12 Beginner-Friendly Braided Hairstyles for Special Days

No need for a personal stylist or pricey salon visits. These styles are totally DIY-friendly, even for first-timers. From classic to trendy, each look is designed to help you feel confident and beautiful on your big day (or any day that needs a little sparkle.

Let’s get braiding!

1. Classic Three-Strand Braid

Ah, the humble three-strand braid — the building block of all braided hairstyles. It’s likely the first braid you ever learned and for good reason: it’s super easy and endlessly versatile.

To create this look, divide your hair into three equal parts, cross the right over the middle, then the left over the new middle, and repeat. That’s it! The simplicity of this braid makes it perfect for everything from family gatherings to casual weddings. It’s also ideal for all hair types and lengths, though medium to long hair works best.

For a more polished finish, smooth flyaways with a bit of hair serum. Want a romantic twist? Loosen the braid slightly to create a fuller, softer appearance. Add a satin ribbon or delicate clip for instant glam.

This braid may be basic, but its charm is in its simplicity. If you’re new to braiding, this is your best starting point!

2. French Braid

The French braid is a step up in style but still beginner-friendly. It’s sleek, secure, and elegant — ideal for dinners, date nights, or even formal events like school dances or work functions.

Start by sectioning off the top portion of your hair. As you braid, add a small piece of hair from each side before crossing over the middle. Continue down to the nape of your neck, then finish with a traditional three-strand braid.

It may take a few tries to master the technique, but once you get it down, this style becomes second nature. You can do a tight, clean version for a more formal feel or a relaxed one for a laid-back, boho vibe.

Pair this braid with statement earrings or a bold lip and you’ve got yourself a stylish, low-maintenance look.

3. Dutch Braid (Inside-Out Braid)

Want a braid that pops? The Dutch braid — also known as the inside-out braid — sits on top of your hair, adding volume and definition. It’s an eye-catching option for events like outdoor picnics, baby showers, or even casual bridal parties.

The technique is similar to a French braid, but instead of crossing the strands over the middle, you cross them under. This inversion creates that signature raised effect.

Dutch braids are fantastic for adding dimension, especially if you have highlighted or balayage hair. They also stay put all day, which makes them great for dancing the night away without worrying about touch-ups.

If you’re feeling playful, try double Dutch braids or merge them into a bun at the base of your neck. You’ll look polished and playful — no professional needed!

4. Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is delicate, boho, and deceptively easy once you get the hang of it. This look works beautifully for beach parties, music festivals, or any casual celebration where you want to feel effortlessly chic.

Split your hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of the right section and cross it to the inside of the left. Repeat on the opposite side. Continue this pattern all the way down.

It’s a little more time-consuming than a classic braid but totally worth it. Loosen the braid by gently pulling on the edges — it gives you that voluminous, relaxed finish that screams “Pinterest-worthy.”

Pair it with waves, floral clips, or even a sunhat for full-on goddess vibes.

5. Crown Braid

If you’re dreaming of fairy-tale beauty, the crown braid is your answer. This elegant style wraps around your head like a halo, giving off vintage and regal energy — perfect for prom, engagement photos, or themed parties.

To do it, part your hair in the middle and create two Dutch or French braids starting behind each ear. Cross them over the top of your head and pin them into place. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect — a few wisps and waves make the look even more magical.

This style works especially well on longer hair, but medium lengths can pull it off too. Add some baby’s breath flowers or tiny pearls for that whimsical finish.

It’s one of those hairstyles that makes you feel like royalty — even if you’re just heading to brunch.

6. Side Braid with Curls

A side braid with curls blends structure and softness — the best of both worlds. It’s perfect for romantic dates, holiday dinners, or any special night out.

Start by curling your hair loosely with a wand or flat iron. Then sweep it all to one side and do a relaxed braid from the nape down. Secure with a clear elastic and let the curls cascade.

The result is feminine and flirty without trying too hard. You can even wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic to hide it and give a salon-quality touch.

This hairstyle is flattering on almost everyone and doesn’t take much effort — just a little prep and a lot of charm.

7. Half-Up Braided Bun

This one’s a total crowd-pleaser. The half-up braided bun keeps hair off your face while still showing off your length. It’s perfect for concerts, festivals, or daytime celebrations where you want to look cute but stay cool.

Take a small section from the crown of your head, braid it, and twist it into a bun. Leave the rest of your hair down — straight, curled, or wavy, whatever feels most “you.”

You can also experiment with multiple tiny braids feeding into the bun for added flair. This style looks awesome on layered cuts and works with all hair types.

Add a velvet scrunchie or mini claw clip to dress it up — super trendy and super budget-friendly.

 

8. Waterfall Braid

The waterfall braid is as dreamy as its name suggests. With pieces of hair “falling” through the braid like a cascade, this look is a favorite for formal photos, dances, and special dinners.

Start a French braid at one side of your head. After each crossover, drop one strand and pick up a new one underneath. This creates that flowing effect that’s both intricate and ethereal.

While it looks advanced, it’s actually pretty easy after one or two tries. Waterfall braids work best on straight or softly curled hair and look stunning on highlighted or ombré shades.

Finish with a light spritz of shine spray, and you’ll feel like you stepped out of a fairytale.

 

9. Pull-Through Braid

If traditional braiding feels tricky, the pull-through braid is your cheat code. It looks elaborate but is actually made from a series of ponytails.

Tie your hair into two stacked ponytails. Split the top one and wrap it around the second. Secure and repeat until you reach the ends. It’s essentially a faux braid — no crossing required.

This style is ideal for thicker hair and gives loads of volume. It’s a showstopper at events like parties, banquets, or even baby showers.

Dress it up with metallic ties or braided elastics. Trust me — people will think you spent hours on it.

10. Braided Ponytail

This one is all about blending function with flair. A braided ponytail is perfect when you want something fuss-free yet still fashionable.

Start with a high, mid, or low ponytail — your choice. Braid the length, secure the end, and wrap a strand around the elastic for a polished look.

It’s a great choice for hot days or dancing the night away. You stay cool, and your hair stays stylish. Win-win!

You can go with a simple three-strand braid or try a fishtail or rope braid for variation. Add some sparkly pins or clips to match your outfit and elevate the look instantly.

11. Rope Braid (Twist Braid)

The rope braid is as simple as it gets — just two sections twisted together — but the results are sleek and modern. This is your go-to for mornings when you’re running late but still want to look like you tried.

Divide your hair into two sections, twist both clockwise, then twist them together counterclockwise. Secure with a tie and you’re done!

It’s quick, clean, and surprisingly chic. Works well for both long and medium hair, and it holds better than you might expect with a bit of hairspray.

Perfect for interviews, daytime outings, or just when your hair needs a stylish refresh.

12. Double Braids (Pigtail Style)

Last but not least, double braids are playful, nostalgic, and totally back in style. They’re not just for schoolkids anymore!

Part your hair down the middle and create a braid on each side. You can go with classic, Dutch, or fishtail styles depending on your mood.

These braids are great for active days — think hiking, amusement parks, or sports games. But they can also be dressed up with bows, scrunchies, or sparkly clips for an adorable special-event look.

They’re flattering, easy, and keep your hair totally tangle-free.

Conclusion

And there you have it — 12 beginner-friendly braided hairstyles to make every special occasion feel a little more magical. Whether you’re prepping for a birthday brunch, your best friend’s wedding, or just want to level up your look on a regular Tuesday, there’s a braid here for you.

These styles are gorgeous, practical, and budget-friendly. No need to splurge on salon visits when you can DIY these looks at home with just a brush, a few elastics, and maybe a little hairspray. From the elegant French braid to the trendy pull-through, there’s a perfect braid for your hair type, length, and personal style.

So go ahead — pick one, try it out, and let your hair do the talking.