Blonde woman with simple braid

66 Plaited Hair Ideas to Experiment With At Home

Also known as a braid, plaited hair is achieved when you weave or twist strands of hair together to create your chosen hairstyle i.e a French braid or cute Dutch braids. The reason why plaited hairstyles are so popular is due to the fact they’re both practical and stylish, offering every hair type and length styling versatility.

Most plaits are pretty enough to fit almost any occasion or season and they can vary from simple to statement-making. Not to mention, they are perfect for keeping your hair neat and away from your face. Win-win, right?

Whether your hair is long, short or medium length, scroll on to discover the 66 braided hairstyles you can experiment with at home. There’s bound to be a hairstyle you’ll fall in love, below!

Bow Braid

Woman with blonde straight hair in a bow braid
Credit: Instagram.com/thegoodhairday

Have you really reached your full Pinterest hair potential until you’ve tried this bow braid? Credit: @thegoodhairday

Braid Around Head

Woman with a blonde ombre crown braid
Credit: All Things Hair

Always struggle with updos? This braided crown style is surprisingly easy and equally great for casual or evening wear.

Braided Bun

Brunette woman with a sleek braided bun
Credit: All Things Hair

Channel your inner prima ballerina (even if you’re just in the office), with this elegant braided bun.

Editor’s tip: Hold your look in place with the VO5 Invisible Firm Hold Hairspray. This medium hold, fast-drying hairspray tames frizz and leaves your hair with a gorgeous coconut scent.

Braided Crown Updo

Blonde woman with a braided crown updo with a LOVE slogan hair slide
Credit: Instagram.com/aprilnataliehair

Pair a romantic crown braid with a statement slide and let your hair do the talking. Credit: @aprilnataliehair

Braided Ponytail

Blonde woman with a long braided ponytail
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

What do you get when you combine two of our top go-to hairstyles (plaits and ponytails) together? Braided ponytails!

Side Dutch Braid

Keep it simple but stylish all year round with a loose side Dutch braid. Don’t forget to pancake it!

Braided Top Knot

Woman with dark brunette hair in a braided bun
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

Looking for a way to make your trusty top knot hairstyle more interesting? Simply wrap a braid around the base of your bun and you’re good to go.

Braided Updo

Woman with chestnut brown hair in a braided updo
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

From bridal party to prom style, for those occasions where only an updo will do this braided updo is the perfect look to try.

Boxer Braids

Mixed race woman with long copper boxer braids
Credit: Rupert Laycock

Great for all different hair types and lengths, the versatility of boxer braids have made them a solid celeb favourite.

Celtic Knot Braid

Woman with bronde balayage hair in a celtic knot braid
Credit: Instagram.com/gyh_hair

Bored of your normal braids and fancy a challenge? You can give your strands the wow factor with an intricate-looking Celtic knot braid. Credit: @gyh_hair

Coloured Braids

Woman with lilac hair in a Dutch braid
Credit: Instagram.com/heidimariegarrett

Oversized braids and pastel hues make for a match made in hair heaven. Credit: @heidimariegarrett

Cornrows

Woman with her natural hair in a cornrow ponytail
Credit: Instagram.com/freshlengths

Practical and timeless, cornrows are one of the most versatile braiding styles around. Wear them straight back as they are, or in a high ponytail for a stylish everyday look. Credit: @freshlengths

Corset Braid

Try out the Instagram-approved corset braid trend this summer for a fun festival ‘do.

Crisscross Braid

Blonde with long criss-crossed Dutch braids
Credit: All Things Hair

These X-shaped crisscross braids make a fun change from regular boxer braids.

Crown Braid

Blonde woman with a crown braid hairstyle
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

This charming crown braid is just what you need for your summer socials. Leave some strands loose around your face for a lived-in look.

Crown Twist Braid

Brunette with a twisted crown braid updo
Credit: Dvora

Feel like an angel for a day with this twisted halo updo. Great if you’re not the most confident braider, the twisted method is easier than a classic crown braid.

Dookie Braids

Woman with dark red oversized dookie braids
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

Love box braids but want to make more of a statement? Go supersized with these festival-perfect dookie braids and prepare to cause some major mane envy.

Double Braid Bun

Brunette woman with double upside down braided buns
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

From the upside-down Dutch braids to the retro space buns, this look is calling out to be worn to your next party.

Double Dutch Braid

The perfect all-seasons hairstyle, sometimes all you need is double Dutch braids.

Double Halo Braid

Blonde woman with a double halo braid
Credit: Instagram.com/sun__kissed__blonde

For those times when one halo braid just isn’t enough, there’s this. Credit: @sun__kissed__blonde

Dutch Braid

Woman with long brunette hair in a Dutch braid
Credit: Rupert Laycock

Created by weaving the hair under rather than over, once you know how to Dutch braid you’ll be able to create all sorts of looks.

Editor’s tip:  Before braiding, you can add texture and hold to your hair with the TRESemmé Day 2 Volumising Dry Shampoo. This is a styling essential for our fave second-day hairstyles!

Dutch Braid Bun

Blonde woman with a Dutch braid and low bun
Credit: Instagram.com/missysueblog

Add an extra wow factor to your updos with Dutch braid accents. Credit: @missysueblog

Dutch Braid Crown

Brunette woman with a crown braid hairstyle
Credit: All Things Hair

Flat or fine hair? Give body to limp locks by using the Dutch braid method to create the volumized updo of your dreams.

Easy French Braid

Woman with long brunette hair in a French braid
Credit: Rupert Laycock

There’s something about a classic French braid that just never fails to impress. Check out our easy-to-follow French braid how-to, here.

Faux Halo Braid

Blonde woman with a faux halo braid
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

You don’t have to have a degree in braiding to be able to rock a plaited updo. Fake it ‘til you make it with this faux halo braid.

Faux Hawk Braid

Woman with platinum blonde hair in a faux hawk braid
Credit: Instagram.com/allthingshairsa

After a look that’s equal parts glam and edgy? This fluffed-up faux hawk braid is giving us all the rock chick vibes. Credit: @allthingshairsa

Fishtail Ponytail

Blonde woman with a fishtail braid ponytail
Credit: Instagram.com/hairbyrubymay

Tired of wearing your hair in the same old basic ponytail? Then it might be time to give your pony an upgrade with this fishtail braided version. Credit: @hairbyrubymay

Fishtail Braid Updo

Brunette woman with a fishtail braided updo
Credit: Instagram.com/jozannamadehairdesigns

Pair this relaxed braided updo with your favourite sunnies for the ultimate weekend style. Credit: @jozannamadehairdesigns

Fishtail Bun

Brunette woman with a sleek fishtail braided bun
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

This sleek fishtail bun is a convenient way of keeping your hair out of your face for work or the gym.

Editor’s tip: Keep flyaways in check while you’re on the go with the TONI&GUY Flyaway Taming Wand. Stash this in your handbag or at your desk to boost shine and polish your look.

Fishtail Crown Braid

Woman with ginger hair in a fishtail crown braid
Credit: All Things Hair

Add a bohemian feel with a Coachella-inspired hairstyle that even Vanessa Hudgens would be jealous of.

Fishtail French Braid

Blonde woman with a side fishtail French braid
Credit: All Things Hair

Like to mix and match your braids? Show off your braiding skills with this 2-in-1 French fishtail hybrid.

Fishtail Braids

Woman with long brunette hair in a fishtail braid
Credit: Rupert Laycock

Switch it up for every day by trading your regular 3-strand braid for a 2-strand fishtail instead.

Fishtail Halo Braid

Blonde woman with a fishtail halo braid
Credit: Instagram.com/thetarahair

Updos don’t just have to be for special occasions. Keep the look laid-back with this messy fishtail halo braid. Credit: @thetarahair

Flower Braid

Woman with red hair in a flower braid updo
Credit: All Things Hair

What could be more spring/summer-appropriate than a flower braid?

Four Strand Braid

four strand braid on long blonde hair
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

What’s better than a three-strand braid? Four strand braid, of course.

French Braid Bun

Woman with platinum blonde hair in a French braided bun
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

This French braided bun will be able to handle whatever your day throws at it and still look fab.

French Braid Crown

Woman with icy blonde hair in a crown braid
Credit: Instagram.com/braidsandbikinis

Perfect for keeping you cool in summer, this stunning hairstyle will help keep frizz and humidity at bay. Credit: @braidsandbikinis

French Braid Updo

Woman with bronde highlighted hair in a French braided updo
Credit: Instagram.com/madellabeauty_official

French braid updos are a great option for shorter hair as the ends are tucked up rather than being tied into a bun. Credit: @madellabeauty_official

Greek Braid

Brunette woman with a long Greek braid hairstyle
Credit: Instagram.com/mariana_hairstylist_lutsk

Make the most of long locks with this textured, Grecian-inspired braid. Credit: @mariana_hairstylist_lutsk

Half Halo Braid

Woman with beige blonde hair in a half-up halo braid with butterfly clips
Credit: Instagram.com/amberfillerup

However long your hair, you can’t go wrong with a half-up halo braid – especially when there are butterfly clips involved. Credit: @amberfillerup

Half-Up, Half-Down Braid

Blonde woman with a half-up half-down braid
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

If flat roots are a problem for you, the half-up-half-down braid is the answer for instantly fuller-looking strands.

Headband Braid

Blonde woman with a headband braid
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

Is there anything chicer than a headband braid? Perfect for all hair types and lengths, this braided style will instantly elevate your look.

Heart Braid

Brunette with long hair in heart braid half-up
Credit: Rupert Laycock

They do say love is in the hair and with this heart braid that’s definitely the case.

Hidden Braid

young brunette woman with hidden braids wearing a blue and white top
Credit: Dvora

Get in the festival mood with this hidden braid hairstyle. Play around with the thickness and style of braids for a unique finish.

Inverted Fishtail Braid

Woman with dark brunette hair in an inverted fishtail braid
Credit: Instagram.com/glamourbycherry

AKA a Dutch fishtail braid because as you weave your fishtail you bring the hair under instead of over. This will create the inverted finish that characterises an inverted fishtail braid. Credit: @glamourbycherry

Box Braids

Woman with long dark brown box braids to one side
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

When it comes to the best protective styles for natural hair, box braids just can’t be beaten.

Inverted French Braid

Brunette woman with an inverted French braid
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

The key to getting this inverted French braid is to weave your strands under as opposed to over, just like you would for a Dutch braid.

Marley Braids

Natural haired woman with long chocolate coloured Marley braids
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

This celebrity loved Marley braids hairstyle may take some time to create but when the results are this beautiful, it’s totally worth it.

Mermaid Braid

mermaid braid on long brown hair
Credit: Instagram.com/karlssonbarlindhaug

This intricately weaved mermaid braid will make such a style statement, we think it’s best reserved for a special occasion. Credit: @karlssonbarlindhaug

Messy Bun with Braid

mesys bun with braid on blonde hair
Credit: Intagram.com/missysueblog

Sometimes the occasion calls for a messy bun, but to make you look more put together, try adding a side braid. Credit: @missysueblog

Messy Fishtail Braid

Messy fishtail braid on long blonde hair
Credit: Instagram.com/brushedbyraven

Fishtail braids are a great alternative to traditional plaits. Try this messy version for a cool boho vibe that’s perfect for the beach. Credit: @brushedbyraven

Micro Braids

Long micro braids
Credit: Instagram.com/braidsgang

Micro braids are a popular choice when looking for black hairstyles. Not only are they super cute, but they’re also versatile too! Credit: @braidsgang

Milkmaid Braid

brunette with long hair in milkmaid braid
Credit: Rupert Laycock

From festivals to brunch with the girls, a milkmaid braid is the sweetest style that all your friends will love.

Pull Through Braid

Pull through braid on long brown hair
Credit: All Things Hair

Trick everyone into believing you’ve created the perfect braid with this clever pull-through braid hair hack.

Side Braid Bun

side braid bun on dark blonde hair
Credit: Instagram.com/kikafourzali

Team your favourite two hairstyles together with this chic side braid bun. Credit: @kikafourzali

Side Fishtail Braid

Blonde woman with long fishtail braid
Credit: Instagram.com/ashprettyhair

If you’re looking for a braided hairstyle to fit with your bohemian wedding, then this side fishtail braid is just the look you need. Credit: @ashprettyhair

Editor’s tip: Bring volume and bounce to your hair with the Love Beauty And Planet Volume & Bounty Dry Shampoo.

Not only perfect for absorbing excess oil, but this dry shampoo also helps to add body and bounce to fine strands too!

Side Braid

Blonde woman with side braid
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

Make a style statement at your next HIIT class with this side braid. By starting the braid higher up you’ll prevent any loose strands falling.

Snake Braid

Brunette with snake braid
Credit: Verity Jane Smtih

This unique snake braid can be worn to jazz up a simple style.

Traditional Braid

Blonde woman with simple braid
Credit: Instagram.com/barefootblondehair

Don’t overlook the style potential of a traditional braid. Weave it tight for the gym or loose with your fave hair accessory for a casual look. Credit: @barefootblondehair

Two French Braids

Blonde woman with two french braids
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

Have double the fun with a two French braids hairstyle. Sprinkle glitter down your roots for the perfect festival look.

Under Braid

brunette with upside down triple braid updo
Credit: Instagram.com/barefootblondehair

It may surprise you that under braids like above are much easier to create than they look. Credit: @barefootblondehair

Unicorn Braid

Brunette with unicorn braid
Credit: All Things Hair

Have you always wanted to rock hair like a mythical creature? Then this unicorn braid is the perfect look.

Box Braids with Colour

Woman with long golden brown balayage box braids with a hair scarf
Credit: Shaquille Dunbar

The best thing about having box braids is that you can change up your hue as often as you please.

Upside Down Braid

Upside down braided bun on blonde hair
Credit: Instagram.com/annalovesbraids

This upside-down braided bun is far from boring. Wear yours for days when you want to show off your braiding skills. Credit: @annalovesbraids

Waterfall Braid

waterfall braid on wavy brown hair
Credit: All Things Hair

This waterfall braid is screaming wedding hair to us. From bridal to bridal party, it’s the romantic look that everyone will love.

Box Braids with Shaved Sides

Woman with long blonde box braids with shaved side
Credit: Shaquille Dunbar

After a more daring style? Spice up classic box braids with shaved sides for extra edginess.

Sign up to our newsletter and get exclusive hair care tips and tricks from the experts at All Things Hair.

Subscribe