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 and plenty of styling ideas for 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. Loose Side Braid into a Ringlet Updo
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. Crown Braid Updo
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. A floral pin or bow can dress up the finished bun without changing the braiding pattern.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. Crown Braid with a Wrapped Bun
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.
French Braided Ponytail
8. Upside-Down Braid into a High Ponytail
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.
9. Twin French Braids Tied at the Nape
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.
10. High Braided 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.
11. Top Braid into a Half-Up Ponytail
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. For a half-up variation, braid two top sections instead of one and leave the remaining lengths loose.
12. 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. The braid can be loosened for a fuller finish or kept narrower; face-framing strands offer another small variation.
Half Up French Braids
13. 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.
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. Half-Up Loop Braids with a Side Plait
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
17. 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.
18. Diagonal Waterfall Braid
Waterfall braids are simple but striking. For a fun twist, run the braid on a diagonal instead of straight across.
19. 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
20. 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.
21. 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
22. 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.
23. 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.
Fishtail French Braids
24. 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.
25. 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.
26. Curved Braid Wrapped around a Fishtail
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.
27. 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.
Loose French Braids
28. Highlighted Braided Cascade with Loops
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.
29. 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.
30. 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.
Other French Braids
31. 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.
32. Red-to-Blonde Braid with Woven Accent Plaits
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.
33. Classic Single French Plait
This hairstyle has been popular for decades. It’s a beautiful option for special occasions.
34. 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.
35. 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.
36. 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.
37. Sleek and Shiny
Super straight hair looks stunning in a braid. A sleek finish helps show off your hair’s shine.
38. 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.
39. French Braid into a Low Ponytail
You can braid the hair from the crown and gather the unbraided lengths into a low ponytail. It’s a great option if you want detail at the crown without braiding everything.
40. Stegosaurus
This spiky braid has a slightly edgy vibe without feeling too extreme. It’s a great choice if you want to stand out.
Whichever style you choose, French braids are a look you can count on for any occasion. Nail the basic pattern first, and the rest of these ideas will come together easily.
Related Braiding Techniques
A rope twist, fishtail braid or five-strand braid offers a different construction from a classic French braid. Try a side fishtail for an occasion, or a half-up side fishtail when you want to leave straight lengths loose. A five-strand pattern can finish at the nape with the remaining length left free.
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