30 Beginner-Friendly Braided Hairstyles for All Hair Types
If you’re new to braiding or simply want fresh ideas that actually work for your hair type, this is the guide you’ve been waiting for. We’ve gathered 30 beginner-friendly braided hairstyles that are easy to do, stylish, and suitable for every texture—straight, wavy, curly, or coily.
No heat tools, no fancy products—just braids, a few pins or elastics, and maybe a mirror if you’re feeling extra. Let’s braid your way to better hair days!
1. Classic Three-Strand Braid
You’ve probably seen this one a million times—and for good reason. It’s the foundation of most braided hairstyles.
To start, divide your hair into three even sections. Cross one section over the middle, then repeat on the opposite side. Keep alternating until you reach the end. This braid is as beginner-friendly as it gets and can be done in minutes.
It works on any hair length and type. Whether you’re running late for class or need a tidy look for work, this braid has your back. Secure it with an elastic or wrap a small section of hair around the end for a seamless finish.
Want to spice it up? Try a side braid version or fluff out the loops for a fuller look. Simple, chic, and reliable.
2. French Braid
French braids are a timeless beauty. They look complex, but once you get the rhythm, you’ll be braiding like a pro.
Begin at the crown, divide your hair into three sections, and start a normal braid. Each time you cross a section, add in more hair from the sides. This braid hugs your scalp and holds everything neatly in place.
Perfect for workouts or just keeping flyaways at bay, the French braid works great for medium to long hair. You can wear it down the back, as a side braid, or even create two for a sporty vibe.
Don’t stress if your first few tries are a little loose—practice makes perfect, and messy can still be beautiful!
3. Dutch Braid
Think of the Dutch braid as the French braid’s edgier sibling. Instead of crossing over, you cross under, which makes the braid pop out from the head.
This braid adds beautiful texture and works well for thick, layered, or even short hair. It gives the illusion of volume and looks great whether you wear one down the back or double them up for “boxer braids.”
Dutch braids are ideal for everything from casual hangouts to outdoor hikes. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll love how neat and bold it looks.
4. Fishtail Braid
It may look intricate, but the fishtail braid is totally doable—even for beginners.
Split your hair into two sections. Take a thin strand from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other. Keep alternating until you run out of hair, then secure with an elastic.
Fishtail braids are perfect for long hair and give off a boho-chic vibe. They’re a popular choice for weddings, dates, and everyday looks. You can keep them tight for a clean look or loosen them up for soft, romantic vibes.
They also work beautifully for ponytails or side braids. A little effort, big payoff.
5. Waterfall Braid
This braid is romantic, flowy, and ideal for medium to long hair. It’s a twist on the French braid where strands “fall” through the braid like a waterfall.
Start at your temple and create a braid that wraps around the back of your head. Drop one strand every time you cross, replacing it with a new one from the top.
The result? A cascading effect that looks dreamy, especially on wavy or curly textures. It’s perfect for special occasions or just elevating your day-to-day style.
6. Crown Braid
Feel like royalty—because why not?
The crown braid wraps around your head like a halo. You can use a Dutch or French braid technique and braid along the hairline. Once done, pin the end under the start to create a seamless crown.
This style works beautifully on textured or stretched hair. It’s elegant enough for weddings, but simple enough to rock at brunch.
7. Boxer Braids
Boxer braids are just two Dutch braids on either side of your head. They’re tight, secure, and super trendy.
Start with a clean center part. Dutch braid each side down to the nape and secure. These are great for active days, gym sessions, or just adding some sporty spice to your vibe.
Boxer braids also protect your hair and reduce tangles. Win-win.
8. Pull-Through Braid
Not technically a braid—but it sure looks like one! This technique involves small ponytails “pulled through” each other for a chunky, voluminous braid effect.
You don’t need braiding skills—just some elastics and patience. It’s perfect for thick hair and stays put all day.
The result is a bold, statement braid that looks polished and full.
9. Side Braid
Quick, cute, and totally no-fuss. A side braid is your lazy-day best friend.
Just sweep your hair to one side and braid normally. You can go with a French, Dutch, or even a fishtail.
Great for casual days, or when you want your earrings to shine!
10. Halo Braid
The halo braid is similar to the crown braid but slightly looser and softer.
Braid around your head and tuck the ends under for a beautiful, celestial look. It’s ideal for textured hair and pairs well with floral pins or hair jewelry.
Definitely a go-to for photoshoots or garden parties.
11. Rope Braid
The rope braid is simple and stylish. Divide hair into two, twist each section, then twist them around each other.
It holds well and works nicely on ponytails or half-up styles. Great for when you want something quick but unique.
12. Bubble Braid
You’ll need elastics for this one—but no actual braiding.
Secure your hair into a ponytail and add elastics every few inches. Gently tug between each elastic to create “bubbles.”
It’s playful, youthful, and perfect for any age.
13. Ladder Braid
This one combines two braids—one feeds into the other like steps on a ladder.
It’s a bit more advanced but still beginner-accessible with practice. Works best on straight hair and gives a cool, edgy vibe.
14. Zipper Braid
This intricate-looking style weaves hair like a zipper. Don’t worry—it’s easier than it looks!
Great for long hair and guaranteed to earn compliments.
15. Infinity Braid
The infinity braid wraps a small section around two larger ones in a figure-8 motion. Sounds tricky, but with practice, it’s doable.
It’s a head-turner and perfect for statement braids or special events.
16. Braided Bangs
Not ready for full-on braids? Try braiding just your bangs.
This softens your face and keeps hair out of your eyes. It’s quick and adds a fun detail to loose styles or updos.
17. Mini Accent Braids
Add small braids throughout your hair for texture and personality.
You can braid just one near your part or several. It’s a boho dream and super fast.
18. Boho Braids
Boho braids are all about the undone, lived-in look. Think loose plaits, mixed textures, and carefree energy.
Use sea salt spray, leave some strands out, and go for an artsy, beachy vibe.
19. Milkmaid Braids
Wrap two braids over your head and pin them down. That’s it!
They’re elegant, secure, and perfect for summer days or vintage looks.
20. Pigtail Braids
Classic and cute! Great for kids or playful adults.
Try Dutch or French versions for more dimension. Add ribbons or beads for flair.
21. Criss-Cross Braids
Section your hair and braid in opposite directions to form criss-cross patterns.
This adds depth and creativity to your style. A good choice for protective styling.
22. Braided Bun
Start with a braid and wrap it into a bun. Easy, elegant, and holds like a dream.
Great for work, formal events, or messy-bun upgrades.
23. Double Dutch Buns
Two Dutch braids that end in space buns? Yes, please!
It’s funky, cute, and super Instagram-worthy
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24. Mohawk Braid
Braid a tight strip down the middle while slicking or pinning the sides.
It’s bold, modern, and perfect for short or edgy cuts.
25. Feed-In Braids
These involve gradually adding hair to the braid for a seamless look. They’re often used in protective styles for textured hair.
Clean, lasting, and stylish—what’s not to love?
26. Braided Ponytail
Combine a braid with a ponytail for the best of both worlds.
Start with a French or Dutch braid, then tie the rest into a ponytail. Chic and functional!
27. Snake Braid
A visual illusion made by pulling one side of a braid to create a snake-like curve.
Unique and fun, especially for kids or creative shoots.
28. Heart Braid
Part your hair into heart shapes and braid inside the design.
Sweet for Valentine’s, birthdays, or just because!
29. Cornrow Braids
These braids lie flat on the scalp and come in tons of patterns.
They’re protective, low-maintenance, and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.
30. Twisted Halo Braid
Combine rope braids with the halo technique for a romantic twist.
Soft, dreamy, and perfect for photos or date nights.
Conclusion
Braids are for everyone. Whether you’re a total beginner or just tired of the same old hair routine, these 30 styles give you options that fit your texture, skill level, and lifestyle.
Braiding is not only stylish—it’s functional, protective, and often cost-free. With just a comb, some elastics, and a little patience, you can create looks that turn heads and feel great.
So go ahead—experiment, practice, and most importantly, have fun with it. Your next great hair day is just a braid away!
