7 Quick Braided Hairstyles to Try at Home

According to a survey by Allure, 72% of women said they prefer low-maintenance hairstyles that still make them feel confident. That’s why today we’re diving into 7 quick braided hairstyles that you can easily try at home, no matter your skill level or hair length. These styles are perfect for busy mornings, last-minute plans, or just switching things up on a budget. Let’s braid it out!

1. Classic Three-Strand Braid

Let’s start with the OG of braids: the classic three-strand. This simple, foundational braid is perfect for beginners and still totally chic. Whether you’re working with long, short, or medium hair, this braid delivers a clean, tidy look that can be styled for casual or semi-formal occasions.

To create it, part your hair into three equal sections. Cross the right over the middle, then the left over the new middle, and repeat all the way down. Secure with an elastic, and boom—you’ve got a clean, polished look in under five minutes! For extra hold, a spritz of light hairspray or leave-in conditioner helps keep flyaways at bay.

This braid is perfect for those “I need to look decent but have 3 minutes” mornings. It works well on second-day hair, making it a go-to for gym sessions, errands, or even Zoom meetings. You can also play with texture—add beachy waves beforehand or tug gently at the sides to create a thicker, more voluminous braid.

Budget-conscious tip: No need for fancy tools. Just a basic brush and a hair tie will do the trick. Want a chic twist? Braid a ribbon or scarf into one of the strands for an effortlessly elevated look.

2. French Braid

If the classic braid is your everyday companion, the French braid is your classy best friend. It’s slightly more intricate but absolutely worth the effort. A French braid involves gradually adding hair from each side as you go, creating a braid that’s woven into your scalp.

Start at the crown, divide into three sections, and braid as you normally would—but every time you cross a strand, pull in a small section of hair from that side. Continue this process until you reach the nape of your neck, then finish with a regular braid. The result is neat, sophisticated, and super secure.

French braids are perfect for active days. Whether you’re heading to the gym, chasing kids around the house, or on a hike, this braid keeps everything in place. Plus, it looks amazing on medium to long hair and can last all day with minimal touch-ups.

To soften the look, gently loosen sections after braiding. Want it sleeker? Use a comb and smoothing serum to keep every strand in place. The best part? You don’t need salon experience—just a little practice and patience go a long way.

3. Dutch Braid

The Dutch braid, often dubbed the “inside-out” French braid, adds instant flair and volume. Instead of braiding over like in the French technique, you braid under, which makes the braid pop out and appear fuller. It’s bold, eye-catching, and a great way to make your braid the focal point of your hairstyle.

Begin with three sections at the crown. Instead of crossing the strands over the middle, cross them underneath. Add hair to each section as you go, keeping your tension consistent. This technique gives the braid a raised, 3D appearance that’s great for thick or textured hair.

Dutch braids can be worn as a single braid down the back or styled into double braids for a sporty vibe. They’re especially handy for keeping your hair secure during workouts, dance classes, or long days on your feet.

You can also transform a Dutch braid into a braided bun or a crown wrap for more formal events. It’s one of the most versatile quick braided hairstyles for women who love changing things up without a ton of time or tools.

Pro tip: Spritz some dry shampoo before braiding to add grip and volume. This makes the braid last longer and keeps it from slipping out.

4. Fishtail Braid

If you’ve ever admired an intricate-looking braid and thought, “That must take forever,” chances are it was a fishtail. But here’s a secret: it’s easier than it looks! Fishtail braids are stunning, and once you get the technique down, they’re just as fast as a classic three-strand.

Split your hair into two equal sections. Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the right. Then do the same on the other side. Repeat all the way down, then secure with a band. That’s it! The overlapping sections create that beautiful woven look.

Fishtail braids are perfect for date nights, weddings, or even laid-back beach days. They look great tight and sleek or loose and messy for a more boho, lived-in style. If you want to dress it up, wrap a small strand of hair around the elastic at the end and secure it with a bobby pin for a polished finish.

It works well on medium to long hair and is excellent for textured or wavy styles. Want even more drama? Try doing a side fishtail over one shoulder—it frames the face beautifully and feels red carpet-ready without the effort.

5. Rope Braid

If you’re in a rush and want something cute but quick, the rope braid is your new best friend. This two-strand twist is a lifesaver for mornings when you’re running late or just want to throw your hair up in a way that looks intentional.

Divide your hair into two equal sections. Twist each section in the same direction (clockwise), then wrap them around each other in the opposite direction (counterclockwise). Secure at the end, and voilà! The result is a sleek, stylish braid that stays put.

The rope braid works beautifully in a low ponytail or high up in a fun half-updo. You can even twist both sides of your hair into mini rope braids and pin them back for an elegant but understated look. It’s ideal for fine hair that might not hold a traditional braid as well.

It’s also one of the best heatless hairstyles to try when you want a break from hot tools. The twist locks in texture, making it a protective style that’s easy on your strands and your wallet.

6. Crown Braid

Dreaming of fairy-tale vibes without a ton of work? The crown braid has your back. This wraparound braid frames your face like a halo and adds instant romance to your look. It may look complex, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature.

Start by creating two Dutch or French braids—one on each side of your head. Wrap them across the top of your head like a headband and pin them in place with bobby pins. Tuck the ends underneath for a seamless finish. You can also do a single braid wrapped around your head for a quicker version.

This look is great for weddings, date nights, or even just leveling up your everyday style. It keeps your hair out of your face, making it both practical and beautiful. Use texture spray or braid on second-day hair to give it grip and hold.

For a whimsical touch, add small flowers, decorative pins, or a thin ribbon to weave into the braid. It’s a budget-friendly way to add elegance to your style with items you likely already own.

7. Braided Bun

Braided buns are the perfect hybrid of function and flair. Combining a braid with a bun means you get the best of both worlds: the structure of a braid and the neatness of a bun. It’s a go-to for work, events, or anything in between.

Start by creating a braid—this can be a French, Dutch, or even a rope braid. Then wrap it into a bun at the nape of your neck or higher up, depending on your vibe. Secure with bobby pins and a strong hair tie, and you’re all set.

The braided bun is endlessly customizable. You can do a single braid leading into the bun, or multiple braids pinned together in a low chignon. It looks polished and put together with very little effort—ideal for interviews, formal dinners, or those days when dry shampoo just isn’t cutting it.

This style is also great for protecting your ends and minimizing heat styling. It’s a smart choice for anyone trying to grow their hair or maintain healthy strands on a budget.

Conclusion:

Who says you need hours and a team of stylists to look amazing? With just a few minutes, some simple tools, and these quick braided hairstyles, you can totally transform your look at home. Whether you’re reaching for a rope braid on a busy Monday or turning heads with a crown braid on Saturday night, these styles are versatile, stylish, and easy on your schedule—and your wallet.

Plus, you don’t need salon-level skills to pull these off. With a bit of practice, you’ll be braiding like a pro in no time. So why not experiment? Mix and match styles, try new textures, and make each braid your own. Got a favorite from the list? Grab your brush, tie up your hair, and let the magic begin!