Did you know that braided hairstyles are among the oldest in the world? In fact, this styling technique was first documented in 3500 BCE. Across different cultures and eras, braids have held unique meanings and symbolism.
Even Cleopatra, a renowned historical figure, incorporated braids to enhance her beauty. During her time, braided hair was considered a symbol of elegance and prosperity.
In Africa, the style of braiding could even signify an individual’s social standing within the community.
Let’s not forget the women of medieval Europe, who were often required to wear their hair braided when leaving their homes. Similarly, Native American tribes were also known for their distinctive braided hairstyles, worn by both men and women.
So, if you thought braided hairstyles were limited, this article will unveil a diverse range of braiding techniques you can explore, from classic braids to French braids, Dutch braids, and even crown braids!
Don’t hesitate to experiment and discover your perfect braided look!
1. Three-Strand Braid (Classic Braid).
The three-strand braid is the foundational technique for virtually all braided hairstyles globally. As the name suggests, you divide your hair into three sections and interlace them by crossing the left strand over the middle, then the right strand over the middle, alternating until you reach the ends.
2. Two-Strand Braid.
Braiding doesn’t always require three strands; you can achieve a beautiful braid with just two. To create this style, gather your hair into a high ponytail and divide it into two equal sections.
Begin by securing your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head with a firm elastic.
Divide the ponytail into two equal sections. Create a small opening in the left section with your index finger, then take the right section and pull it through the opening. Repeat this process down the length of the hair. Once complete, secure the braid with a clear elastic.
Gently loosen the braid by pulling on the outer edges to create a fuller, wider appearance.
This braided ponytail style is an equally stunning option. Your long hair will appear thicker and more voluminous when braided this way. It’s not only ideal for athletic activities but also perfect for casual outings with friends.
3. French Braid.
The French braid is a timeless classic that remains incredibly relevant today. Alongside the Dutch braid, this braiding variation is believed to have originated from the country that popularized it.
While it may appear intricate, this braiding technique is surprisingly straightforward. It’s similar to the three-strand braid, but you incorporate small sections of hair from the sides with each new interlacing step. For a visual guide, check out this tutorial video.
4. French Braid Half-Updo.
It’s time to debunk the myth that shorter hair limits styling possibilities. Hair length should never be a barrier to creative expression.
Consider trying this variation of the French braid. This modern braided style is perfect for those with shoulder-length hair.
5. French Braid Ponytail.
This style is quite similar to the previously mentioned braided looks. You can gather all the remaining hair to form a ponytail.
Instead of braiding from the nape of the neck, you can opt for this style with braids incorporated at the top and sides of the head. These smaller braids are then gathered into a high ponytail.
6. French Braid Bun.
Want to elevate your bun? Try this braided style. Utilize the French braid technique at the front of your head. Gather all the hair into a bun. This style is also practical for managing hair that’s an awkward in-between length. It’s effortlessly chic!
7. Dutch Braid.
Similar to the French braid, the Dutch braid technique involves interlacing hair from underneath. This simple braiding style results in a braid that appears raised on the outside, unlike the French braid which is integrated within the hair.
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8. Fishtail Braid.
As the name suggests, the fishtail braid is a modern style that resembles a fish’s tail. Despite its intricate appearance, braiding long hair in this manner is not difficult.
You can also combine a French braid with a fishtail braid if your hair is long enough. This fusion of two braiding styles creates a more delicate and captivating look.
9. Double Fishtail Braids.
Double fishtail braids are ideal for those who frequent the gym, enjoy jogging, or engage in daily exercise. The dense texture of these two braids keeps long hair neatly in place during movement.
Take a small section of hair from the outer edge and cross it inward, between the two larger sections of hair.
Combine this small section of hair with the hair on the right side.
From the right side, take a portion of hair and cross it to the other side. Repeat this process until all the hair is braided.
10. Rope Braid.
The rope braid offers a polished and fresh aesthetic, making it suitable for active individuals. This braiding style is also a great choice for staying cool and comfortable during outdoor activities! Learn how to create it in this rope braid tutorial.
11. Bubble Braid Half-Updo.
Familiar with the popular bubble ponytail? The bubble braid is remarkably easy to create. The technique is very similar to the two-strand braid. To achieve the puffed-out effect of the strands, secure them with elastics at regular intervals as you form each section.
12. Crown Braid.
As the name implies, this braided hairstyle encircles the head like a crown. For this braided updo to be truly stunning and romantic, your hair should be at least medium length, extending past your shoulders.
13. Milkmaid Braid.
Although they appear similar, the crown braid and milkmaid braid are distinct. Even when using the same braiding technique, the difference lies in the placement of the braided loops.
In a crown braid, the braids are positioned more towards the front, with the loops resting on top (resembling a crown). In a milkmaid braid, the braided loops are situated lower.
You can opt for a simple braid or a layered braid if you have long hair and desire a more vintage aesthetic.
14. Milkmaid Braid with Scarf.
Who would have thought that a milkmaid braid could be enhanced with a playful scarf accent?
15. Halo Braid.
We have the crown braid, the milkmaid braid, and now the halo braid! The primary distinction between these three braided styles lies in the braiding technique employed. The crown braid and milkmaid braid typically utilize the French braid technique.
The halo braid, however, employs the Dutch braid technique. This is done to create a more prominent braid that forms a halo-like circle, reminiscent of an angel’s.
A halo braid can give you an ethereal, Greek goddess-inspired look. When combined with a bun, this hairstyle offers an elegant alternative to a teased updo!
16. Headband Braid (Braid as Headband).
For a simple, polished look that keeps stray hairs away from your face, consider this long braided hairstyle. As the name suggests, the braid functions as a headband, holding your hair back. You can learn how to create a braided headband in this video.
You can fashion a braided headband from hair parted in the middle or to the side. A side-parted braided headband keeps your bangs neat without the need for additional headbands or clips.
A charming accent that doubles as a headband. (Photo: Verity Jane Smith)
Want a braided accent without a full braid? Try this style. (Photo: iStock by Getty Images)
Take inspiration from the crown braid! Utilize its signature circular pattern to create a small braid. This women’s braided hairstyle can be combined with a bun. It’s a great option for those with medium-length hair.
17. Waterfall Braid.
This braid is named the waterfall braid because its result resembles a cascading waterfall. Amidst the braids encircling the head, some strands of hair appear to “fall through” the braid.
The waterfall braid is suitable for both long and short hair. Gently curl the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair to achieve a more textured effect. This braiding style is simple yet adds a distinctive touch to your hair.
18. Cornrow.
Cornrows are a style of small braids that lie very close to the scalp. They are named cornrows due to their appearance, which resembles neat, symmetrical rows of corn plants in a field. Sometimes, this braiding style is also referred to as banana braids or glued braids.
Cornrows are more akin to Dutch braids than French braids, as the finished braid appears raised. The difference is that when creating a Dutch braid, we slightly pull the hair to prevent the braid from lying too flat against the scalp. With cornrows, the opposite is true; the braid is kept as close to the scalp as possible, making the scalp clearly visible.
19. Boxer Braid.
Many people associate this braiding technique with female boxers, hence the name “boxer braid.” However, this is essentially a variation of the cornrow style. Another variation involves using just two braided strands.
You can try this style using the French braid technique, resulting in a more “submerged” braid. Differentiate it from Khloe’s boxer braid style here.
This variation of cornrow utilizes the Dutch braid technique, resulting in a more prominent braid. Can you see the difference?
20. Inverted Braid.
Does the idea of creating so many braids make you feel apprehensive, perhaps seeming too difficult? Don’t worry; you can watch the tutorial for this style in this video!
21. Shoelace Braid.
As the name suggests, the shoelace braid is created by mimicking the action of tying shoelaces. It’s perfect for active individuals who still want to maintain a feminine and chic appearance during their activities. This method of braiding long hair is also quite simple to execute.
- Part your hair and take a small section from the front, then divide it into two equal parts.
- Knot these two sections together as if tying shoelaces.
- Add new hair to both strands and tie them together again in a knot.
- Repeat this step until you reach the ear area, then secure with bobby pins.
- Perform the same steps on the other side of your part.
22. Slide-Up Braid.
Have long hair but don’t want to braid it entirely? You can try this modern braided hairstyle using a four-strand braiding technique. It’s incredibly easy to create; just follow along in this modern braid tutorial article!
23. Baby Braid.
This braiding trend gained popularity after being seen on numerous celebrities. Baby braids are small braids incorporated into the front sections of hair. The resulting braids frame the face beautifully.
You can opt for thicker or thinner sections of hair. They can also be used to style bangs!
24. Ribbon Braid.
You can also achieve a fun and playful look with this ribbon side braid variation. It’s incredibly easy to create, as you simply weave a ribbon through each strand. This style is achievable even with short hair.
25. Braided and Twisted Low Ponytail.
This braided hairstyle is a combination of a classic braid and a twisted ponytail. The final result is quite impressive, isn’t it?
To ensure the ends of your hair appear soft and bouncy, always use conditioner after shampooing.
26. Side Braid.
One of the equally cool braided styles is the side braid. This style is perfect for those who are new to braiding, as you can easily see the process in a mirror.
27. Side Cornrow.
Side cornrows give your look a fresh vibe!
This side cornrow style is also fantastic for those with short hair. Learn how to create it in our dedicated tutorial article!
28. Side French Braid.
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Besides making you look cute, side braids give your hair a break from heat-styling tools.
29. Side Twisted Braid.
Side braids for short hair? That’s cool too!
Who says short hair can’t be braided? Try this twisted side braid style if you’re a fitness enthusiast.
30. Side Three-Strand Braid.
You can achieve a modern and elegant look simultaneously with this simple braided hairstyle.
This style is suitable for those with medium-length hair. It’s a combination of a side braid and a bun.
Braided Bangs.
Braiding your bangs can also be an option if you’re looking to experiment with various braided hairstyles.
31. Ponytail Halo Braid.
A halo braid combined with a ponytail creates a more graceful appearance.
This style is a fusion of a halo braid and a ponytail. It’s perfect for a glamorous look.
32. Dutch Braid on Bangs.
Even short hair can be styled with this braided look.
If your bangs are getting too long and bothersome, try a modern braided style!
33. Braided Bun.
Braided hair transformed into a beautiful bun is surprisingly elegant!
You can try this modern bun style, featuring braided hair like that of a beautiful actress, for your friend’s wedding!
Among all the braided hairstyles listed above, which one are you eager to try?
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