French braids are a classic style that works for both formal and casual occasions. How long has it been since you wore your hair in a French braid? If the last time was when you were a kid, you’re overdue for one of the many modern updates this braid has gotten.
No matter your hair thickness or texture, this braid is one style you can count on to look polished, whether it’s for work, that fancy event coming up, or a laid-back day at home.
Read on for a step-by-step tutorial, styling ideas, and answers to frequently asked questions about French braids.
What Are French Braids?
A French braid is an upgraded version of a basic three-strand braid. Instead of braiding all the hair at once, you add small sections as you go. This creates that “woven” look that starts at the top of the head and flows down.
The term “French braid” was first used in 1871 in the short story “Our New Congressman” by March Westland. Two popular braid styles people often compare to French braids are the Dutch braid and fishtail braid. A Dutch braid is an “inside-out” French braid, while fishtail braids use two sections of hair instead of three.
How To Do French Braids
French braids can look tricky, but once you get the hang of the pattern, you’ll be able to do them without thinking. This tutorial is for one classic French braid, which is the easiest version to learn.
Step 1
Separate a section of hair at the top of your crown, almost like you’re starting a half-ponytail. Then split that section into three even strands: A, B, and C.
Start with a regular braid. Cross A over B so A is now in the middle. Then cross C over A so C moves into the middle. From left to right, the strands should now be B, C, and A.
Step 2
Here’s where it becomes a French braid. Before you bring the left strand (B) over to the middle, pick up a small section of loose hair from the left side of your head and add it into B.
Once B has that added hair, cross it over into the middle.
Step 3
Now repeat on the other side. Pick up a small section of loose hair and add it to A, then cross A into the middle (C, A, B). Your braid should start to look fuller as you go.
Step 4
Keep the same pattern: add a small section of hair to each side before crossing it over. As you move down, you may need to grab hair from underneath the braid to keep the sections even, and that’s normal.
Step 5
Once you’ve added all the loose hair, finish by braiding the remaining length as a normal three-strand braid. Tie it off, and you’ll have one long French braid down your back.
Check out the how-to tutorial video below!
Tips for French Braids
French braids, like any hairstyle, can take some time to perfect. Different hair textures may need slightly different techniques.
Regardless of your hair length, texture, or styling preferences, below are some helpful tips for adding French braids to your hairstyle routine.
- Some people find it easier to practice on a friend first to learn the pattern. If you have a friend with similar hair, ask if you can practice on them.
- Because you add hair as you braid, you’ll want to start with detangled hair. If you have straight hair, brush it first. If you have curly or kinky hair, try conditioning and moisturizing first so the sections stay smooth.
- Avoid braiding too tightly, especially at the start. A braid that’s too tight can feel uncomfortable and put stress on the hairline.
- If your hair isn’t long enough for one braid down your back, split it into two sections and do two French braids (or more) instead.
French Braided Updo
1. Messy Look
This chic updo is easy to recreate at home. The hair is loosely pinned at the back for a soft, messy finish, and topped with a hair accessory. The side-swept front is braided, too. The blonde balayage takes the look up a notch.
2. Braided Space Buns
Space buns look fun and are easy to achieve. The back is braided into upside-down French braids, then the remaining hair is braided and wrapped into two buns on top. Pull out a few face-framing pieces and you’re done.
3. Braid Crown with Full Up ‘Do
Once you’ve created a crown of braids, pull the rest of your hair into a polished updo. Secure it with hairpins and bobby pins for a clean finish.
4. French Braid with Bangs
Using neat sections from the front in your braid creates a stepped effect. Finish with a softly curled chignon for a pretty wedding-ready style.
5. Short French Braid
If you have thin hair or hair that’s shorter than medium length, a short French braid can still work. This one is made by brushing the hair forward and braiding right along the hairline.
6. Upside Down French Braid
Instead of ending your French braid at the neck, start it there. Secure the ends at the crown and wrap them into a cute ballerina bun.
7. Gorgeous Wedding Hair
For gorgeous wedding hair, add a thick statement braid on one side of the head. Pull the rest of your hair into a softly curled chignon.
8. Birdcage Chignon
To create this look, section your hair into smaller pieces and braid them into waterfall-style braids. Then tuck the loose sections under to create that “birdcage” effect.
9. Two Tone
If the underside of your hair is a different shade than the top, you can create a striking two-tone French braid like the one above. The contrast looks amazing.
10. Bow Bun
Top your French braid with a cute hair bow that’s inspired by 40s pin-up style. If you don’t want to make a bow from hair, use a statement fabric bow instead.
11. High Crown
Section off hair near the front and braid it into a high crown braid that sits on top of your head. You can wear the rest of your hair up or down.
12. Middle Parted French Braids
Instead of braiding all the way to the ends, stop at the neckline and secure both braids together with a jeweled hair claw.
13. French Braided Bun
A braid doesn’t have to hang down your back. For a chic style, pull the braid into a chignon at the back and leave a few face-framing pieces in front.
14. Half Crown with Bun
Braid around just one side of your head, following the natural curve of your skull. Pull the rest of your hair into a neat chignon bun at the back.
15. Thin Braid
Create the look of a pixie bob with a neat braided updo. Tuck flyaways under the braid so everything stays smooth and secure.
French Braided Ponytail
16. Multiple Braids
Here’s a unique French braided ponytail for women who like to stand out. The top has a jumbo loose braid, while each side has two smaller braids, all secured into a ponytail. Finish with hair rings.
17. Upside Down Look
This high ponytail can’t get any higher. Bend forward, brush out your hair, and braid the back into a neat French braid up to the crown. Secure the remaining hair with a tie and let it swing all day.
18. Braided Top
Young girls can show off French braids with this fun look. The top is woven into two braids with a middle part, while the rest is left loose. Add some glitter or cute hair clips to finish the style.
19. Two In One
Keep your hair off your face all day by braiding both sides with a middle part. Leave the braids loose, or secure them together into a low braided ponytail. This look is easy to maintain.
20. Unique Ponytail
Instead of pairing a ponytail with side braids, switch it up. Tie your hair into a high ponytail, then braid the loose length into a French braid down to the ends. This look will keep all eyes on you.
Reverse French Braids Styles
21. Dual French Braids
What’s better than one French braid? Two French braids. This look is equally cute on young girls and women. Keep your hair tamed all day by styling it into two braids with a middle part.
22. Half-Up Style
Show off a straight-cut lob by braiding the top section for a boho touch. Tie the braid into a half-up ponytail, then wrap a small section of hair around the tie to finish it neatly.
23. Braided Knot
If you love a high ponytail, you can upgrade it by using a braided section to “wrap” the base. Secure your ponytail with an elastic, then wrap the braid over it to hide the hair tie.
24. French Braided Side Ponytail
Put a fun twist on the French braid by styling it to the side. Start at the temple on one side and braid around the head, ending near the ear. Secure with a pretty flower clip.
25. Voluminous French Braid
Stop your braid just above the nape of your neck. Use a hair band and a small wrap of hair to pull the ponytail away from your back. Run your fingers through the ponytail a few times to add volume.
Half Up French Braids
26. Princess Appeal
Look like an elegant princess by styling half of your brunette hair into a French braid and adding loose waves to the rest. Finish with a floral hair accessory that works for both formal and casual events.
27. Braided Flower Updo
This half-up French braid style is perfect if you like a polished look. The side pieces are braided, then twisted at the back into a flower shape. Gently pull the braid loops for a fuller look and secure with hairpins.
28. Half Side Braids
Another way to wear a half-up style is to braid both sides all the way down, leaving the rest of the hair loose. Go for a middle part or a side part, depending on what you prefer.
29. French Headband Braid
If you like the headband look, you can create it with your own hair. Start a French braid at one temple and braid across to the other side. Loosen it slightly for a softer finish and leave the rest of your hair wavy.
30. Front French Braid
Keep hair off your face with a side French braid that works even with side bangs. Part hair to the side, start braiding, and continue down the opposite side, ending around ear level. Tuck the end back and secure it with a clip.
31. Top Waterfall
Waterfall braids usually start at the crown, but this version uses hair from the fringe and sits higher on the head. Make it slightly asymmetrical for an extra-cool finish.
32. Messy Half Up, Half Down
This is a fun mix of up and down styles. Braid the front sections near your hairline, then use curling tongs to create loose curls in the back.
33. Loose braid with loose curls
To create loose, tousled curls underneath a braid, use a curling iron and then run your fingers through your hair to separate the curls into softer pieces.
34. French Twist
This “twist” effect is made by pulling one section slightly out of the braid so it looks like a twist running through it. It looks beautiful as a half-up style with the rest left straight or softly wavy.
Waterfall French Braids
35. Ballerina Bun
Channel ballerina vibes with this pretty updo. The front hair is split into sections and braided so the strands link together. Finish with a top bun and a flower accessory.
36. Braided Flower
Use a French braid technique to create this waterfall twist. Loosen the loops to make the braid look wider, then secure the end with a braided flower.
37. Diagonal Waterfall Braid
Waterfall braids are simple but striking. For a fun twist, run the braid on a diagonal instead of straight across.
38. Waterfall Braids and Curls
This is a great prom or summer wedding style because it shows off curls without looking too casual. Add flower accessories for a boho touch.
39. Connected Waterfall French Braids
Why have just one waterfall French braid when you can have two? Start with a small section near the top, then connect it to another braid just below.
French Braids for Black Women
40. Pretty Pigtails
Black women can rock these stylish French braided pigtails with confidence. The front is done in micro braids to contrast with the back, which is braided into two pigtails. Finish with a feather headband for a fun touch.
41. Curly Mess
Natural curls look beautiful when worn with a relaxed finish. The side-swept front is braided to keep hair off the face, while the rest is secured at the back with a claw clip. This look is low-maintenance and stays in place all day.
42. Chunky Rope Twist
For a big, bold look, braid your hair into chunky rope-style French braids. It’s a great option for keeping hair neat for the workplace.
43. Braided Bun and Crown
Braid a thick section across the front to create a crown effect, then pull the rest into a classic bun at the back.
44. Natural Hair
Natural hair looks beautiful pulled back into a classic single French braid for black women. Wear it with a simple headband for everyday polish.
Crown French Braids
45. Spiral French Braid
A crown braid instantly feels special. Recreate this look by braiding and wrapping around the head several times to form a spiral. Finish with a light mist of hairspray if you need extra hold.
46. Half-Up Crown
If you prefer wearing your hair down, try a half-up crown braid. Braid around the head, then curl the loose hair into soft waves. Pull out a few pieces to frame the face.
47. Pushed Back
A crown braid usually sits along the hairline, but you can place it higher for a lifted look. Braid around the crown and loosen the sections slightly for a softer finish.
48. Loose Crown
A loose crown braid gives a soft, romantic finish. It can also make thin hair look fuller. It’s a lovely choice for a wedding or a formal event.
Fishtail French Braids
49. Platinum Braids
Show off shiny platinum blonde hair by braiding both sides into loose fishtail French braids with a middle part. Secure the ends and wear the braids down your back or over your shoulders. This look is easy to do and low-maintenance.
50. Low Bun
For a special occasion, go for a simple low bun. Start by braiding small sections at the back for a subtle pattern, then blend them into the bun. Leave a few pieces loose in front to frame the face.
51. Braided Front
Sometimes a simple look is all you need to brighten your face. Add loose waves, braid the side-parted front, then pin it back. You can braid both sides for an easy everyday style.
52. French Mohawk Braid
If you love bold hair, try this statement style. The sides are buzzed for contrast, while the top is braided and finished into one jumbo French braid. This look turns heads.
53. Braid on Braids
Take your braids up a notch. Create three sections with a zigzag part, braid each one into a fishtail, then weave them together into one jumbo braid. This style is especially cute on little girls.
54. Get Creative
Here’s another fishtail French braid idea if you want something dramatic. Separate a side section and braid both sections, with the top C-shaped braid wrapping around the other for a standout finish.
55. Fishtail French Braided Updo
A jumbo fishtail braid that uses all of the hair is perfect for weddings and dance recitals. Finish with a pretty clip at the top to secure the style. It can be easier to braid if the hair is detangled first.
56. Side Fishtail Braid
Use the classic fishtail technique, but braid it to the side. It’s a gorgeous choice for a wedding or any special occasion.
Loose French Braids
57. Blonde Highlights
The messier it gets, the better it looks. A loose French braid is a great way to show off blonde highlights through darker hair. Braid the side-parted front too, and curl a few pieces for a soft finish.
58. Ruffled and Romantic
Long hair looks gorgeous in a loose jumbo braid for a messy, romantic finish. Twist the front to blend into the braid at the back. Add a fishtail section, then braid everything together for extra detail.
59. French Braid for Wedding
Your big day deserves a standout hairstyle. Try this mix of a French braid and fishtail braid for a detailed way to show off long hair.
60. Single Side Braid
A single braid to one side creates an elven-inspired look straight out of a fantasy film. It’s a soft, romantic choice for a wedding or garden party.
61. Stepped Braid
Create a stepped look by adding hair from farther down the head as you braid. Tie it off halfway down, then gently fan it out for a pretty, semi-casual finish.
62. Casual Side Braid
This side braid is perfect for an easy, casual look. Loosely braid toward the back of your head and keep it relaxed, so it doesn’t look too “done.”
63. Braided Fringe
Braid a thin section at the front to keep hair out of your eyes. This creates a boho vibe, especially with loose curls or waves.
64. Rolling Side Braid
Rolling side braids are an easy way to dress up a casual style. It’s a quick look to pull together when you’re heading out with friends.
65. Highlighted Sections
A few lighter highlights can look beautiful in a braid. The contrast makes the braid pattern stand out as the hair weaves from side to side.
66. Messy Style
Your braid can still look stylish even with a few flyaways. That undone, “threw it together” finish can be perfect for casual days.
Other French Braids
67. Long French Braids
These two French braids are perfect for long hair. Create a side part and start braiding at the temples, then braid all the way down. Drape both over one shoulder for a polished look.
68. Double French Braids
This bold look features two French braids, one on each side. They make hair look thicker and look especially beautiful with a contrasting color, like this muted purple.
69. French Braided Dreads
If you have dreadlocks, you can still wear a gorgeous French braid. This look is classic, but instead of using an elastic, a couple of locks are wrapped around the ends to secure it.
70. French Braid for Thick Hair
For thick hair, a French braid like this keeps everything neat and secure. Start with a couple of smaller braids around the head, leaving some hair loose, then gather everything into one main French braid.
71. Classic Single French Plait
This hairstyle has been popular for decades. It’s a beautiful option for special occasions.
72. Five Strand Braid
Make your braid look even more eye-catching with this five-strand pattern. Tie it off at the nape, then let the rest hang down.
73. Off-center Plait
A single braid is a classic, but you can update it by braiding slightly off-center. The braid will fall over one shoulder instead of straight down the back.
74. Messy Plait
French braids don’t always have to look perfectly neat. A slightly messy braid comes together quickly and feels more casual than a super polished look.
75. Thick and Thin
Put a twist on a classic French braid by starting your main braid near the nape and keeping the top smooth. Add a few thin braids or twists for a unique finish.
76. Beach Hair
If you have copper tones, a French braid is a great summer beach look. As a bonus, it can leave you with soft waves once you take it out.
77. Thin French Braid
If you have thin hair, you might worry your braid will look too small. A French braid can still look stylish, especially when you keep the sections neat.
78. Multi-Braids
Take braiding up a level by combining braids of different sizes into one ponytail. This adds beautiful texture and detail.
79. Coppery Tones
Add copper highlights to give your hair a warm glow in the sun. This look pairs beautifully with reds and browns.
80. Bow Braids
This high-fashion style incorporates “bows” of hair into the braid. It’s a bold look, especially paired with a single side braid.
81. Diminishing Braid
This braid starts big near the top and gradually gets smaller toward the ends. It’s a great option for thinner hair that still wants a fuller-looking braid.
82. Sleek and Shiny
Super straight hair looks stunning in a braid. A sleek finish helps show off your hair’s shine.
83. Subtle Braid
Keep it simple with a subtle, casual style. Add a small braid along an off-center fringe, then run your fingers through the rest of your hair for volume.
84. High French Braid
Pull your hair up and back to create a high French braid. This look feels polished and works beautifully for formal events.
85. Distinct Sections to Create Steps
Use chunky, even sections to create a stepped effect. This makes the braid pattern stand out and gives the style structure.
86. The Top
You can braid only the top section of your hair and leave the rest down. It’s a great option if you want detail at the crown without braiding everything.
87. Stegosaurus
This spiky braid has a slightly edgy vibe without feeling too extreme. It’s a great choice if you want to stand out.
88. Mixed Braid
This style blends two braids into one by combining a classic French braid with a fishtail. You may want a friend to help if you’re aiming for a finish this neat.
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