Braided hairstyles are a timeless favorite among women, offering endless possibilities for creativity and personalization. Whether you’re preparing for a formal event, a casual day out, or simply want a stylish way to keep your hair in place, braids can be your go-to solution. From elegant updos to relaxed and bohemian styles, there’s a braid for every occasion and hair type. This collection of 30 braided hairstyles showcases a variety of looks, from simple and classic to intricate and unique, ensuring you’ll find the perfect braid to suit your style. Let’s dive into these beautiful braided hairstyles that will elevate your look and keep you on-trend.
1. Classic Three-Strand Braid
The classic three-strand braid is a timeless choice for any occasion. Simple yet elegant, this braid can be styled in various ways, whether left down for a casual look or wrapped into an updo for a more formal appearance. It’s easy to do and works well with all hair types.
2. French Braid
The French braid is a sophisticated option that keeps your hair neatly in place. Starting at the crown and working your way down, this braid adds an elegant touch to any outfit. It’s perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions, offering a polished and refined look.
3. Dutch Braid
Similar to the French braid, the Dutch braid is woven under rather than over, creating a more pronounced, raised braid. This style stands out and is a great choice for adding texture and dimension to your hairstyle. It’s ideal for a sporty or edgy look.
4. Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a beautiful and intricate style that resembles the scales of a fish. This braid is perfect for adding a bohemian vibe to your look and works especially well with longer hair. It’s versatile enough for both casual and formal settings.
5. Crown Braid
The crown braid encircles your head like a halo, creating a regal and romantic look. This updo is perfect for weddings, proms, or any event where you want to feel like royalty. It’s a stunning choice that’s sure to turn heads.
6. Box Braids
Box braids are a protective style that involves sectioning the hair into small squares and braiding each section. This style is popular for its versatility and low maintenance, allowing you to style your braids in various ways, from buns to ponytails.
7. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a delicate and flowing style that lets sections of hair cascade down like a waterfall. This braid adds a soft, romantic touch to any hairstyle and is perfect for special occasions or a feminine, everyday look.
8. Milkmaid Braid
The milkmaid braid involves creating two braids that are wrapped around the head and pinned in place, creating a sweet and rustic look. This style is charming and works well for outdoor events or when you want to add a touch of whimsy to your outfit.
9. Halo Braid
The halo braid is similar to the crown braid but sits closer to the front of the head, creating a true halo effect. This ethereal style is perfect for formal occasions and adds a touch of elegance and grace to any look.
10. Side Braid
A side braid is a simple yet stylish way to keep your hair off your face. Whether you opt for a loose, bohemian braid or a sleek, tight braid, this style is perfect for casual outings and adds an effortlessly chic touch to your look.
11. Cornrows
Cornrows are a traditional African braid style that involves braiding the hair close to the scalp in straight lines or intricate patterns. This style is not only protective but also versatile, allowing for creative designs and easy maintenance.
12. Twisted Rope Braid
The twisted rope braid involves twisting two sections of hair around each other, creating a rope-like effect. This braid is quick and easy to do, making it perfect for busy mornings or when you want a simple yet stylish look.
13. Braided Bun
Combine a braid with a bun for an elegant updo that’s perfect for formal events. Start with a French or Dutch braid, then twist it into a bun at the nape of your neck or higher up for a chic and polished look.
14. Ghana Braids
Ghana braids, also known as banana braids, are thicker than cornrows and often feature intricate designs. This style is not only protective but also bold and beautiful, making it a popular choice for those who want a striking look.
15. Pull-Through Braid
The pull-through braid is a voluminous style that gives the appearance of a complex braid but is surprisingly easy to create. It involves pulling sections of hair through loops, resulting in a thick, intricate braid that’s perfect for adding drama to your look.
16. Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids involve creating two Dutch braids, one on each side of the head. This sporty and playful style is perfect for keeping hair secure during physical activities or when you want a trendy, youthful look.
17. Braided Ponytail
Upgrade your ponytail with a braid. Whether you braid a section of hair and wrap it around the base of your ponytail or braid the entire ponytail itself, this style adds texture and interest to a classic hairstyle.
18. Zigzag Braids
Zigzag braids are a fun and edgy way to wear cornrows. Instead of straight lines, the braids are created in zigzag patterns, adding a playful and unique twist to the traditional style.
19. Butterfly Braid
The butterfly braid is a large, voluminous braid that starts at the front of the head and sweeps back into a large bun or ponytail. This style is perfect for making a statement and works well for formal occasions.
20. Braided Headband
Create a natural headband by braiding a small section of hair and wrapping it across the front of your head. This simple and elegant style is perfect for keeping hair off your face while adding a decorative touch.
21. Dutch Flower Braid
The Dutch flower braid involves creating a Dutch braid that forms into a flower-like bun at the end. This intricate and beautiful style is perfect for weddings or other special events where you want to showcase your braiding skills.
22. Sideswept Fishtail Braid
Create a romantic and relaxed look with a sideswept fishtail braid. This braid starts at one side of the head and drapes over the shoulder, adding a soft and feminine touch to your hairstyle.
23. Crown Twist Braid
The crown twist braid involves twisting sections of hair and pinning them in a circular pattern around the head. This style is quick to create and adds a regal touch to your look, perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
24. Reverse French Braid
The reverse French braid, also known as an inverted braid, is the opposite of a traditional French braid. The sections are braided underneath each other, creating a raised effect that adds volume and texture to your hair.
25. Infinity Braid
The infinity braid is a unique and intricate braid that weaves hair in a continuous figure-eight pattern. This braid is perfect for making a statement and is sure to draw compliments wherever you go.
26. Half-Up Braided Crown
Combine the elegance of a crown braid with the simplicity of a half-up hairstyle. This style involves braiding two sections of hair and wrapping them around the crown of your head, leaving the rest of your hair down for a soft and romantic look.
27. Braided Space Buns
Add a playful twist to your hairstyle with braided space buns. Start with two Dutch or French braids, then wrap them into buns on top of your head. This fun and trendy style is perfect for festivals or a casual day out.
28. Lace Braid
The lace braid is a delicate variation of the French braid, where you only add hair from one side. This creates a beautiful, lacy effect that’s perfect for framing your face or adding detail to an updo.
29. Braided Mohawk
For a bold and edgy look, try a braided mohawk. Braid the sides of your hair tightly and leave the center section loose or braided, creating a faux hawk effect that’s both daring and stylish.
30. Boho Braids
Embrace a relaxed and bohemian vibe with boho braids. These loose, carefree braids are perfect for summer festivals or casual days, giving you a laid-back yet stylish look that’s effortlessly chic.