31 Hairstyles with Braids: Half Up Half Down, Curls, Ponytails and Beads for Long and Short Hair

Braided hairstyles have been a staple for centuries, offering versatility and elegance. This article showcases 31 stunning hairstyles with braids that work for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for something easy for natural hair or want a bold look with beads and curls, these styles suit every hair length, from short hair to long hair, and are perfect for black women.

Halo Braid with Curls

The halo braid is a crown of beauty, perfect for both formal events and casual outings. With its regal finish, this braid style is often paired with soft curls cascading down the back or around the shoulders. It’s a classic choice for a bride or someone attending a wedding where elegance is key. This style works best for medium length or long hair, especially those with natural waves. It frames the face beautifully, making it suitable for oval and heart-shaped faces. Dark hair tones especially pop in this style, bringing out the romantic vibe.

To achieve this style, you’ll need a rat-tail comb for sectioning, hairpins to secure the braid, and a curling iron for the ends. Begin by parting the hair down the middle, then braid along the crown. Once secured, curl the loose hair for a soft finish. Use a lightweight hairspray like Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray to keep the braid and curls intact.

Box Braids with Beads

Box braids are a staple for black women and a fantastic protective style. Adding beads to the ends can elevate the look, giving it an Afrocentric touch. Box braids are a go-to for anyone looking for something low-maintenance and versatile, making them perfect for vacations, festivals, or a fun weekend out. This style suits all hair lengths, but it stands out on long hair. Beads can be styled in various colors, and the weight of the beads adds some flair to the overall look. It’s great for round or oval face shapes, and the variety of bead colors can accentuate brown or hazel eyes.

Creating box braids is simple but time-consuming. You’ll need a comb to section the hair and elastic bands to secure the parts before braiding. Once the braids are done, thread beads onto the ends. For maintenance, apply Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Oil to keep the scalp hydrated and the braids looking fresh.

Half Up Half Down Braid with Waves

For a chic yet cute look, the half up half down braid with loose waves is ideal. This hairstyle combines the best of both worlds: a structured braid on top and relaxed waves below. It’s a perfect option for school or even a day at work when you want a mix of style and comfort. This style is particularly flattering for those with shoulder length to long hair and works beautifully with wavy or straight textures. It suits oval and square face shapes and looks stunning on all eye colors.

To create this look, start by sectioning off the top half of your hair and braiding it. Secure the braid with a small elastic band, then curl the lower half using a large-barrel curling iron. For long-lasting waves, spritz on Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Spray and lightly scrunch the hair for a natural finish.

Cornrows with Twists

Cornrows combined with loose twists at the end offer a stunning contrast between structure and softness. It’s a popular braid style for those with natural hair and is perfect for both formal occasions and casual outings. Cornrows help keep the hair neat, while the twists at the end add a playful element to the overall look. This style is great for black women who want to keep their natural hair protected while showcasing a creative look. It suits diamond-shaped faces and is particularly eye-catching for darker hair tones.

Start by braiding the cornrows straight back or in a creative pattern of your choice. Once the cornrows reach the nape of the neck, finish the ends with twists. This style doesn’t require much maintenance—just spritz some ORS Olive Oil Sheen Spray to keep the twists shiny and hydrated.

Dutch Braid Ponytail

A sleek and practical choice for any busy day, the Dutch braid ponytail keeps your hair stylishly out of the way. This high ponytail braid adds dimension, making it a great option for short hair or medium length hair. Perfect for school, workouts, or running errands, this hairstyle fits various face shapes, especially heart and oval. With the braid adding a playful touch, the ponytail keeps it practical. It looks great on both curly and straight hair textures.

To achieve this look, you’ll need a brush to smooth the hair, elastic bands to secure the ponytail, and some bobby pins. Begin by creating a Dutch braid on one side of your head, then gather the rest of the hair into a ponytail. Keep it sleek with Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel for a smooth finish that lasts all day.

Fishtail Braid with Headband

The fishtail braid paired with a stylish headband creates an effortlessly chic look. This style is perfect for festivals, beach days, or casual outings where you want to keep things relaxed yet fashionable. It works well for long hair and medium length hair, and is especially flattering on square and heart-shaped faces. The added headband brings attention to the facial features, making it an excellent option for any eye color.

To create the fishtail braid, start by sectioning the hair into two parts. Begin crossing small sections from one side to the other, gradually working down the length of the hair. Secure it with an elastic, then accessorize with a headband for a playful touch. Use Batiste Dry Shampoo to add volume and texture to the braid for a fuller look.

French Braid with Beads

The classic French braid gets a glamorous twist with the addition of beads. This style is perfect for events like parties or even a formal dinner. It’s an excellent way to elevate a simple look into something a bit more elegant. Suitable for long or medium length hair, this braid flatters all face shapes and highlights lighter hair tones beautifully.

To achieve this look, begin by creating a standard French braid, then thread beads onto small sections as you braid. You can mix and match bead colors to suit your outfit. Use Suave Professionals Sleek Anti-Frizz Cream to keep flyaways at bay, ensuring your braid stays smooth and polished all night long.

Messy French Braid Updo

The messy French braid updo is the epitome of effortless chic. Perfect for a wedding, date night, or even a night out with friends, this style exudes a relaxed yet polished vibe. It’s best suited for medium length or long hair, and its loose, undone look flatters square and heart-shaped faces. It’s especially stunning on lighter hair tones, where the braid’s texture becomes more noticeable.

To create this look, start by loosely braiding your hair in a French braid, then pin it up at the back in a loose bun. Pull out a few face-framing strands to enhance the messy hair look. Keep it in place with Tresemmé Extra Hold Hairspray, which will ensure your updo lasts all night.

Afro Puff with Bantu Knots

For a bold and trendy look, the Afro puff combined with Bantu knots is a unique and striking style. This look is ideal for casual days out or as a statement at a festival. It works best for natural hair and is especially stunning on round and oval face shapes. The Afro provides volume, while the Bantu knots add a cultural touch that elevates the overall style.

Start by sectioning the hair and creating Bantu knots at the front of the head. For the Afro puff, use a pick to fluff out the back section of your hair, adding volume. To maintain this look, use Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioner to keep your curls moisturized and defined.

Double Dutch Braids with a Bun

Double Dutch braids leading into a low bun is a sophisticated look that works for both casual and formal events. The dual braids give the hairstyle structure, while the bun adds an element of elegance. This style is perfect for those with medium length to long hair, especially if you’re attending a formal dinner or a wedding. It’s ideal for heart and oval face shapes, and the symmetrical braids add balance to rounder face shapes. Light-colored hair adds extra dimension to the braids.

To create this look, start by parting the hair down the middle and braiding two Dutch braids along the scalp. Once both braids reach the nape of your neck, twist the remaining hair into a bun and secure it with pins. For a long-lasting hold, use L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray.

Half Up Half Down with Cornrows

This half up half down hairstyle combines the sleekness of cornrows with the beauty of loose hair. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting to keep their hair out of their face while still enjoying the length and texture of their locks. The style is especially flattering on natural hair and works for long hair or medium length. Suitable for square and oval face shapes, it adds height and volume at the crown.

To achieve this look, braid cornrows from the front hairline to the crown, leaving the rest of the hair down. You can add curls or waves to the loose hair for a more playful finish. Use SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie to define the curls and maintain hydration.

90s-Inspired Box Braids Ponytail

Channeling the iconic 90s vibe, a box braids ponytail is a bold and trendy choice. This style is perfect for those with long hair or using extensions. It’s a great look for a casual day out, a festival, or even a weekend getaway. The high ponytail adds a playful touch while keeping the box braids neat and tidy. Best suited for oval and heart-shaped faces, this style highlights natural beauty.

To create this look, gather your box braids into a high ponytail, securing it with a hair tie. Add a cute bow or scarf for a retro finish. Use Murray’s Edgewax to keep your edges sleek and styled.

Scarf-Wrapped Fishtail Braid

A fishtail braid wrapped in a colorful scarf adds a bohemian flair to any outfit. This look is perfect for casual outings, beach days, or summer festivals. The scarf gives the braid a unique aesthetic, drawing attention to the texture of the hair. This braid style is suitable for medium length to long hair and looks best on wavy or straight textures. It flatters all face shapes, especially oval and square.

To achieve this look, braid a fishtail from the top of your head down to the ends. Wrap the scarf around the braid and secure it in place with pins. For a textured finish, use OGX Moroccan Sea Salt Spray to add waves and volume to the braid.

Bantu Knots with Beads

For a playful and bold look, try Bantu knots adorned with beads. This style is perfect for a night out, a festival, or any event where you want to stand out. The knots provide structure, while the beads add personality. This hairstyle suits all hair lengths but works particularly well for short hair. It’s great for those with round or square face shapes, as the height of the knots elongates the face.

To create this look, section your hair and twist it into Bantu knots. Add beads to the ends of each section for an extra flair. Use Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Curling Cream to keep your knots moisturized and shiny.

French Braid Crown with Curls

For a more romantic look, a French braid crown paired with soft curls is ideal. This hairstyle is perfect for formal occasions like weddings or formal events. The crown braid adds a regal touch, while the curls make the look soft and feminine. It works best for those with medium length or long hair and flatters heart and oval face shapes.

To create this look, start by braiding a French braid around the crown of your head, then curl the remaining loose hair. Secure the braid with pins, and use Chi Infra Texture Hair Spray to keep the curls and braid in place.

Twisted Braided High Ponytail

A high ponytail with twisted braids offers both elegance and simplicity. This style is perfect for the gym, a night out, or even a formal dinner. It works well for medium length and long hair, especially on straight or wavy textures. It’s flattering on round and oval face shapes, adding height and elongating the face.

To achieve this look, twist sections of hair and gather them into a high ponytail. Secure with an elastic band and finish with Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Hairspray to prevent frizz and maintain sleekness.

Halo Braid with Bow Accessory

A halo braid with a bow accessory is a cute and youthful look perfect for casual outings or even for kids attending school events. The bow adds a playful touch to the elegant braid, making it a versatile option. It’s ideal for long hair and medium length hair and suits heart and square face shapes.

To achieve this look, create a halo braid around your head and secure it with pins. Add a bow accessory at the back for a charming finish. Use Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream to keep flyaways in check and the braid smooth.

In conclusion, braids are incredibly versatile and can be adapted for any occasion, hair length, or texture. Whether you’re looking for something formal or casual, there’s a braided hairstyle that will suit your needs. We hope you’ve found some inspiration from these ideas! Be sure to leave a comment with your favorite style or suggest other braided looks you love.