It’s true. Versatile French braids can take your hair in all sorts of directions as the following prove. The options and variety seems endless.
That fact is confirmed by all the stunning images of plaits adorning Pinterest or Instagram.
It’s almost like we never met a braided hairstyle we didn’t like.
Totally true.
Which is why knowing how to do a French braid (or any braid) is such a valuable skill.
It’s also why beginners who suck at braiding (and you know who you are) would be well advised to practice, practice, practice until the technique becomes second nature.
Confession. Whether these (mostly French) are braided looks you have or haven’t tried yet, I can’t say. Only you know that.
Regardless there are some steal-worthy game changers that can transform your personal look. That or leave you with a serious case of braid envy.
So your mission is try all of the 21 braided styles here that catch your eye. Which probably means you’ll be busy for a while.
#1 Basic French

Your basic French braid looks like anything but basic. I mean the look has flair to spare, no? Best of all you get easy wear-ability that’s equal parts casual and refined. Throw in practical effortlessness and you’ve got a proven winner that’s great for turning around bad hair days.
#2 Half Braided Up Half Down Totally Gorgeous

Who doesn’t love to rock a fishtail braid? Who doesn’t love half up half down styles? This variation combines the best of both worlds into a styling masterpiece that makes for one serious mane moment. Best of all is it nowhere near as intimidating to create as it might appear.
#3 Half Up Half Down Seriously Pancaked Dutch Plait

Easier than it looks this fabulous wavy style shows off the versatility of braids yet it’s so much more. Totally romantic, you get cascading strands, phat plaits plus a hint of a ponytail all in one girly and totally feminine look. This standout hairstyle is perfect for anyone who can’t commit to wearing their hair up, down or braided.
#4 French Braid Redux

Here’s the classic French braid glammed up to the max by the eye popping red shade. Few things beat a charming braid for breathing new life into a style that’s flatlined or you’ve grown tired of. All the more when a vibrant color like this is included.
#5 Loose Fishtail Updo Defines Braided Awesomeness

A loose side-swept braid like this has girly written all over it. Yet it’s a look that is oh so grown up at the same time. Best of all for those obsessed with braided hairstyles, this lovely fishtail braid updo can be achieved in under 15 minutes. Consider yourself inspired.
#6 French Braid Double Down

Always popular, anyone looking to up their hair game should definitely double down on this one that elegantly unites two side braids into one. Suggesting pretty much anyone can effortlessly pull off this cute double braided style.
#7 Ombre French Braided Pigtails

With this one the ombre makes the look. Or so it seems. These stunningly fat plaits are set apart by the ombre color peeking out as low pigtails from the end of the braids. So pretty. Yet with a casual feel that can work well if layered hair is a concern.
#8 Want to Be Crowned in Braids?

An eye catching headband braid, like this one conveys simple elegance. It’s an example of gorgeous unqualified glam at its finest for days you don’t want to wear your long(er) hair down. Or the perfect hairdo for those looking to step up their styling game in a way that is fun and really quite easy to do.
#9 French Side Braid Ponytail

It’s easy to ace this style. The end result is an elegant braided look that transforms your ponytail from hum drum to hubba hubba. Bet it works great with second day hair too. Simply braid each side until you hit where you want the braids to end and the pony to start. Instant classic.
#10 Braided Bob, Really?

Yes really. Shorter hair can too enjoy it’s moment in the braid. Granted it is not always easy to braid up shorter hair but believe it or not it’s more workable if you go for two. Braids that is. Shorter strands mean messier braids and if you go for two your hair actually looks so on purpose yet properly secured and all. Great for those days that your strands call for a causal change of pace.
#11 When Two Braids Become One

At times it seems like our love affair with braids is boundless. At times is seems the more intricate the better. Take this one for instance. It suggests a level of complexity that’s hard to pull off. But not really. It’s basically two side braids that meet in the back and are then loosely combined to flaunt one long precious plait.
#12 Side Braids on a Bun Please

The messy side braid up looks elegant yet casual at the same time. This sophisticated looking style pulls together two French braids into a low structured bun. What could be better for a wedding, dinner date or any other special occasion?
#13 Loosely Played Double Braided

Thick loosely double braided plaits melt into the rest of the hair. Easy and quick. This look plays up the volume of your hair leaving you with something that looks extra special without the extra effort.
#14 Triple Threat Wrapped to Go

This romantic looking hairstyle takes braided hair to the next level. Making it easy to stand out from the crowd without spending hours on hair prep. Because truth is this is nothing more than three braids wrapped around your head and held in place with a bobby pin or two most likely. It’s a simple DIY style that looks anything but.
#15 Double Dip French

Here’s a rather fun style that might be just the one for those seeking the intricate weave of a classic French braid times two. Loose braids with a hint of messiness are perfectly imperfect. They ooze understated glamour in a slightly structured, yet undone way.
#16 Double Headband Braids With a Twist

This one has it all. Double headband braids converging in a low twisted bun that just shouts elegance. Looks like lots going on yet examine more closely and the simplicity of the style shines through. The prefect special occasion style, don’t you think?
#17 Two and a Half Braids

Another take on the half up half down braided style with the half being the twist at the end. Rather simple yet oh so chic. That hint of a bun in the back finishes off the seamless blending of the two French side braids secured in place with bobby pins. You get a super stylish ‘do that’s perfectly suited for dress up or down.
#18 Fringe Braid That’s Anything But Borderline

Fringe braids like this one proves you don’t need long hair to get in on the braided fun. Even better this is a great way to style hair when your bangs have perhaps hit that awkward in between stage. You know when they are too long to truly be bangs but not yet grown out enough to not be. A great way to hide such bangs from view.
#19 Braided Ponytail – Magically Knotted Edition

Just couldn’t bring myself to not include this one because it’s such a super stylish look. It almost creates the impression of a twisted bun yet isn’t. Giving you a new way to take a simple ponytail to a whole new, dare I say romantic, level. Ideal for those looking for an unforgettable take on the unbraided pony.
#20 When Is A Braid Not?

Maybe it’s not when it’s part of a majestic style that uses braided hair almost as an accessory. And oh how those mesmerizing streaks of blonde color add another dimension for sure. Just shows there’s no need for some crazy complicated braids to stand out. No wonder people were falling over themselves to like this eye catcher on Instagram.
#21 Double Your Braids Double Your Fun?

A step out of the ordinary, going with two types of braids is a unique twist on cute braided hairstyle for sure? The top of this style bares a double Dutch that’s elegantly finished off with something more in the fishtail line. Show off your uber braiding skills with a perfectly enchanting ‘do like this and create some buzz.
Want your locks, braided or otherwise, to constantly turn heads? Our Pinterest boards likely have the ideas to make that happen.

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