30 Stylish Braided Hairstyles to Try at Home

Whether you’re dealing with frizz, greasy roots, or just want to change up your routine, braids offer a fresh solution. They’re also one of the best protective hairstyles, helping to keep your hair healthy and tangle-free. And let’s be honest—braids just look cool.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through 30 stylish braided hairstyles you can try at home, regardless of your skill level or hair type. So grab your favorite hairbrush and let’s get braiding!

1. Classic Three-Strand Braid

The three-strand braid is where it all begins. It’s simple, fast, and you’ve probably been doing it since childhood. This style is ideal for rushed mornings, lazy evenings, or whenever you just want your hair out of the way without sacrificing style.

What makes this braid so versatile is that it works for any length—short, medium, or long. It also looks great worn down your back, to the side, or as a braided ponytail. You can dress it up by pancaking (gently tugging the loops) for extra volume.

To get started, divide your hair into three equal sections. Cross one side over the middle, then the other side, repeating until you reach the ends. Secure it with an elastic or ribbon, and boom—you’re good to go. Add a spritz of hairspray for hold, or tuck it under a bun for an elegant twist.

2. French Braid

The French braid is a beautiful step up from the classic braid. It pulls in hair from the sides as you go, creating a sleek, woven look that hugs the scalp. This braid is perfect for workouts, meetings, or second-day hair—seriously, it makes greasy roots look chic.

To do a French braid, start with a small section of hair at the crown. Divide it into three parts and begin a standard braid. As you continue, add hair from both sides into each strand before crossing. It takes practice, but once you’ve got it down, it’s a breeze.

You can wear a single French braid down the back or go for two side braids (like boxer braids). They’re excellent for keeping your hair in place all day, and they look fantastic whether your hair is curly, straight, or wavy.

3. Dutch Braid

Also known as the “inside-out” braid, the Dutch braid adds a three-dimensional look that pops off the scalp. It’s essentially the opposite of the French braid—you cross strands under instead of over. This creates more volume and texture, making it a favorite for casual and sporty styles alike.

Dutch braids are amazing for thick or textured hair, but they also add serious lift to finer locks. They’re ideal for all-day wear and stay intact through busy days, gym sessions, or outdoor adventures.

Try a single Dutch braid or a trendy double version. Want to level up? Wrap two Dutch braids into a bun for an elevated look that’s effortlessly glam.

4. Fishtail Braid

Fishtail braids look incredibly detailed—but surprise! They’re easier than you’d think. Instead of three sections, you use just two, crossing small pieces from one side to the other repeatedly. The result is an intricate, scale-like pattern that looks super elegant.

Start by splitting your hair in two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to join the other. Repeat on the opposite side and continue all the way down. For a messier, boho look, gently tug at the braid to loosen it up.

This braid is perfect for date nights, weddings, or anytime you want something a little special. It works beautifully on longer hair but can also be faked with extensions for shorter styles.

5. Waterfall Braid

Dreamy and romantic, the waterfall braid lets strands “fall” through the braid, creating a cascading effect. It’s a go-to for weddings, baby showers, or just days when you want to feel a bit extra.

This style starts like a French braid but you drop one section as you add a new one. The result is a beautiful, flowing braid that frames the face while leaving most of the hair down.

Waterfall braids work best on medium to long hair, especially with some wave or curl. Add flowers, pearls, or tiny clips to complete the ethereal vibe.

6. Crown Braid

If you want to feel like royalty—literally—a crown braid is your new best friend. This braided halo wraps around your head and can be dressed up or down depending on your plans.

There are a couple of ways to create a crown braid. One way is to part your hair and create two Dutch braids on each side, then pin them around your head. Another way is to French braid around the perimeter of your head in one continuous circle.

It’s the ultimate boho-chic look, perfect for music festivals, garden parties, or even bridal styles. Crown braids also keep your hair fully secured and off your neck, making them ideal for hot summer days.

7. Boxer Braids

Also called double Dutch braids, boxer braids are sleek, bold, and seriously on trend. They’re great for sporty girls or anyone who wants their hair locked in for the day (or even two!).

This style uses the Dutch braid technique but applies it in two even parts from the top of your head down to the nape. The result? Clean, edgy braids with staying power.

Boxer braids are protective, low-maintenance, and look amazing on all hair textures. Pair with athleisure for that cool-girl gym vibe or dress it up with accessories for a night out.

8. Rope Braid

If you’re short on time, the rope braid is your answer. It’s literally a twist—just two sections of hair twisted in one direction and wrapped around each other in the opposite direction. Easy, quick, and super cute.

This braid works well for ponytails, buns, or pigtails. It looks sleek and modern, making it a go-to for work or school.

Use a little styling cream to reduce frizz and help the twist hold. The rope braid is especially flattering for medium-length hair and works wonders for layered cuts too.

9. Pull-Through Braid

This braid isn’t technically a braid at all, but it looks like one—and it’s beginner-friendly! The pull-through braid uses small ponytails looped through each other to mimic the look of a chunky, voluminous braid. It’s perfect for those with fine hair who want more body.

Start by tying your hair into small stacked ponytails, then split the top ponytail and pull the next one through it. Keep going down your head, looping and tying until the braid is complete. It sounds complicated, but it’s surprisingly simple.

This style is ideal for formal events, photoshoots, or even just a scroll-stopping Instagram post. Add bows or jeweled pins for an extra dose of glam.

10. Milkmaid Braid

The milkmaid braid is sweet, soft, and oh-so-pretty. It’s a vintage-inspired look that’s surprisingly easy to achieve and gives instant “storybook character” energy.

Start with two braids (Dutch or French work best) on either side of your head. Then, lift each one and pin it over the crown of your head, tucking in the ends. The result? A lovely, polished halo effect.

This style is great for second-day hair and keeps everything tucked away neatly. Pair it with a floral dress or cozy cardigan for a Pinterest-perfect vibe.

11. Halo Braid

Unlike the milkmaid braid, the halo braid uses one continuous braid that wraps all the way around your head. It’s like a crown braid, but with a softer finish.

Start with a deep side part and braid around your hairline, working your way in a full circle. You’ll need a bit of arm flexibility, but it gets easier with practice.

The halo braid is ideal for weddings, proms, or just days when you want to feel extra radiant. Use hairpins and a shine spray for that goddess-level finish.

12. Side Braid

The side braid is a go-to for days when you want to look cute with minimal effort. It’s fast, flattering, and fits almost any occasion—work, brunch, or errands.

Just pull your hair to one side and create a braid of your choice: French, fishtail, or three-strand all work. For extra volume, tease your crown and pancake the braid for a messier, fuller effect.

It’s especially flattering on longer hair and can be accessorized easily with clips, scrunchies, or ribbon.

13. Mermaid Braid

The mermaid braid is magical and intricate-looking but surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it. It uses loose sections to give that cascading, almost “woven” effect that mimics scales.

This style is ideal for long hair, especially with curls or beachy waves. You start a small French braid and gradually add tiny sections from alternating sides, letting the rest of the hair flow freely.

It’s a romantic, fairy-tale-inspired look that’s perfect for date nights or summer evenings.

14. Infinity Braid

This braid gets its name from the figure-eight shape you create as you wrap strands around a central section. It’s elegant, symmetrical, and visually impressive.

To do it, you’ll section off a middle piece and wrap small sections around it in alternating loops—mimicking an infinity sign. It takes practice but is 100% worth it.

Infinity braids work great in ponytails or as accents in updos. They’re a showstopper for weddings or events where you want to stand out.

15. Zig-Zag Braid

Add some playful personality to your braid with a zig-zag part or zig-zag braid design. This edgy look adds a geometric touch to the classic braid and works especially well for kids or creative styling.

Start with a part that zig-zags across the scalp, then braid sections along the angles. It’s a fun way to reinvent traditional styles and stand out in a crowd.

Great for parties, school, or themed events—it’s youthful, trendy, and full of flair.

16. Ladder Braid

This stunning braid style creates the illusion of a “ladder” across your hair by pairing a waterfall braid with a second braid beneath it that catches the falling strands.

It’s a little advanced, but once you master the coordination, the result is jaw-dropping. It’s ideal for formal events or anytime you want a red-carpet-worthy look.

This braid shines on straight or slightly wavy hair and looks even better with a bit of added shine serum or glitter gel.

17. Double Dutch Braids

Two Dutch braids running side-by-side offer a bold and structured appearance. These are a staple for everything from gym days to fashion-forward streetwear.

They hold up all day, make a statement, and keep your hair completely out of the way. Use styling gel or mousse before braiding to keep the strands tight and flyaway-free.

Want to spice it up? Try wrapping the ends into buns or curling the loose ends.

18. Cornrow Braids

Cornrows are traditional, stylish, and protective. These tight, close-to-the-scalp braids can be worn in countless patterns—from straight backs to creative geometric shapes.

They’re perfect for natural hair, offering long-lasting wear and minimal upkeep. You can leave them in for weeks with proper maintenance and moisturizing.

Cornrows also serve as a great base for wigs and extensions or can be styled with beads and accessories for a personalized look.

19. Bubble Braid

The bubble braid is a fun, playful alternative to traditional braids. It’s made using small elastics spaced evenly down a ponytail to create “bubbles” of hair.

This is perfect for beginners and takes less than five minutes. Just start with a high or low ponytail, add elastics every couple of inches, and gently tug at the hair between for volume.

Kids love it, but adults can rock it too—it’s a cute, whimsical touch to any casual outfit.

20. Four-Strand Braid

Want something fancier than a three-strand braid? The four-strand braid looks intricate but just takes a little practice to master. It offers a more woven, ribbon-like texture.

This braid is ideal for medium to long hair and works great as a side or ponytail braid. Just like the classic, you can pancake it for more drama.

It’s a great option for proms, formal dinners, or when you want to turn heads with a more elevated braid style.

21. Boho Braids

Boho braids are effortlessly chic. They’re all about looking undone, textured, and a little wild—perfect for music festivals, beach days, or casual weekends.

Think loose plaits, micro braids mixed with waves, and braids that peek out randomly in your hair. There’s no strict pattern, and that’s the beauty of it.

Dry shampoo, sea salt spray, and a bit of teasing will help you achieve that soft, carefree volume.

22. Braided Ponytail

This is a braid-meets-ponytail look that’s sleek yet easy. Pull your hair into a high or low ponytail, then braid it all the way down. That’s it!

You can use a Dutch, fishtail, or rope braid depending on your style. It’s a great way to elevate a basic ponytail without much extra effort.

Great for workouts, errands, or even business meetings when polished with a bit of serum.

23. Braided Bun

Looking for something chic but practical? The braided bun combines the beauty of braids with the sleekness of a bun. It’s perfect for formal occasions or second-day hair.

Braid your hair first—French, Dutch, or even fishtail—and then twist it into a bun. Pin it in place, and you’re done!

It’s neat, polished, and can be worn low at the nape or high on the crown for a ballerina-style finish.

24. Reverse Braid (Upside-Down Braid)

This braid begins at the nape of your neck and goes upward, usually ending in a bun or ponytail. It’s edgy, unique, and a fun twist on traditional braids.

Flip your head upside down, start a French or Dutch braid from the bottom, and work your way to the top. Secure it with a bun or puff it up for extra volume.

Ideal for gym-goers or anyone wanting something cool and different.

25. Half-Up Braided Crown

Want the look of a crown braid without going all-in? Try a half-up braided crown. It’s sweet, soft, and super wearable for everyday looks.

Create two small braids on each side of your head and pin them around the back like a mini crown. Leave the rest of your hair down.

It’s perfect for medium-length hair and looks stunning on wavy or curly textures.

26. Snake Braid

The snake braid is more of an accent braid—a tiny section that you tug and curve to look like a winding snake. It adds interest to updos or loose waves.

Start a small three-strand braid and gently pull on one side to create a curve. Pin it in place and admire your handiwork.

Great for parties, creative looks, or even Halloween hairstyles.

27. Accent Braid

This is your everyday go-to for spicing things up. Just take a small section of hair and braid it, leaving the rest of your hair loose.

It adds flair without taking time and works on any length or texture. Add one behind your ear, at the crown, or mixed into curls for a fun surprise.

You can do multiple accent braids or just one. Minimal effort, major impact.

28. Faux Hawk Braid

Feeling bold? A faux hawk braid gives you that edgy rockstar vibe without committing to a shaved side. It’s braided tightly in the center and styled upward.

Start with Dutch or French braids down the middle, pulling the sides tight or pinning them flat. Add volume by teasing the top.

It’s perfect for concerts, cosplay, or anytime you’re feeling a little wild.

29. Criss-Cross Braid

This advanced style involves braiding sections in a criss-cross pattern over one another. It looks complicated but is a fun challenge if you’re ready to level up your braid game.

Use elastics and bobby pins to hold the design in place. It’s great for long, straight hair and stands out at special events or fashion-forward gatherings.

Definitely a “wow” braid that turns heads.

30. Twisted Crown Braid

A softer version of the crown braid, this style uses rope twists rather than traditional braids for a romantic, ethereal finish.

Twist two sections from each side of your head and pin them across the crown. You can add flowers, ribbons, or pins to elevate the look.

Perfect for bridesmaids, photoshoots, or just days when you want to feel like a queen.

Conclusion

Braided hairstyles are more than just pretty—they’re practical, protective, and endlessly creative. Whether you’re heading to work, running errands, or prepping for a night out, there’s a braid here for you. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pro stylist or spend big bucks at the salon. You just need your hands, a mirror, and maybe a few elastics!

These 30 stylish braided hairstyles offer something for everyone—from quick five-minute fixes to intricate statement looks. Try one new style each week or mix and match to suit your mood. Don’t be afraid to experiment, accessorize, and most of all, have fun with your hair.

So go ahead—grab your brush, get creative, and braid your way to beautiful!