Braided hairstyles have long been celebrated for their elegance and adaptability, offering a perfect mix of functionality and creativity. From timeless box braids to intricate cornrows and playful braided updos, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a detailed look at 40 stunning braided hairstyles to inspire your next look:
1. Leg-Length Box Braids
Zendaya’s long, sleek box braids at the 2021 CFDA Awards exude sophistication. Knotless braiding techniques ensure these braids stay lightweight and last longer.
Pro Tip:
To keep braids fresh, wash them weekly to remove buildup, and protect them at night with a silk bonnet or scarf.
2. Center-Parted Braids
Gabrielle Union’s center-parted braids frame her face beautifully. Keep frizz in check by using mousse and a silk scarf.
Stylist’s Tip:
Opt for medium-sized braids for longevity and to prevent breakage caused by added weight in longer styles.
3. Fulani Braids
Channel your inner Alicia Keys with Fulani braids adorned with beads or metallic cuffs for extra flair. These braids are protective and stunning.
4. Dutch Braids
Bella Hadid’s long Dutch braids offer a chic, playful look that works for any casual outing or high-fashion event.
5. Slicked High Ponytail
Jasmine Sanders’ braided high ponytail is a quick way to achieve a polished look. Pair it with bold makeup for a Barbie-inspired vibe.
6. Twisted Braid
Cara Delevingne’s braid-twist combo adds a rockstar edge with its sleek sides and swirling braid details.
7. Braided Bun
Issa Rae’s braided bun is the epitome of elegance. Secure it with curved bobby pins for a structured yet effortless look.
8. Box Braid High Ponytail
Kelly Rowland’s high ponytail adds height and drama. Wrapping braids around the base elevates the style further.
Pro Tip:
Use CBD-infused products to nourish your scalp and minimize flyaways while braiding.
9. Baby Hair and Braids
Tessa Thompson’s face-framing baby hairs soften the look of her sleek Dutch braids, adding a relaxed yet refined touch.
10. Cornrows and Braids
Laura Harrier’s cornrows and braids ponytail is a nostalgic nod to ’90s fashion, simple yet timeless.
11. Braided Crown
Lucy Hale’s braided crown is a lifesaver for second-day hair. Use your hair’s natural texture for easy styling.
12. Loose Side Ponytail
Shay Mitchell’s wispy, face-framing fishtail braid strikes the perfect balance between elegance and effortlessness.
13. Boho High Ponytail
Blake Lively’s imperfect high ponytail proves that a little messiness can be incredibly chic.
14. Side-Parted Low Ponytail
Janelle Monáe’s accessorized low braid brings a glamorous twist to a classic style.
15. Messy Fishtail Braid
Ciara’s structured yet undone fishtail braid highlights the contrast between polished and relaxed elements.
16. Braided Crown with Fishtail
Lucy Liu’s half-braided crown and fishtail combo offer a timeless, fairy-tale-inspired aesthetic.
17. Cornrow Low Bun
Julissa Calderon’s cornrows and ombré low bun combine practicality with striking visual appeal.
Pro Tip:
Use damage-correcting shampoos and conditioners to maintain hair health during protective styles.
18. Claw-Clipped Mini Braids
Zoë Kravitz’s mini braids styled with a claw clip are effortlessly trendy and functional.
19. Scarf with Box Braids
Solange’s scarf-adorned braids add a pop of color and style, proving accessories can make all the difference.
20. Cornrowed Finger Waves
Beyoncé’s finger-waved cornrows are an iconic red-carpet look that radiates sophistication.
21. Long Blonde Braid
Latto’s XXL blonde braid at the 2021 MTV Video Music Awards is both striking and sophisticated. Hair extensions help achieve this dramatic look while maintaining the natural hair’s health.
Pro Tip:
Spritz your hair lightly with water before styling to create a smooth, sleek base. Use a small section of hair to wrap around the ponytail’s base for a polished finish.
22. Sleek Braided Crown
Lily Collins proves that braids and sleek, straight hair are a perfect match. A braided crown frames her face beautifully, while a touch of pomade keeps flyaways in check without making the hair stiff.
23. Braided High Pigtails
Yara Shahidi’s high braided pigtails are bold and fun. The additional braids across the forehead add a playful twist, showcasing her willingness to experiment with her style.
24. Braided Locs
Chloe Bailey takes braided locs to the next level with intricate designs and gold wire accents. This look is versatile and works for any occasion, from casual outings to red-carpet events.
25. Double Loc Braids
Halle Bailey’s double loc braids styled into pigtails bring back a nostalgic yet chic vibe. This youthful style proves that playful hairstyles are ageless.
26. Extra Long Side Ponytail
Chriselle Lim’s long side ponytail at Milan Fashion Week is sleek and elegant. Adding a braided detail to the ponytail creates a luxurious and sophisticated finish.
Pro Tip:
Use a lightweight balm or oil to manage flyaways and add a subtle shine to your braid for a polished appearance.
27. Long Blonde Cornrows
Farina’s long blonde cornrows are a stunning alternative to dyeing your hair. Extensions provide vibrant color without the damage, making this look both protective and visually striking.
28. Micro Braids
Susan Kelechi Watson’s micro braids exude elegance. Switching up the side part adds versatility, giving you a refreshed look without needing to redo your braids.
29. Messy Side Braid
Cecilia Bertozzi’s messy side braid at the Venice Film Festival is effortlessly chic. Loose, face-framing strands add softness and a relaxed vibe to this classic style.
30. Goddess Braids
Tia Mowry’s goddess braids offer a boho-chic aesthetic perfect for festivals or casual days. Their versatility allows for multiple styling options, including half-up, half-down styles or updos.
31. Half-Up, Half-Down
Lexi Underwood’s half-up, half-down goddess braids are playful and stylish. This look strikes the perfect balance between casual and formal, making it ideal for various occasions.
Pro Tip:
Avoid heavy styling in the first week of getting braids to prevent strain on the roots and edges.
32. Side-Parted Cornrows
Alicia Hannah-Kim’s side-parted cornrows are a unique spin on the traditional straight-back style. Adding extensions ensures a fuller, longer look while maintaining the hair’s health.
33. Bangs and Braided Pigtails
Xochitl Gomez’s braided pigtails with blunt bangs and gold accessories celebrate heritage and individuality. The intricate details elevate this otherwise simple hairstyle.
34. Braided Bows
Chloë Sevigny’s braided bow at the 2024 Met Gala adds a whimsical, coquette-inspired touch to her updo. This look is perfect for making a statement at formal events.
35. Braided Double Buns
Willow Smith’s symmetrical space buns redefine quirky and cool. This youthful hairstyle is bold and perfect for those who want to stand out.
36. Intricate Cornrows
Tia Mowry’s intricate cornrow design at the BET Awards shows how patterns can elevate a standard braid style into a work of art.
Pro Tip:
Style your edges with a lightweight gel for a polished finish.
37. Pigtails and Ribbons
Emma Chamberlain’s pigtails with intertwined ribbons exude balletcore vibes. This playful yet elegant look is perfect for embracing coquette aesthetics.
38. Sculptural Braided Updo
Danai Gurira’s sculptural braided updo at the Tony Awards is a masterpiece. Elevating the bun and leaving face-framing braids adds elegance and sophistication.
39. Braid to the Back
Taylor Swift’s single braid adds an unexpected twist to her side-swept style. This simple addition transforms a classic wavy look into something memorable.
40. Ombré Braids
Leigh-Anne Pinnock’s two-toned box braids are a standout choice for anyone looking to add color. The blend of dark and copper hues provides depth and dimension.
Conclusion
Braided hairstyles offer endless possibilities, from minimalist designs to intricate works of art. Whether you’re looking for a protective style or a bold fashion statement, these 40 braided looks provide ample inspiration to elevate your hair game.
