10 braids for short hair that we can’t get enough of
Thought braided styles only worked for longer tresses? Think again, as braids for short hair are not only totally possible but incredibly stylish – and we can prove it!
So, whether you are looking for a fresh new way to jazz up a short style or simply want to keep your shorter strands at bay while you workout, we have a selection of stunning and practical looks in our inspiration gallery.
Braided hairstyles for short hair: The styles you need to try
1. Dutch braid pigtails
This is the perfect style for those with shoulder-length hair, as it’ll keep your tresses neatly styled up (where it can’t bother you).
Knowing how to do Dutch braids for short hair might seem like a huge task, but in reality, it couldn’t be easier! However, if you’re a plaiting novice and struggle to do a Dutch braid, fret not: just take a look at our step-by-step tutorial and you’ll have it mastered in no time! Credit: @lifewithjazz
2. Headband braid
Headband braids are a style staple for all hair lengths as they make for a stylish way to keep bangs or shorter strands away from the face with having to use hair slides or clips. So, if you are seeking cute braids for short hair, we suggest making this your next look! Credit: @emilyandersonstyling
Editor’s tip: The VO5 Dry Texturising spray is all you need to give your hair the roughed-up texture this look requires. Simply spritz onto your hair before braiding for extra grip – trust us, it’ll give your hair a tousled, undone finish in a flash.
3. Cornrows
Looking for braids for short hair that have the ability to handle anything that’s thrown at it? Well, cornrows have become a firm favourite with all the gym bunnies because of their durability and have been taking the fashion world by storm with runway shows and A-listers spotted showcasing the style. Practical and pretty. Credit: @jannahmae_x
4. Half-up, half-down ‘do
What’s the best thing about short hairstyles with braids? It’s that you can add your own unique stamp on the style!
Take this half-up, half-down hairstyle for example, with a peekaboo braid at the back, it’s totally unexpected, original and cute. Credit: @braidsbyallie
5. U-turn braids
In search of an unusual take on braids for short hair? Take a leaf out of this Instagramer’s book and show off your plaiting skills with u-turn braids. Credit: @alex_haircraft
Editor’s tip: For a sleek frizz-free finish reach for TONI&GUY Shine Gloss Serum. Use this lightweight serum through the ends of your hair for a silky, smooth finish.
6. Side braid updo
While ponytails may seem like an easy option for shorter hair, they do have a tendency to easily come loose. To overcome this problem, why not learning to side braid your short hair instead? Credit: @xandervintage
Hair hack: To make your plait appear fuller, simply ‘pancake’ it by gently tugging at the braid with your thumb and forefinger, to create a bigger braid.
7. Undercut braids
Short braids can be as discreet or obvious as you like; that’s why we’re just loving this undercut braid! It’s an easy and simple braided update to an otherwise classic style. Credit: @chloenbrown
8. Half crown braid
While your tresses may be too short for full crown braids, you can most certainly style your tresses in a half-crown. Simply create two braids at the front and bring to the back and secure with pins.
PS: If you have the length, try braiding to the ends and styling in a bun. Credit: @vokalphotography
Editor’s tip: Make your braided style pop by adding some lovely loose waves. Just spray the TONI&GUY Sea Salt Texturising Spray evenly over damp or dry hair to create beach-like texture and tousled waves.
9. Faux Dutch braid
Trying to replicate Sienna Miller’s off-duty look and the Olsen twins’ undone hair is actually a little tricker than it seems, but this is where short-haired ladies have the advantage!
When styling your short hair in this faux Dutch braid, you can let any shorter strands fall freely for a truly relaxed finish. And if you want to master this ingenious pull-through braid, you can learn how to create the look with our tutorial. Credit: @kayla.hairstylist
10. Double Dutch pancake braids
When it comes to pancakes, two helpings are always better than one, and the same can be said about pancaked braids! So, double up your braided fun with two pretty Dutch braids.
Not only do you get to show off the length of your tresses but if you add cute floral accessories, pearls or hair rings to the style, you’ll earn further style points. Credit: @thirtythreehair
Find out more braided fun, right this way!
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