Braids have been a timeless form of hair artistry, adorning the heads of women for centuries. From intricate cornrows to effortlessly chic French braids, the versatility of braids knows no bounds. Whether you’re seeking a hairstyle for a special occasion or a casual day out, these 27 braid hair ideas will inspire you to unleash your inner goddess.
1. The Classic French Braid
This timeless braid is a staple for its elegance and versatility. Divide your hair into three sections and begin braiding by crossing the right strand over the middle strand, then the left strand over the middle strand. Continue the pattern, adding hair from the sides as you go. Secure the braid with an elastic band and enhance it with a ribbon or hair accessories.
2. The Dutch Braid
Also known as the “inside-out French braid,” the Dutch braid creates a raised effect. Instead of crossing the strands over the middle, cross them underneath. This technique flips the braid inward, creating a unique and eye-catching embellishment.
3. The Fishtail Braid
For a bohemian and ethereal look, try the fishtail braid. Divide your hair into two sections and take a thin strand from the outside of the left section and cross it over the inside of the right section. Repeat the process on the other side. Continue alternating strands until you reach the ends.
4. The Waterfall Braid
Create an illusion of cascading water with the waterfall braid. Start with a standard braid on one side of your head and secure it with an elastic band. From the last loop, release a small section of hair and continue braiding with the remaining strands. Repeat the process down the back of your head, releasing hair with each loop to create a flowing effect.
5. The Crown Braid
Elevate your hairstyle with the crown braid. Braid your hair into two French or Dutch braids, one on each side of your head. Once you reach the center, cross them over each other and continue braiding until you reach the other side. Pin the braid at the nape of your neck and secure it.
6. The Milkmaid Braid
Inspired by the braids adorned by milkmaids in the olden days, this style creates a soft and romantic look. Divide your hair into two sections and braid each section into a single braid. Cross the braids over each other at the back of your head and secure them with bobby pins.
7. The Halo Braid
Create a celestial glow with the halo braid. Part your hair in the center and braid the hair around your head in a circle. Secure the braid at the ends and enjoy the ethereal effect.
8. The Braided Pigtails
For a fun and playful style, try braided pigtails. Split your hair into two sections and braid each section into a French or Dutch braid. Secure the braids at the bottom and add embellishments such as ribbons or bows.
9. The Box Braids
Create a protective and stylish look with box braids. Section your hair into small squares and braid each square individually. The braids can be left long or cut to a desired length.
10. The Dreadlocks
For a bohemian and rebellious style, consider dreadlocks. However, note that dreadlocks require regular maintenance and can be difficult to remove once installed.
11. The Senegalese Twists
Similar to box braids, Senegalese twists are individually braided extensions that create a protective style. However, unlike box braids, the twists are twisted instead of braided, resulting in a more textured and voluminous look.
12. The Marley Twists
Marley twists are another form of protective braids that resemble the hair of reggae legend Bob Marley. These twists are made using marley hair, a type of synthetic hair that is thick and textured, giving a natural and dreadlock-like appearance.
13. The Yarn Braids
Add a pop of color and texture to your hair with yarn braids. Simply braid extensions of yarn into your natural hair, creating vibrant and eye-catching hairstyles.
14. The Crochet Braids
Crochet braids involve using a crochet hook to loop synthetic hair extensions through your natural hair. This technique allows for a wide range of styles, from long and flowing braids to short and voluminous afros.
15. The Faux Locs
Faux locs mimic the look of natural locs without the long-term commitment. Synthetic hair extensions are attached to your hair using a crochet needle or the wrapping method, resulting in a protective and versatile style.
16. The Goddess Locs
Goddess locs are a protective braiding style inspired by African queens. These locs are typically made using human hair extensions and are volumized using the twisting method.
17. The Havana Twists
Havana twists are a Cuban variation of Senegalese twists. These twists are longer and thicker, creating a more voluminous and dramatic look.
18. The Braided Bun
Combine the elegance of a braid with the versatility of a bun. Braid your hair into a loose or tight braid and wrap it around itself to create a chic and stylish bun.
19. The Braided Updo
Elevate your updo with braids. Braid sections of your hair and pin them into a variety of updos, such as chignons, top knots, or braided crowns.
20. The Braided Ponytail
Add interest to your ponytail with braids. Braid the hair at the base of your ponytail or incorporate braids into the ponytail itself.
21. The Braided Headband
Create a unique and effortless accessory with a braided headband. Braid a section of hair at the front of your head and pin it back to resemble a headband.
22. The Braided Bangs
Frame your face with braided bangs. Braid sections of your bangs and pin them to the side or style them in a variety of ways.
23. The Braided Layers
Add texture and depth to your hair with braided layers. Braid sections of your hair in different thicknesses and lengths, creating a dynamic and visually appealing look.
24. The Braided Highlights
Create subtle or bold highlights in your hair using