31 Braided Hairstyles That Are Easy and Gorgeous

If there is one hairstyle that continues to reign supreme in the beauty world, hair braids are the clear winner. Not only do braided hairstyles look amazing on all hair types, but there are also an infinite amount of braid styles you can try, plenty of which are easy to do. That’s right, you can totally hop on the braid hairstyle trend without making your styling session an all-day affair. Ready to upgrade your beauty look with the best braid hairstyles for women? Below, find 31 braided hairstyles, including everything from fishtail braids to Dutch braids, all of which will make a stunning impression.

1. BRAIDED PONYTAIL

Love braid styles that take little to no time to pull together? Feast your eyes on the braided ponytail. A minimalist’s dream, this hairstyle serves up the right amount of sass and elegance for a look that can complement any event on your agenda. Start by adding a touch of hair gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Clean Gel to your roots and brush your strands toward the center of your head. Gather your strands into a ponytail as you normally would and secure with a hair elastic. Separate the length of your ponytail into three equal parts and weave a plait from the base to the ends. Secure with a hair tie, and your look is complete.

2. BRAIDED HIGH PUFF

Attention all natural-haired gals! We have a feeling that the braided high puff will tickle your fancy. A great way to flaunt both your natural texture and a beautiful woven pattern, this hairstyle will turn heads with ease. To get the look, simply divide your hair into two even sections and clip the bottom half out of the way. Next, create a vertical part on the top half of your hair and clip one side out of the way. Split this section into three equally-sized strands and weave your braid. Once you reach the end of your braid, secure with a hair elastic. You should be left with a small strand of unbraided hair. Repeat on the other side.

Next, release the bottom half of your hair and combine it with the small strands of hair from the braided section. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure with a hair elastic. Fluff your curls, and you’ll be good to go!

3. BRUN

Now that we have updos on your radar, it’s only right that we introduce you to the art of the brun. This bun-braid hybrid helps keep your strands out of your face while allowing you to sport the weaving technique you love. We especially love that you can pull this look together in a matter of minutes. Head on over to our article, Braid Meets Bun: How to Get a Brun Hairstyle, to learn how.

4. DOUBLE BRUN

Take your braided bun slay to the next level with braided space buns. A step up from the classic brun hairstyle, this look is all about doubling up on the braided fun. All you have to do is split your hair into two sections and build your brun style on both sides. Easy, peasy!

5. BRAIDED HEADBAND

You may think that the timeless braided headband look is too complicated to master, but we’re here to show you the way. As long as you have at least medium-length hair, you can bring this hairstyle to life in no time. Here’s how to do it.

STEP #1: PART YOUR HAIR

Kick things off by parting your strands down the middle.

STEP #2: SECTION AND BRAID YOUR STRANDS

Next, grab a section of hair from behind your ear—it can be a small or large section, depending on how thick you want your braided headband to be. Then, start braiding your hair as you normally would.

STEP 3: MAKE THE HEADBAND

Once you’ve finished braiding, wrap the braid around your head to create your headband, and secure it behind your ear with a bobby pin. Seal the deal with the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Precious Oil Satin Hairspray for a bit of shine, and congratulations, your look is complete!

6. BOX BRAIDS

It’s only right that box braids make the cut and secure a spot on our easy braided hairstyles list. A great way to stay true to classic styling and put your strands into a protective hairstyle, you can count on this timeless style to take your beauty look up a few notches. Not to mention, you can opt for small, medium, or large box braids, making this look super customizable. Check out our article on How to Create Box Braids to transform your mane.

7. KNOTLESS BOX BRAIDS

Classic braided looks will never go out of style, but if you’ve been asking yourself what the latest braid styles are, it’s time to turn your attention to knotless box braids. A variation of traditional box braids, this look skips the knot at your scalp and instead consists of adding small amounts of braiding hair to your natural hair as you weave, leaving you with a braid that sports a flatter appearance. This means you won’t have to deal with a heavy feel on your scalp. Down to try the trend? Head on over to our article, What are Knotless Box Braids?, for all the details.

8. KNOTLESS BOX BRAID BUN

For those who want to up the ante on their knotless box braids, feel free to level up with a braided bun. This hairstyle works wonders to show off your precise box-shaped parts while keeping your hair off of your back. Consider it a win-win! All you need to do is gather your woven strands into a ponytail and secure with a hair tie. Wrap the length of the ponytail around its base, secure it with a hair tie, and you’re all done!

9. HALF-UP BOX BRAIDS

If you’re game to rock two hairstyle trends in one, the half-up box braid style will surely meet your needs. Another beloved style that makes a stylish statement and keeps your strands neatly tucked away—it doesn’t get much better than this. Simply split your braids into two even sections and clip the bottom half out of the way. Gather the top half of your braids, bring them toward the center of your head, and create a ponytail. Release the bottom half and let down a braid or two at the front of your hairline to frame your face and complete your look.

10. BOX BRAIDS WITH CURLS

Love the look of woven strands and curls? You may want to test drive a box braids with curls style. A great way to amp up your textured mane, this look sports half-undone box braids with soft and bouncy curls at the ends for a ‘do that won’t go unnoticed. All you need to do is braid your strands as you normally would using curly braiding hair, but instead of braiding all the way to your ends, stop in the middle of your hair.

If you don’t have curly braiding hair, try using your natural texture to your advantage. Add an egg-sized amount of the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle CURVE IT Elastic Curl Mousse to your damp braids, scrunch, and let air dry.

11. DOUBLE CROWN BRAID WITH CURLS

If you’re partial to face-framing braids, the double crown braid with curls will be right up your alley. Featuring two classic braids at the front of your head, this look helps to keep your strands away from your face without the need for an updo. To get the look, add an egg-sized amount of curl mousse to damp strands, scrunch, and let air dry. Once fully dry, divide your hair into two sections, making sure that the top half is a bit smaller than the bottom. Clip the bottom half out of the way.

Next, part your top half down the middle and clip one side out of the way. Separate your strands into three equally-sized parts and build a braid. Once you reach the middle of your head, secure your braid with a hair elastic. Repeat on the other side. Release the bottom half of your hair and fluff your curls.

12. SIDE CORNROWS WITH CURLS

Looking to get a bit more detailed with your hair braids? Side cornrows with curls will do the trick. Not only does this style work wonders to frame your face, but it also boasts movement and body for a fresh out of the salon look. 

STEP #1: APPLY YOUR CURL MOUSSE

Apply an egg-sized amount of curl mousse to damp strands, scrunch, and let air dry. Once dry, you’re ready for the next step.

STEP #2: PART YOUR HAIR

Create a two-inch-wide part on either side of your head right above your ear. Clip the rest of your hair out of the way. Part your hair in a half-inch-wide part and clip the remaining strands out of your way. 

STEP #3: BUILD YOUR BRAID

Split your hair into three equally-sized strands and braid your hair. Once you reach the middle of your head, secure your braid with a hair tie. 

STEP #4: REPEAT

Continue braiding the small section of hair until it’s full of braids.

STEP #5: FLUFF & GO

Release the bottom half of your hair, and you’re ready to take on your day.

13. THICK CORNROWS

If you’re looking for braid hairstyles for women that will complement your features perfectly, you can’t go wrong with thick cornrows. A standout style that A-listers and everyday girls adore, this look is an excellent way to add some spice to your overall look. To give it a try, simply create a two-inch part at the center of your head and clip your remaining strands out of the way. Split your hair into three equally-sized sections as you normally would and build your braid from the front to the back of your head. Once you reach the end of your braid, secure it with a hair tie.

Then, you’ll need to part your remaining strands into one-inch sections and braid your hair, making sure to secure with a hair elastic. Repeat the process until you have a mane full of braids.

14. PIGTAIL BRAIDS

Classic styles are a go-to for a good reason. They serve up the right amount of nostalgia and help you stylishly switch things up in the hair department. And pigtail braids are no exception. Sure, you may think that this style is reserved for kids, but with the right braiding technique, you can transform this school girl hairstyle into an adult-friendly look. Check out our article, How to Make Pigtail Braids Look Chic, to get some pointers.

15. CLASSIC FRENCH BRAID

There’s no harm in keeping things simple when it comes to your hair braids. After all, simple braided hairstyles never go out of style. The classic French braid is a great pick for any occasion you can dream up. Here’s how to perfect the look.

STEP #1: START WITH FRESHLY WASHED HAIR

French braids and super-voluminous hair go hand-in-hand. Set the stage with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Volume Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Volume Conditioner.

STEP #2: BRUSH YOUR HAIR BACK

To keep this look as classic as possible, instead of creating a part, simply brush your hair straight back before braiding.

STEP #3: CREATE YOUR BRAID

Starting around the top of your head, grab a handful of hair and split it into three sections to create your braid. Beginning on the left side, pull the hair over the middle strand, making it the new middle strand. Repeat on the right side. After each left and right combo, add more hair as you go.

STEP #4: SECURE YOUR BRAID

Once you’ve made it to the ends, keep your braid in place with a mini clear elastic and use a small strand of hair to conceal it by wrapping it around and tucking it into the hair tie on the underside of the braid.

16. FISHTAIL BRAID

Want to step outside of the box with your braided hairstyles? Fishtail braids are well worth a try. This hairstyle helps you flaunt a unique woven pattern that will surely receive tons of praise. We also love that it brings a whimsical yet playful vibe to your look. Learn How to Do a Fishtail Braid and get in on the braiding fun!

17. DUTCH FISHTAIL BRAID

If you love to take style cues from your social media feed, you may be familiar with the Dutch fishtail braid. Similar to the Dutch braid that you adore, this hairstyle involves an underhanded fishtail braiding technique that offers an edgy aesthetic. Sound like a hairstyle you can get behind? Check out our article, How to Create a Dutch Fishtail Braid, to get started.

18. SIDE FISHTAIL BRAID

Nothing offers a flirty and playful vibe like a side fishtail braid. This look is all about giving your strands a slightly messy, yet romantic touch. In other words, this look can go from day to night with ease. Simply brush your strands toward either side of your head, and start your fishtail braid.

19. FISHTAIL BRAID PONYTAIL

Fishtail ponytails are a great option for those who can’t resist a practical style with a super pretty touch. To get the look, gather your strands toward the center of your head and create a ponytail. Section the length of your hair into two equal pieces, and weave your fishtail braid. Secure with a hair tie, then make sure to tug at each section gently to turn up the volume.

20. JUMBO CROWN BRAID

There’s something oh-so-special about a jumbo crown braid, it really takes sophistication to the next level and makes you look positively royal. If you have a black-tie soiree on your calendar, this braided hairstyle will serve as the perfect finishing touch to your ensemble.

STEP #1: PREP YOUR STRANDS

Before weaving your hair into a jumbo braid, you’ll want to moisturize your strands. Use the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner to start things off on the right note.

STEP #2: BLOW DRY YOUR HAIR

Use a heat protectant, like the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle SLEEK IT Iron Straight Heatspray, to protect your strands against heat damage before you reach for your blow-dryer. 

STEP #3: PART YOUR HAIR

Create a deep side part on either side of your head to get your strands ready for your jumbo braid. Next, split your hair into three equally-sized sections on the larger side of your part.  

STEP #4: BUILD YOUR BRAID

To bulk up your braid, add extension hair to your strands and build your braid around the perimeter of your head. Be sure to add more extension hair as you go to maintain the braid’s thick shape. Once you reach the back, continue to build your braid with additional hair until you reach the ends. Secure with a hair tie.

STEP #5: PIN IN PLACE

Tuck the end of your braid underneath itself to make your crown braid look seamless. Use bobby pins to hold your braid in place.

21. FAUX HAWK BRAID

Rocker-inspired braided looks more your forte? Well, prepare to bring your inner rockstar to life with the faux hawk braid. Featuring a bouffant at the crown with a single braid in the middle of your head, this style redefines the meaning of an edgy look.

To get the look, you’ll want to create a horizontal part at the center of your head, making sure the bottom section is larger than the top section. Clip the bottom half out of the way. Tease the top portion, smooth your strands back, and secure with bobby pins. Next, release the bottom half of your hair and gather your strands into three equally-sized sections right below your bouffant. Build your braid and add more hair as you go until you reach the ends. Secure with a hair elastic and finish up with a few spritzes of shine spray. 

22. ZIPPER BRAID

When it comes to making a lasting impression via a braid hairstyle, zipper braids are one of the first braid styles that come to mind. Emulating the look of a zipper, this braid takes your traditional three-strand braid a step further for a seriously stunning look. Ready to give this ‘do a go? Head on over to our article, How to Create a Zipper Braid to master this style like a pro.

23. DOUBLE DUTCH BRAIDS

Whether you’re working with second-day hair or simply hoping to add some personality to your braided look, double Dutch braids will suit your needs. Simply divide your hair into two even sections and follow our tutorial on How to Dutch Braid Your Hair.

24. FEED-IN BRAIDS

Protective styles are having a major moment in the hair world, and we can’t get enough. They’re an excellent way to protect your strands from the elements while flaunting a stylish ‘do. Basically, you can’t lose. Feed-in braids happen to be leading the pack when it comes to trendy protective options, and it makes sense. This style allows you to rock a braided look without putting too much stress on your roots for a safe braided style. Read this article to see what all the hype is about: 4 Feed In Braid Tutorials to Try.

25. COLORFUL FISHTAIL BRAID

Braids can be an amazing way to add texture and dimension to your hair, but if your mane is a solid color, sometimes all your intricate weaving won’t be super noticeable. Of course, you can get highlights to take things to a whole new level, or you can break out a little temporary hair color to rock a more dimensional braid. We love pairing a fishtail braid with a little hair makeup. Try creating faux highlights with the L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup 1-Day Color before plaiting your hair, and you’ll have an especially stunning style.

26. BOHO LAYERED BRAID

Can’t get enough of a messy, romantic braided hairstyle? All this means is that you need to add the boho layered braid to your must-try list! Combining twists, three-strands braids, and fishtail braids into one look, it’s no surprise that this hairstyle is a top pick among beauty lovers. Head on over to our article, How to Create a Boho-Layered Braid for Summer, to learn how to create this masterpiece.

27. UNDONE BOHO BRAIDS

If the thought of beautifully woven braids makes you want to embrace the boho aesthetic, the undone boho braid style may be your perfect match! A great way to flaunt texture and dimension, this look will become one of your favorites in no time. Here’s how to get the look:

STEP #1: ADD TEXTURE

When it comes to creating undone boho braids, texture is king! Start off with a few spritzes of the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT High Lift Creation Spray to bring your mane to life. 

STEP #2: BRAID, BRAID, BRAID

Now it’s time to create your undone braids. Choose small sections of hair from different layers of your mane, and create an array of traditional and fishtail braids. Switch it up with each section, and the mix of braids in your hair will offer a more lived-in look.

STEP #3: SEAL YOUR LOOK

Hair ties aren’t part of this look, so it’s important to do whatever else you can to ensure that your braids stay in place. Mist hair with a strong-hold spray, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Extra Strong Hold Volume, to lock your look in place. 

28. SKELETON BRAID

Love the look of intricate detailing? The skeleton braid may be just what you need. This look features various stitching and weaving patterns throughout your mane for a look that adds edge and mystique to your look. With traditional three-strand brands entwined with various sections of your hair, your mane will emulate a true work of art. Head on over to our article, How to Create a Skeleton Braid for a step-by-step guide.

29. HALF-UP CROWN BRAID

Crown braids already top the list of on-trend braided hairstyles, but combining one with a half-up style makes this look even better. Perfect for highlighting your features while showing off your length, this look is ideal for medium and long hair. Start by creating a horizontal two-inch-wide part at the front of your head and clip the rest of your hair out of the way. Split your strands into three equally-sized sections and build your braid. Once you reach the side of your head, pin your strands in place with a bobby pin. Release the rest of your hair, and you’ll be good to go.

30. WATERFALL BRAID

Want to take a walk on the glamorous side with your braided hairstyle? The waterfall braid is calling your name! Elegant, chic, and effortlessly gorgeous, this braided look is everything you need to serve up the “wow” factor. Whether you have a special event to attend or are just looking to rock a super pretty look, this style will surely give you the extra oomph you’re looking for. Head on over to our article, How to Do a Waterfall Braid for an easy to follow tutorial. 

31. SIDE-SWEPT FRENCH BRAID

Side-swept hair is all the rage, and flirting with braids is a great way to step outside of the box. The true epitome of laidback styling and intricately chic vibes, the side-swept French braid, will make you the talk of the town. Here’s how to pull this look together. 

STEP #1: ADD EXTRA GRIP WITH MOUSSE

In order for your side-swept braid to maintain its style without looking too polished, it’s best to start off with a little bit of hair mousse to give your hair extra grip. Apply your mousse to damp hair and let your strands dry on their own.

STEP #2: CREATE A SIDE PART

Using a rattail comb, create a side part, with the larger section of hair on the side where you want your braid to lay.

STEP #3: BRAID

Divide your hair into three sections and weave a French braid over one of your shoulders. Once you’ve reached the ends of your hair, simply tie off the braid with a mini clear elastic. To finish the look, gently pull apart your braid here and there for a slightly undone feel.

Next: 42 Shoulder Length Styles You’ll Love