20 Easy Braided Hairstyles for Daily Wear

According to a 2024 beauty trend study, over 65% of women prioritize practical hairstyles that are still stylish. That’s where braids really shine. They’re protective, adaptable to any hair type—curly, straight, wavy—and, let’s be honest, they look way more complicated than they really are!

So grab your brush, a few elastics, and let’s braid your way to better hair days.

1. Classic Three-Strand Braid

The classic three-strand braid is where it all begins. It’s simple, timeless, and anyone—even complete beginners—can master it in minutes.

This braid works well for all hair textures and lengths, making it one of the most versatile daily hairstyles. Whether your hair is freshly washed or a bit lived-in (hello, day 3 hair), the three-strand braid pulls it all together effortlessly. For a polished look, smooth down flyaways with a little styling cream. Or, for a more relaxed vibe, gently tug at the sides of the braid to make it appear fuller and softer.

It’s perfect for casual days, work meetings, or even running errands. Just part your hair, braid, tie it off, and boom—out the door in five minutes. Budget-friendly, low-maintenance, and cute? Yes, please.

2. French Braid

The French braid is a step up in both elegance and function. It’s a braid that begins at the crown of the head and incorporates more hair as it goes down, keeping everything snug and in place.

This style is fantastic for active days or when you need your hair completely out of your face. Despite looking fancy, once you get the hang of the technique, it becomes second nature. You can do a single braid down the middle, or part your hair and do two for a youthful, symmetrical look.

It’s also a great protective style that minimizes breakage and tangles. Plus, it transitions beautifully into an evening look with a simple twist—add a hair accessory like a clip or ribbon and you’re date-night ready.

3. Dutch Braid

Sometimes referred to as the “inside-out” braid, the Dutch braid creates a raised effect that stands out more than the French braid. It’s perfect for days when you want your hair to look like you really tried—even if you only spent 10 minutes in front of the mirror.

The Dutch braid adds volume and dimension, especially if you have fine or flat hair. It’s also a great way to show off highlights or balayage, as the weave structure catches the light in cool ways.

Try a single Dutch braid for a sleek, sporty look, or do twin braids for that trendy boxer-braid aesthetic. It’s ideal for gym days or when you’re out and about in warmer weather.

4. Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid may look intricate, but it’s actually super simple once you understand the technique. It uses just two sections of hair instead of three, and the end result is a braid with a beautiful, woven pattern.

Fishtails are perfect for long hair, and they can be worn tight and sleek or loose and boho-chic. Either way, they’re one of the trendiest styles on this list, especially for social events or date nights.

A great hack: Try this on second- or third-day hair for better grip and hold. Finish with a bit of texturizing spray to add body and keep it from unraveling.

5. Rope Braid

The rope braid is as easy as twisting two sections of hair around each other—and yes, it holds surprisingly well!

This style is perfect for busy mornings when you want something fast yet stylish. It’s especially great for straight hair that tends to slip out of regular braids. Rope braids work well in ponytails or buns too, giving a bit of texture and flair to otherwise basic styles.

Plus, it’s one of the quickest braids to master. Two minutes, one tie, done. What’s not to love?

6. Side Braid

A side braid is both romantic and relaxed. It pulls the hair over one shoulder and frames the face beautifully, making it an excellent choice for casual brunches, outdoor strolls, or even a Zoom call.

You can go with a basic three-strand, a fishtail, or even a rope braid on the side. To elevate the look, leave a few face-framing strands loose or add a soft curl for extra texture.

This style works especially well on medium to long hair and can easily be pinned up later for a quick braided bun.

7. Crown Braid

Want a style that looks like it took effort but really didn’t? The crown braid is your go-to. It’s essentially a braid wrapped around your head like a halo, and it’s both practical and chic.

Perfect for hot or humid days, the crown braid keeps all your hair off your neck and out of your face. It’s also a beautiful option for more formal occasions like weddings, showers, or parties.

You can use a Dutch or French braid for this look. Start at one side of your head and braid around the crown, pinning as you go. Add a spritz of setting spray, and you’re golden.

8. Waterfall Braid

The waterfall braid is stunning—and not as hard as it looks! It’s a partial braid that lets sections of hair “fall” through, creating a cascading effect that’s perfect for layered or textured hair.

This style adds movement and works great as a half-up hairstyle. It’s ideal for days when you want your hair down but still want some structure and flair.

Pair it with waves for a bohemian touch, or keep it sleek for a more polished vibe. It’s one of those styles that turns heads and earns compliments without trying too hard.

9. Boxer Braids

Boxer braids—aka two Dutch braids—are edgy, sporty, and incredibly functional. They’re perfect for workouts, hiking, or long days when you need your hair to stay exactly where you put it.

While they take a bit more time to braid tightly, the payoff is a long-lasting style that doesn’t budge. And yes, they look cool. Like, “I’ve got my life together” cool.

You can dress them up or down. Add rings or beads for a statement look, or leave them bare for simplicity.

10. Milkmaid Braid

This sweet, vintage-inspired look has made a serious comeback—and we are here for it! The milkmaid braid is created by braiding two pigtails and pinning them across the top of the head.

It’s feminine, graceful, and surprisingly secure. Ideal for weddings, baby showers, or just when you feel like switching things up.

Use bobby pins that match your hair color for a seamless finish. And don’t forget a bit of texturizing spray to give your hair some grip before braiding.

11. Pull-Through Braid

If braiding intimidates you, the pull-through braid is a great hack. It uses multiple ponytails “pulled through” each other to mimic the look of a full, voluminous braid.

This style is perfect for thin or fine hair because it creates the illusion of more volume. It’s also super secure and won’t unravel like traditional braids sometimes can.

Try it as a ponytail braid or wrap it into a bun for a chic twist.

12. Infinity Braid

The infinity braid is a head-turner. Named for its continuous loop-like structure, it looks complex but is achievable with practice.

It’s great for those days when you want to impress without a salon trip. Pair it with a ponytail or use it as a side accent to spice up a basic style.

This braid stands out best on medium to long hair and holds beautifully with the right product.

13. Ladder Braid

The ladder braid is all about detail. It combines two braids that weave in and out of each other like rungs on a ladder.

While it’s more advanced, it’s also incredibly eye-catching. Ideal for events, photoshoots, or days when you want something extra.

Be sure to start with detangled, smooth hair. Practice the technique on a friend or mannequin if you’re new to it.

14. Double Dutch Braids

Similar to boxer braids but with a bit more versatility, double Dutch braids offer a symmetrical, youthful style that stays put all day.

Great for school, work, or outdoor adventures, this look can be made sleek or messy depending on your preference.

You can also wrap the ends into buns for a fun twist on the classic space bun look.

15. Bubble Braid

The bubble braid is possibly the easiest on this list—no braiding required! Just tie sections of a ponytail with elastics and gently pull at each section to create “bubbles.”

This playful style is ideal for kids and adults alike. It’s quick, trendy, and works especially well on long hair.

For extra flair, use colored elastics or ribbons between the bubbles.

16. Boho Braids

Boho braids are all about that carefree, beachy vibe. Think loose, random braids mixed with waves and maybe a flower crown or two.

There are no rules here—just go with the flow. You can braid small sections throughout your hair or do one larger side braid.

Perfect for festivals, summer outings, or when you want a laid-back yet stylish look.

17. Braided Ponytail

This is your classic ponytail—leveled up. Add a braid down the center or side of your ponytail to give it a modern twist.

It’s a great way to recycle a gym ponytail into something more polished for the rest of the day.

Works well with all braid types: French, Dutch, fishtail, or rope.

18. Zipper Braid

The zipper braid is a statement piece—definitely one of the more advanced looks, but totally worth the effort.

It creates a crisscross effect that’s super unique and perfect for events or Instagram-worthy moments.

It works best with longer hair and some patience, but once it’s done, it’s locked in and gorgeous.

19. Halo Braid

Like the crown braid, the halo braid circles the head, but it’s often softer and looser. It’s elegant and ideal for weddings, parties, or formal gatherings.

It keeps the hair tucked in neatly and showcases your face beautifully. Add floral pins for an extra glam touch.

20. Half-Up Braided Style

Can’t decide between leaving your hair down or putting it up? The half-up braid is your happy medium.

Braid a few small sections from the front and pin them at the back for a pretty, balanced style. Works with curls, waves, or straight hair.

It’s quick, practical, and perfect for casual or semi-formal days.

Conclusion

Whether you’re running errands, heading to work, or planning your next brunch outfit, these 20 easy braided hairstyles have you covered. They’re budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and most importantly—beautiful. From timeless classics to modern trends, braids are the kind of everyday magic that can completely change your look without changing your whole morning routine.

Remember, healthy hair makes for better braids! So don’t forget to nourish those strands with good products, avoid tight pulls, and give your hair some TLC. Try a new braid each week, and discover which ones become your new staples.