31 Chic Braided Hairstyles You'll Want To Wear Every Day
If you're looking for a fashionable hairstyle to elevate your hair game, you can't go wrong with a braided coif. From the classic French braid to intricate feed-in braids, chic braided hairstyles have stood the test of time. And today, braids are having a major moment. Not only is the style stunning, but they ease the burden of people with textured, natural, or unmanageable hair while also carrying cultural significance in many cultures. Traditional styles have evolved alongside new techniques, allowing wearers the chance to express their personality and individuality with every versatile style.
Braids in all of their forms add a touch of sophistication or whimsy to any outfit, any time of year. However, they are also an awesome protective hairstyle with numerous benefits for your overall hair health. Braiding your hair helps avoid hair breakage, prevent frizziness, and protect against sun and pollution damage that causes split ends (via HealthShots). Wearing braids prevents constant detangling and protects the scalp by tucking the ends away, promoting hair growth and maintaining proper hair moisture. Many styles, such as the chic braided styles below, are also easy to do at home with a little patience and practice.
French braids
French braids are a classic hairstyle that looks as great for running errands as it does for a night out. They can be worn in a single braid or pigtails and are suitable for various textures. After detangling your hair, separate the hair into three sections at the top of the head. Begin braiding the hair, adding new hair into each section as you move down the scalp.
Knotless braids
Knotless braids are a comfortable, natural-looking alternative to box braids. The style requires braiding around an inch of natural hair at the root before feeding in synthetic extensions, relieving tension on the scalp. The result is flat, smooth, and lightweight braids that are easy to care for and maintain.
Feed-in braids with beaded ends
Feed-in braids create thick, natural-looking cornrows by weaving in natural hair with synthetic hair. Similar to knotless braids, the look reduces strain on the scalp and hairline while allowing for the creation of intricate styles. Beads at the end of each braid are a beautiful and elegant way to give this style a dose of your personality.
Dutch braided space buns
Can't decide between a Dutch braid or ultra-cute space buns? Try combining them! To accomplish this party-perfect look, create a center part. You can create the braid on top or below the buns. Braid three sections of hair under the middle strand to create a 3D look on each side of the part. Continue braiding until you reach the top of the head, and pin the remaining ends into sleek or messy buns to finish the look.
Braided ponytail
Few styles are as effortlessly chic as a braided ponytail. Simply pull your hair into a ponytail (high or low) and secure it with a hair band before braiding it into a simple plait. Embellishing with a bow, ribbon, or bedazzled hairpiece can take a look from day to night, too.
Crown braid
Boho babes should give the crown braid a try. It's a chic style that involves French or Dutch braiding the hair around the head, situating it above the forehead in a crown-like shape. This braid requires a hefty dose of patience to get right. However, once you do, it will be your go-to style for weddings, date nights, and even yoga classes.
Goddess braids
The soft, romantic vibe of goddess braids is perfect for the modern woman who wants a protective, low-maintenance style. The long, thin, and rope-like braids are commonly braided into large cornrows at the scalp and free at the ends. Their beautiful length allows for versatile styling, especially for women with coarser hair.
Box braids with curls
For a chic, regal alternative to the traditional box braid, consider curling the ends. Curly box braids are rapidly growing in popularity, adding visual interest and versatility to the classic braided style. Due to the heat required for curling, the style only works with natural box braids. However, the result is a beautifully modern braided hairstyle sure to turn heads everywhere you go.
Loose French braids with open ends
If you're burnt out on the classic French braid, this relaxed, romantic version is sure to up your hairstyle game. It can be worn in a single plait or loose pigtails, depending on your preference. Simply French braid your hair down your head as normal, tying them closed at the nape of your neck. Keep the braids loose as you go, or pull on the plait to create a more voluminous look. Keep your ends natural, or give them a curl for a night out.
Fishtail braid
Despite their intricate appearance, fishtail braids are an easy braided hairstyle that can be thrown together in a matter of minutes. Simply divide your hair into two sections, bringing a strand from the outside of each section and adding it to the opposite section. This chic braided hairstyle looks amazing as a side braid or in a single plait hanging down your back
Braided Bantu knots
Braided Bantu knots have been a powerful and stylish hairdo for more than 2000 years (via Nappy by Natural). Originating with the Zulu tribes of South and West Africa, the simple twists are a protective hairstyle that can be worn by people with natural, relaxed, and styled hair. The symbolic knots are normally created by twisting the hair, but styling them with long braids is a great way to introduce fun and sophistication into your look.
Pigtail braids
While pigtail braids often bring to mind "Anne of Green Gables" or Laura Ingalls vibes, the classic braided hairstyle can be as chic, intricate, or romantic as you'd like. Keep the braids tight and close to the scalp to keep it high-fashion. For a more boho-chic look, style the hair into two Dutch braids, pulling the plaits apart for a loose, fuller braid once you've tied the ends closed.
Triple-braided updo
The triple-braided updo is a gorgeous style for summer weddings. Section your hair into three low ponytails, braiding each individually. Pull the plaits apart until they have a flat appearance, then wrap them around the base of your head, crisscrossing the individual braids before pinning them in place.
Braided side-bun
A braided side bun is as chic as it gets, especially when combined with an accent braid wrapped around the side of the head. Start with French or Dutch braiding on the opposite side, curving around the head at the nape of the neck. Wrap the tail of the braid in a roll towards the neck until a bun forms behind the ear. The final look is perfect for dressy occasions like prom, homecoming, or weddings.
Long bob with braids
Long braided bobs are a modern hairstyle popular for their chic look and minimal upkeep. Whether you're working with an A-line or asymmetrical cut, the long bob with braids is a surprisingly versatile style. You can opt for feed-in or regular braids, colors, or accessories to give the look your own spin.
Crochet box braids
Crochet box braids are popular for their endless versatility and their ultra-modern look. They are an excellent way to add extensions to natural hair or cornrows and require minimal upkeep. It takes about three hours to complete this style, as each synthetic braid needs to be attached via a crochet latch hook. However, the final look is stunning.
Mini rope braids
Mini rope braids are an easy hairstyle for anyone who isn't skilled enough to create classic braids neatly. To achieve the rope braids, start by dividing a section of your hair into two equal parts. Take the first section and twist it tightly in one direction until it feels secure. Repeat the same process with the second section. Now take the twisted sections and wrap them around each other, going in the opposite direction. Keep twisting until you reach the ends, and secure with a hair tie for a fun and rope-like effect!
Faux braid ponytail
If you're looking for a way to elevate your hairstyle game with minimal effort, a faux braid ponytail is the perfect choice! This hairstyle gives off the illusion of an intricate braid, while in reality, it's a simple look that anyone can master. To create it, take the hair close to your face and begin twisting it tightly from the roots all the way to the back of your head, adding more and more hair along the way. Repeat the same process with the other side, and then gather all your hair into a classic ponytail at the back.
Face-framing bejeweled braids
If you want to elevate your updo, bejeweled braids are the perfect choice. By turning the classic '90s baby strands into three-strand braids and embellishing them with hair beads or jewelry, you can create an intricate look without spending hours in front of the mirror. These braids not only add visual interest to your hairstyle but also draw attention to your face, framing it perfectly.
A scarf braid
Want to spice up your regular braid without learning a new technique? The scarf braid is here to save the day. All you need is a scarf to add a stunning twist to your classic three-way braid. To create it, start by tying your hair into a regular ponytail. Choose a scarf that complements your outfit and tie it around the base of the ponytail, making sure it's secure. Next, take the two loose ends of the scarf and incorporate them into your hair. Divide the combined hair and scarf into three equal sections and braid them as usual. Hair accessories are trending, and a scarf is an easy way to explore it.
Braided headband
A braided headband is an effortless way to add a dash of bohemian charm to your hairstyle. To create this look, take a small section of hair near your ear and begin braiding it tightly, moving it toward the opposite side of your head. Secure the braid with a bobby pin, tucking it behind your ear. If you want to make the look even more intricate, repeat the same process on the other side, and you'll end up with two braids creating a stunning headband.
Bubble braid ponytail
Get ready to take your ponytail game to the next level with a whimsical bubble braid. To create it, start by gathering your hair into a high or low ponytail and securing it with an elastic band. Then, take another elastic band and wrap it about an inch below, creating a "bubble" effect. Repeat this step several times, spacing out the elastic bands evenly. The result? A chic and trendy ponytail that's ready to turn heads wherever you go.
Colorful braids
Looking to add a pop of color to your hairstyle without the commitment of dyeing your hair? Colorful braids have got your back. Adding vibrant strands to your braids is an easy way to experiment with fun colors. Whether you choose neon hues, pastel shades, or even a rainbow-inspired palette, colorful braids allow you to have fun with your style. Simply weave the colorful strands into your braids alongside your natural hair — and once you're done with the style, you can easily remove the colorful strands and return to your natural hair color.
A waterfall braid
A waterfall braid requires some practice, but the enchanting end result is worth the hassle. Begin by sectioning off a small strand of hair near your temple. Divide it into three strands like you would for a regular braid. Begin braiding by crossing the top strand over the middle, then the bottom strand over the new middle strand. Now, here comes the magical part: Instead of crossing the top strand over, let it fall down like a waterfall and grab a new strand of hair to replace it. Repeat these steps until you reach the desired length of the braid, and then secure it with an elastic band or bobby pins.
Simple braided updo
When you're in a hurry but still want a fun braided hairstyle, creating an updo with a braid is the perfect solution. It's quick, easy, and adds a bit of extra drama to your look. You can let the braid lay flat against your scalp and secure it in place with bobby pins, or you can twist it into a fun bun — the options are endless.
Baby braids
If you want to channel major '90s vibes, baby braids are the perfect option. These face-framing braids are the stunning summer braid look you're going to want to emulate immediately. Simply create two thin braids on either side of your face, starting from the hairline and weaving them down towards the ends. These delicate braids add a touch of youthfulness and playfulness to your look while also framing your face and enhancing your features.
Loose side braid
While tight and intricate braids have their charm, they often require time and practice to master. That's where the messy side braid comes in. This carefree hairstyle exudes a relaxed, undone vibe that perfectly complements a bohemian aesthetic. The beauty of a messy side braid is that it can be created without a mirror, making it a quick, picture-perfect hairstyle when you're in a pinch. Simply gather your hair to one side, loosely braid it, and secure it with an elastic band — and now you're ready to channel your inner bohemian goddess!
Mohawk braid
This unique hairstyle combines the classic mohawk style with the artistry of braiding, resulting in a head-turning and confident statement. To create it, braid your hair into a tight Dutch braid, and then simply pull on the top strands to create the mohawk effect. With a hairstyle like this, you're ready to unleash your inner rockstar.
Rope accent braids
Add a fun twist to your hairstyle by adding two rope braids created with face-framing pieces of hair. Whether you choose to leave the rest of your hair down for a flowing and romantic look or put it up into a fun updo for a more polished style, the rope accent braids are sure to make a statement. These braids can be easily created by twisting two sections of hair in one direction and then wrapping them around each other in the opposite direction.
Looped braids
Looped braids are a fun and easy way to level up your hairstyle game. To create this funky look, start by tying your hair into two low pigtails. Braid each pigtail tightly all the way to the ends. Once your braids are complete, take one braid and loop it up towards the base of the pigtail, securing it with an elastic. Repeat the same step with the other braid, and voilà — you have a funky and unique hairstyle that took less than five minutes to create.
Double braided ponytail
This chic hairstyle adds an unexpected twist to your traditional ponytail, creating a look that's both playful and sophisticated. To create it, first, take a section of hair from the top of your head and braid it tightly, allowing it to lay flat against one side of your head. Next, grab another section of hair from behind the first braid and repeat the process, creating a second braid that also lays flat against the same side of your head. Once both braids are complete, gather your hair and the braids into a low ponytail, ensuring that the two braids are neatly positioned against one side of your head.