Hi, I’m Lena — a professional hairstylist with over 10 years behind the chair. I’ve curated 24 braid hairstyles that span everyday looks, bridal braids, protective cornrows, and modern boho plaits. These styles flatter a range of face shapes and hair textures, from fine and straight to thick and coily, and can be adapted for short, medium, or long lengths. In the salon I always start with detangled, slightly damp hair, a lightweight leave-in, and sectioning that respects natural parting to keep tension even. Small details — like snag-free elastics, a finishing serum for flyaways, and gentle edge control — make a big difference. Whether you’re seeking a low-maintenance protective style or an intricate updo for a special occasion, the 24 images and salon-tested tips here will help you choose the right braid and communicate exactly what you want to your stylist.
Half-Up Senegalese Twists with High Twisted Bun
This half-up Senegalese/two‑strand twist style is a polished protective look best suited to naturally textured hair (Type 3–4) or hair with added kanekalon/synthetic extensions for extra length and uniform twists. Technique: section hair into small-to-medium panels, apply a moisturizing leave‑in and twisting butter or gel to each section, then create two‑strand Senegalese twists from root to tip. Gather the top third of twists into a high twisted bun and secure with a small elastic and long bobby pins for a neat finish while leaving the lower twists to hang freely. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb for clean parts, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins, optional crochet needle for installed extensions, and a diffuser or hooded dryer to set product if desired. Products required: hydrating leave‑in, twisting gel or cream, lightweight oil (jojoba/argan) to seal, edge control for baby hairs, and a light holding spray. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 2–6 hours depending on twist size and use of extensions. Maintenance: sleep on a satin bonnet or pillowcase, mist with diluted leave‑in weekly, oil the scalp to prevent dryness, re‑twist any loosened roots, avoid heavy products to reduce buildup, and remove or redo after 6–8 weeks to protect hair health.
Voluminous Side French-to-Fishtail Braid for Natural Textures
This look suits medium to thick textured hair—wavy, curly and coily types achieve the best volume and hold; fine or straight hair can replicate it with added texture. Start by creating a deep side part and French-braiding (or Dutch-braiding) along the hairline, incorporating hair toward the back. Gather remaining lengths and transition into a loose fishtail (or an oversized three-strand) braid down the shoulder. Lightly pancake each braid section to widen the silhouette and create softness. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and a wide-tooth brush. Products: quality leave-in conditioner, curl cream or smoothing balm for manageability, a light texturizing spray or powder to add grip, edge control for hairline, and a flexible-hold hairspray to finish. Difficulty: intermediate — requires control of tension when switching techniques and a steady hand for pancaking. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk scarf or bonnet to preserve shape, refresh with a light mist of water and leave-in or curl refresher, re-pancake sections to restore volume, and avoid heavy oils at roots to keep the braid from loosening prematurely.
Boho Side Cornrows with Fishtail & Micro Braids — Textured Beach Waves
Salon-tested boho look combining tight side cornrows with relaxed fishtails and micro braids. Best on medium-to-long hair; natural waves or loose curls give the most immediate texture, while straight hair benefits from a quick wave with a curling wand or salt spray before braiding. Technique: section a side panel and create 2–4 small Dutch/cornrow braids close to the scalp, then transition a few strands into larger fishtail or three-strand braids and finish small micro braids randomly for detail. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, fine-tooth comb, curling wand or flat iron, and hairpins. Products: texturizing/sea salt spray for grip, light hold hairspray, heat protectant, dry shampoo for volume, and a lightweight smoothing serum for ends. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 45–90 minutes depending on density. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap; refresh texture with water + salt spray; re-tighten cornrows within 3–5 days to avoid loosening; avoid heavy oils at the roots; touch up fishtails as they loosen. Lasts 3–7 days; redo for long-term wear.
Chunky Viking-Inspired Dutch Braids with Accent Cornrows and Hair Cuffs
This look suits medium to thick, straight-to-wavy long hair; fine hair can achieve the same shape with light clip-in extensions or added padding. Begin by outlining two side sections and a smaller front row for tight accent cornrows along the hairline. Create Dutch (inside-out) braids from the crown that feed into two chunky braids at the nape, pancaking each braid to widen and soften the texture. Add decorative cuffs or wrap thread around the finished braids for an authentic finish. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, tail comb, small clear elastics, elastic bands, hair cuffs, and a boar-bristle brush. Products: texturizing spray or sea-salt mist for grip, light-hold mousse on damp hair, a small amount of pomade for flyaways, flexible-hold hairspray, and a shine serum for ends. Difficulty: intermediate to advanced — expect 30–60 minutes; having a second pair of hands speeds the tight cornrows. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk scarf to prevent frizz, refresh roots with dry shampoo, gently re-tighten elastics after 2–3 days, and deep condition weekly to keep lengths healthy.
Cornrow Mohawk into Voluminous Wrapped Silver Braid
Suitability: Ideal for textured hair (Type 3–4) and for clients with finer hair when blended with extensions for fullness. Styling technique: Start with precise feed‑in cornrows on both sides directed toward the crown to create a mohawk base. Secure the cornrows into a high ponytail, add pre-stretched or braided extensions, then wrap and twist the extension hair into a large rope-style braid, pancaking gently to build the voluminous, wrapped look seen here. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, crochet/latch needle (if attaching extensions), extension hair or braiding hair, and a tail comb. Products required: strong-hold edge control or gel, lightweight mousse or setting foam for body, texturizing spray, light oil or serum for ends, and a braid spray/anti‑itch scalp mist. Difficulty level: Advanced — requires experienced cornrowing and extension blending; expect a 2.5–4 hour salon service. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet or pillowcase, refresh edges weekly with edge control, mist scalp every 2–4 days with braid spray, avoid heavy oils at the roots to prevent buildup, and cleanse the scalp with a diluted shampoo. Remove or redo after 6–8 weeks to prevent tension-related breakage.
Textured Dutch Cornrows with Long Boho Braids and Messy Low Bun
This look suits medium to long hair with natural texture — fine hair benefits from light texturizing and extensions, while medium to coarse hair holds the braids most easily. Technique: section the hair into multiple narrow panels and create tight Dutch (inverse) cornrows along the scalp, finishing into three-to-five long three-strand or fishtail braids that gather into a messy low bun at the nape. Leave a few face-framing pieces soft for a boho finish. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, fine-tooth comb, small clear elastics or micro bands, bobby pins, and a spray bottle. Products required: leave-in detangler, sea-salt or texturizing spray for grip, small amount of styling cream or edge control for neat parts, and a light-hold hairspray to set. Difficulty level: intermediate to advanced — plan 45–90 minutes in-salon depending on braid size and length. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk scarf or pillowcase, refresh with a light mist of leave-in or dry shampoo at roots, avoid heavy oils on the scalp to prevent buildup, and re-tighten or re-braid sections after 7–14 days to maintain a fresh finish.
Side-Swept Chunky Faux Locs with Cornrowed Undercut and Rope Braid
Suitability: This look suits textured hair (3A–4C), established natural locs or faux-loc extensions, and medium-to-long lengths. It’s flattering for thin to thick density — use extensions for added bulk. Styling technique: Begin by creating several side cornrows or flat-twist feed-ins along one side to anchor the style. Gather remaining locs or faux locs to the opposite side and create a loose rope or fishtail-style chunky braid, pancaking sections for fullness. Tuck and pin the braid end under for a side-chignon finish. Tools needed: rat-tail comb for parting, sectioning clips, elastic bands, bobby pins, crochet hook (for securing extensions) and a wide-tooth comb only if hair is not locked. Products required: lightweight leave-in moisturizer or water-based spray, locking/twist cream or edge control for neat parts, lightweight oil (jojoba or argan) for sheen, and a residue-free clarifying shampoo for scalp care. Difficulty level: Intermediate — requires clean parting and braid technique; salon appointment recommended for first install. Maintenance tips: wrap with a silk scarf at night, re-tighten cornrows every 4–6 weeks, freshen edges with a light gel, avoid heavy creams to reduce buildup, and cleanse scalp monthly with diluted shampoo.
Side Cornrows with Boho Dreadlock Twists
This side-cornrowed boho dreadlock style suits textured, curly, coarse hair and clients with established locs or extension dreadlocks. Section the side into 3–5 clean parts and create tight cornrows or flat twists along the scalp; gather the remaining hair into large rope twists or loose dreadlocks, incorporating and wrapping select strands with thread or leather for detail. Salon technique: precise parting, even tension on cornrows to protect the hairline, and finishing with palm-rolled or twisted chunky locs. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, crochet hook (0.5–0.75 mm) for tightening, latch/darning hook for wraps and beads. Products: residue-free locking gel or lightweight edge control for neat parts, a leave-in conditioning spritz, dry shampoo/powder for freshness, and a light scalp oil — avoid heavy waxes that cause buildup. Difficulty: intermediate — requires confident cornrowing and dread maintenance skills. Maintenance tips: retighten cornrows as they loosen, palm-roll or crochet stray hairs every 4–6 weeks, wash with residue-free shampoo every 1–2 weeks, moisturize the scalp lightly, sleep with a silk scarf, and book regular salon touch-ups to preserve the shape and protect the hairline.
Knotless Cornrow Crown with Long Chunky Feed‑In Braids
This style suits natural curls and coils (3A–4C) best, but can be adapted for straighter hair by adding braided-in extensions for texture and volume. Technique: create a defined center/crown part, cornrow the sides using a knotless or feed-in method to avoid tension at the hairline, then transition each cornrow into large, chunky three-strand feed-in braids that fall long. Tools needed: rattail comb, sectioning clips, spray bottle, edge brush, small elastic bands and a crochet needle (optional). Extensions: Kanekalon or premium synthetic/human braid hair for length and fullness. Products required: moisturizing leave-in, lightweight braiding gel/edge control for neat parts, holding mousse to set, and a light hair oil or sheen for shine and scalp care. Difficulty level: intermediate — expect 2–5 hours depending on length and amount of added hair. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet or pillowcase, refresh edges with a small amount of edge control, hydrate scalp weekly with diluted oil, cleanse gently every 1–2 weeks (diluted shampoo or co-wash), and avoid keeping braids longer than 6–8 weeks to prevent breakage.
Chunky Double Dutch Braids (Raised Cornrow Mohawk) for Thick Hair
This sculpted double Dutch braid look suits medium-to-coarse, naturally textured and long hair best — it also works for finer hair when blended with lightweight extensions. Start with clean, detangled hair and a precise center part. Create mirrored Dutch (inside-out) cornrows beginning at the hairline, adding hair as you work down toward the nape; pancake (gently pull on braid loops) to widen the sections for the chunky finish and secure ends with small elastics. Tools: rat-tail comb, soft bristle brush, sectioning clips, fine elastics, edge brush, and a handheld mirror. Products: a lightweight leave-in conditioner, anti-frizz cream or styling gel for hold at the roots, pomade for sleek edges, a light oil for shine, and dry shampoo to extend wear. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 45–90 minutes depending on experience and whether extensions are added. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin pillowcase or bonnet, mist scalp weekly with a diluted leave-in or oil to prevent dryness, refresh edges with a small amount of gel, and avoid excessive tension. Remove or redo after 2–4 weeks to prevent breakage and maintain healthy edges.
Textured Side Undercut with Feed-In Cornrows and Thick Braided Ponytail
Suitability: Best for natural, curly to coily (Type 3–4) hair or textured hair with medium to high density; extensions can be added for length and thickness. Technique: Start with a clean part and clipper-shaved undercut on one or both sides. Create neat feed-in cornrows along the scalp toward the crown, gradually adding hair (or synthetic braiding hair) to build uniform, chunky rows. Gather the ends at the nape and braid them into one large three‑strand or rope braid to finish. Tools needed: Clippers with guards, rattail comb, sectioning clips/duckbill clips, elastic bands, wide-tooth comb, small edge brush, and hair extension (Kanekalon/X-Pression) if desired. Products required: moisturizing leave-in conditioner, lightweight gel or edge control for sleek parts, anti-frizz pomade or butter, shine spray or light oil, and a sulfate-free dry shampoo for in-between washes. Difficulty level: Intermediate — requires precise clipper work and braiding skill; ideal to have a professional for clean undercut lines. Maintenance tips: sleep with a satin bonnet/scarf, refresh edges weekly, moisturize scalp every 3–4 days, gently cleanse the scalp with diluted shampoo or co-wash, and retouch or remove extensions after 6–8 weeks to avoid tension damage.
Textured Cornrow-to-Rope Braid Mohawk for Natural and Coily Hair
This polished cornrow-to-rope braid mohawk works best on textured, coily and curly hair types (3B–4C) and on medium to long lengths; extensions can be added for extra length and volume. Technique: create clean parallel sections at the crown, flat-braid or cornrow toward the center, then transition each cornrow into a two-strand rope twist or large three-strand braid down the back to form the mohawk shape. Tools needed: rat-tail comb for parting, sectioning clips, small elastics, a fine-tooth edge brush, and a crochet needle if installing feed-in extensions. Products required: a moisturizing leave-in, light styling gel or braid cream for hold, edge control for sleek hairline, a lightweight oil or serum for shine and scalp health, and an anti-frizz finishing spray. Difficulty level: intermediate — expect 60–120 minutes depending on hair density and whether extensions are used. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet or pillowcase, moisturize scalp twice weekly with a spray oil, refresh edges with small amounts of gel, avoid excessive tension to protect the hairline, and retouch or redo braids after 2–4 weeks to prevent breakage and buildup.
Boho Dutch & Micro-Braids with Loose Textured Ends
This style suits medium to long hair and works on fine, medium or thick textures — fine hair benefits from added texture, while thick hair gives more volume. The look is created by alternating larger Dutch/boxer braids with several skinny micro-braids, lightly pancaked for width, then leaving the lower lengths loosely textured. Start on dry, lightly salted or texturized hair: section with a rat-tail comb, create 3–4 Dutch/boxer braids across the crown and sides, add 2–6 micro-braids for detail, secure with small elastics and gently pancake each braid to soften. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, paddle brush, optional curling wand. Products: sea-salt or texturizing spray, lightweight mousse or root texturizer, dry shampoo, light-hold hairspray and a few drops of smoothing serum for ends. Difficulty: intermediate–advanced; expect 45–75 minutes depending on braid count. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow or wrap hair to reduce frizz, refresh roots with dry shampoo, re-tighten problem braids after 2–3 days, avoid heavy conditioning at the scalp to keep grip, and oil the ends sparingly to prevent breakage.
Sleek Cornrowed High Bun — Small Feed-In Braids Gathered into a Top Knot
This polished cornrowed high bun works best on naturally textured, coily or curly hair (3A–4C) and medium-to-thick densities; fine hair can also wear it with light kanekalon or human-hair extensions for fullness. Technique: create clean, evenly spaced cornrows from the hairline toward the crown using feed‑in or three‑strand braiding, secure braid ends and wrap them into a compact bun, tucking and pinning for a seamless finish. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastic bands, bobby pins, wide‑tooth comb and a soft edge brush. Products required: leave‑in moisturizer, lightweight braiding mousse or cream for grip, holding gel/edge control for baby hairs, light shine oil and a flexible holding spray. Difficulty level: intermediate — expect 2–4 hours depending on size and if extensions are installed; precision parting and consistent tension are essential. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk bonnet or scarf, refresh edges with a small amount of edge control, apply scalp oil weekly, cleanse with diluted shampoo or gentle co-wash, and avoid excessive tension to prevent breakage; redo or touch up every 4–8 weeks as growth and wear require.
Cornrow Braids with Colored Extension Plaits and Bead Accents
This look pairs neat cornrows at the crown with long, colored extension plaits and thin face-framing twists — ideal for medium to thick hair, naturally textured hair, or long straight hair when using extensions. Start on clean, detangled hair: part into sections with a rat-tail comb, apply a light smoothing cream or leave-in, then create tight cornrows using a three-strand underhand technique. Incorporate pre-tipped or crochet extensions where length or color is needed and secure ends with small elastics. Add beads or charms with a bead tool and secure with thread or silicone-lined beads. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, crochet needle (for extensions), bead/threading tool, and a soft-bristle brush for edges. Products: lightweight leave-in conditioner, edge control, braid holding spray, anti-frizz balm, and a scalp oil for hydration. Difficulty: intermediate — salon appointment recommended for tight, long-lasting cornrows or first-time extension work. Maintenance: sleep on a silk scarf, refresh edges with edge control, apply light scalp oil twice weekly, avoid heavy creams that cause buildup, and plan a redo every 4–6 weeks to protect the hairline and prevent matting.
Sleek Double Dutch Feed-In Braids for Thick Natural Hair
This look is built with multiple feed-in Dutch braids along the parts that merge into two thick, polished braids — ideal for Type 3–4 natural textures and medium to thick hair density. Preparation: wash, deep-condition, and detangle; lightly blow-dry or use band-stretching to create a smooth base. Styling technique: use a rat-tail comb to create a clean center part, clip sections, then create small feed-in Dutch cornrows along each side, gradually adding hair to build two larger braids. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, duckbill clips, small clear elastics, a soft-bristle brush, wide-tooth comb, and optional synthetic extensions for length/volume. Recommended products: leave-in conditioner, light hold gel or edge control for sleek hairline, a smoothing cream or butter for shine, and a lightweight oil or sheen spray to finish. Difficulty level: intermediate — expect 45–90 minutes depending on length and whether extensions are used. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet or pillowcase, refresh edges with a small amount of edge control, lightly oil the scalp weekly, avoid excessive tension to prevent breakage, and redo after 2–4 weeks or sooner if new growth causes lifting.
Sleek Cornrow-to-Textured Long Braids with Low Messy Bun
This style pairs tight, even cornrows at the crown with long textured braids/dread-like plaits gathered into a low, relaxed bun — ideal for a modern boho-urban look. Best suited to medium or coarse hair textures and naturally wavy hair; fine or very straight hair can wear this style with added extensions or a texturizing spray to build grip. Technique: section clean partings with a rat-tail comb, braid neat cornrows toward the back, then transition each row into three-strand or rope braids (or faux locs) using your natural ends or pre-looped extension pieces; finish by loosely securing the lower lengths into a messy bun and pulling softness for texture. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics or rubber bands, crochet/loop tool (for extensions), tail comb and hairpins. Products required: lightweight gel or edge control for smooth parts, texturizing spray or mousse for hold, leave-in conditioner, scalp oil, and flexible hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate–advanced; expect 1.5–3 hours with extensions. Maintenance: tie with a silk scarf at night, oil the scalp weekly, refresh edges and loose braids every 2–4 weeks, and avoid heavy product buildup when washing.
Long Micro Box Braids with Cornrowed Half-Up Bun
This polished half-up style combines neat cornrows at the crown with long micro/box braids cascading down one side — a versatile protective look suited to natural, coily, or tightly textured hair and also achievable on looser textures with added braiding hair. Technique: start on clean, detangled hair; section and cornrow the top into curved feed-in rows, then transition each row into thin box braids using synthetic or human braiding hair for length and uniformity. Finish by gathering the top rows into a secure low bun or top knot and leaving the remaining braids loose. Tools needed: rattail comb, sectioning clips, fine-tooth brush, braiding hair, small elastic bands, and a crochet latch (optional). Products: moisturizing leave-in, lightweight edge control, braid mousse or setting foam to tame frizz, scalp oil or spray, and a shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate to advanced — expect 4–8+ hours depending on density and length. Maintenance: sleep on a silk/satin scarf, mist scalp with diluted leave-in or braid spray twice weekly, avoid overly tight styling to protect edges, cleanse scalp every 1–3 weeks, and plan removal at 6–10 weeks to prevent matting.
Chunky Two‑Strand Rope Twists (Faux Locs) Pulled Back — Textured Hair Style
This pulled‑back chunky two‑strand rope twist look reads like modern faux locs and works best on coily to tightly curled hair textures or on hair blended with pre‑looped extensions. Styling technique: section hair into medium‑to‑large parts, attach extension hair if needed, and create two‑strand rope twists (or interlock for a neater base) from root to end, then gather into a low or mid pony/half‑up. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb for clean parts, sectioning clips, a crochet or latch hook for tightening, elastic bands, and a hooded or handheld dryer for setting. Products required: lightweight locking cream or twist butter, a residue‑free clarifying shampoo, moisturizing leave‑in conditioner, light sealant oil (jojoba or grapeseed), and optional edge control for smooth hairline. Difficulty level: moderate to high — expect 3–6 hours initially depending on size and length; maintenance is low‑to‑medium. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk/satin scarf, refresh with light water/leave‑in spray and palm‑rolls every 2–6 weeks, wash gently every 1–2 weeks, avoid heavy waxes that cause buildup, and retouch roots professionally to keep parts tidy.
Voluminous Dutch Crown with Chunky Double Braids — Platinum/Silver Hair
This look pairs a Dutch crown braid with two chunky side braids, pancaked for width — ideal for long, medium-to-thick hair. Fine hair can achieve the same silhouette with lightweight extensions or by backcombing sections before braiding. Technique: create a deep center part, start a Dutch/French crown at the hairline and feed hair back to form the crown, then gather remaining hair into two low Dutch/boxer braids. Pancake each braid by gently pulling outer loops to increase volume and definition. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, paddle brush, tail comb and a few bobby pins. Products required: texturizing spray or dry shampoo for grip, light smoothing serum on ends, flexible-hold hairspray to set, a weekly bond-builder and purple shampoo if hair is bleached silver. Difficulty: intermediate — requires confident braiding and even tension control. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow or wrap with a silk scarf, refresh roots with dry shampoo, re-tighten elastics after 1–2 days, and deep-condition weekly to protect bleached hair and prevent breakage.
Tousled Low Updo with Curtain Bangs — Textured Romantic Hairstyle
This romantic, tousled low updo features soft curtain bangs and loose face-framing tendrils for an undone, elegant finish. Best for medium to thick hair and natural waves — fine hair can work with added texturizing products and volumizing mousse, while very curly hair should be smoothed slightly or enhanced for defined tendrils. Salon technique: prep damp hair with volumizing mousse and heat protectant; blow-dry with a round brush to lift the crown. Use a 25–32 mm curling iron to create loose bends, lightly backcomb the crown for texture, then loosely twist sections into a low bun and secure with bobby pins, pulling pieces free to soften the silhouette. Leave curtain bangs and a few tendrils around the face; finish with flexible-hold hairspray. Tools needed: blow dryer, round brush, curling iron, tail comb, teasing brush, bobby pins, elastics. Products: heat protectant, texturizing/sea-salt spray, light mousse, flexible-hold hairspray, small amount of shine serum. Difficulty: Intermediate (3/5). Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo, re-pin loose pieces, touch up bangs with a flat iron, and trim bangs every 6–8 weeks to maintain shape.
Long Layered Waves with Face‑Framing Curtain Layers
Salon-friendly long layered waves with face-framing curtain layers—ideal for medium to thick hair seeking natural movement and shine. Begin on towel-dried hair: apply a volumizing mousse at the roots and a heat protectant through the lengths. Blow-dry with a medium round brush, lifting at the roots to build body and smoothing the ends for a soft finish. Section hair into 1½–2 inch panels and wrap each around a 1–1.25 inch curling wand or iron, leaving the last inch out for modern, lived-in waves. Alternate curl direction, pin to cool if needed, then release and finger-comb to loosen. Finish with a lightweight texturizing spray for separation and a pea-sized smoothing oil on the ends; set with a flexible-hold hairspray for lasting hold. Tools: blow dryer with nozzle, medium round brush, 1–1.25 curling wand/iron, sectioning clips and wide-tooth comb. Products: volumizing mousse, heat protectant, texturizing spray, light oil/serum, flexible hairspray, weekly deep conditioner. Difficulty: moderate—requires basic blowout and curling technique. Maintenance: trim every 8–12 weeks, deep-condition weekly, refresh with sea-salt or dry shampoo, and sleep on silk to reduce frizz.
Textured Messy Braided Updo for Medium to Thick Wavy Hair
Suitable for medium to thick wavy or curly hair, this textured messy braided updo combines soft face-framing tendrils with a loose crown braid and pinned chignon for volume and movement. Start on dry hair with a heat protectant; create loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling iron to add texture. Section a crown area and French- or Dutch-braid loosely across the top, then pancake the braid for fullness. Backcomb the roots at the crown for lift, gather hair into a low messy bun and secure with pins, leaving a few face-framing strands out. Tools: curling iron, teasing comb, rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, assorted bobby pins and small elastics. Products: thermal protectant, volumizing mousse or root-lift spray, sea-salt or texture spray, light-hold flexible hairspray and finishing shine mist. Difficulty: Intermediate — requires comfortable braiding and pinning skills; allow 30–45 minutes. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely wrap in a silk scarf, refresh texture with dry shampoo or mist and re-pin any loosened pieces. Avoid heavy oils that weigh hair down; trim ends every 8–12 weeks to keep shape.
Short Textured Platinum Pixie with Side‑Swept Fringe
From salon experience, this short, layered platinum pixie is ideal for fine to medium hair that needs lift, and for thicker hair after careful thinning and texturizing. The cut features connected short layers with a longer side‑swept fringe to soften the face. To style: work on towel‑dried hair — apply a heat protectant and a volumizing mousse at the roots, then blow‑dry with a small round brush or finger‑dry while lifting the crown. Use a 1 flat iron or small barrel curling iron to bend the fringe and create separated pieces. Finish by working a pea‑size of texturizing paste or clay through mid‑lengths and ends, then mist with a matte sea‑salt spray and light‑hold hairspray for separation and hold. Tools: hairdryer with concentrator nozzle, small round brush, 1 iron, wide‑tooth comb, sectioning clips, bobby pins. Products: purple shampoo for platinum upkeep, bond‑building treatment, lightweight conditioner or weekly mask, dry shampoo for between washes. Difficulty: intermediate — requires a skilled cut and quick daily styling (5–10 minutes). Maintenance: trims every 4–6 weeks, toning/root touch‑ups every 6–8 weeks, regular deep conditioning and silk pillowcase to reduce friction and frizz.
Braids are one of the most adaptable and protective hairstyles when done correctly. My top professional advice is to prioritize hair health: avoid excessive tension, rotate styles to reduce constant stress on the same sections, and schedule breaks between heavy braids or extension installs. Keep braids fresh with a lightweight braid spray, moisture with weekly deep-conditioning masks, and ends sealed with a light oil. Sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap to prevent friction and frizz. For color-treated or fragile hair, ask your stylist to use smaller sections and softer tension or opt for looser, feed-in techniques. Plan professional touch-ups every 4–8 weeks depending on style and growth, and remove braids immediately if you feel pain or notice thinning. With gentle technique, quality products, and occasional salon maintenance, these 24 braid styles will stay beautiful while keeping your hair strong and healthy. —Lena