23 Stunning Braided Hairstyles for Women: Styles, Tips & Images

Hi, I’m Lena — a professional hairstylist with more than 10 years of salon experience creating braided looks for clients of every age and texture. In this collection of 23 braided hairstyles for women, I showcase a range of options from delicate French and Dutch braids to protective box braids, neat cornrows, romantic halo braids, and polished braided updos. These styles suit a wide variety of hair types—fine, medium, thick and textured—and lengths from short to long. In the salon I choose braid types based on face shape, lifestyle and hair health; at home I recommend lightweight leave-in conditioner, a good detangling brush, small snag-free elastics and a light-hold spray to finish. Each of the 23 images includes quick styling notes and variations so you can recreate the look yourself or bring precise inspiration to your stylist.

Double Dutch to Rope Braids — Platinum Textured Braided Hairstyle

Suitable hair: Best on medium-to-long hair or on fine hair with clip-in extensions; works for straight, wavy or slightly textured curls. Heavy-density hair gives the fullest result; chemically lightened hair will need extra moisture and gentle handling. Styling technique: Create a clean center part, section the top into two wide panels and begin Dutch braiding each panel from the hairline back to the nape. Transition each Dutch braid into a two-strand rope braid (or continue as a three-strand braid) and finish with elastic bands. Pancake the braids lightly for width and weave any loose ends into the base for a neat finish. Tools needed: fine tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, wide-tooth brush and optional clip-in extensions. Products required: leave-in conditioner, light styling cream or pomade for grip, sea-salt or texturizing spray (for hold), light-hold hairspray and a few drops of hair oil for ends. Difficulty level: Intermediate — expect 40–70 minutes depending on length and extensions. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap with a scarf, refresh edges with a bit of pomade, avoid over-tightening to prevent breakage and re-braid every 3–5 days; deep-condition bleached hair weekly.

Textured Side-Swept Cornrow into Chunky Braid Updo

This dramatic updo pairs small cornrows at the crown with a wide, side-swept chunky braid — ideal for medium to very thick hair and natural curl or coil patterns. Fine or straight hair will require texturizing (light backcombing or added braiding hair) for hold and volume. Technique: section the top into tidy, slightly angled cornrows feeding toward the crown, secure their ends into a higher ponytail, then gather remaining hair and either three-strand or rope-braid down the side. Pancake the finished braid for width and softness. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins, edge brush, and optional crochet/root loop for extensions. Products required: leave-in moisturizer, firm-hold gel or pomade for neat cornrows, lightweight oil or serum for shine, texturizing spray and medium-hold hairspray. Difficulty level: intermediate to advanced — expect 60–120 minutes in-salon (longer with extensions). Maintenance tips: sleep in a silk scarf or bonnet, refresh edges weekly with edge control, lightly re-moisturize the scalp, and avoid excessive tension. Redo cornrows every 2–3 weeks and remove styles before the 6-week mark to prevent breakage.

Boho Messy Double Braids with Face‑Framing Pieces

This relaxed boho style works best on medium to long hair with a natural wave or light texture — fine hair benefits from a volumizing mousse, while thick hair will hold the shape easily. Start on towel‑dried hair: apply a sea‑salt or texturizing spray, rough‑dry to enhance grit, then create a soft center or slight off‑center part. Section hair into two sides and build two to three braids per side (mix three‑strand and fishtail braids for interest). Loosely pull apart (pancake) each braid for fullness, tease gently at the crown, and secure ends with small elastics; wrap elastics with a thin cord or hide with a small pin for a finished look. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and an optional 1

Voluminous Dutch-to-Fishtail Braided Ponytail — Textured Bridal/Everyday Look

This voluminous Dutch-to-fishtail braided ponytail works best on medium to long hair with medium to thick density; fine hair can be enhanced with a texturizing spray or clip-in extensions. Start on dry, pre-textured hair: apply a lightweight mousse or root-lifting spray and rough-dry for grip. Create a deep Dutch (inverted) braid from the hairline toward the nape, pulling slightly on each stitch (pancaking) to widen the braid and add lift. Transition into a loose fishtail or rope braid down the length, securing with an elastic and wrapping a small section of hair to conceal it. Finish by gently pulling the braid apart for softness and misting with flexible-hold hairspray. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, curling iron (optional for ends), blow dryer. Products: texturizing spray or sea-salt spray, lightweight mousse, flexible-hold hairspray, smoothing serum for flyaways. Difficulty: Intermediate (20–40 minutes depending on practice). Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely wrap in a silk scarf, refresh with dry shampoo and a quick re-pancake each morning, and secure loose pieces with bobby pins as needed.

Chunky Dutch Mohawk with Micro Side Braids for Long Hair

This look suits medium to long hair with medium-to-thick density — textured or wavy hair holds the shape best. Fine hair can wear this style with added clip-in extensions or padding for volume. Technique: create a central mohawk section and two or three parallel micro cornrows on each side. Dutch-braid the central section into a series of large, tightly woven braids, then pancake (gently pull apart) the outer loops for a chunky, voluminous finish. Combine and secure ends into a single thick braid or multiple plaits. Tools needed: rat-tail comb for precise parting, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, strong hair elastics, bobby pins, and optional clip-in extensions. Products required: texturizing spray or sea-salt spray for grip, light gel or edge control for smooth parts, smoothing serum on ends, and flexible-hold hairspray to set. Difficulty: advanced — expect 45–90 minutes; best done by an experienced braider or in-salon. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk/satin scarf, refresh roots with dry shampoo, avoid heavy oils near parts, retighten elastics as needed, and undo braids after 3–5 days to prevent tension damage. Regular deep-conditioning after removing the style keeps hair healthy.

Dutch Crown Into Two Textured Boho Braids — Blonde Braided Hairstyle

Suitable hair types: best on medium to thick hair and shoulder-length to long lengths; fine hair benefits from light texturizing or clip-in pieces. Technique: create a deep side or center part and start two Dutch crown braids from the hairline, working backward and adding sections as you go. Once the crowns meet at the nape, continue each side into a loose three-strand braid and pancake/stretch the braid sections to create the full, boho look. Tools needed: fine-tooth comb, rat-tail comb, small clear elastics, bobby pins, sectioning clips, and a light curling iron (optional) to add texture before braiding. Products required: heat protectant (if using heat), sea salt or texturizing spray, light mousse or root-lift for hold, smoothing serum for ends, and a flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty level: intermediate — requires braiding confidence and some practice to keep even tension. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely re-braid to preserve shape; refresh texture with dry shampoo or salt spray and re-pancake any flattened sections. Trim ends regularly to prevent fraying and use a leave-in conditioner to maintain shine.

High Box-Braid Bun Updo with Face‑Framing Micro Braids

This elevated braided bun is ideal for natural, textured, coily or kinky hair and works well on medium to thick densities; thinner hair can achieve the look with smaller braids or added synthetic extensions for volume. Technique: section hair into even box parts, create three‑strand or feed‑in micro/medium braids, leave two or three thinner face‑framing braids, then wrap the remaining braids into a high stacked bun and tuck or stitch ends under for a smooth silhouette. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, bobby pins/long hairpins, small elastics, optional crochet or latch hook for extensions, and a soft scarf. Recommended products: pre‑styling leave‑in conditioner, lightweight styling gel or edge control for neat parts, braid spray or lightweight oil for moisture, and a light holding spray to set. Difficulty: intermediate — basic braiding skills required; expect 3–6 hours depending on length and whether extensions are installed. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk/satin scarf or bonnet, refresh edges weekly, mist scalp with a moisturizing spray every 2–4 days, avoid heavy creams that cause buildup, and remove or redo within 6–8 weeks to prevent tension damage.

Textured Boho Braids with Loose Curly Face-Framing Tendrils

This look suits wavy to curly mid-length or long hair and works well on textured or layered cuts — fine hair benefits from pre-texturizing while thick hair shows off the volume. Start by creating a slightly undone base: apply sea-salt spray or texturizing mousse to damp hair, diffuse or air-dry until just dry, then backcomb gently at the crown for lift. Section hair and create two to three loose braids (mixing three-strand and fishtail sections adds interest), pulling gently to pancake them for width. Leave delicate face-framing tendrils unbraided and curl or scrunch them for a soft finish. Tools: wide-tooth comb, rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, 1–1.25

Double Dutch to Loose Fishtail Braids — Textured Braided Ponytail

Suitable for medium-to-long hair, especially medium to thick textures; fine hair benefits from texturizing for added volume and grip. Start with slightly damp or second-day hair, create two Dutch braids from the hairline toward the nape, then combine them into one loose fishtail or three-strand braid. Pancake each braid (gently pull the braid’s outer loops) to widen and soften the look and pull a few face-framing strands free for a relaxed finish. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins and a wide-tooth brush. Products: sea-salt or texturizing spray for hold, light dry shampoo at the roots for extra grip, smoothing serum for flyaways and a light-hold hairspray to set. Difficulty level: intermediate — allow 20–35 minutes once familiar with Dutch braiding and pancaking. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh with dry shampoo and re-pancake or re-pin loose areas, avoid heavy conditioners before styling, and reapply a tiny amount of smoothing serum to tame frizz. Use discreet elastics and pins to extend wear for multiple days.

Halo Crown Braid with Soft Face‑Framing Tendrils

This halo crown braid is ideal for medium to long hair and works well on straight, wavy, or slightly textured hair; very thick hair may need sectioning or thinning, while fine hair benefits from added texture. Start with clean, towel‑dried hair sprayed with light mousse or root‑lift and a texturizing spray for grip. Create a clean side or center part, then Dutch‑braid (or French‑braid for a softer look) along the hairline, adding hair evenly and following the curve around the head until you meet the starting point. Secure with a small elastic, tuck the tail under and pin discreetly with U‑pins. Gently pancake the braid for width and softness, and pull 2–4 face‑framing pieces free for a relaxed finish. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins/U‑pins, and a smoothing brush; optional curling iron for shaping tendrils. Products: texturizing spray, heat protectant, smoothing serum, and a light‑to‑medium hold hairspray. Difficulty: moderate — 20–40 minutes with practice. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh with dry shampoo and retexturize, and re‑pin loose sections to extend wear for 2–3 days.

Textured Braided Mohawk with Tight Cornrows and Voluminous Top

This style suits medium to thick hair and works best on naturally wavy or curly textures; fine or very straight hair can achieve the look with light texturizing or temporary extensions for added bulk. Technique: section the sides into clean parts and create several tight cornrows toward the crown, leaving larger three-strand or loose boho braids down the nape and a back-combed, twisted voluminous top to form the mohawk silhouette. Tools needed: rat-tail comb for precise parting, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, fine-tooth comb, wide-tooth brush, and a tail comb for smoothing; optional curling iron or texturizing wand for added body. Products required: lightweight mousse or sea-salt spray for grip, medium-hold gel or edge control for sleek cornrows, texturizing powder or spray for volume, light hairspray to set, and a few drops of serum for shiny ends. Difficulty level: intermediate to advanced — expect 45–90 minutes depending on density and length. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk scarf or bonnet, refresh edges with a tiny bit of edge control, use dry shampoo between washes, avoid overtightening to protect the hairline, and retouch cornrows every 2–3 weeks as needed.

Loose Double Fishtail Braids with Textured Twists — Boho Braided Upstyle

This romantic boho upstyle suits medium-to-long hair and works best on medium to thick textures; fine hair can also achieve this look with light teasing or temporary clip-in extensions for volume. Start on second-day hair or apply a salt/texturizing spray to dry hair for grip. Section the top into two swooping side pieces and create reversed French/Dutch braids across the crown, then transition each braid into a loose fishtail down the length. Pancake (gently pull apart) each braid for width, secure with small elastics, and conceal bands with wrapped hair or bobby pins for a soft finish. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and a 1–1.25

Twisted Updo with Cornrow Base — Elegant Natural/Type 4 Hairstyle

This polished twisted updo with an under-stitched cornrow base is ideal for natural hair textures (3C–4C) and medium to high density. Start on clean, detangled hair: part and stitch cornrows at the sides and back to create a secure anchor, then work larger two-strand or rope twists from the crown, rolling and pinning them into the faux-hawk/rolled updo shape. For best results pre-stretch hair lightly (banding or low-heat blow-dry) to reduce shrinkage. Tools: rat-tail comb, tail comb, sectioning/clips, small elastics, sturdy bobby pins and long U-pins, and a blow-dryer with comb attachment if stretching. Products: moisturizing shampoo/conditioner, leave-in conditioner, a firm but flexible twisting cream or butter, edge control for hairline, lightweight holding spray, and a sealing oil (jojoba/argan). Difficulty: moderate — 60–120 minutes depending on size and experience; consider a stylist for the first install. Maintenance: sleep on satin, refresh twists with a water/leave-in mist and light oil, avoid heavy buildup, and don’t over-tighten to protect the edges. Expect 2–4 weeks of wear with proper care.

Boho Double Dutch Braids with Textured Pancaked Finish

This look pairs two Dutch (under) braids starting at the crown with a pancaked, textured finish for a soft, bohemian feel. Best suited for medium to long hair; works well on straight, wavy, or slightly curly textures. Fine hair benefits from a volumizing mousse or light texturizing spray before styling, while thick hair may require stronger elastics and more precise sectioning. Technique: create a deep center part, take a wide front section and begin Dutch braiding toward the back, adding hair evenly on both sides; continue into two full braids down each side. Pancake each braid by gently pulling outer edges to widen and soften the look. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and a paddle brush. Products: volumizing mousse or salt spray, light hairspray, smoothing serum for flyaways, and dry shampoo to extend wear. Difficulty: moderate — some braiding experience required. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk scarf to reduce frizz, refresh texture next day with dry shampoo and a light mist of texturizer, and retighten only the front sections as needed to preserve the lived-in shape.

Platinum Crown Dutch Braids into Thick Boho Plaits

This look suits medium to very thick, long hair best — natural texture helps the braids hold, and fine hair can be achieved with clip-in extensions for volume. Start on slightly damp or dry-styled hair with a light texturizing spray for grip. Section a clean center part, create two or three Dutch/cornrows across the crown and feed hair into larger three-strand or rope plaits toward the nape. Use the pancake technique (gently pull braid edges) to broaden and soften each plait for that boho, chunky effect. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and optional clip-in extensions. Products: salt or texturizing spray, light styling cream or edge control for flyaways, smoothing serum for shine, and a flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate — requires confident hand-braiding and neat sectioning; plan 30–60 minutes depending on length and number of braids. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk scarf or bonnet, refresh with dry shampoo and light misting of texturizer, re-pancake daily to maintain volume, and undo gently to avoid breakage. Recreate or tighten after 3–5 days for best longevity.

Voluminous Mohawk/Braid Style for Natural 3B–4C Hair (Pancaked Faux-Hawk)

Suitable for natural textured hair (3B–4C) and medium-to-thick curly/coily types, this voluminous mohawk braid uses cornrows at the sides and a large pancaked braid down the center. Technique: part and cornrow the sides toward the center, gather the remaining hair into a series of stacked sections, wrap or feed-in extensions if extra length/volume is needed, then braid and pancake each braid segment to create the rounded, lifted silhouette. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastic bands, bobby pins, wide-tooth comb, crochet or feed-in needle (for extensions), and a blow-dryer with diffuser (optional). Products required: leave-in conditioner, smoothing cream or edge-control, lightweight gel for hold, shea butter or hair oil for shine, and a flexible-hold hairspray to set the shape. Difficulty level: moderate–advanced — basic cornrowing and feed-in braiding skills recommended; expect 60–120 minutes depending on extensions. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet or pillowcase, refresh edges with a light gel, reapply scalp oil weekly, avoid overwetting to preserve shape, and return to the salon for a tidy-up every 2–4 weeks for longevity.

Textured Crown and Side Braids with Pancaked Rope Braid

This look suits medium-to-long hair and works best on thick or naturally straight to slightly wavy textures; fine hair benefits from light padding or clip-in extensions for fullness. Start on clean, dry hair with a light texturizing spray to add grip. Section a crown band and create two narrow Dutch or three-strand braids across the top, then gather the remaining hair at the side and braid into a large, chunky three-strand or rope braid. Pancake the braid by gently pulling the outer loops to widen and soften the silhouette, and pin any sections into place for a woven, editorial finish. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and a wide-tooth brush. Products: texturizing spray or powder, smoothing serum for flyaways, medium-hold hairspray, and a light shine mist. Difficulty: advanced — expect 40–60 minutes in the salon. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh volume with dry shampoo and re-pancake gently rather than re-braiding, and secure loose pieces with small pins; avoid heavy oils near the roots to preserve grip.

Crown Rope-Twist Updo with Cornrow Sides — Elegant Protective Style for Natural Hair

This crown rope-twist updo is ideal for type 3 to 4 textured hair or relaxed hair seeking a protective, formal look; medium to long lengths work best and added extension hair can provide extra volume. Technique: create neat cornrow or flat-twist sections at the sides, then form large rope-twists across the top, pinning and tucking each twist into a crown shape. Tools needed: rat-tail comb for parting, sectioning clips, small elastics, sturdy bobby pins/u-pins, an edge brush, and a hand mirror for symmetry. Products required: a lightweight leave-in conditioner, sizing cream or twisting gel for definition, edge control, anti-frizz serum or pomade, and a light-hold hairspray or setting mousse. Difficulty level: intermediate — requires braiding/twisting skill and precision; expect 60–90 minutes in-salon, longer if adding extensions. Maintenance tips: sleep with a satin bonnet or scarf, refresh edges with a small amount of edge control, lightly mist scalp with a moisturizing spray, avoid heavy oils at the roots, and re-pin loose sections as needed. Keep as a protective style for 2–4 weeks with gentle care.

Textured Boho Crown Braid with Low Fishtail Updo

This romantic, textured crown-to-fishtail updo is best for medium to long hair and works well on fine, medium, or slightly thick hair — very dense hair benefits from sectioning or light thinning, while curly hair should be smoothed or defined first. Technique: start on towel-dried hair with heat protectant and a texturizing product. Create loose waves with a 1 curling wand for grip, then begin a slightly pulled-out Dutch/French braid along the hairline (crown), feeding sections toward the nape. Gather remaining hair into a loose fishtail or rope braid, pancake the braid for width, hide the elastic with pins and pull soft face-framing pieces free. Tools needed: 1 curling wand, rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, and plenty of bobby pins. Products required: heat protectant, sea-salt or texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray and a smoothing serum for flyaways. Difficulty: intermediate — plan 20–40 minutes depending on hair thickness. Maintenance tips: refresh with dry shampoo and extra texture spray, re-pancake and re-pin loose pieces as needed, and sleep on a silk pillowcase or loose wrap to preserve the shape.

Viking‑Inspired Multi‑Braided Half‑Up Hairstyle with Wrapped Ends

This multi-braided half-up look suits medium to long hair and works best on medium to thick textures; fine hair benefits from clip‑in extensions or light texturizing for bulk, and naturally curly hair can be smoothed slightly before braiding for cleaner lines. Technique: create several parallel cornrows or Dutch/French braids along the scalp from the hairline toward the crown, then gather remaining lengths into larger three‑strand braids and secure with small elastics. Wrap select ends with ribbon, leather, or thread for a rustic finish. Tools needed: fine tail comb for parting, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and hair ties. Products required: salt or texture spray for grip, lightweight smoothing serum for flyaways, dry shampoo to add body, and a flexible hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate (expect 30–60 minutes depending on braid count). Maintenance tips: sleep with silk or loose bun to reduce frizz, refresh texture with a misted salt spray, gently retighten or replace elastics after 1–2 days, avoid heavy brushing to keep braid definition, and deep‑condition the hair regularly to prevent breakage at bound sections.

Textured Pull-Through & Rope Braid Half-Up with Loose Waves

This polished half-up style suits medium-to-long hair and works best on medium to thick textures; fine hair benefits from light volumizing products or clip-in extensions. Start by prepping clean, dry hair with a heat protectant and a sea-salt or texturizing spray for grip. Create a chunky Dutch/rope-style braid across the crown, converting the braid into a pull-through by adding small elastics every 2–3 inches and gently pancaking each loop for width. Gather the remaining mid-lengths into a loose low pony, twist into a soft knotted bun and pin a few sections back into the braid, leaving several face-framing pieces out. Finish the lower lengths with large-barrel wand waves for movement. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, large-barrel curling wand, and a fine-tooth comb. Products: heat protectant, texturizer/salt spray, light flexible-hold hairspray, and a tiny pump of smoothing serum for flyaways. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–45 minutes in-salon or 45+ minutes DIY. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh texture with dry shampoo, retighten elastics if loosened, and touch up waves with a wand as needed.

Double Dutch Braids with Loose Textured Boho Finish

Suitable for medium-to-long hair and adaptable to fine, medium or thick textures, this double Dutch braid look benefits from a little natural or added texture. From a salon perspective, start with dry or second-day hair for grip: create a clean center part, section the hair into two sides, and begin Dutch braids at the temples by crossing sections under the center and adding hair as you work toward the nape. Secure each braid with a small elastic, then pancake (gently pull) the braid loops to widen them and create the loose, voluminous boho finish shown. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, paddle brush and optional 1

Voluminous Dutch-to-Fishtail Hybrid Braided Low Side Updo

This polished yet relaxed updo combines Dutch crown braiding with a pancaked fishtail/rope braid gathered into a low side braid — ideal for weddings, editorial shoots or elevated everyday wear. Hair type suitability: best on medium to long lengths and medium-to-thick density; fine hair works with clip-in extensions or by pre-texturizing. Styling technique: section the crown and create a Dutch crown braid, then feed remaining hair into a large fishtail or rope braid down one side. Pancake each braid (gently pull outer loops) for width, wrap and pin the lower braid into a low side bun or sweep it through as a hanging braid. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, paddle brush, and a 1–1.25” curling iron to add texture if hair is very straight. Products required: texturizing spray or sea-salt mist, lightweight mousse or root-lift, flexible-hold hairspray, and a small amount of smoothing serum for flyaways. Difficulty level: advanced–intermediate (30–50 minutes, depending on practice). Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk scarf, refresh volume with dry shampoo and re-pancaking, and secure loose pieces with discreet pins as needed.

Braided styles are versatile and practical—perfect for everyday wear, special events or as a protective choice during growth phases. As a stylist, I recommend prepping hair with a gentle detangling spray and using a smoothing balm for flyaways before braiding to enhance hold and shine. For textured or fragile hair, opt for looser tension and moisturize regularly with oils or a light leave-in; for finer hair, add texture spray or a bit of dry shampoo at the roots to give the braid grip and volume. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase or wearing a silk bonnet will extend the life of your braid and reduce frizz. Rotate heavier protective styles and give your scalp breaks to prevent tension. Use the 23 images as a roadmap—save the ones you love and share them with your stylist for a tailored result. If you have questions about which braid fits your hair type or how to care for a specific style, I’m happy to help.