Braids may have been in vogue when you were a kid…well, they’re back! but this time with a chic adult vibe.
They are a refreshing change from the ponytail you often rock. Read on to see our top 30 favorite hairstyles for braids!
Best Braid Braid Ideas
If you’re looking for a change and love braids, we’ve done some research, scoured the internet, and come up with our all-time favorite braids that will turn heads this season.
Here they are, all 25 of them.
1. Short Braid Braids
This trendy look features long braids and braids for a more grown-up look. Bangs look side swept and pinned to one side. Head over to The Shine Project to check out this and two other great braid ideas.
2. Braid hairstyle – bun
This fun style has a touch of bohemian vibe, with a laid-back look and messy sophistication. Simply braid your hair and twist it into a messy braid. Head over to Andrea Clare’s website for more photos and an in-depth tutorial.
3. Iggy Azalea Braids
These striking braids are inspired by singer Iggy Azalea’s famous look. They’re actually reverse French braids, but because the model’s hair was so long, they looked amazing. If not, try an extension! Check out Gina Michele’s how-to video.
4. Braid Wrap Double Top Knot
This playful style is a bit cartoony and easy to pull off. Simply part your hair in half and twist each half into a high bun. Leave the tail loose for a more relaxed look. Head over to Cara Loren’s website to read more about this style.
5. French Braid Ponytail
This beautiful look was found on Instagram, and it’s so easy! If you know how to French braid, then you know what to do. Create braided braids, but stop at the neck, leaving the rest of the hair in two loose ponytails. View original post here.
6. Ribbon Braid Braids
This colorful braid look is achieved by wrapping ribbon around each braid. It’s a great way to liven up your outfit or show team spirit. Head over to Seventeen to find out how to get this fun look on your own hair.
7. Braids without Partial Braids
This pretty style is a twist on the classic, with different types of sections and some bright red dye for some extra color. The key to this one is to hide the section by pulling the hair from side to side. Check out the tutorial at Hair Romance.
8. Oversized Braid Braids
These otherworldly braids will be a hit if you dare to try them! These are actually reverse french braids too, but the key here is to loosen each braid section with your fingers afterwards. Check out the full tutorial on Kassinka’s blog.
9. Fishtail Braid
A fun variation on the original braid, fishtail braids add a fairy-tale vibe to any look.Although they look Difficult to achieve, they are really simple. Head over to StyleCaster to check out this and tons of other summer hairstyles.
10. Cross Braid
This style is more sophisticated so you’re sure to wow when you’re out and about in town. The technique is not that difficult, but you will need some extra time. Check out the tutorial at Hair Romance with some helpful tips.
11. Decorative Braids
This hairstyle is not for the faint of heart – it will take you a long time to do – but what an incredible look it is! This one involves large and small braids and faux pearls threaded through the smaller braids. Found on Viking Queen’s Instagram.
12. Braids
This is a different look for those with short or thinning hair. These little braids look cute coiled on the top of the head and twisted into mini buns. Head over to Whippy Cake for a video tutorial and some tips and tricks.
13. Pastel Braided Braids
These whimsical knots look great on this golden purple hair, but of course, they can be worn with any color. The key here is to side sweep your bangs and finish with some intense hairspray. Head over to Gothic Life to check it out.
14. Fabric Braids
This pretty look involves long strips of fabric braided into braids, which can also be used as a headband. All you need to do is replace one strip of braid on each side with fabric. Head over to Hair Romance to learn more about this look.
15. Fishtail Braid Braids
These fishtail braids are positioned at the back of the head, making this style different from other fishtail braid styles. If you have shorter hair, consider adding temporary hair extensions! Check it out at Yet Another Beauty Site on Instagram.
16. Bridget Bardot braid
This elegant look was made famous by Bridget Bardot. This most important element is the big wave. Shampoo your hair with side-parted bangs, then part it into braids with brightly colored ribbons. Check it out here.
17. Pin Curl Braids
This throwback look includes lots of little pin curls on top, followed by short braids on the sides. And don’t forget to add a wispy hair tie to accentuate the curls! Head over to Va Va Voom Vintage to check out a tutorial on this fun style.
18. Edgy Braid
Now it’s a completely different look.This avant-garde style involves three Braids, braided using the reverse French braid technique. And left a few strands of texture on the underside. Head over to EmilyRoseShannon on Instagram to check it out.
19. Wide Two-Tone Braid Braids
There’s nothing subtle about this unique look. It takes quite a bit of combing and spraying to give your hair that much volume. And a half-and-half dye job makes this already trendy style even more fun. Come over here and have a look.
20. Wavy Braided Braids
This look has an “unfinished” feel, as if you’ve just gotten out of bed and braided your hair. Of course, it takes more effort! Blow dry hair with a generous amount and use a large barrel curling iron to create waves. look here.
21. Bandana and Headband Braid Braids
This contrasting black and blonde hairstyle has a very structured look, with headbands forming different sections on each braid. A black and white turban tops it off! Head over to Biker Or Not to check out this and other fun hair ideas.
22. Fishtail twist
This style looks easy to do thanks to its inherent messy look. Start with two fishtail braids, then twist them into two buns on either side of the head. Secure them in place and finish with hairspray. Check it out here.
23. Random Braids
This cute look works well with very long hair, so you can have long braids that fall down your back. Start at the top of your head and swirl up and down—leaving some wavy sections to frame your face. See this and many others here.
24. Rolled Braids
This unique style is more of a runway look, but it can certainly be adapted for everyday life. Use a curling iron to curl as much hair as you can, then tie hair into two braids at the top of your head. Found at The Beauty Insiders.
25. French Spiral Ponytail
Last but not least, this epic hairstyle is created by twisting French braids into spirals. If you have some serious hairstyling experience, give it a try! You just need some patience and a lot of hair. Check it out on Tumblr.
26. High Top Braid Braids
This braid is absolutely gorgeous if your hair is long enough. Starting at the top of the head, tie a few strands at the base of the braid where it hangs beautifully.
27. Half Braid Braid
If you’re going for a boho look, a few braids will look stunning. Since the braids start below the ears and the hair is relatively loose, it will look great with a hat.
28. Braided Braids
Several braided braids look lovely if you mix braiding styles. If you start with a regular set of braids and then, once you reach the neck, switch to a fishtail braid, you can have great results. Since we are talking about braids, the effect is even more beautiful.
29. Colorful Braid Braids
These colorful braids are simply stunning. We love how they look and how fun they are! Of course, you’ll need some special colored braids, but you can make it work!
30. Thick Braids
By creating some chunky braids, you get a wonderful hairstyle. Plus, add a little shaggy top and you’ll elevate the entire hairstyle. Wear it with office dresses or jeans.
Final Thoughts on Braids
Which of the above braids is best for you? Are you inspired and ready to try new things? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.