Braided hairstyles have been a timeless trend, loved by many for their versatility and beauty. Whether you’re looking for a simple style for everyday wear or an intricate design for a special occasion, there’s a braid for every situation.
Let’s dive into 14 beautifully braided hairstyles you need to try next!
1. Classic Three-Strand Braid
The three-strand braid is the foundation of all braids. It’s simple yet elegant, perfect for any casual or formal setting.
How to Achieve This Look:
- Start by dividing your hair into three equal sections.
- Cross the right section over the middle, then the left over the middle.
- Continue this pattern until you reach the end and secure with a hair tie.
2. French Braid
The French braid is a classic that starts at the crown and gradually incorporates more hair as you braid.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Begin with a small section of hair at the top of your head.
- Divide it into three sections and start a basic braid.
- Add more hair to each section as you continue down the back of your head.
- Secure with a hair tie at the end.
3. Dutch Braid
What Makes it Different from the French Braid: The Dutch braid is essentially an inverted French braid, where the sections are braided under rather than over.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Start with a section of hair at the crown.
- Divide it into three sections and cross the right section under the middle, then the left under the middle.
- Add more hair to each section as you continue braiding down.
- Secure with a hair tie.
4. Fishtail Braid
Unique Characteristics: The fishtail braid looks intricate but is surprisingly easy to do. It’s made up of small sections of hair that create a stunning, scale-like appearance.
How to Master the Fishtail Braid:
- Split your hair into two sections.
- Take a small piece from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the opposite section.
- Repeat with a small piece from the other side.
- Continue this pattern until you reach the end and secure with a hair tie.
5. Waterfall Braid
The Elegance of Waterfall Braids: This braid is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any look. It allows strands of hair to cascade down like a waterfall.
Step-by-Step Tutorial:
- Start by taking a section of hair from one side of your head.
- Begin a French braid, but drop the bottom section each time you cross over.
- Pick up a new section of hair to replace the one you dropped.
- Continue this pattern around your head and secure with a hairpin.
6. Box Braids
Why Box Braids Are Timeless: Box braids are a protective style that can last for weeks. They’re versatile and can be styled in many ways.
How to Install Box Braids:
- Start with clean, sectioned hair.
- Take a small section and divide it into three.
- Braid tightly from the roots to the ends, securing with a hair tie if necessary.
- Repeat until all hair is braided.
7. Halo Braid
The Angelic Halo Braid: This braid creates a halo effect around your head, perfect for a boho-chic look.
Achieving the Halo Braid Look:
- Part your hair in the middle and create two pigtails.
- Braid each pigtail and secure with hair ties.
- Wrap each braid over your head and pin them in place to form a halo.
8. Crown Braid
Royal and Sophisticated: The crown braid is a more intricate version of the halo braid, creating a regal look.
How to Braid a Crown:
- Start with a deep side part.
- Begin a Dutch braid from one side of the part, braiding around the head.
- Continue adding hair and braiding until you reach the starting point.
- Secure with pins.
9. Braided Updo
Combining Elegance with Practicality: This style combines braids with an updo for a sophisticated look.
Steps to Create a Braided Updo:
- Start with a French braid from the front to the back.
- Gather the rest of your hair into a low bun.
- Wrap the braid around the bun and secure with pins.
10. Ladder Braid
A Unique and Modern Twist: The ladder braid is a visually striking braid that resembles a ladder.
Tutorial for a Ladder Braid:
- Start with a small section of hair and create a waterfall braid.
- Take the dropped strands and incorporate them into a French braid below.
- Continue this pattern to create a ladder effect.
11. Milkmaid Braid
Old-School Charm with a Modern Twist: This braid wraps around the head, perfect for an ethereal look.
How to Style a Milkmaid Braid:
- Part your hair in the middle and create two braids.
- Cross the braids over the top of your head.
- Secure with pins and tuck in any loose ends.
12. Side Braid
Casual and Chic: The side braid is perfect for a relaxed, everyday look.
Easy Steps for a Side Braid:
- Gather your hair to one side.
- Divide into three sections and braid normally.
- Secure with a hair tie and loosen the braid for a fuller look.
13. Braided Bun
Combining Braids and Buns for a Chic Look: This style is elegant and perfect for formal occasions.
Steps to Create a Braided Bun:
- Start with a French braid from the front to the back.
- Gather the rest of your hair into a high bun.
- Wrap the braid around the bun and secure with pins.
14. Pull-Through Braid
Volume and Texture: This braid is great for adding volume and texture to your hair.
How to Achieve a Pull-Through Braid:
- Start with a ponytail.
- Divide the ponytail into smaller sections.
- Pull the sections through each other to create the braid effect.
- Secure with hair ties.
Conclusion
Braided hairstyles are a fantastic way to add variety and elegance to your look. Whether you prefer a simple three-strand braid or an intricate crown braid, there’s a style for everyone. Try out these 15 beautifully braided hairstyles and find your new favorite look!
