19 Types of Braids & How to Create Them Like a Pro

19 Different Types of Braids (and How to Create Them)

Braids are more than just a hairstyle — they’re a timeless art form that blends beauty, culture, and creativity. Whether you’re heading to brunch, a festival, or a formal event, the right braid hairstyle can completely transform your look.

From classic French braids to intricate fishtails and protective box braids, we’re breaking down 19 different types of braids — including step-by-step tutorials and styling tips to help you create them effortlessly at home.

 

 

Why Braids Are Always in Style

Braids never go out of fashion because they’re:

  • Versatile — perfect for casual, formal, or sporty looks.

  • Protective — reduce breakage and help maintain healthy hair.

  • Adaptable — suitable for all hair textures and lengths.

Plus, learning a few easy braiding tutorials means you can experiment with endless styles whenever you want!

 

 

1. Classic Three-Strand Braid

Let’s start simple. The three-strand braid is the foundation of all braiding styles.

How to create it:

  1. Divide your hair into three equal sections.

  2. Cross the right section over the middle.

  3. Cross the left section over the new middle.

  4. Repeat until you reach the end, and secure with an elastic.

Pro tip: Add a silk ribbon or scarf for a chic twist.

 

 

2. French Braid

The French braid is a timeless favorite that exudes elegance.

How to create it:

  1. Start with a small section at the crown.

  2. Divide into three parts and begin braiding.

  3. Add small sections of hair to each outer strand as you move down.

  4. Continue until you reach the ends, then tie off.

Perfect for: Workdays, dates, or even a wedding look.

 

 

3. Dutch Braid (Reverse French Braid)

If you love volume, the Dutch braid (also called an inside-out braid) is for you.

How to create it:

  1. Divide hair into three sections.

  2. Cross the right strand under the middle, then the left under the middle.

  3. Keep adding hair as you braid downward.

  4. Tug gently at the sides to make it look fuller.

 

 

4. Fishtail Braid

Romantic, soft, and intricate — the fishtail braid looks complicated but is easy once you get the hang of it.

How to create it:

  1. Split hair into two sections.

  2. Take a small strand from the outer edge of one side and cross it over to the other.

  3. Repeat on both sides until complete.

Styling idea: Loosen it up for a boho vibe.

 

 

5. Waterfall Braid

A waterfall braid is an elegant cascading style perfect for long, wavy hair.

How to create it:

  1. Start like a French braid but drop one strand after each cross.

  2. Replace it with a new section of hair from above.

  3. Continue along the head like a crown.

 

 

6. Box Braids

Box braids are a stunning protective style that keeps natural hair healthy while offering endless styling options.

How to create it:

  1. Part your hair into small square sections.

  2. Add extensions (optional) for length and thickness.

  3. Braid each section tightly to the ends.

Maintenance: Moisturize your scalp regularly to keep your braids fresh.

 

 

7. Cornrows

Cornrows are sleek, close-to-the-scalp braids often worn in rows or creative patterns.

How to create it:

  1. Divide hair into rows using a tail comb.

  2. Take three small strands at the start and braid tightly against the scalp.

  3. Continue adding hair as you move along.

Pro tip: Add beads or cuffs for a trendy finish.

 

 

8. Rope Braid (Twist Braid)

Simple yet stylish, the rope braid adds a modern twist to your everyday look.

How to create it:

  1. Divide hair into two sections.

  2. Twist each section clockwise, then twist them around each other counterclockwise.

  3. Secure with a tie.

 

 

9. Crown Braid

The crown braid gives fairy-tale vibes and works beautifully for weddings or formal occasions.

How to create it:

  1. Create two braids from each side of your head.

  2. Wrap them across your head like a crown.

  3. Pin securely and loosen slightly for volume.

 

 

10. Halo Braid

Similar to the crown braid but created from a single continuous braid that circles the head.

Best for: Romantic dinners, photoshoots, or boho-themed events.

 

 

11. Milkmaid Braid

This vintage-inspired look involves wrapping two braids across your head and pinning them — perfect for a chic updo.

 

 

12. French Rope Braid

A twist on the rope braid, this style incorporates sections of hair as you go — much like a French braid but with twists instead of crosses.

 

 

13. Lace Braid

The lace braid is a delicate version of a French braid, ideal for side-swept styles.

Tip: Only add hair from one side instead of both to keep the braid along your hairline.

 

 

14. Pull-Through Braid

Love big, voluminous braids? Try this one.

How to create it:

  1. Make small ponytails down the back of your head.

  2. Split and loop each ponytail through the next.

  3. Tug gently for fullness.

Looks best on: Long, thick hair or extensions.

 

 

15. Bubble Braid

A trendsetter’s favorite, the bubble braid creates a playful, youthful vibe.

How to create it:

  1. Secure your hair in a ponytail.

  2. Add elastics every few inches.

  3. Gently tug each section to form “bubbles.”

 

 

16. Snake Braid

This chic braid gives off a serpentine look — perfect for edgy fashion lovers.

How to create it:

  1. Braid a small section normally, then hold one strand and push the other two upward.

  2. Pull down slightly to form a wave pattern.

 

 

17. Ladder Braid

For advanced braiders, this style weaves two parallel braids together to resemble a ladder. It’s a guaranteed showstopper!

 

 

18. Pigtail Braids

Classic pigtail braids never go out of style — fun, flirty, and perfect for casual days.

Style tip: Try Dutch pigtails for a sporty, lifted look.

 

 

19. Butterfly Braid

A stunning oversized braid that mimics the shape of butterfly wings. It’s bold, elegant, and perfect for special occasions.

 

 

Braiding Tips for Healthy, Beautiful Hair

To keep your braids looking flawless and your hair healthy:

  • Always detangle before braiding.

  • Apply leave-in conditioner or styling cream for smoothness.

  • Use a wide-tooth comb and gentle hands.

  • Protect your braids at night with a silk scarf or bonnet.

  • Moisturize your scalp weekly.

 

 

How to Choose the Right Braid for You

  • Short hair: Try waterfall or crown braids.

  • Long hair: Go for fishtail or box braids.

  • Curly hair: Opt for protective cornrows or rope twists.

  • Straight hair: Experiment with bubble or ladder braids.

 

 

Final Thoughts

From timeless classics to modern trends, braid hairstyles offer endless ways to express your individuality. Whether you prefer sleek, simple looks or intricate patterns, there’s a braid that perfectly matches your personality and hair type.

So grab your comb, section your hair, and start braiding your way to your next fashion statement!

 

 

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