Braid hairstyles: 20 ideas and how to do the four basic braids
20 braid hairstyles from easy side braids to box, knotless and Fulani braids, step-by-step French and Dutch braids, and how to avoid traction hair loss.
The short answer
Most braid hairstyles come from four techniques: three-strand, French, Dutch and fishtail. A French braid crosses strands over the middle; a Dutch braid crosses them under so it sits on top. 20 ideas, from a five-minute side braid to milkmaid braids and protective box, knotless and Fulani braids.
- Tight or heavy braids can cause traction hair loss: choose loose or knotless braids and take them out after 6 to 8 weeks.
- Practice on day-two hair; very clean hair slips.
Every braid hairstyle is a version of a few basic techniques: the three-strand braid, the French braid (strands crossed over and hair added in), the Dutch braid (crossed under, so it sits on top) and the fishtail (two sections, small pieces swapped). Learn those four and you can do almost any braid style. Below are 20 braid hairstyles, from five-minute everyday braids to protective styles such as box braids and cornrows, with step-by-step instructions for the basics and what to know about braids and hair loss.
The four basic braids
| Braid | How it works | Looks | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Three-strand | Three sections; cross the outer strands over the middle in turn | Classic, simple | Easy |
| French | Three-strand, adding hair to each outer strand before crossing it over | Flat, woven into the head | Medium |
| Dutch | Like a French braid, but cross strands under the middle | Raised braid sitting on top of the hair | Medium |
| Fishtail | Two sections; take a small piece from the outside of one and add it to the other | Fine herringbone texture | Medium |
Practice on day-two hair: clean, silky hair slips; a little texture spray helps.
How do you French braid your own hair?
- Brush out tangles and take a section at the crown. Split it into three.
- Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the middle.
- Before each next cross, add a small section of loose hair from that side to the outer strand.
- Keep adding hair until you reach the nape, then finish as a three-strand braid.
- Tie the end and gently pull the edges ("pancaking") for a fuller look.
For a Dutch braid, follow the same steps but cross each strand under the middle instead of over.
20 braid hairstyles
Everyday
- Single three-strand braid over one shoulder.
- Two French braids, the gym classic.
- Dutch braid down the back.
- Fishtail braid, loosened.
- Half-up braided crown.
- Side braid into a low ponytail.
- Braided headband: a thin braid from ear to ear.
Polished and special occasion
- Low braided bun.
- Milkmaid braids pinned across the head.
- Waterfall braid over loose waves.
- Rope twist ponytail.
- Braided chignon for weddings.
- Ribbon braid with a silk ribbon woven in.
Protective braids
- Box braids: individual square-parted braids, often with added hair.
- Knotless braids: started with your own hair and fed in gradually, so there is less tension at the root.
- Cornrows: braided flat to the scalp in rows.
- Fulani braids: cornrows with a center braid and beads.
- Goddess braids: box or knotless braids with curly pieces left out.
- Lemonade braids: side-swept cornrows.
- Feed-in braids: cornrows that start thin and get thicker.
Braids and hair loss: what to know
Braids are a good protective style when they are done right, but tension is the risk. The American Academy of Dermatology lists tight braids, cornrows and extensions among hairstyles that can cause traction alopecia, hair loss from constant pulling, which can become permanent. Warning signs: pain, small bumps or tightness at the hairline, especially in the first days.
- Ask for knotless or loose braids, especially around the edges.
- Keep extension hair light; long, heavy braids pull more.
- Take them out after about 6 to 8 weeks and give your hair a rest before the next set.
- Moisturize your scalp and sleep in a satin scarf or on a silk pillowcase.
Not sure what your texture needs? See our hair types chart, and for more ideas, hairstyles for long hair.
Read next: Shag Haircut: Types, Who It Suits, How to Style · Layered Haircuts: Medium and Long Layers Guide · Hairstyles for Women Over 50: 20 Flattering Cuts
Questions people ask about this
What is the difference between a French braid and a Dutch braid?
Both add hair as you go. In a French braid, strands cross over the middle, so the braid lies flat; in a Dutch braid, they cross under, so the braid sits raised on top.
What are knotless braids?
Braids started with your own hair and with extension hair fed in gradually, instead of tied on with a knot at the root. They put less tension on the scalp and look flatter at the base.
How long can you keep braids in?
Protective braids such as box or knotless braids are usually kept for about 6 to 8 weeks. Leaving them longer increases tangling, buildup and strain at the roots.
Can braids cause hair loss?
Yes, if they are too tight or too heavy. Constant tension can cause traction alopecia. Choose loose or knotless braids and remove them if they hurt or cause bumps at the hairline.
What is the easiest braid for beginners?
The three-strand braid. Once it is comfortable, the French braid uses the same motion with hair added in.
