Okay, let’s be real. Is there anything a good braid can’t do? It can rescue second-day hair, make you look like you have a secret, and instantly elevate your vibe from “meh” to major. But sometimes, scrolling through intricate tutorials feels less like fun and more like being assigned homework. No, thank you.
That’s why I’ve put together this little braid bible. We’re skipping the intimidating stuff and talking about ten gorgeous styles that range from stupidly simple to seriously statement-making. Think of this as your stylish bestie’s guide to looking put-together, whether you’re running to the grocery store or attending a fancy garden party. Ready to get your plait on? Let’s go.
1. The Classic Side Braid
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You know this one. It’s the trusty, no-fuss braid you can do in your sleep, but it deserves a spot on this list for its sheer reliability. This is the ultimate “I’m cool, I’m casual, I definitely tried but not too hard” move.
How to Nail It: Simply gather all your hair to one side and create a standard three-strand braid. That’s it. The magic is in the details, though. Pull a few face-framing pieces loose for that effortless, romantic feel. For texture, spritz some texturizing spray on day-old hair before you braid—it grips better and looks cooler. I live in this braid when I’m wearing a turtleneck and jeans; it just completes the look without any effort.
Why You’ll Love It: It takes 60 seconds flat and goes with literally everything in your wardrobe. It’s a certified classic for a reason.
2. The Messy Pull-Through Braid
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If the thought of a French braid gives you hand-cramps, meet your new best friend. The pull-through braid looks incredibly chic and complex, but it’s basically just tying your hair in ponytails and pulling them apart. It’s a hack, a cheat code, a style miracle.
How to Nail It: Create a series of ponytails down the back of your head. Then, gently pull each section apart to create a gorgeous, full braid effect. The messier, the better! Secure it with a chic velvet scrunchie or a tiny silk scarf for an instant upgrade. This style works best on slightly textured hair, so don’t even think about brushing it perfectly smooth first.
Why You’ll Love It: It gives you major mermaid hair vibes with the technical skill of a kindergarten art project. A total win.
3. The Boho Headband Braid
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Why bother with an actual headband when you can be the headband? This style is perfect for keeping hair out of your face while looking like you just stepped out of a music festival (in the best way).
How to Nail It: Start with a small section of hair at the front of your head, near your temple. Braid it loosely—a simple three-strander or a fishtail works great—and then pin it back behind your opposite ear. Tuck the end into the rest of your hair. Leave the rest of your hair down and wavy for that quintessential boho feel. It’s the perfect accessory for a brunch date or a day at the farmers’ market.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s functional, flirty, and makes any basic hairstyle look intentional and styled.
4. The Sleek Low Braided Bun
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This is your secret weapon for looking polished and powerful. It’s the kind of style that says, “I have a very important meeting, followed by a gallery opening.” It’s clean, it’s chic, and it’s surprisingly easy to master.
How to Nail It: Pull your hair into a low, sleek ponytail. Braid the ponytail, then wrap it around the base to form a bun and secure with pins. The key here is sleekness. Use a bit of edge control or a toothbrush with some hairspray to tame any baby hairs. I once wore this with a simple black blazer and received more compliments than I did all month. It’s that good.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s the ultimate elegant solution for bad hair days or when you need to feel extra put-together.
5. The Double Dutch Braids
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Don’t let the name scare you. While they look athletic, double Dutch braids have become a full-blown fashion statement. They’re edgy, they’re cool, and they keep your hair completely off your face. What’s not to love?
How to Nail It: These are essentially inside-out French braids. Divide your hair down the middle, then braid each side, adding hair to the braid from underneath instead of on top. Once you’re done, gently pull the braids apart to make them look thicker and more effortless. You can leave them as is for a sporty look, or wrap them into space buns for a fun, festival-ready twist.
Why You’ll Love It: They’re incredibly durable (great for windy days or workouts) and give off serious “cool girl” energy.
6. The Bubble Braids
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If you scrolled through TikTok at all last year, you know the bubble braid. It’s playful, it’s modern, and it’s so, so simple. It literally looks like a string of bubbles running down your hair. So cute.
How to Nail It: Pull your hair into a high or low ponytail. Then, use clear elastics to section the ponytail off at even intervals. The final step? Gently tug on each section to puff it out into a perfect, round “bubble.” That’s it! You can do this with one ponytail, two pigtails, or even half-up styles. It’s a fantastic way to add visual interest to straight hair.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a total conversation starter and possibly the easiest trend to try. It feels fresh and fun.
7. The Fishtail Braid
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The fishtail braid looks like something only a fairy-tale weaver could create, but I promise it’s just a pattern of repetition. It gives off a gorgeous, bohemian, slightly nautical vibe that is just chef’s kiss.
How to Nail It: Divide your hair into two large sections. Take a small piece from the outside of the left section, cross it over, and join it to the inside of the right section. Repeat on the other side. And again. And again. It works best on slightly wavy or textured hair to hide any imperfections, so don’t stress if it’s not perfect. The slightly messy, lived-in look is what we’re going for!
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a stunning, intricate-looking braid that’s actually just a simple, meditative process once you get the hang of it.
8. The Braided Ponytail
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The humble ponytail just got a major glow-up. Adding a braid to your pony instantly makes it look more sophisticated and deliberate. It’s a one-minute upgrade with a ten-minute impact.
How to Nail It: Create your ponytail (high, low, side—you do you). Then, take a small section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the base to hide the elastic, and secure it with a pin. Now, braid the entire ponytail. For an extra touch, leave a face-framing section out and braid it separately, then wrap it around the base. See? You’re a genius.
Why You’ll Love It: It takes a basic style from “sporty” to “stylish” in under 60 seconds. It’s the perfect quick fix for when a regular ponytail feels too boring.
9. The Twisted Rope Braid
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This is the simplest “braid” on the list, but don’t underestimate its power. It’s elegant, it’s unique, and it’s even easier than a traditional three-strand braid. It looks especially stunning on curly or natural hair, really highlighting the texture.
How to Nail It: Split a section of hair into two parts. Twist each part individually in the same direction (like you’re twirling a mustache). Then, twist the two already-twisted sections together in the opposite direction. Secure the end, and you have a beautiful, rope-like braid. Use this technique for a side braid, a half-up style, or even to create a unique updo.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s a chic alternative to a standard braid and a fantastic way to show off and define your natural hair texture.
10. The Crown Braid (The Statement Maker)
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Alright, we’ve arrived at the pièce de résistance: the crown braid. This is the one you wear when you want to feel like an ethereal queen, a festival goddess, or just the main character for the day. It looks complicated, but with a little practice, it’s totally achievable.
How to Nail It: The easiest way is to create two Dutch braids (see #5!) starting from the front of your head and working back. Instead of braiding all the way down, braid just enough so you can wrap the tail of the braid over your head and pin it in place. Then, do the same on the other side, connecting the two. Don’t braid too tightly! A looser braid is easier to pin and looks much more romantic. Pull out a few tendrils around your face and neck to soften the whole look.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s the ultimate statement hairstyle. It’s beautiful, it’s impressive, and it makes you feel like you can conquer the world.
Go Forth and Braid!
So there you have it—ten braid hairstyles that prove you don’t need a professional stylist on speed dial to look incredible. The best part? They’re all waiting for you to play, experiment, and make them your own. So grab some elastics, embrace the flyaways, and get braiding. Your next signature look is literally at your fingertips.
