5 Beginner-Friendly Braided Hairstyles to Try at Home

A report from Allure in 2024 revealed that more than 60% of women prefer hairstyles that can be done in under 15 minutes—and braids are leading the trend. They’re versatile, timeless, and can instantly upgrade your look with minimal effort.

In this article, we’ll walk through 5 super simple braided hairstyles that beginners can easily learn and recreate. Whether you’ve got fine, thick, curly, or straight hair, there’s something here for everyone. So grab a comb, a couple of hair ties, maybe a bobby pin or two, and let’s get braiding!

1. The Classic Three-Strand Braid

The three-strand braid is the foundation of almost every braided hairstyle. It’s simple, elegant, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It’s also a great starting point for those who are new to braiding.

To start, brush your hair thoroughly to remove any tangles. This makes the braiding process smoother and results in a neater finish. Divide your hair into three equal sections at the nape of your neck. Begin by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left over the new middle. Repeat until you reach the end and secure it with a hair tie.

The beauty of the classic braid is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can create a loose version for a boho look, or go tighter for a cleaner, more professional appearance. Add a ribbon or scrunchie for flair—or tuck the end under and pin it into a chic braided bun.

Styling tip: Add a bit of texturizing spray to give your hair more grip if it’s freshly washed or too soft. You can also gently pull at the edges of the braid once it’s done for a fuller, more relaxed appearance—perfect for a casual day out or a lazy Sunday look.

2. The French Braid

The French braid might look complicated, but with a little patience, it becomes surprisingly manageable—even for beginners. It’s a stylish, all-day hold kind of braid that works well for workouts, errands, or even under a beanie in winter.

Start by brushing your hair and grabbing a section at the crown of your head. Divide it into three parts. Begin a traditional braid, then start incorporating hair from the sides as you go—adding a small piece to the outside section before crossing it over the middle. Continue this down your head, gathering hair as you go, until you reach the nape and finish with a regular three-strand braid.

The trick here is consistent tension. If you pull too tight, it might feel uncomfortable or look too severe. Too loose, and it might fall apart. The sweet spot is a gentle but firm hold. It may take a couple of tries, but once you get the rhythm, you’ll be French braiding like a pro.

Need a change? Try parting your hair down the center and creating two French braids for a sporty, youthful vibe. Or do a half-up French braid for a trendy, effortless look. These braids are also a great base for updos or braided crowns.

3. The Dutch Braid

Often referred to as the “inside-out” braid, the Dutch braid adds a touch of volume and drama to your look. It’s similar to a French braid in structure, but instead of crossing sections over the middle, you cross them underneath. This gives the braid a raised, three-dimensional appearance—perfect for turning heads.

Begin by separating a top section of hair into three parts. Start with a standard braid, but this time, cross the outside sections under the middle one. As you go, add small pieces of hair from the sides to each outside section before crossing under again. Continue until all hair is gathered, and secure with a tie.

Dutch braids work beautifully for a range of styles. Wear one down the back for a bold, edgy look or go with two side braids for a sporty, festival-ready vibe. They’re also ideal for curly or textured hair, as they hold well and highlight natural volume.

If you’re struggling with frizz or flyaways, a bit of hair gel or leave-in conditioner can smooth things out. A few strategically placed bobby pins can also help keep shorter layers in place as you braid. And don’t worry—Dutch braids look even better with a little bit of mess!

4. The Fishtail Braid

Want something that looks ultra-fancy but doesn’t take a degree in cosmetology? The fishtail braid is your answer. It looks intricate but is deceptively simple once you get the hang of it—and it’s a fantastic way to elevate your everyday hairstyle.

Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections. Take a small strand from the outer edge of the right section and cross it over to join the left. Repeat from the left side. Continue alternating sides, always pulling from the outside edge and crossing over to the opposite side, until you reach the end. Tie it off and admire your handiwork!

Unlike traditional braids, the fishtail doesn’t require three sections, which can feel more intuitive for some people. It’s great for medium to long hair and works wonderfully with layers because the overlapping pattern holds smaller strands better.

Want a lived-in, textured look? Once the braid is complete, gently pull the sections apart to loosen it. This adds volume and gives the braid a bohemian, effortless charm. Try styling it to the side or as a low ponytail—it’s great for date night, brunch, or even a casual wedding guest look.

5. The Rope Braid

Don’t let the simplicity fool you—the rope braid (also known as a twist braid) is stylish, fast, and surprisingly durable. It’s perfect for days when you’re short on time but still want to look polished.

Start by brushing your hair and tying it into a low or high ponytail. Divide the ponytail into two equal sections. Twist each section individually in the same direction (clockwise), then twist them together in the opposite direction (counterclockwise). This counter-twisting technique locks the sections together and prevents unraveling.

Secure the end with a hair tie, and you’re done! The rope braid is fantastic for second-day hair or quick touch-ups before heading out. It’s also a great base for buns, updos, or braided crowns.

You can dress it up with accessories—think decorative pins, clips, or colorful elastics—or keep it simple and sleek for an everyday look. Plus, it holds its shape better than many other styles, making it ideal for all-day wear, even in humid weather.

Conclusion

There you have it—five stunning braided hairstyles you can master at home, even if you’re starting from square one. Each braid has its own personality: the classic three-strand is effortless and reliable, the French braid adds elegance, the Dutch braid turns heads, the fishtail oozes charm, and the rope braid is the epitome of quick chic.

Braiding your own hair isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling empowered, being creative, and saving time and money while still expressing your style. And let’s be honest: there’s something satisfying about pulling off a cute hairstyle on your own.

So don’t be afraid to experiment, mix styles, or add your own flair. Whether you’re running errands, hopping on a virtual meeting, or going out with friends, these beginner-friendly braids will keep you looking fabulous without the fuss. Now, go grab your brush and get twisting—you’ve got this!