35 Braid Hairstyles For Long Hair That Turn Heads Every Time

by Jen Atkin
Braid Hairstyles For Long Hair

If you’re looking for a fresh way to style your long hair, braids never go out of fashion, they only get more creative. From timeless classics to bold, modern designs, braided hairstyles offer endless ways to transform your look. In this collection of 35 Braid Hairstyles For Long Hair, you’ll find styles that fit every mood, occasion, and personality. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, planning a beach day, or just want to switch things up at work, there’s a braid here for you. Get ready to discover looks that are not only stunning but also surprisingly easy to pull off.

Advanced and Pretty 35 Braid Styles for Long Hairs

1. Classic French Braid with a Modern Twist

Classic French Braid with a Modern Twist

Start with a standard French braid from the crown and guide it down the back. To modernize, loosen the plait slightly and create a side part or add soft waves. This style stays polished while feeling fresh and current.

2. Double Dutch Braids with Curled Ends

Double Dutch Braids with Curled Ends

Create two defined Dutch braids starting at the front and working toward the nape. Once secured, curl the loose ends for extra bounce. It’s a bold yet feminine look that combines structure with movement and has more of a party vibe.

3. Side Fishtail Braid with Ribbon Weave

Side Fishtail Braid with Ribbon Weave

Craft a side fishtail braid and weave a slim ribbon through the strands. Choose colors that contrast or complement your outfit. The added texture and color give it a whimsical, styled-by-hand appearance.

4. Boho Crown Braid with Loose Strands

Boho Crown Braid with Loose Strands

Wrap a braid across the front of your head like a halo and let loose strands fall around your face. The relaxed shape feels soft and romantic, ideal for outdoor events or casual gatherings.

5. Bubble Braided Ponytail

Bubble Braided Ponytail

Tie your ponytail in several sections using elastic bands, then pull each one gently to create a bubble shape. This fun, modern style works great for long, thick hair and adds volume instantly.

6. Knotless Box Braids with Gold Beads

Knotless Box Braids with Gold Beads

These smooth, scalp-friendly braids start without a knot and flow naturally. Adding gold beads gives the style extra shine and personality. It’s a low-maintenance choice that also protects your natural hair.

7. Messy Side Braid with Beach Waves

Messy Side Braid with Beach Waves

Sweep all your hair to one side and braid it loosely, letting beachy waves spill around your shoulders. Pull on sections gently to make it appear fuller. It’s relaxed, feminine, and easy to wear.

8. Waterfall Braid into a Loose Bun

Waterfall Braid into a Loose Bun

Begin with a waterfall braid that drops strands as it wraps around your head. Gather the remaining hair into a soft bun. The mix of braid and bun creates an elegant, flowing style that works day or night.

9. Sleek Cornrow Rows to a Low Bun

Sleek Cornrow Rows to a Low Bun

Form tight, neat cornrow braids that run straight back into a gathered low bun. This is a clean, protective style that stays intact for days and works well for both professional and casual settings.

10. Pull-Through Braid with Volume Boost

Pull-Through Braid with Volume Boost

Divide your hair into multiple ponytails and pull them through one another to build a full, layered braid. Use texturizing spray to enhance volume. It’s a clever way to fake a thick braid without complicated techniques.

11. Braided Space Buns with Color Extensions

Braided Space Buns with Color Extensions

Create two high braids on each side of the head, then twist them into buns. For flair, weave in colorful extensions. This bold, creative style is perfect for concerts, parties, or fun weekend looks.

12. Milkmaid Braid with Hidden Pins

Milkmaid Braid with Hidden Pins

Braid two sections of hair and wrap them over your head to mimic a headband. Tuck the ends and hide the pins underneath for a seamless finish. This elegant style frames the face beautifully and stays secure all day.

13. Infinity Loop Braid with Smooth Finish

Infinity Loop Braid with Smooth Finish

Create a sleek section and loop the strands in a figure-eight pattern. This braid appears intricate but looks clean and polished. It’s best styled with straightened hair to maintain the braid’s sharp definition.

14. Boho Box Braids with Beaded Ends

Boho Box Braids with Beaded Ends

Install long box braids with a loose, bohemian texture. Decorate the ends with wooden or metallic beads. The result feels earthy, artistic, and perfectly suited for vacations, beach days, or creative outfits.

15. Side Halo Braid for Romantic Vibes

Side Halo Braid for Romantic Vibes

Braid one side of your hair and wrap it across the front like a halo. Leave wispy strands around the face. This style softens the features and adds instant charm to evening or bridal looks.

16. Zig-Zag Braided Part with Low Ponytail

Zig-Zag Braided Part with Low Ponytail

Part your hair in a zig-zag shape and braid tightly along the part. Finish with a sleek low ponytail. It’s a modern, edgy style that draws attention while keeping things neat and easy to manage.

17. Layered Rope Braids with Silk Tie

Layered Rope Braids with Silk Tie

Twist hair sections into rope-style braids and stack them over each other. Tie the ends together using a silk ribbon. This gives your look structure and elegance while still being playful and light.

18. Four-Strand Braid with Ombre Highlights

Four-Strand Braid with Ombre Highlights

Use four strands instead of three to create a wide, woven braid. With ombre hair, each strand shows off its color gradient. The result looks both artistic and dimensional, perfect for long, thick hair.

19. Twin Crown Braids for Festival Flair

Twin Crown Braids for Festival Flair

Make two crown braids—one wrapping from each side of the head—and pin them to meet in the middle. This double halo effect stands out, especially when paired with glitter or fresh flowers.

20. Upside Down French Braids to Top Bun

Upside Down French Braids to Top Bun

Flip your head and start French braiding from the nape upward. Tie the braids into a high, tight bun. This creates lift and shape at the crown and adds a sporty yet sophisticated look.

21. Braided Mohawk with Shaved Sides Illusion

Braided Mohawk with Shaved Sides Illusion

Center a thick braid down the middle and slick the side hair flat for contrast. It gives the illusion of shaved sides. The bold center braid adds edge and volume to this statement style.

22. Double Waterfall Braids Blending at Back

Double Waterfall Braids Blending at Back

Make two waterfall braids on either side of your head and connect them at the back. The dropped strands create flow. It’s soft, romantic, and perfect for medium to long hair with natural waves.

23. Snake Braid Winding Through Loose Hair

Snake Braid Winding Through Loose Hair

Weave a small braid and curve it back and forth like a snake across loose hair. Pin it subtly in place. It’s a creative accent braid that adds surprise and visual interest without overpowering your style.

24. Criss-Cross Braided Pigtails

Criss-Cross Braided Pigtails

Braid sections that criss-cross at the back of your head before tying them into two pigtails. This twist adds detail to a classic style. It’s great for school, weekend outings, or casual wear with flair.

25. Mermaid Tail Braid with Soft Layers

Mermaid Tail Braid with Soft Layers

This braid mimics the look of a fishtail but fans out wider like a mermaid’s tail. It works beautifully on layered hair. The style feels flowing and full, especially when gently tugged for extra width.

26. French Braids into Braided Bun

French Braids into Braided Bun

Create two French braids on each side and wrap them together into a bun. This combines structure with softness. It’s a great option for formal events or days when you want your hair fully up.

27. Braided Headband on Half-Up Hair

Braided Headband on Half-Up Hair

Form a braid across the front section of hair to mimic a headband. Leave the rest half-down and softly curled. This look is quick, elegant, and perfect for both casual afternoons and special occasions.

28. Side Dutch Braid with Low Chignon

Side Dutch Braid with Low Chignon

Start a Dutch braid from one side and curve it toward the back. Finish with a twisted chignon. This asymmetric look flatters most face shapes and brings elegance with minimal effort.

29. Heart-Shaped Braids for Special Occasions

Heart-Shaped Braids for Special Occasions

Divide your hair into two and braid each section in a curved heart shape. Pin them to form the complete outline. It’s a sweet, creative style suited for birthdays, weddings, or festive events.

30. Half-Up Celtic Braid Style

Half-Up Celtic Braid Style

Weave a complex knot-style braid using upper sections of your hair. Let the lower hair flow freely. This intricate pattern gives a mythical, medieval-inspired charm to your everyday look.

31. Spiral Braid Down the Center Back

Spiral Braid Down the Center Back

Braid a section in a circular spiral down the center of your head. Use pins to maintain its shape. It’s a showstopper style that’s ideal for long, thick hair and makes a bold impression.

32. Ladder Braids Framing the Face

Ladder Braids Framing the Face

Make two braids on either side of the head and connect them with smaller strands like rungs. This ladder look frames the face beautifully and adds texture without overwhelming the rest of the hair.

33. Braided Pony with Sleek Front

Braided Pony with Sleek Front

Slick the front of your hair into a tight ponytail. Then braid the ponytail for a neat, athletic look. This works well for sporty styles, workouts, or clean updos with a polished edge.

34. Viking-Inspired Braided Faux Hawk

Viking-Inspired Braided Faux Hawk

Braid several small sections upward into the center to mimic a mohawk. Leave the sides flat or slicked. This bold, high-contrast style feels fierce and edgy, especially when paired with dark or textured outfits.

35. Braided Layers with Feathered Finish

Braided Layers with Feathered Finish

Layer small braids across the head, letting them blend naturally into the rest of your hair. Feather out the ends slightly. This subtle, textured style adds dimension and movement to long, straight layers.

Final Takeaways

Braids are more than just a hairstyle, they’re a form of self-expression. With these 35 braid ideas, you can elevate your everyday routine, experiment with new textures, or make a bold statement. Each look celebrates the beauty of long hair while offering practical style and personality. Try one or mix a few to make each braid truly your own.

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