Okay, real talk—braids are having their main character moment right now. Whether you’re trying to survive humidity season, need a cute gym-proof style, or just want to look effortlessly put-together without actually putting in effort, braids are your new best friend. And I’m not talking about the same boring three-strand braid you learned in third grade. We’re talking texture, volume, and those “wait, you did that yourself?” vibes.
The best part? Most of these braid hairstyles take less time than scrolling through TikTok (though let’s be honest, you’ll probably watch a tutorial on there anyway). From casual coffee-run looks to date-night drama, these 13 braids will have you feeling fresh, flirty, and like you actually have your life together. Spoiler: you don’t need to, the braids just make it look like you do.
1. The Classic Dutch Braid (But Make It Chunky)
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You know those super tight, perfectly uniform braids that look like they require an engineering degree? Yeah, this isn’t that. The chunky Dutch braid is all about loose, lived-in texture that screams “I woke up like this” (even though you definitely didn’t).
Start with slightly textured hair—second-day hair is actually chef’s kiss for this. Braid it backwards (Dutch style, where you cross sections under instead of over) but keep it loose and pull apart the sections as you go. The chunkier, the better. This look works whether you’re running errands in leggings or throwing on a leather jacket for drinks. Plus, it stays put all day without that tight, headache-inducing feeling. Your scalp will thank you.
2. Double French Braids (The Glow-Up Version)
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Remember when double braids were just for gym class? Well, they’ve had a serious glow-up, and now they’re everywhere from music festivals to brunch dates. The trick is making them look intentional, not like you’re about to play soccer.
Part your hair down the middle and French braid each side, but here’s the secret: leave your baby hairs out and let a few face-framing pieces fall loose. This softens the whole look and makes it way more flattering. Tie them off with clear elastics or those tiny black ones that basically disappear. Throw on some hoops and suddenly you’re that girl. IMO, this is the ultimate “I’m cute but low-maintenance” energy ✨
3. The Side Braid with Attitude
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Side braids are criminally underrated. There’s something about sweeping everything to one side that feels romantic and edgy at the same time—like you’re equally ready for a picnic or a concert.
Start by gathering all your hair over one shoulder, then do a loose three-strand or fishtail braid. The key is not making it too tight or perfect. Mess it up a little! Pull some pieces out around your face, maybe let the braid get a bit messy toward the end. Secure it with a scrunchie (yes, they’re back and we’re not mad about it) or a ribbon if you’re feeling extra. This look pairs perfectly with off-the-shoulder tops or anything asymmetrical. Trust me on this one.
4. Fishtail Braid for Days
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Is it even a braid list if we don’t talk about the fishtail? This one looks way more complicated than it actually is, which is exactly why you need it in your rotation. People will think you spent an hour on your hair when really it took like eight minutes.
The fishtail is just two sections instead of three, and you keep pulling tiny pieces from the outside and crossing them over. Sounds confusing, but once you get it, you’ll never forget. Keep it loose and textured—tight fishtails look too pageant-y for everyday wear. Pull it apart as you go down for that thick, voluminous effect. This braid is perfect for literally any occasion: work, dates, lazy Sundays. It’s the little black dress of hairstyles.
5. Crown Braid (AKA The Flower Crown Without the Flowers)
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Want to feel like a woodland fairy or a Scandinavian princess? The crown braid is calling your name. This is basically a braid that wraps around your head like a halo, and yes, it’s as pretty as it sounds.
There are a few ways to do this, but the easiest is two Dutch braids that you pin around your head to create that crown effect. You can also do one continuous braid if you’re feeling ambitious. Either way, the result is ethereal and romantic without being too precious. This works amazingly for weddings, festivals, or just when you want to feel a little fancy on a random Tuesday. Pro tip: Pull the braids apart to make them look fuller and hide any gaps.
6. Bubble Braid Ponytail
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If you thought bubble braids were just for kids, think again. This trend has taken over, and honestly? It’s adorable. Plus, it’s possibly the easiest “braid” on this entire list (I use quotes because technically it’s not even braiding).
Pull your hair into a high or low ponytail, then section it off with clear elastics every few inches down the length. Gently pull each section apart to create those bubble effects. The result is playful, textured, and gives major volume. You can do one bubble braid down the back, or get creative with two or even three. Add some colorful elastics if you’re feeling bold, or keep it sleek with clear ones. Either way, you’ll get compliments. Guaranteed.
7. Boxer Braids (The Athleisure Queen)
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Boxer braids—or tight, sleek double Dutch braids—are for the girl who means business. Whether you’re actually working out, pretending to work out, or just want that clean, polished look, these braids deliver.
The key to making boxer braids look fresh and not too “little kid” is keeping them close to your head and super neat. Use a bit of gel or edge control at your roots to keep things smooth, and braid them tight. These last for days (hello, low-maintenance life) and work with literally everything from sports bras to oversized hoodies. Some people can pull off the super long boxer braids, but if your hair is shorter, they look just as good ending at your shoulders.
8. Waterfall Braid (For When You’re Feeling Fancy)
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Okay, this one requires a tiny bit more effort, but the payoff is worth it. The waterfall braid is basically a French braid where you drop sections as you go, creating this cascading effect that looks insanely romantic.
This works best on longer hair and looks gorgeous for special occasions—weddings, date nights, or when you just want to feel like a princess. The dropped sections create this beautiful, flowy texture that catches the light. You can waterfall braid along the side of your head as a headband-style accent, or create a half-up look with the braid across the back. Fair warning: you might need to watch a tutorial once or twice, but once you get it, you’ll be obsessed.
9. Messy Low Braid
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Sometimes you want a braid that says “I tried, but also I didn’t try that hard.” Enter: the messy low braid. This is peak effortless chic.
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck—don’t worry about making it perfect—and do a loose three-strand braid. Leave out some face-framing pieces, let your texture shine through, and don’t stress if it’s a little uneven. That’s literally the point. Secure it with a hair tie and pull it apart to add volume and that “undone” vibe. This looks incredible with oversized sweaters, denim jackets, or anything cozy. It’s giving main character in a rom-com energy, and I’m here for it.
10. Braided Top Knot
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Can’t decide between a bun and a braid? Why not both? The braided top knot combines the best of both worlds—you get that high-bun chicness with added texture and detail from the braid.
Flip your head over and French or Dutch braid from the nape of your neck up to your crown, then gather everything (including the braid) into a high bun. This keeps all your hair off your face and neck (perfect for summer or workouts), but looks way more interesting than a regular bun. You can make the bun sleek and tight or messy and loose depending on your vibe. Either way, it’s a major upgrade from your standard top knot situation.
11. Pull-Through Braid
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This is the braid for people who can’t actually braid. No, seriously. The pull-through braid looks intricate and complicated but requires zero actual braiding skills.
You’re basically creating a series of ponytails where you pull the top section through the bottom section, over and over. The result looks like a chunky, dimensional braid with insane volume. This works especially well on thinner hair because it creates the illusion of thickness. You can do this as a half-up style or down the entire length of your hair. It’s one of those looks where people will ask how you did it, and you can just smile mysteriously (or send them the tutorial you used, no judgment).
12. Four-Strand Braid (For the Overachievers)
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Alright, if you’ve mastered everything else and want a challenge, the four-strand braid is your next move. Yes, it sounds complicated. Yes, it kind of is. But the texture and dimension you get from that extra strand? Unmatched.
This braid has a woven, almost rope-like appearance that’s super unique. You’ll need to look up the exact technique (it involves a specific over-under pattern), but once you get the rhythm, it’s actually not that bad. The four-strand braid works beautifully as a side braid or down the back. It’s definitely a conversation starter—people will ask about your hair, and you get to casually mention you did it yourself. Humble brag? Maybe. Worth it? Absolutely.
13. Half-Up Braided Crown
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For those days when you want your hair down but also want it out of your face (so, every day?), the half-up braided crown is perfect. This gives you that boho-chic, festival-ready vibe without committing to a full updo.
Take a section of hair from each side of your head and create two small braids. Pull them back and secure them together at the back of your head, creating a crown effect while leaving the rest of your hair flowing. You can cross them over each other, twist them together, or pin them side by side—all options look good. This style works with straight hair, waves, or curls, and adds just enough detail to elevate your whole look. Plus, it keeps your hair from falling in your face during Zoom calls, which is honestly reason enough.
Your Braid Era Starts Now
Look, braids aren’t just a hairstyle—they’re a lifestyle. They’re the answer to bad hair days, hot girl summer, gym sessions, and “I need to look cute in five minutes” emergencies. Whether you’re into the sleek and polished vibe or prefer messy, undone texture, there’s a braid style here with your name on it.
The best part? Once you get the hang of a few basic techniques, you can literally mix and match, experiment, and create your own signature braid styles. So grab some hair ties, maybe watch a tutorial or two (we all do it), and start braiding. Your fresh new look is literally at your fingertips—and it’s way easier than you think. Now go forth and braid like the confident, stylish human you are.
