Andy JonesTake on the day or night with French braids! They are the perfect addition to the occasion – whether it by a day at the office or the night on the town. This year, there are tons of braiding options, all ranging in complexity, but this classic look is sure to satisfy any fashionista’s needs. Despite this chic style’s name, Algerian cave wall art traced the trend thousands of years before the trend picked up in the western world, and the style continues to thrive today.
47+ Great Examples of Stunning French Braid Hairstyles to Brighten Your Day
Just like crochet braids, french plaits have gained popularity for their versatility as they can easily be the basis of tons of different looks. These versatile braids don’t have to be the star of the show. No, you can use a French plait to secure your side bangs and let your personal style shine through the rest of your look. A young lady could weave one of these braids into their high ponytails for a girl’s night on the town while a stylish professional could sport a French plait alongside a neat, poised bun and a pencil skirt for a job interview. These braids can truly be dressed up or down for whatever the occasion and they are a fashionable choice for anyone needing to spice up their style.
So, just how do you create one of these stylish braids for yourself? It’s simple: divide your hair into three sections, move the farthest section to the center and repeat, but as you move your sections be sure to add hair into the moving section. Secure your braid with a hair band – you could even take a small section of hair and wrap it around the band for a seamless finish, and you’ll be ready to rock the night away!
1. Romantic Roses with Long Straight Hair French Braid for a Whimsical Night
This hairdo gives you a dreamy princess look from behind. It has hair strand waves curled at the top, coming through to create beautiful rose flowers along with the crown of your scalp. Below the roses, the hair falls straight down the shoulders, creating a mesmerizing look. Whether paired with a wedding gown or a pair of jeans, this look is a must for anyone who wants to show their romantic side.
2. Loose French Braid Tail with Voluminous Hair
If you are already a fan of the French braid pigtails, this one would surely attract you. It looks great because it adds volume to your hair, even if your hair has a thin texture. The hair lumps on each side of the French braid pigtails are voluminous and are braided perfectly from the roots to right below the shoulders.
3. One-Sided French Braid “Headband” Over Wavy Shoulder-Length Locks
This hairdo looks amazing if you are looking to do something creative with your short hair. While the short blonde hair waves fall to your shoulder blades, a one-sided loose braid settles comfortably on your part, creating a cute hairdo. When paired with shoulder length hair, you can wear this look with nearly any outfit comfortably. If you are looking for wedding hairstyles for short hair, this could be a great choice.
4. One-Sided Neat French Braid Hairstyle to Turn Heads
This one is a one-sided braid that is neatly and compactly done in such a way that it falls from one side, creating a voluminous hairdo from your side glance look. It is elegant and can also add a professional look if you decide to go with it for an interview. Starting just beyond the middle of the hair at the front, the large braid rests against the neck for an asymmetrical and creative twist on the side-braid look.
5. Middle Head Double French Braids Rose Gold Hairstyle
This hairstyle works for a casual college day or out running errands. It has two pigtails falling right down from the middle of each half of the head. The inside-out braids are incredibly trendy right now, but the rose-gold color is what truly sets it apart from others.
6. Fun and Easy French Braid
This awesome French braid bun creates a breezy summer look. The hair is swept up from the base of the head and braided up the center part. The hair is then wound into a soft, casual messy bun to show off the braid. This look is perfect for anyone who only has a little time to work on their hair but wants to look chic.
7. Upswept French Braid Hair with Self Made Bow
This cute hairstyle takes a little time to put together, but the results are outstanding. The hair is braided in the back and then pulled into a bow on top. The “self-bow” creates a fun and fanciful look. The braiding shows off the stylish highlights in the model’s ash blonde hair colors.
8. French Braid Idea: Gorgeous Side French Braid Look with Body
This style shows off the beauty of side French braids. The hair is swept across the back of the head and braided in beautiful scalloped waves. This look is best when the hair is blown out and teased a little for that perfect kick of volume. It looks lovely with the model’s highlighted red hair.
9. Super French Braid Hairstyle For You
Showing off her long ash blonde hair, this model is wearing two long French braids, one on either side of a center part. Her braids start out with a lot of volume and taper neatly down to the ends. This braided hairstyle is done beautifully and is very even. This is a casual and cool look for a summer day.
10. Half Up, Half Down with French Braid
The top of the model’s hair is done in three braids: two on the sides and one on top. The side French braids are loose and casual. The top of the model’s hair is pulled back into a ponytail with a hair-wrapped elastic. This look shows off her gorgeous highlights and the volume of her hair.
11. Little French Braid Ponytail in the Back
This cute look has the model’s hair pulled back at the top of the head. At the pulled back section, the hair is braided in a short French braid. This holds back the model’s long straight hair and provides a fun accent to her look. This is a subtle look just right for a workday.
12. Side Swept Hair with Messy French Braid Bun
Combining two popular hair trends, this French braid is topped off with a messy bun. The hair is worn half up and half down. The braid starts on one side of the part and sweeps across the top of the model’s head. The braid is loose for a romantic look.
13. Easy French Braid Look for a Hot Day
With a great look for straight hair, this model is wearing a quick braid swept off to the side. The braid is worn loose and secured with a hair wrapped elastic. Soft wispy strands are escaping from the braid for a relaxed look. This look is good for medium to long hair.
14. Braided Hair Swept Around to the Back French Braid
This french braid hairstyle is awesome for the beach. The model’s hair is worn swept to the side, and the braid curves around toward the back of her head. The back of the hair is pulled up into a soft and messy bun. The braid looks nice with the model’s blonde highlights.
15. Romantic Loose Braid for Long Hair
This hairstyle takes a loose French braid and wraps it gently around the side. This look requires some careful planning to get right, it would be easy for the hair to fall. The loose braid looks dreamy and romantic. Try this look for a night out in the summer.
16. Cute French Braid with Messy Bun
Only the top of the model’s hair is pulled back into a pretty braid design. The top of the hair is then put in a casual messy bun at the back of her head. This is a beachy and simple look that can be put together in minutes. It looks good on everyone with long hair, whether it’s curly or straight.
17. Gorgeous Side-Swept French Braid with Ringlet Curls
This clever braid hairstyle sweeps the braid off to one side. The braid is woven into the hair below it, creating a waterfall effect. It looks super with the model’s ringlets and highlights. The braid is worn quite loose for a relaxed style. Try this look for a romantic dinner.
18. Neat and Tidy Look with French Braid
This sleek look is perfect for straight hair. On the sides, the model’s hair is pulled back in three braids. The braids are worn tight against the head for a neat, tidy look. The model’s hair is worn in a ponytail with a self-wrapped elastic. This look would be great for work or for a night out on the town.
19. Classic French Braid Hairstyle for the Ages
This quintessential look is what most people think of when they think of a French braid hairstyle. The model’s straight hair is worn brushed back and braided down the center part. The hair isn’t pulled very tight to soften the look. It would look nice on anyone from school girls to professional models.
20. Triple French Braid Beauty for Long Hair
This pretty hairstyle for long hair combines three braids in one. The center of the hair is brushed back and braided straight down the center part. This braid is kept loose for a contemporary look. The hair underneath is braided into two tighter braids, one at each side. This look takes a little while to put together but it’s totally worth it.
21. Two French Braids are Better than One
This braid design is one of the time-honored classics. The hair is parted down the middle and divided into two long French braids. This look is super for women who are growing out their hair and for those who want to show off their long locks. It is also practical and easy to pull off.
22. Double Bun Hairstyle with a Color Kick
Playing on the “space buns” trend, this pretty hairstyle is parted in the middle. Each side is braided upward from the nape of the neck. The hair is wound into two adorable French braid buns at the top. This is a fun and whimsical look for girls with candy-colored hair, but it would look cute on anyone.
23. Cool and Easy French Braid Ponytail
This look couldn’t be simpler to put together. Simply brush the hair up from the nape of the neck and braid it up the center. Then pull it into a high ponytail and brush it out. Make sure the ponytail is brushed out as smoothly as possible. This youthful look is great for school, dances, and parties.
24. Romantic French Braid to the Side
This is one of the cute easy French braid hairstyles that can be done with French braids. It is lovely with naturally curly hair. The hair is swept off and has a braid to the side. Curly ringlets of hair are escaping on the sides and at the bottom to soften the look. This simple hairstyle would be great for a wedding or a bridesmaid.
25. Unique Braid Style for Any Length
Hair ideas like this will work for almost any length of hair. As long as the top is long enough to pull back, you can pull this off. The braids from each side are woven together into a basket like construction. The effect is like a fancy barrette but made with your own hair. This sophisticated look is great with straight hair.
26. French Braid with a Messy Bun
This cute braid style is quick to put together and fun to wear. It has a fresh and unique look that comes from the combination of the nicely braided hair and the messy bun. This cute hairstyle is great for days when you want to look pretty, but don’t want to spend a lot of time.
27. Braid Style on a Casual Day
To accomplish this look, just pull the top of your hair up in a half up, half down ponytail. Pull the top of the hair into a little bun. Take some of the strands hanging down on the side and make them into a braid. It’s that easy. This look is relaxed and lovely with a twist of style.
28. Best French Braid Hairstyle to Show Off Your Braids
A multi-braid hairstyle is impressive with long hair. The center braid is thick and gorgeous with lots of volumes. The sides of the hair are pulled into two neat little braids which are worn tighter for a polished look. This French braid hairstyle shows off the model’s nice blonde highlights.
29. Simple French Braid and a Low Bun
An updo braid style like this one is awesome for any occasion, from going out on the town to hanging around the house. The hair is braided softly from the top and pulled into a relaxed bun at the base of the neck. With the low bun, the look is classic and romantic.
30. Upswept Hair and a Back French Braid
A braided bun hairstyle starts by brushing the hair up from the back of the neck. Braid the hair up to the crown of the head and pull it into a pouf of a bun. This is an easy hairstyle that looks great on anyone. It is one of the nicest braid styles for every day.
31. French Braid to the Side for an Active Look
This model’s long, straight hair is worn brushed all the way over to the side and braided from one side to the other. This changes up the angle of the traditional braid and gives it a fresh and different look. When you’re looking for a style for working out, this is the best way to go.
32. Traditional French Braid Idea: Fabulously Braided Hair to One Side with Loose Strands
Loosely braided hair makes a fashion statement in this lovely look. The hair is brushed off to the side. Strands from the top of the braid are kept out and braided back into the style at a lower level. This look has a higher difficulty level than the other styles we looked at, but it’s so nice, it’s worth it.
33. Two Braids Pulled Into One
This simple, active look is great for sports and workouts. The hair has a natural part and is braided in two sections. The braids come together at the nape of the neck and are tied off with an elastic. The ponytail is brushed smooth. You could combine this look with a bun for another twist of style.
34. French Braiding Style: Special Occasion French Braid
Smoothly pulled to one side and braided along the top, the hair goes into a low side ponytail. The ends are curled in a single long ringlet. This is one of the nicest hair ideas for a party, prom, or another special event. This look is best for women with straight hair.
35. French Braid Idea: Two Amazingly Full Braids
This two French braid style is impressive because the model’s hair has so much volume. With such long, curly hair, it’s possible to make a fantastic look with large, loose braids. This braid for long hair would make a big impression for anyone who has the hair to pull it off.
36. S Curve Braid for Long Hair
Stop traffic with this S curve braid. The hair is braided and held up with strands hanging down from previous sections. It would take a lot of time and patience to get this one right, but if you have long straight hair and someone willing to help you, you could make this look your own.
37. Awesome Color and Space Buns French Braid Style
This two french braids hairstyle has an anime character vibe. The hair is parted down the middle and braided up from the base of the head. The ends of each double French braids are pulled into neat, round “space buns.” Little ringlets and wisps hang down to soften the look. This girlish and youthful look will put a smile on your face.
38. Cool and Fresh Look for Fall
This casually braided style is great for a fall day at the park. Start by french braiding a section of hair from the side of the face. Braid it wound the back, and then continue into the thickest part of the hair. Leave some strands out from the side to weave into the back of the braid.
39. Beachy Look for Sand and Surf
This is one of the cute easy French braid hairstyles hairstyles that you can pull off in minutes. A classic French braid, this is done along the center part. This look works with beachy hair that’s been soaked in salt water all day, and it also looks nice every day. Try it with a pair of big sunglasses.
40. Fun New Takes on French Braid Hairstyles
This French braid hairstyles idea looks best with full, wavy hair. The hair is divided in two and braided in a loose, relaxed way. This look relies on the hair’s volume to make it look different and special. You could do this with straight hair, but it wouldn’t come out the same way.
41. Rocker Chick Look with Two Buns French Braid Hairstyles
This two French braid look is neatly done on top and wild on the bottom. The French braids start at the model’s forehead and widen as they go back. The braids are then pulled into two full buns. The French braids on top look great with the model’s colored highlights.
42. Easy Look for a Sunny Summer Day
The hair is worn in two loose, relaxed French braids on the sides and then pulled back into a soft, low ponytail. The loose waves of hair are perfect for summer days relaxing outside. The hairstyle is pretty and practical. The summery look is great with oversized sunglasses.
43. Upside Down Braid for a Lazy Day
This upside-down braid is worn neatly pulled back. The strands of the braid are thick for a contemporary look the year. The thick, smooth braid is perfect for long hair. This easy hairstyle can be accomplished in minutes with practice. It would be great for school, work, or home.
44. Side Swept Braid Styles
For a soft look, try this braid to the side. The hair is pulled neatly across the back of the head and goes down the back of the opposite shoulder. It is a smooth and perfect braid without very many strands hanging loose. This would be awesome to wear with a sweater on a cold winter day.
45. Full and Bouncy Braided Hair
The unique thing about this hairstyle is that the hair has so much volume and body. It would probably need to be teased to look like this. The braid runs along the top of the model’s head. At the back, it is pulled into a full and high ponytail with a hair wrap for a neat and polished look.
46. Expressive Braiding Styles at Full Volume
This is another style that relies on full, volumized hair. The hair is teased for volume and then braided into two long French braids at either side of the head. This double French braid makes an impression with its fantastic volume and original style. The French braids are kept loose to allow some tendrils of hair to escape.
47. Diagonally Charming Style with a Braid
An asymmetrical vibe makes this style stand out. The hair is braided diagonally across the back of the model’s head and divided into neat sections. The braid ends in a ponytail that is brushed into the rest of the hair for a soft look. Try this braid when you want something a little different.
48. Upswept Braid and Bun Combo
An updo braid style with loose curls is a perfect style for any special occasion, wedding, or prom. A section of the hair is braided back on one side, and the braid is pulled into a loose, romantic bun. This look is soft and pretty, and it complements the model’s highlights.
49. Silvery Waterfall Braid with Perfect Style
This neat braid starts out small at the side of the model’s forehead, and the sections gradually get larger as the braid goes along. The braid curves around the model’s ear and falls down one shoulder. This smooth and perfect braid highlights the model’s trendy silver hair color.
50. French Braids in a Royal Coronet
This princess inspired look features braids wrapped around the model’s head in a coronet. This both keeps the model’s hair neat and out of her eyes and brings a regal look to the style. The braids are wound neatly around her head in a pretty arrangement.
51. Three Little French Braids On Top
In a departure from huge and full French braids, this style takes three small French braids from the center of the head. At the ends of the French braids, the hair is pulled up into a soft and messy bun. The rest of the hair is left to flow freely. This look has a cute combination of neatness and relaxation.
52. Traditionally Braided Updo with Style
This style begins with a braid that runs around the front of the head, starting at a soft side part. The hair is pulled around gently but neatly. The back of the hair is pulled into a neat bun. This look would also be great with the back in a messy bun, or with the hair hanging down.
53. Sleek Hair Brushed Upward and Braided
The hair is brushed up from the base of the neck and then braided in a neat, thin braid section running up the center part. The hair is then pulled into a high ponytail that hangs down over one shoulder. This is a lovely and sophisticated look. It is one of the best hairstyles with french braids.
54. Herringbone French Braids and Thick Braids Combined
This style combines French braids and twists with impressive style. Two sections of the hair are held aside while the back is braided into a long, straight braid. The side sections are done in a thin herringbone braid and then tucked into the main braid. This look is a little more elaborate than some of the others we found.
55. Diagonally Wrapped French Braids
This unique style features two French braids wrapped diagonally around the model’s head. Wearing the French braids in the front rather than always in the back gives the look a new impression. The braids are kept tight to keep the style from falling down.
Super French Braid Ideas for Every Kind of Day
The French braided hairstyle is a look that’s here to stay. With these 50 variations on the classic theme, you’re sure to find the perfect look for you. There are styles for medium hair, long hair, straight hair and curly hair. You can find a look for any mood, from restrained and classy to wild and crazy. Many of these braided hairstyles also show off the trendy, hot color combinations that are popular in the hair world today (dutch braids are quite similar in that sense). You’ll be able to find just the right look for your chosen mood and for your hair type. Try a contemporary French braid and transform your hair with a new style. And if you want a more edgy style try the pixie cut or the cornrow braids or dutch braids!
