If you’re looking for a way to switch up your long hair, braids are the perfect way to do it. Not only are they totally chic and fashionable, but they’re also surprisingly easy to do. From fishtails to French braids and beyond, we’ve rounded up the prettiest braid hairstyles for long hair that you can rock for any occasion. Keep reading to find out how to create the perfect look for you.
1. Waterfall Braid
Start with a simple three-strand braid, then pick up pieces of hair as you braid down to add them to the braid. This creates a waterfall effect that looks intricate, but is also incredibly easy. Be sure to pull the braid apart to make it look even more voluminous. You can rock this look to the office, a wedding, or even a casual outing.
2. French Braid
The French braid is a classic for a reason. This timeless look is the perfect way to keep your hair out of your face without having to resort to a ponytail. Start at the top of your head and braid down, adding pieces of hair from the sides as you braid. It looks complex, but is actually quite easy once you get the hang of it. Plus, you can make it as neat or as messy as you want.
3. Dutch Braid
The Dutch braid is essentially an inverted French braid. Start at the top of your head and braid down, adding pieces of hair from the sides as you braid. The difference is that the pieces of hair are crossed over the middle strand instead of under. This looks a bit more complex than a French braid, but is still easy to do. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your hair out of your face and show off your long locks.
4. Fishtail Braid
If you’re looking for something a bit more intricate, the fishtail braid is for you. It’s a bit more complicated than the other braids, but is still totally achievable. Start at the top of your head and split your hair into two sections. Take a small piece of hair from one side and cross it over to the other side to create the braid. Continue to do this until you reach the bottom of your hair. Be sure to pull the braid apart to make it look even more voluminous.
5. Half-up Braid
The half-up braid is a great way to show off your long hair. Start at the top of your head and create a three-strand braid. Once you reach the mid-length of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie. This is a great look for a casual outing or a night out with friends. Plus, it’s super easy to do and only takes a few minutes.
6. Crown Braid
The crown braid is a great way to get a polished look without having to put in too much effort. Start at the top of your head and create a French braid. Once you reach the bottom of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie. Then, wrap the braid around the back of your head and secure it with bobby pins. This is a great look for a special occasion.
7. Messy Braid
The messy braid is a great way to create a cool, effortless look. Start at the top of your head and create a three-strand braid. As you braid, don’t be afraid to pull the pieces of hair apart to make it look more voluminous. You can also pull pieces of hair out of the braid to create a more relaxed look. This is a great look for any occasion.
8. Side Braid
The side braid is a great way to get a pretty, yet effortless look. Start at the top of your head and create a three-strand braid. As you braid, don’t be afraid to pull the pieces of hair apart to make it look more voluminous. Once you reach the bottom of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie and wrap it around the back of your head. This is a great look for a casual outing or a night out with friends.
9. French Fishtail Braid
The French fishtail braid is a great way to get a unique and interesting look. Start at the top of your head and braid down, adding pieces of hair from the sides as you braid. As you braid, split the two sections of the braid into three sections and twist them together. This looks complex, but is actually quite easy once you get the hang of it. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your hair out of your face and show off your long locks.
10. Bubble Braid
The bubble braid is a great way to get a fun and flirty look. Start at the top of your head and create a three-strand braid. As you braid, pull the pieces of hair apart to make it look more voluminous. Then, secure the braid with a hair tie every few inches. This creates a bubble effect that looks super cute and unique. This is a great look for a special occasion or a night out with friends.
Braids are the perfect way to switch up your long hair. From fishtails to French braids and beyond, there are so many different braid hairstyles for long hair that you can rock for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a polished look or something more relaxed and effortless, these braids are sure to turn heads and get you plenty of compliments. So go ahead and give them a try!