyle that adds texture and a fuller effect to the hair. It can be achieved by piling fishtail braids loosely into a bun and creating texture by pulling at the hair.
Messy Braided Pigtails
Messy braided pigtails are a cute and casual hairstyle that can handle hat hair. They can be created by braiding two sections of hair ending in line with the ears.
Twisted Braid
The twisted braid is a gorgeous hairstyle that is perfect for the holidays. It involves creating a traditional braid but leaving out a one-inch section of hair at the nape of the neck. The ends can be curled for added texture.
Snake Braid
The snake braid updo adds a cool edge to your holiday look. It can be secured with bobby pins to create a stunning hairstyle.
Half-Up Crown Braid
The half-up crown braid is a versatile hairstyle that works for all hair types. It involves sectioning off the front part of the hair, creating a braid following the hairline, and securing it with a hair tie behind one ear.
These are just a few of the hair braiding ideas mentioned in the article. There are many more styles and variations to explore and try out.
