21 Pretty Braided Hairstyles Ideas

Let’s be honest: braids are the ultimate hairstyle hack. They look stunning, they work for pretty much any occasion, and they can make you look like you spent an hour on your hair when in reality it took, what, ten minutes?

If you’ve ever scrolled through Pinterest or Instagram and thought, Wow, how do they even do that?, then you’re in the right place.

I’ve tested more braided styles than I can count (including a few disasters I’d rather forget), and I can tell you that the right braid can totally transform your look.

Whether you want something casual, romantic, boho, or glam, I’ve got you covered with 21 pretty braided hairstyles ideas that will make you feel like a total hair goddess.

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1. Classic Three-Strand Braid

Let’s start simple. The three-strand braid is the one everyone learns as a kid. Don’t underestimate it, though. With a sleek finish, it looks polished; with a looser touch, it screams effortless chic. Honestly, it’s the little black dress of braids.

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2. French Braid

If you don’t know how to French braid yet, you’re missing out. A French braid pulls hair from the top down into a tight, neat plait that works for workouts, school, or even a night out if you style it right. It’s equal parts practical and pretty.

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3. Dutch Braid

Think of the Dutch braid as the French braid’s cooler, bolder sister. Instead of weaving over, you weave under, which makes the braid pop. Ever wondered why influencers always look like they have 3D braids? Yep, it’s Dutch braiding.

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4. Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid looks way harder than it is. It’s just alternating tiny sections, but the result is intricate and elegant. Pro tip: pull it apart at the end for that perfectly messy, boho vibe.

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5. Milkmaid Braids

Want to feel like you’re in a period drama without the corset? Milkmaid braids wrap around your head like a crown. I’ve worn this to weddings, and people literally stopped me to ask how I did it.

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6. Waterfall Braid

The waterfall braid is part braid, part flowing waves. Strands cascade down like, well, a waterfall. It’s romantic, whimsical, and perfect for date night or any event where you want to look a little extra.

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7. Rope Braid

Here’s a fun twist—literally. A rope braid only uses two strands, twisted in opposite directions and wrapped around each other. It’s sleek, modern, and a little different from the usual.

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8. Side Braid

A side braid is basically the lazy girl’s best friend. Sweep all your hair to one side, braid loosely, and you’re done. It’s casual but still looks put together.

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9. Double Dutch Braids

Also known as “boxer braids,” these are sporty, edgy, and practical. Double Dutch braids stay put through workouts, but IMO they also look fierce with streetwear.

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10. Crown Braid

If you want to feel like a queen (and honestly, who doesn’t?), try the crown braid. It circles your head like a halo and works beautifully for special occasions.

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11. Boho Braids

Boho braids aren’t a single style—they’re more of a vibe. Think small, random braids woven into loose waves. Perfect for festivals or just when you want to look like you didn’t try (even though you obviously did).

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12. Infinity Braid

This one looks insane but is totally doable with practice. The infinity braid creates a figure-eight pattern that looks super intricate. It’s a statement braid for sure.

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13. Ladder Braid

If you really want heads to turn, go for a ladder braid. It’s two braids running parallel with strands connecting them like rungs of a ladder. Definitely an Instagram-worthy style.

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14. Ponytail Braid

Sometimes the easiest upgrade is the best one. Take a basic ponytail, braid it, and boom—you’ve got a ponytail braid that looks sleek and playful.

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15. Bubble Braid

Okay, technically not a “braid” in the traditional sense, but it’s too good not to include. A bubble braid uses elastics to create bubble-like sections. It’s fun, trendy, and ridiculously easy.

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16. Pull-Through Braid

This braid gives maximum volume without complicated weaving. A pull-through braid looks like a chunky braid, but it’s just ponytails stacked and looped. Cheat code? Absolutely.

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17. Braided Bun

Combine a braid with a bun, and you’ve got an elegant braided bun that works for weddings, proms, or just when you feel fancy. I wore this to a formal event once, and people assumed I had gone to a salon. Spoiler: I didn’t.

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18. Mohawk Braid

Want drama? A mohawk braid runs down the center of your head with shaved sides or slicked-back hair. It’s edgy, modern, and guaranteed to get attention.

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19. Snake Braid

The snake braid is small and quirky. You braid a small section, then push it upward so it scrunches into a zigzag snake shape. It’s more of an accent braid, but it adds a fun detail.

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20. Four-Strand Braid

When you’re bored of three, try four. A four-strand braid looks super intricate but follows a simple weaving pattern. It’s a little trickier, but totally worth it for the “wow” factor.

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21. Accent Braids

Sometimes less is more. Tiny accent braids hidden in your hair can add subtle detail. I love these for casual days when I still want a little flair.

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How to Choose the Right Braid for You

With so many options, how do you pick? Here are a few quick tips:

• Length matters: Longer hair = more options. But don’t stress—short styles can rock accent braids or crown braids too.
• Occasion: Weddings? Go for a crown or braided bun. Gym? Double Dutch or side braid.
• Skill level: Start with the basics (three-strand, French, Dutch), then level up to fishtail, ladder, or infinity.
• Texture: Braids hold better with some texture. If your hair’s slippery, add dry shampoo or texturizing spray first.

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Pro Tips for Braiding Success

• Always detangle first. Nothing kills a braid faster than hidden knots.
• Use clear elastics for a neat finish.
• Pancake your braid (aka pull it apart a little) for that fuller, Instagram-ready look.
• Practice on a friend if your arms get tired—trust me, it’s a workout.

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Final Thoughts

Braids are basically the MVP of hairstyles. They’re versatile, gorgeous, and way easier than they look (most of the time). Whether you want something laid-back like a side braid or full drama like a mohawk braid, there’s a style here that’ll work for you.

Personally, I’m obsessed with fishtails and boho braids because they give off that “I woke up like this” vibe—except I definitely didn’t.

So grab a comb, some elastics, maybe a little texturizing spray, and start experimenting. Who knows? Your new go-to hairstyle might be hiding in one of these 21 pretty braided hairstyles ideas. And hey, if nothing else, you’ll at least get some strong arms from all that braiding practice.