To curate my list of braided hairstyles for weddings, I delved into a diverse array of tutorials, wedding pictures, and video how-to guides. Each style is accompanied by step-by-step instructions to empower you to recreate the look on your own or simply share it with your stylist as inspiration. Whether you’re looking for classic elegance or modern flair, my selection has got you covered.
11 Braided Hairstyles for Short Hair
Discover the thrill of reimagining a classic hairstyle for shorter hair. From creative cuts to clever styling tricks, we’ll explore innovative ways to make the most of your short locks. Whether you’re looking to add some extra oomph or simply update your look, these fresh ideas will inspire you to create a unique style that’s tailored to your hair type.
#1 Messy Crown Braids
The crown braid hairstyle exudes both versatility and beauty, making it an excellent choice for weddings. When opting for a bohemian-inspired bridal look, this style offers the perfect blend of flexibility and sophistication. For those with shorter hair, overlapping two Dutch braids can create a stunning effect. To ensure the braids stay in place, securing them with bobby pins is crucial. This hairstyle allows you to express your personal style while still maintaining a sense of elegance.
#2 Braided Romantic Updo
While it may require a bit more time to achieve, a braided updo is a stunning wedding hairstyle option that can elevate your look for various formal events, including church services, job interviews, graduations, and of course, weddings. The end result is well worth the extra effort, as this timeless style exudes elegance and sophistication. For those with shorter hair, consider dividing it into multiple sections, French braiding each portion before securing them in place with pins for a polished finish.
#3 Braids Plus Beads
Take your braid game to the next level by incorporating a touch of glamour with beads! This modern twist adds a playful and youthful vibe to traditional hairstyles. For those with longer locks, try adding beads to Fulani braids or box braids for an effortless look. Meanwhile, shorter hair can also get in on the action with tree braids or mini cornrows – the possibilities are endless!
#4 Waterfall Braids
Loose braid wedding hairstyles offer endless possibilities for creativity, and waterfall braids are no exception. This hairstyle’s versatility allows it to flatter both long and short hair alike, making it an excellent choice for couples looking for a timeless, romantic look that can be easily customized to suit their individual styles. Waterfall braids also happen to be particularly accommodating when it comes to varying hair textures, being suitable for both thick and fine locks. Its gentle, flowing nature lends itself perfectly to a beach wedding, where the soft, feminine vibe is sure to complement the surrounding atmosphere.
#5 Accent Braid Ponytail
When we’re feeling uninspired by our hair options, the Accent Braid Ponytail is an effortless choice that’s perfect for those moments. To elevate it further, consider incorporating subtle accents like beads into your braided hairstyle. This versatile look makes for a stunning option for contemporary brides seeking a touch of whimsy in their wedding day style.
#6 Classic French Braid
When it comes to styling short hair, a Classic French braid offers a more practical solution than a simple braid. Unlike a straightforward braid where the strands tend to unravel like those in a ponytail, the French Braid keeps the strands together and in place, making it an ideal choice for shorter locks.
#7 Side French Braids for Short Hair
For those with a classic bob cut, this braided hairstyle seamlessly integrates with their look, infusing a fresh twist. The simplicity of the braid design allows the wearer to effortlessly create a stylish updo that complements their natural features.
One of the many advantages of the Side French Braid is its ease of execution and time-saving benefits. Unlike other elaborate hairstyles that require multiple attempts or endless practice, this style can be quickly mastered with a little patience.
#8 Classic Cornrows
When it comes to finding a wedding hairstyle that complements natural black hair, the Classic Cornrows stand out as an ideal choice. With its timeless charm, this hairstyle echoes the elegance of African- American long twisted braids. The simplicity and sophistication of cornrows make them a stunning option for any bride, offering a beautiful fusion of traditional and modern styles.
#9 Large Knotless Box Braids
The stunning braid boasts effortless maintenance, making it an excellent choice for brides seeking to make a bold statement. Its unique design allows for a striking appearance that’s sure to turn heads. Additionally, consider incorporating the renowned knotless technique to add an extra layer of sophistication and elegance.
#10 Simple Side Plait
Waterfall braids are an excellent choice for loose braid wedding hairstyles, as they offer versatility and flexibility to work around different hair lengths. Whether you have long or short locks, this style can be adapted to suit your unique features. However, if you’re dealing with unruly and short hair, it may take a bit more effort to achieve the desired look. To simplify the styling process, consider using sea salt sprays to add texture and dry shampoo for added volume.
#11 Braided Pigtails
To elevate your style game, consider opting for the Braided Pigtails, also known as the double braided hairstyle. This trendy look is particularly well-suited for women with shoulder-length or long bob (lob) haircuts. In contrast to the double braid, which can sometimes evoke a ‘schoolgirl’ aesthetic, the Braided Pigtails exude a sense of sophistication and glamour.
12 Braided Hairstyles for Medium Hair
When it comes to finding styling solutions that cater to medium-length hair, I’m convinced that the following suggestions are particularly well-suited. The characteristics of this hair length lend themselves beautifully to incorporating a variety of techniques and products, allowing for a wide range of creative possibilities.
#1 Messy Fishtail Braids Half Updo
For those struggling to decide between multiple braid options, consider the Messy Fishtail Braids Half Up as a versatile choice. This style combines the best of two worlds by incorporating elements from both fishtail and messy braids into one look. Despite being a half-up design, it still offers a sense of control, allowing you to style the loose hair in a relaxed manner – such as loose curls for added texture.
#2 Loose French Braid Style
For those who don’t fancy fishtail braids, French braids provide a stylish alternative. The combination of messy and loose textures creates a harmonious blend that’s as effortless as it is beautiful. This braided wedding hairstyle is particularly well-suited to medium hair, making it an excellent option for brides looking for a classic yet modern updo.
#3 Braid into a Top Knot
We’re huge fans of this braided hairstyle – it’s both stylish and simplicity itself to create. To start your Dutch braid, take hold of the central section of hair and work your way outward. Finish off the look by securing the rest with a top knot before tying the braid in place.
#4 Side Braid into a Ponytail
If none of the braided wedding hairstyles we explored earlier resonated with you, consider opting for a Braided Ponytail instead. This style is equally captivating and endearing. What may initially seem like a straightforward ponytail can be elevated by incorporating a side braid, effectively transforming it into a more sophisticated and mature look that’s perfect for your special day.
#5 Dutch Braid Crown Hairstyle
This timeless crown hairstyle is a surefire way to make you stand out in a crowd, eliminating the need for any additional accessories. As you wear it, prepare to have every head turn and all eyes fixed on you. Its adaptability and sophistication allow it to pair effortlessly with any lipstick shade.
#6 Chunky Braid
When looking to command attention at an event, a Chunky Dutch braid is the perfect way to achieve it. This hairstyle effortlessly makes you the center of attention without having to try too hard.For women with medium-length hair, this style is particularly flattering, exuding a sense of sophistication and elegance. The chunky braids add volume and texture, making them an ideal choice for those who want to make a statement.
#7 Full Head Braid
For individuals with medium-length locks and thick hair textures, the Full Head Braid presents a versatile styling option. Prior to initiating the process, it’s essential to section off your bangs from the rest of your hair. This will enable you to create two distinct braids that can be secured in place using clips at the ends and bobby pins throughout the remainder of your hairdo.
#8 Sectioned Milkmaid Braid
The fishtail hairstyle culminates in a beautiful braided finish. For ladies with shoulder-length or medium-hair, the Frontal Sectioned Milkmaid look is an excellent choice. This style’s versatility allows you to add a touch of elegance by incorporating artificial or fresh flowers, depending on the occasion. However, it’s essential to note that this hairstyle requires thick hair to achieve its signature look.
#9 Side Waterfall Braid And Side Bun
This stunning braided hairstyle featuring a side bun is the perfect choice for making a statement at grand events like parties or wedding ceremonies. Its effortless elegance makes it particularly suitable for warm weather, such as summer gatherings. The Side Waterfall braid and accompanying side bun are two of the most sought-after hairstyles in recent times.
#10 Full Head Pearl Accessorized Braid
The newly launched style makes a resoundingly audacious claim. For those willing to turn heads at events like formal galas or daytime soirees, this look is sure to garner attention. The versatility of this hairstyle shines particularly well when worn for a prom night or an afternoon gathering.
#11 Colorful Braided Bun
Colors play a significant role in defining our personalities, and a simple addition of hues can significantly alter one’s aura. The subtle incorporation of vibrant tones into a hairstyle can create a profound impact. By stacking ponytails and wrapping them with colored ribbons, one can seamlessly integrate their personality traits into the final look. It is essential to braid the colorful ribbons harmoniously with your hair, culminating in a stunning updo that showcases the fusion of styles.
#12 Slightly Braided Pony
To elevate the style’s visual interest and create a more textured look, incorporate texture spray or texturizing powder into your hair. This simple trick will not only add body but also enhance the overall texture. Meanwhile, utilize bobby pins to subtly adjust and secure the loose braids, preventing them from shifting out of place.
12 Braided Hairstyles for Long Hair
For individuals with long locks, the world of braiding styles can be a truly exciting and overwhelming space. With so many possibilities at their fingertips, it’s easy to get caught up in the sheer variety of options. Nonetheless, there are a few braids that stand out from the rest as personal favorites.
#1 Classic Chignon
The Classic Chignon is a masterclass in harmonious braided hairstyles, seamlessly blending the elegance of French classic braids with the timeless sophistication of an updo. Its versatility has earned it a reputation as a bridal updo favorite among many ladies. To complete this look, simply tuck the braid underneath after rolling it up and secure it with a cuff hair barrette to conceal the end result.
#2 Long Braids With Curly Ends
To add a finishing touch to your long braids, incorporate the Flexi rods and create curled bounds at the ends. To achieve the desired shape, submerge the hair in hot water while it’s wrapped around the rods. This simple technique can make all the difference in elevating your hairstyle.
#3 Two-Way Braid
To achieve a harmonious balance between functionality and style, we’ve developed a braided hairstyle that seamlessly integrates two distinct functions – updos and side braids. This versatile design is particularly well-suited for women with long, luscious, and thick locks, making it an excellent choice for both evening events like late-night galas and daytime occasions such as afternoon ceremonies.
#4 Braided Bun for Thick Hair
For wedding guests seeking a sophisticated and timeless hairstyle that showcases their long and thick locks, a braided bun is an excellent option. This elegant look effortlessly combines modern chicness with vintage charm, making it perfect for both formal events like weddings and casual gatherings with friends.
#5 Twisted Fishtail Braid for Long Hair
The fishtail braid is often considered a standout when it comes to cute hairstyles, but adding a twist takes it to a whole new level. Not only does this unique combination ensure you stand out in a crowd, but it also invites attention and admiration. Don’t forget to snap some photos for your Instagram feed – the perfect way to show off your creative styling skills.
#6 Grecian Braided Crown
A braided hairstyle creates a captivating aura around the wearer’s head, evoking the essence of a radiant halo. To further enhance this ethereal quality, incorporating blonde highlights into the braid can imbue it with a golden sheen, perfectly capturing the essence of the Grecian Braided Crown.
#7 Braided Halo
Achieving a substantial updo requires some finesse. To create a sturdy base for your bun, start by dolling up the braids and tucking their ends beneath the coif’s edges to conceal them from view. This foundation will provide a solid anchor for the rest of your styling endeavors.
As you work your way upwards, gently tease the upper sections of your hair to amplify its natural volume. Not only does this technique allow you to create more lift and texture, but it also enables you to harness the braids’ inherent hold as an alternative to traditional gels or hairsprays.
#8 Braided Half Updo for Long Hair
A Braided Half Updo embodies a carefree, spirited essence. This hairstyle beautifully complements a free-spirited, bohemian-inspired look, exuding an air of effortless elegance.The style tends to work in harmony with women who possess long hair featuring wavy, natural textures and edges that are shaggy in nature.
#9 Kate Middleton-Esque Bridal Braided Updo
Regardless of your role – be it bride or bridesmaid – this braided hairstyle is sure to delight. The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, is a renowned trendsetter in the world of fashion, consistently showcasing impeccable style through her elegant updos.
#10 Game-of-Thrones-Inspired Hairstyle
Emulating the majestic locks of Daenerys Targaryen from Game of Thrones requires a specific flair for styling. If you’re captivated by her iconic braided hairstyle, this look is perfect for those with long hair seeking to channel their inner Khalisi. The regal and intimidating aura it exudes makes it an excellent choice when paired with a delicate flower crown.
#11 Braided Headband
Opting for a braided headband is indeed a more efficient choice than going bold. To achieve this look, it’s crucial to ensure each braid strand wraps snugly around the head before pulling all your hair back. This flexibility allows you to create braids of varying widths, adding a touch of versatility to your overall style. If you’re looking to elevate your wedding hairstyles with headpieces, consider incorporating a floral crown for an added layer of elegance.
#12 Side Braid and Headband
In many cases, fashion doesn’t require sacrificing one’s personal style. This holds particularly true for the versatile braided hairstyle. With some practice, you can effortlessly master the classic three-strand side braid, which can be further elevated by adding sparkly hair accessories like beaded headbands to give your look a romantic twist.
Final Thoughts on Braided Hairstyles for Weddings
In recent years, the timeless allure of braids has experienced a resurgence in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. This versatile hairstyle can be adapted to suit any hair type – curly, wavy, straight, or natural – making it an ideal choice for wedding day elegance. The trend has been around for centuries, with brides consistently drawn to the effortless charm and wow factor that braids bring. Not only is this style perfect for smaller, more intimate ceremonies, but it also holds its own on the biggest of days. If you’re considering a braided hairstyle for your special day, we highly recommend embracing its elegance and sophistication.