30 Beginner-Friendly Braided Hairstyles to Try at Home
Braids have a rich history rooted in culture, creativity, and practicality. They’ve evolved from traditional protective styles into fashionable statements that suit everyone—from school kids to brides. If you’re just starting out, this list is your new braid bible! With 30 beginner-friendly braided hairstyles, you’ll discover go-to looks for every vibe—chic, boho, classic, or casual.
Ready to change up your hair game? Let’s get braiding!
1. Classic Three-Strand Braid
This is the braid most of us learn first—and for good reason. The classic three-strand braid is as simple as it gets but still looks polished. Divide your hair into three sections, cross one over the other, and repeat. Done!
It’s great for casual days or when you want your hair out of your face without the fuss. Plus, it works on all lengths and textures, making it one of the most versatile braid styles out there.
Add a cute scrunchie or barrette, and it instantly feels styled. You can wear it in the center, off to the side, or even in double braids for a youthful twist.
2. French Braid
French braids might look intimidating, but they’re surprisingly beginner-friendly once you get the hang of the technique. The key is picking up small sections as you go and weaving them into the braid, keeping it tight against the scalp.
This braid is ideal for everything from workouts to weddings. It keeps your hair in place, looks elegant, and suits both straight and textured hair.
Want to jazz it up? Try braiding only partway down for a half-up style or pull it apart gently for a relaxed, boho vibe.
3. Dutch Braid
If you’ve mastered the French braid, the Dutch braid is your next step. Also called an “inside-out” braid, the technique is the same—except you cross the strands under rather than over. The result? A braid that pops off your scalp and adds stunning texture.
It’s a great option for thick hair or layered cuts because the raised effect keeps everything looking neat. Dutch braids are also perfect for creating double-braid styles like boxer braids.
With a bit of practice, this bold, defined braid will become a staple in your weekly hair rotation.
4. Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid looks super fancy, but don’t let that fool you—it’s much easier than it appears. Instead of three sections, you only need two! You alternate pulling small pieces from one side and crossing them over to the other.
This braid creates a fine, woven look that’s absolutely beautiful on long hair. It’s ideal for special occasions or just elevating your everyday outfit.
You can do it sleek and tight for a polished look or loose and fluffy for romantic vibes. Either way, it’s a showstopper.
5. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is dreamy and delicate—perfect for weddings, brunch dates, or any time you want your hair to look effortlessly magical. It gets its name from the way hair “falls” through the braid like cascading water.
You start with a French braid on one side of your head, but instead of pulling hair all the way through, you let one section drop and pick up a new one each time. It sounds fancy but becomes second nature quickly.
This braid works especially well on curled or wavy hair, adding that soft, romantic flair.
6. Crown Braid
Feel like royalty with this one! The crown braid wraps around your head like—well, a crown. It’s surprisingly easy to do using either a Dutch or French braid technique.
Crown braids are fantastic for keeping hair out of your face, and they work well in hot weather or during workouts. You can do it with one continuous braid or two that meet in the back.
Whether you’re heading to a garden party or just running errands, this look adds instant charm.
7. Side Braid
The side braid is your laid-back best friend. It’s quick, simple, and just the right amount of chic. All you do is shift your braid to one side—left or right—and style as usual.
This look is perfect for casual days or when you’re in a rush. It works with French, Dutch, fishtail, or even rope braid techniques.
Add waves, curls, or a cute clip, and you’ve got a hairstyle that says, “I woke up like this” (even if you didn’t!).
8. Double Dutch Braids
Also known as boxer braids, double Dutch braids are bold and trendy. Start with a middle part, create two Dutch braids down each side, and voilà—you’re ready to slay.
This look is great for keeping hair secure during workouts or outdoor activities. It’s a favorite among athletes and influencers alike.
Want to take it up a notch? Combine the ends into buns or tie them into a single ponytail for a sporty twist.
9. Boxer Braids
These tight, defined Dutch braids offer both function and flair. They keep your hair completely off your face, making them a fantastic protective style for long days.
The key to boxer braids is sectioning. Clean parts and even braiding are essential for that polished finish.
Once braided, you can wear them as-is or even sleep in them to reveal heatless waves the next day. Two styles in one? Yes, please!
10. Rope Braid
The rope braid is one of the easiest styles you’ll ever learn. Just divide your hair into two sections, twist them individually in one direction, then twist them together in the opposite direction.
This creates a rope-like effect that looks sleek and stylish. It’s perfect for ponytails, half-up styles, or buns.
Since it only requires two strands, it’s great for younger kids or absolute beginners looking for a quick win.
11. Pull-Through Braid
No braiding skills? No problem! The pull-through braid is actually made with ponytails, not traditional braiding. That makes it a genius hack for beginners.
To create this look, you stack mini ponytails down the back of your head, pull sections through one another, and fan them out for volume. The result is a thick, bubble-like braid with serious wow factor.
This braid holds up well during long days and adds that Pinterest-worthy flair to even a simple outfit.
12. Halo Braid
Similar to the crown braid, the halo braid creates a soft, angelic effect that wraps around the head. It’s especially popular for weddings or special events.
This style usually involves two Dutch or French braids wrapped and pinned around your head. For a boho twist, leave a few face-framing strands loose or weave in small flowers or baby’s breath.
With a bit of texture spray, the halo braid becomes a whimsical, romantic hairstyle that’s hard to beat.
13. Braided Bun
Why choose between a braid and a bun when you can have both? The braided bun is practical, pretty, and professional—all rolled into one.
You can start with a classic three-strand, Dutch, or French braid, then twist it into a bun at the nape of your neck or higher up for a ballerina vibe. Secure it with pins, and you’re good to go.
This style is especially great for second- or third-day hair and adds polish with minimal effort.
14. Boho Side Braid
This loose, whimsical look is made for beach days, festivals, or lazy Sundays. It’s usually a thick Dutch or fishtail braid done loosely on one side.
The beauty of the boho braid is in its imperfection. You want flyaways, volume, and a bit of messiness. It’s part of the charm!
Pair it with flowy outfits or oversized sweaters for that carefree, romantic vibe.
15. Accent Braid
Sometimes less is more! An accent braid is a small, subtle braid added to your usual hairstyle—whether it’s down, half-up, or in a ponytail.
It could be a single thin braid by your temple, a micro fishtail behind your ear, or a twisted rope braid mixed into your waves.
Accent braids are great for experimenting without committing to a full braided look. And they’re ideal for beginners who want to practice small sections first.
16. Pigtail Braids
Pigtail braids aren’t just for kids—they’re cute, youthful, and totally on trend. Simply part your hair down the middle and braid each side into classic three-strand or Dutch braids.
This style works best on medium to long hair and keeps your strands tangle-free all day.
Add scrunchies, ribbons, or even braid extensions to elevate the look for festivals, gym days, or playful weekend outings.
17. Cornrow Braids (Simple Version)
If you want a protective style that lasts days (or even weeks), cornrows are a great option. Beginners can start with two or four simple straight-back braids before advancing to more intricate patterns.
Cornrows require precise parting and tight braiding close to the scalp, but with practice and a mirror, you’ll get the hang of it.
Use edge control or styling gel to keep everything sleek and polished. It’s a low-maintenance look that celebrates culture and creativity.
18. Milkmaid Braids
Milkmaid braids are charming and classic. This style involves braiding two low pigtails and pinning them across the top of your head, just like a headband.
Perfect for summer picnics or vintage-inspired outfits, milkmaid braids give off sweet and timeless energy.
Use bobby pins and light hold hairspray to keep everything in place, and don’t be afraid to leave a few face-framing strands loose for softness.
19. Half-Up Braided Crown
Love the idea of a crown braid but not ready to commit to a full updo? Try a half-up braided crown!
Braid small sections from each side of your head and pin them together in the back. It’s elegant, easy, and perfect for medium to long hair.
This look pairs beautifully with curls or waves and is ideal for casual weddings, brunch dates, or a romantic night out.
20. Headband Braid
As the name suggests, this braid acts like a headband—made from your own hair! You can create a small French braid across the front of your head, just above your forehead or bangs.
It’s a sweet and functional style that keeps your hair out of your face while adding something special.
The headband braid works with ponytails, buns, or hair left down. Bonus: it looks especially cute on second-day hair.
21. Bubble Braid
Not quite a braid, but just as eye-catching! Bubble braids are created by tying hair with elastics at intervals down the length and then puffing out the sections.
They’re fun, easy, and require zero braiding. Just pull your hair into a ponytail or pigtails, add elastics every few inches, and gently tug the hair to “bubble” it out.
Perfect for kids, workouts, or whimsical weekends!
22. Braided Ponytail
Upgrade your everyday ponytail with a braid! Whether it’s a simple braid down the length of your ponytail or a French braid leading into it, this style is sporty and stylish.
It keeps your hair secure while adding personality and texture to a basic pony.
Try a high pony with a tight Dutch braid for a sleek, edgy look—or a low pony with a loose fishtail for something softer.
23. Twisted Braid
This variation uses two or more twisted sections, woven together to mimic the look of a braid. It’s a great way to fake braids if you haven’t mastered the real thing yet.
Twists are easier to handle, especially for beginners, and they’re gentle on the hair. You can use them in buns, crowns, or side styles.
Use a little serum or curl cream to control frizz and define the shape.
24. Reverse Braid
The reverse braid starts from the nape of your neck and works its way up—a fun twist (literally!) on the usual direction.
Flip your head upside down to make sectioning easier, then French or Dutch braid upward and finish with a bun or ponytail.
It’s a favorite for gym-goers and dancers who want their hair stylish and secure.
25. Ladder Braid
More intricate, but beginner-friendly with a tutorial! The ladder braid features a base braid with another one woven through it to create a ladder-like effect.
It’s eye-catching and unique, perfect for events or when you want to try something more advanced.
It takes time but delivers amazing results. Plus, it’s a fun way to stretch your skills!
26. Infinity Braid
This delicate style uses a figure-eight motion to weave a single strand around two main sections of hair. It’s best for detail lovers and those who enjoy slow, satisfying styles.
It looks gorgeous in ponytails or as an accent braid in loose hair.
While it takes patience, it’s beginner-friendly with a little practice—and the final look is totally worth it.
27. Zipper Braid
This one’s a bit advanced but still manageable with a tutorial and a little practice. It gives a sharp, geometric look with tight weaves.
The zipper braid is best for special events or hair competitions—it’s a showstopper!
Work slowly, and use gel or mousse to keep sections smooth and manageable.
28. Mermaid Braid
Think of this as a fluffy, romantic French braid with added volume and flair. The mermaid braid incorporates small side sections into a central loose braid.
It’s perfect for long, thick hair and gives off ethereal, fairy-tale vibes.
Loosen it gently for fullness and wear it with flowing dresses or at beach weddings for ultimate mermaid energy.
29. Chain Braid
The chain braid involves looping hair through a series of small ponytails or sections to create a link effect.
It’s super unique, visually dynamic, and a fun project for a quiet evening in front of the mirror.
While it looks complicated, it’s actually a fantastic beginner braid once you learn the rhythm.
30. Braided Bangs
If you’ve got long bangs or growing-out fringe, braiding them can be a stylish way to keep them off your face.
A small French or rope braid along the hairline blends them into your style while looking intentional and cute.
It works with short, medium, or long hair and gives a youthful, fresh appearance in no time.
Conclusion
Braids are more than just a hairstyle—they’re a creative outlet, a protective measure, and a beautiful way to express your personal style. Whether you’re going for a five-minute messy braid or a special-occasion updo, the options are endless—and beginner-friendly!
The best part? You don’t need fancy tools or salon visits to master these looks. Just a brush, some elastics, and a little confidence go a long way. So start small, be patient with yourself, and before you know it, you’ll be braiding like a pro.
