Braided hairstyles offer the perfect combination of practicality and beauty. They keep your hair secure while creating intricate, eye-catching patterns.
These versatile styles work for everything from casual errands to formal events, making them a must-have technique in your styling repertoire.
Ready to elevate your hair game with some braided magic?
These 25 stunning braided styles will help you transform your locks into works of art.
Discover the perfect plaited style for any occasion, from beginner-friendly classics to show-stopping statement braids.
1: Classic Three-Strand French Braid
This timeless style weaves all your hair into one elegant braid down the back of your head.
Unlike a regular braid, the French technique incorporates additional hair as you move down, creating a polished, secure style.
Begin at your crown, splitting hair into three sections. Then, add small pieces from each side as you cross the strands over.
This versatile style works for all hair lengths beyond chin length.
Loosen sections gently after braiding for a more voluminous, modern look that frames your face beautifully.
2: Double Dutch Braids
These trendy inside-out braids create texture and dimension by weaving strands under rather than over.
Creating two parallel Dutch braids adds symmetrical balance perfect for both athletic activities and fashion statements.
Divide your hair down the middle, then create a Dutch braid on each side by crossing sections under instead of over.
This secure style keeps hair completely contained while showcasing the braid’s intricate pattern.
Pull slightly at the braid edges after finishing for added volume and a more relaxed, lived-in appearance.
3: Waterfall Braid Crown
This romantic style features a horizontal braid around your head where strands “fall” from the braid like a waterfall.
The flowing technique creates a whimsical, ethereal look perfect for special occasions.
Begin a French braid at one temple, dropping the bottom strand and picking up a new section as you move around your head.
This intermediate style works best with medium to long hair.
Leave the “waterfall” strands curled or straight depending on your desired final look.
4: Fishtail Side Braid
This intricate-looking braid creates a distinctive herringbone pattern by weaving small sections from the outer edges to the center.
The detailed texture looks complicated but requires only simple, repetitive movements.
Secure your hair in a side ponytail, divide it into two sections,and then repeatedly take small pieces from one side and cross to the other.
This eye-catching style particularly showcases highlighted or multi-toned hair.
Loosen the braid after securing the end for a fuller, more dramatic effect that displays the detailed pattern.
5: Half-Up Crown Braid
This versatile style features a braided crown along your hairline while leaving the rest loose.
The partial updo creates a face-framing effect while maintaining length and volume throughout the rest.
Create a Dutch or French braid along your hairline from one ear to the other, pinning the end behind your ear.
This balanced style offers the security of a braid with the feminine softness of loose hair.
Add waves or curls to the loose portion for beautiful contrast against the sleek braided section.
6: Rope Braid Ponytail
This quick yet elegant style combines a classic ponytail with a twisted rope braid.
This simple technique creates a polished, sophisticated look with minimal effort and styling time.
Secure your hair in a ponytail, divide into two sections, twist each section clockwise, then twist them together counterclockwise.
