29 Stunning Hairstyles with Braids: From Easy Box Braids to Chic French Braids for Every Occasion

Braided hairstyles have stood the test of time, transcending trends and becoming a staple in hair fashion for women everywhere. From classic French braids to intricate cornrows, braids offer versatility, elegance, and functionality. Whether you have short, medium-length, or long hair, there’s a braided style for every occasion and hair texture. In this article, we’ll explore beautiful braided hairstyles that can add charm to your look, whether you’re attending a wedding, hitting the beach, or simply going for a casual day out.

Half-Up Half-Down Braids

The half-up half-down style is an easy yet sophisticated hairstyle perfect for a variety of occasions. By incorporating braids into this style, you can add texture and interest, making it a go-to option for casual outings or special events. This look works wonderfully for black women with natural hair or for those who like to play with and curls. You can wear it with bohemian waves or a sleeker, more polished finish. The half-up braided section highlights the face, making it a great choice for those with oval, heart, or round face shapes. This versatile hairstyle pairs beautifully with earthy makeup and soft eye colors like hazel or brown.

To create this look, start by parting your hair into two sections: top and bottom. French braid the top half, securing it with an elastic, and leave the lower half loose. For added charm, you can weave in and beads for a boho vibe. This style is easy to maintain—just spritz some leave-in conditioner to keep your natural hair hydrated and frizz-free. A brand like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus is a great option to lock in moisture.

Box Braids

Box braids are a timeless classic and can be styled in multiple ways. These braids are typically medium in size and create a sleek and uniform look that’s perfect for any event—from casual outings to professional settings. Box braids suit any face shape and can be worn in varying lengths, from chin length to long hair, depending on your preference. This style is especially beautiful on natural hair, adding volume and texture, and is perfect for women with darker eye colors like brown or black.

To achieve box braids, section your hair into squares and braid each one from the root to the tip. You can experiment with lengths, colors, and even with beads for a unique touch. To maintain the braids, regularly apply a scalp oil like Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey to keep your scalp hydrated and prevent itchiness.

Cornrows and Curls

Cornrows are a bold and structured braid style that has deep cultural roots. Pairing cornrows with loose and curls offers a dramatic contrast between sleek braids and voluminous waves. This look is ideal for special occasions like weddings, parties, or concerts. The sleekness of the braids draws attention to your face, making it ideal for oval or heart-shaped faces, while the curls soften the overall look. It’s also perfect for short hair, as the curls add volume and movement.

To get this look, part your hair into sections and create tight cornrows on the top or sides of your head. Let the rest of your hair flow freely in curls. Use a curling iron to define your curls and keep them frizz-free with a product like Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream.

Dutch Braid Crown

The Dutch braid crown, also known as a halo braid, is an ethereal and elegant style that is perfect for formal occasions or summer weddings. It involves braiding your hair around your head, creating a “crown” of braids that works particularly well on medium length or shoulder length hair. The halo effect flatters oval and heart-shaped faces and looks striking with green or blue eyes, as the intricate braid draws attention to the face and eyes.

To achieve the Dutch braid crown, begin by parting your hair in two sections and braid each section from the nape of your neck, pulling it upwards. Secure the ends with pins to create the halo effect. You can add texture by gently tugging at the braid to loosen it. Finish with a light hairspray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin to hold the style.

Fishtail Braids

Fishtail braids are a chic and sophisticated braid style that looks more complicated than it is. This style is perfect for long, thick hair, creating an intricate pattern that’s ideal for both casual and formal settings. It works best on long hair and can complement any face shape, especially those with round faces, as the braid’s length elongates the face.

To create a fishtail braid, split your hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other. Repeat this process until you reach the ends of your hair. Secure with an elastic. To maintain the look, use a smoothing serum like OGX Smoothing + Shea Sleek Humidity Blocking Hair Spray to tame flyaways.

Bantu Knots and Braids

Bantu knots are a stylish and culturally significant hairstyle that combines braids and knots for a bold look. The knots are created by twisting sections of hair into mini buns, often accentuated with and beads or braids. This style is ideal for black women with short hair or natural hair. It works best for diamond or heart-shaped faces, giving a playful and edgy vibe that suits any eye color, from dark brown to green.

To achieve Bantu knots, section your hair into parts and twist each section into a knot, securing with pins. For added style, braid the sections first. This hairstyle can be maintained with a leave-in conditioner like As I Am Leave-In, which helps define the twists and locks in moisture.

Twisted Updo

For an elegant and refined look, try a twisted updo. This style combines sleek twists that gather into an updo at the crown of the head. Twists are gentler on the hair than traditional braids, making this a great choice for those with fragile or natural hair. The twisted updo is perfect for medium length or shoulder length hair and is ideal for oval or oblong face shapes.

To create this style, twist small sections of hair and pin them at the crown to form an updo. This style works well with hair oils like Cantu Shea Butter Hair Dressing Pomade to add shine and smoothness.

French Braids with Beads

French braids are a versatile and elegant option for any occasion. Adding with beads to French braids can give the style a more bohemian or festival feel. This style works for medium length to long hair and suits all face shapes. The beads add flair and charm, making the style perfect for music festivals or beach days.

To create French braids, start at the crown of your head and braid downwards. Incorporate beads as you go for a playful touch. Maintain this style by using a hydrating shampoo like Maui Moisture Heal & Hydrate to keep the hair smooth.

Chin-Length Braided Bob

A chin-length braided bob is an edgy and modern take on traditional braids. It’s great for short hair and offers an easy, low-maintenance option for those looking for something sleek yet stylish. This hairstyle suits round or square faces, adding structure and definition to the jawline. Darker eye colors like brown or black complement the bold look.

To achieve a braided bob, section your hair and create box braids that stop at your chin. Use a lightweight oil like Mielle Organics Mint Almond Oil to keep the braids looking fresh and hydrated.

Halo Braids with Twists

Combining halo braids with twists offers a fresh and intricate style. This look works well on natural hair or medium length hair and suits a variety of face shapes. The twists give the halo braid added dimension, making it perfect for weddings or formal events. Pair this look with bold earrings to really make a statement.

To create this style, braid the hair into a halo shape, incorporating twists for added texture. Keep the braids and twists neat with a holding spray like Mousse Def Texture Foam from The Doux.

Side Braid

A side braid is a relaxed yet stylish hairstyle that works for any occasion, from casual outings to romantic evenings. The braid, pulled over one shoulder, gives an effortlessly chic look. This style is particularly flattering on women with medium length or long hair, and suits oval or heart-shaped faces, as the asymmetry adds dimension. It’s ideal for showcasing bold makeup, especially on eyes with blue or green shades, as it draws attention to one side of the face.

To create this look, start by sweeping all your hair to one side. Then, create a simple three-strand braid, fishtail, or French braid. Secure with an elastic band. Keep the braid smooth and frizz-free by using a serum like John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum, which will ensure sleekness throughout the day.

Waterfall Braid

A waterfall braid is a romantic and intricate style that’s perfect for special occasions such as weddings or parties. This braid falls diagonally across the back of the head, creating a cascading effect, making it ideal for medium length or long hair. The soft, flowing look flatters round or heart-shaped faces and pairs beautifully with warm eye colors like amber or brown.

To achieve this style, start with a French braid, but instead of pulling the sections tightly, allow strands of hair to fall through, creating the “waterfall” effect. This braid looks stunning with soft waves, so use a curling iron to add texture to the loose sections. A flexible hold hairspray like Tresemmé TRES Two Extra Hold is perfect for keeping the style in place without stiffness.

Rope Braids

Rope braids are a simple yet visually striking hairstyle. This twisted braid style is perfect for formal events or when you want something polished but quick. Rope braids work best on long hair and are especially flattering for oblong or oval face shapes, as the tightness of the twists pulls the hair back and highlights the natural contours of the face.

To create this style, divide your hair into two sections. Twist each section individually, then twist the two sections around each other to form the rope effect. Secure with a clear elastic. A lightweight oil, such as Ouai Hair Oil, will add shine and smoothness to the finished braid.

Pull-Through Braid

A pull-through braid creates the illusion of a thick, voluminous braid without the need for extensive plaiting. This is a great option for women with thin hair who want to create the appearance of fullness. It works well on long hair or medium length hair and complements round and square face shapes.

To create a pull-through braid, divide your hair into sections, using small elastics to tie each one. Pull each section through the one above to create the braided effect. The braid can be secured with a final elastic at the bottom. Use a volumizing mousse like Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Plus to add even more body to your braid.

Viking Braids

Viking braids are bold and intricate, often featuring multiple braids combined with a mohawk-style top. This edgy look is perfect for women who love to experiment with their style. It suits long hair or medium length hair and is ideal for square or oval face shapes. This fierce style pairs well with dark, dramatic eye makeup, especially for hazel or brown eyes.

To create this look, start by sectioning off the top part of your hair and braid it tightly into a mohawk-style Dutch braid. You can add additional smaller braids on the sides for extra detail. Finish the look with a firm hold hairspray like Got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray to keep the braids in place all day.

Bohemian Braids and Curls

Bohemian braids combine loose, natural and curls with small accent braids throughout the hair, creating a carefree and whimsical look. This style is perfect for festivals, beach days, or casual outings. It works for black women with natural hair, adding texture and flair to shoulder length or medium length hair. Bohemian braids suit all face shapes and look especially stunning with blue or green eyes.

To achieve this style, start by curling your hair with a curling iron or using a natural twist-out method. Then, braid small sections of your hair and leave the rest flowing freely. Add with beads or colorful threads to the braids for a boho touch. Keep the curls defined with a curl cream like DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler.

Lace Braid

A lace braid is a variation of the French braid that involves braiding only one side of the hair, creating a delicate and intricate look. This style is perfect for weddings or other formal events and works best on medium length or long hair. The softness of the braid flatters heart-shaped or round faces and pairs beautifully with light makeup, especially on eyes with green or gray tones.

To create a lace braid, start by braiding just one section of your hair along the hairline. Only add hair to one side of the braid, keeping the other side free. Finish the look with a setting spray like Living Proof Flex Hairspray for a flexible yet lasting hold.

Knotless Box Braids

Knotless box braids are a modern twist on traditional box braids, offering a smoother, more natural look. They’re perfect for black women with natural hair, as they reduce tension on the scalp and promote healthier hair growth. Knotless box braids are ideal for long hair and suit all face shapes. This low-maintenance style is perfect for vacations or busy schedules since it can last for weeks with minimal upkeep.

To create knotless box braids, the stylist begins each braid with a small section of your natural hair before gradually adding in braiding hair. This technique creates a seamless, knot-free look. Use a moisturizing spray like African Pride Olive Miracle Braid Sheen to keep your scalp hydrated and your braids shiny.

Jumbo Twists

Jumbo twists are a bold and stylish option for those who want a protective hairstyle with a lot of volume. These large twists are perfect for women with short hair who want to add length and fullness, or for shoulder length and long hair for a dramatic effect. This style looks particularly striking on women with square or diamond-shaped faces, as the twists add structure and balance.

To achieve jumbo twists, part your hair into large sections and twist two strands of hair together, either with or without extensions. This is a protective style, and maintaining moisture is key, so a product like TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer is essential for keeping the twists soft and hydrated.

Halo Braid with Beads

A halo braid with beads takes the classic halo braid to the next level by adding beads for a touch of glam. This style is ideal for formal events or summer parties, giving an ethereal and bohemian vibe. The halo braid frames the face beautifully, making it perfect for women with round or oval faces. This style works best with shoulder length or medium length hair and can accentuate dark or light eye colors depending on the bead selection.

To create this look, braid your hair in a circular motion around your head, forming a halo shape. Once the braid is secured, add beads to the braid for a decorative touch. You can use a bead threader to easily slide beads onto the braid. Finish with a holding spray like ORS Olive Oil Nourishing Sheen Spray to maintain the braid’s sleekness.

Conclusion

Braided hairstyles are versatile, beautiful, and timeless. Whether you’re aiming for a casual day out or a formal occasion, there’s a braided style that fits your vibe. Leave a comment below sharing your favorite braid style or a new one you’d like to try!