French braided buns can look stunning on almost any hair type or color. Once you learn the basic steps, you will have a go to updo for parties, weddings, and busy days when you still want to look put together.
Many people struggle at first because a French braid takes practice. A stylist can do it fast, but you can learn it too. Start simple, use a mirror, and keep trying. You can do a sleek version or a soft, lived in one, depending on the mood.
How to Make an Upside-Down French Braid Bun
This bun looks hard, but it is fast once you know the steps. Use a comb, elastics, pins, clips, and a donut if you want extra fullness.
- Take two strands near the ears, lift them up, and clip them together.
- Flip your hair upside down and start a French braid at the nape. Split the first section into three strands and begin crossing as you add hair from each side.
- Keep adding small sections from the right and left. Smaller sections make the braid look more detailed. Keep your fingers close to the scalp for a tighter braid, but do not pull so tight that it hurts.
- When you reach the top, secure the braid with an elastic.
- Release the clipped sections from step 1. Add them to the braid ends to form a ponytail, then secure with an elastic.
- Pull the ponytail through a donut. Spread the hair around it.
- Tuck the ends under and pin the bun securely.
You can skip the donut and braid the ponytail into a braided bun. A fuller bun is easier if you clip larger sections in step 1.
Beautiful French Braid Bun Styles
A basic bun is easy. A donut bun is even easier. Add a French braid, and the style looks more detailed and more intentional.
We picked 15 French braid bun ideas you can try. They may look complicated, but the steps repeat. Take your time, keep your sections clean, and do not pull too tight. These looks work for casual days and formal events.
French Bun with Soft Bangs
This bun has three strong details: face framing bangs, a neat braid, and a pretty accessory. It is a clean way to dress up a simple bun.
French Bun with Crown Volume
The braid and bun already look polished. The pouff adds crown volume, so the top does not look flat. This is great when you want a fuller silhouette.
Soft Wedding Updo
For weddings, messy buns are trending more than tight, sleek updos. Braid, pin, then gently pull a few pieces loose around the face. It looks soft in photos and stays comfortable through a long day.
Half Up Double Buns
This half up style feels playful and cute. You get the hold of braids with the fun shape of buns. It is also a nice option when you want hair off your face but not fully up.
Sleek High Ballerina Bun
This sleek high bun gives a ballerina finish. It looks polished and works well for formal days. It is also one of the easier bun shapes to build once your braid is done.
French Braided Space Buns
Space buns can look fun, not just “girly.” The braids make them feel more finished. This is a great choice for festivals, weekends, or any day you want a carefree vibe.
Half Up Top Knot with Braid
This half bun looks edgy but still soft. The braid adds structure, and the bun adds height. It is a cool girl upgrade from a basic top knot.
Double Braids into a Low Bun
Two French braids that meet in a bun look elegant and princess like. It is also a strong option when you want the style to stay secure all day.
Side Braid with Donut Bun
This one is beginner friendly. Braid one side from the temple toward the back, then use that braid with the rest of the hair to make a donut bun.
Upside Down Braid Wrap Bun
The upside down braid looks even better when it wraps around the bun. Keep braiding past the crown, then wrap the braid around the bun to finish.
Loose Braid into a Low Chignon
This bun works well for medium length hair. Braid from the top and slightly to one side, then pin the lower part into a small bun.
Epic Fishtail French Braids To Inspire You
Two Braids into One Bun
Split the hair into two sections and make two braids from the top. Wrap both ends into a bun and secure with plenty of pins.
Upside Down Braided Space Buns
These buns look like Minnie ears, made with two upside down braids. Keep both braids the same size. If your hair is short, add extensions for the bun.
Woven Basket Bun Updo
This style is harder to do on yourself because the braiding happens in the back. Ask a stylist if you want it for a big event.
Soft Classic French Bun
Your first French braid bun may look a little loose. That is normal. A softer finish can still look beautiful, so do not overthink it.
Layered French Bun with Texture
If you have extra time, add more detail with layering and texture.
Ideal for: Round and square-shaped faces.
How to style: This takes patience. Smooth flyaways with a small amount of wax, then pin the bun firmly.
French Bun with Dutch Braid Detail
A braid adds detail fast. It also helps the style look more special.
Ideal for: Round and square-shaped faces.
How to style: Start a thick braid on top. Keep it comfortable, not tight. Finish with a slightly diagonal bun so the braid stays visible.