36 Braids for Women Over 50: Hairstyles for Older Women Including Knotless Styles and Trendy Looks

As we step into 2024, it’s time to embrace new trends and styles that not only celebrate our individuality but also enhance our natural beauty. For women over 50, hairstyles are more than just a fashion statement; they’re a reflection of grace, confidence, and personal style. Whether you’re attending a formal event or enjoying a casual day out, there’s a braided style that fits perfectly. In this article, we explore 36 beautiful braided hairstyles for women over 50.

Classic French Braid

The Classic French Braid is a timeless hairstyle that exudes elegance and charm. This braid starts at the crown of the head and continues down the back, gathering hair as it progresses. It’s a style that works beautifully for both formal and casual occasions. The Classic French Braid is perfect for women with medium to long hair, as it allows the braid to showcase its intricate design. This braid is ideal for women with oval or heart-shaped faces, as it frames the face beautifully and adds a touch of softness. The Classic French Braid also pairs well with any hair color, making it a versatile choice for older women.

To create a Classic French Braid, start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Begin by taking a section of hair from the crown and divide it into three equal parts. Start braiding by crossing the right section over the middle, then the left section over the new middle. As you continue, add small sections of hair from the sides into the braid. Secure the end with an elastic band. To maintain this braid, use a lightweight hairspray to keep flyaways at bay. For added shine, apply a smoothing serum before braiding.

Boho Fishtail Braid

The Boho Fishtail Braid is perfect for women looking to add a touch of whimsy to their hairstyle. This braid is looser and more relaxed, giving it a bohemian feel that’s perfect for casual outings or festivals. The Boho Fishtail Braid is particularly flattering for women with round or square face shapes, as the vertical lines of the braid help elongate the face. This style is also a great option for women with thicker hair, as it allows the braid to look fuller and more voluminous.

To create a Boho Fishtail Braid, start by parting your hair down the middle. Divide your hair into two equal sections. Take a small piece of hair from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other section. Repeat on the other side. Continue this process until you reach the end of your hair, then secure with an elastic band. To achieve the boho look, gently tug at the sides of the braid to loosen it and create a fuller appearance. For maintenance, use a texturizing spray to add volume and keep the braid in place throughout the day.

Knotless Box Braids

Knotless Box Braids are a modern twist on the traditional box braid, offering a more natural and less bulky look. This style is excellent for older women who want a protective style that requires minimal maintenance. The Knotless Box Braids start with your natural hair, gradually adding extensions, which puts less tension on the scalp and reduces the risk of hair breakage. This style is ideal for all face shapes and works particularly well with black hair textures. It’s a versatile style that can be worn for weeks, making it a great option for women with busy lifestyles.

To create Knotless Box Braids, your stylist will section your hair into small, even squares. Starting at the root, the stylist will braid your natural hair while gradually adding small amounts of extension hair as they move down the braid. This method creates a seamless, natural look. To maintain Knotless Box Braids, it’s essential to keep your scalp moisturized with a light oil and wrap your hair at night with a silk scarf to reduce frizz.

Crown Braid

The Crown Braid is a regal and elegant hairstyle that wraps around the head, creating the illusion of a crown. This braid is perfect for special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, or any event where you want to feel like royalty. The Crown Braid works best for women with longer hair, as it requires enough length to wrap around the head. This style is particularly flattering for women with oval or elongated face shapes, as it adds width and balance to the face.

To create a Crown Braid, start by parting your hair down the middle. Begin braiding one side of your hair, starting at the nape of your neck and working your way up towards the top of your head. Secure the braid with an elastic band, then repeat on the other side. Once both braids are complete, wrap them around your head and pin them in place with bobby pins. To maintain this style, use a light hairspray to keep the braid secure and smooth down any flyaways.

Dutch Braid Updo

The Dutch Braid Updo is a chic and sophisticated hairstyle that is perfect for formal events or a night out. This braid starts at the crown of the head and is woven under the hair, creating a 3D effect that stands out. The Dutch Braid Updo is ideal for women with medium to long hair and works best for those with heart or square-shaped faces, as it adds height and balances the proportions of the face.

To create a Dutch Braid Updo, begin by sectioning off the top half of your hair. Start a Dutch braid by crossing the outer sections under the middle section, rather than over, as you would in a traditional braid. Continue braiding down the back of your head, then secure with an elastic band. Gather the remaining hair into a low bun and pin it in place. Wrap the braid around the bun and secure with bobby pins. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braid looking sleek and polished.

Side-Swept Braid

The Side-Swept Braid is a romantic and feminine hairstyle that drapes over one shoulder, adding a soft and elegant touch to any look. This braid is perfect for casual outings or date nights and works well with all face shapes. The Side-Swept Braid is particularly flattering for women with long, flowing hair, as it allows the braid to cascade down the shoulder, creating a stunning visual effect.

To create a Side-Swept Braid, start by gathering all your hair to one side. Begin braiding from the nape of your neck, keeping the braid loose and relaxed. Once you reach the end, secure the braid with an elastic band. To enhance the softness of this style, gently tug at the sides of the braid to loosen it and create a more voluminous look. To maintain this braid, use a lightweight hairspray and a shine spray to keep it looking fresh and vibrant throughout the day.

Milkmaid Braid

The Milkmaid Braid is a charming and youthful hairstyle that wraps around the head, creating a halo effect. This braid is ideal for casual events, outdoor gatherings, or even a day at the park. The Milkmaid Braid works best for women with medium to long hair and is particularly flattering for those with heart-shaped or round faces, as it adds height and elongates the face.

To create a Milkmaid Braid, start by parting your hair down the middle. Braid each side of your hair into two separate braids. Once both braids are complete, bring them up and over the top of your head, securing them in place with bobby pins. To maintain this style, use a light-hold hairspray and a smoothing serum to keep flyaways at bay. For added texture, use a texturizing spray before braiding.

Waterfall Braid

The Waterfall Braid is a delicate and intricate hairstyle that allows sections of hair to cascade down like a waterfall. This braid is perfect for formal events or special occasions and works beautifully for women with medium to long hair. The Waterfall Braid is particularly flattering for women with oval or heart-shaped faces, as it adds a soft and romantic touch to the overall look.

To create a Waterfall Braid, start by taking a small section of hair from the front of your head and divide it into three parts. Begin braiding as you would with a regular braid, but after crossing the top section over the middle, drop the bottom section and replace it with a new section of hair from underneath. Continue this process along the side of your head, then secure with an elastic band. To maintain this braid, use a light-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braid looking smooth and polished.

Braided Ponytail

The Braided Ponytail is a stylish and practical hairstyle that combines the elegance of a braid with the simplicity of a ponytail. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions and works well for women with medium to long hair. The Braided Ponytail is particularly flattering for women with oval or square face shapes, as it adds a sleek and polished look to the overall appearance.

To create a Braided Ponytail, start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail. Secure the ponytail with an elastic band. Begin braiding the ponytail down to the end and secure it with another elastic band. To add a touch of elegance, wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic band and secure it with a bobby pin. To maintain this style, use a lightweight hairspray and a shine spray to keep the braid looking sleek and polished.

Twisted Rope Braid

The Twisted Rope Braid is a unique and visually striking hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to any look. This braid is perfect for formal events or a night out and works well for women with medium to long hair. The Twisted Rope Braid is particularly flattering for women with oval or heart-shaped faces, as it adds height and balance to the face.

To create a Twisted Rope Braid, start by dividing your hair into two equal sections. Twist each section tightly in the same direction, then cross them over each other in the opposite direction. Continue twisting and crossing until you reach the end, then secure with an elastic band. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braid looking sleek and polished.

Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch Braids are a fun and youthful style that adds a playful twist to your look. These braids are created by braiding two Dutch braids on either side of the head, giving a symmetrical and balanced appearance. Double Dutch Braids are ideal for women with medium to long hair and work well with all face shapes. This style is perfect for casual outings or even a workout session, as it keeps the hair secure and out of the face.

To create Double Dutch Braids, start by parting your hair down the middle. Take one section and begin a Dutch braid by crossing the outer sections under the middle section, rather than over. Continue braiding down the length of your hair and secure with an elastic band. Repeat on the other side. To maintain this style, use a light-hold hairspray and a bit of pomade to smooth any flyaways.

Halo Braid

The Halo Braid is a graceful and ethereal hairstyle that wraps around the head like a halo, making it perfect for special occasions or formal events. This braid is particularly flattering for women with round or heart-shaped faces, as it adds height and creates a beautiful frame for the face. The Halo Braid is best suited for women with medium to long hair.

To create a Halo Braid, start by sectioning off a small portion of hair near the nape of your neck. Begin a regular three-strand braid and continue braiding around the head, incorporating small sections of hair as you go. Once you reach the starting point, tuck the end of the braid under the beginning and secure it with bobby pins. To maintain this style, use a light-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braid looking neat and polished.

Braided Chignon

The Braided Chignon is a sophisticated and elegant updo that combines a braid with a classic chignon bun. This style is perfect for formal events, weddings, or any occasion where you want to exude timeless elegance. The Braided Chignon is ideal for women with medium to long hair and works well with all face shapes.

To create a Braided Chignon, start by creating a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Braid the ponytail down to the end and secure it with an elastic band. Twist the braid around the base of the ponytail to form a chignon and secure it with bobby pins. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a smoothing serum to keep the chignon sleek and in place.

Pull-Through Braid

The Pull-Through Braid is a voluminous and eye-catching style that adds texture and depth to your hair. This braid is perfect for women with thin or fine hair, as it creates the illusion of fullness and volume. The Pull-Through Braid works well with all face shapes and is a great choice for both casual and formal occasions.

To create a Pull-Through Braid, start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail and securing it with an elastic band. Divide the ponytail into two equal sections and create small loops by pulling one section through the other. Continue this process down the length of the ponytail and secure the end with an elastic band. To maintain this style, use a texturizing spray to add volume and a light-hold hairspray to keep the braid in place.

Infinity Braid

The Infinity Braid is a unique and intricate hairstyle that creates the appearance of an infinity symbol woven into your hair. This braid is perfect for formal events or any occasion where you want to stand out. The Infinity Braid works well for women with long hair and is particularly flattering for those with oval or elongated face shapes.

To create an Infinity Braid, start by sectioning off a small portion of hair at the crown of your head. Begin creating a regular three-strand braid, but instead of crossing the sections over each other, loop them around in a figure-eight pattern. Continue this pattern down the length of your hair and secure the end with an elastic band. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braid looking polished.

Braided Headband

The Braided Headband is a simple yet elegant style that creates the illusion of a headband made from your own hair. This braid is perfect for women who want to add a touch of sophistication to their look without the need for additional accessories. The Braided Headband is ideal for all face shapes and works well with both short and long hair.

To create a Braided Headband, start by sectioning off a small portion of hair near your temple. Begin a regular three-strand braid and continue braiding towards the opposite side of your head. Once you reach the other side, secure the braid with bobby pins and tuck it under your hair. To maintain this style, use a light-hold hairspray and a smoothing serum to keep the braid in place.

Viking Braid

The Viking Braid is a bold and edgy hairstyle inspired by the braids worn by Norse warriors. This style is perfect for women who want to make a statement with their hair and is ideal for casual or themed events. The Viking Braid works best for women with long hair and is particularly flattering for those with strong, angular face shapes.

To create a Viking Braid, start by sectioning your hair into multiple small sections along the sides and top of your head. Begin creating tight, intricate braids in each section, and secure them with small elastic bands. Once all sections are braided, gather them together at the back of your head and secure them with a larger elastic band. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braids looking sharp and defined.

French Rope Braid

The French Rope Braid is a sophisticated and sleek hairstyle that combines the elegance of a French braid with the texture of a rope braid. This style is perfect for formal occasions or a night out and works well for women with medium to long hair. The French Rope Braid is particularly flattering for women with oval or heart-shaped faces.

To create a French Rope Braid, start by sectioning off a small portion of hair at the crown of your head. Begin a French braid by crossing the outer sections under the middle section, then twist each section as you add more hair to the braid. Continue braiding down the length of your hair and secure the end with an elastic band. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braid looking sleek and polished.

Messy Side Braid

The Messy Side Braid is a relaxed and casual hairstyle that adds a touch of bohemian charm to any look. This braid is perfect for everyday wear or casual outings and works well for women with medium to long hair. The Messy Side Braid is particularly flattering for women with round or square face shapes.

To create a Messy Side Braid, start by gathering your hair to one side and begin braiding from the nape of your neck. Keep the braid loose and relaxed, allowing strands of hair to fall out naturally. Once you reach the end, secure the braid with an elastic band. To enhance the messy look, gently tug at the sides of the braid to loosen it. To maintain this style, use a texturizing spray and a light-hold hairspray to keep the braid in place.

Four-Strand Braid

The Four-Strand Braid is a complex and visually striking braid that adds a touch of sophistication to any hairstyle. This braid is perfect for formal events or any occasion where you want to stand out. The Four-Strand Braid works best for women with long hair and is particularly flattering for those with oval or elongated face shapes.

To create a Four-Strand Braid, start by dividing your hair into four equal sections. Begin braiding by crossing the outermost section over the second section, under the third section, and over the fourth section. Continue this pattern down the length of your hair and secure the end with an elastic band. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braid looking polished and defined.

Lace Braid

The Lace Braid is an elegant and delicate hairstyle that resembles the intricate pattern of lace, making it perfect for formal events or special occasions. This braid is ideal for women with medium to long hair and is particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces. The Lace Braid adds a touch of femininity and sophistication to any look, making it a versatile choice.

To create a Lace Braid, start by taking a small section of hair near your temple and begin a regular three-strand braid. As you braid, add small sections of hair only from the top, creating a half-up, half-down effect. Continue braiding along the hairline until you reach the back of your head, then secure with bobby pins. To maintain this style, use a light-hold hairspray and a smoothing serum to keep the braid looking sleek and polished.

Dutch Flower Braid

The Dutch Flower Braid is a beautiful and intricate hairstyle that combines the Dutch braid technique with a floral pattern, making it perfect for weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want to showcase a unique look. This braid is best suited for women with long hair and is particularly flattering for those with round or square face shapes.

To create a Dutch Flower Braid, start by creating a Dutch braid along the side of your head, starting near the temple and braiding downwards. Once you reach the end, coil the braid into a circular shape to form a flower and secure it with bobby pins. You can create multiple flower braids for added impact. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum to keep the braid looking fresh and vibrant.

Reverse Braided Bun

The Reverse Braided Bun is a sophisticated and modern hairstyle that starts with an upside-down braid and ends in a chic bun at the top of the head. This style is perfect for formal events, office settings, or any occasion where you want a polished look. The Reverse Braided Bun works well for women with medium to long hair and is particularly flattering for those with oval or elongated face shapes.

To create a Reverse Braided Bun, start by flipping your hair upside down and begin braiding from the nape of your neck upwards. Once you reach the crown of your head, gather the remaining hair into a bun and secure it with bobby pins. To maintain this style, use a strong-hold hairspray and a smoothing serum to keep the braid and bun looking sleek and in place.

Bubble Braid

The Bubble Braid is a fun and modern hairstyle that adds a playful touch to your look. This braid is perfect for casual outings, festivals, or any event where you want a youthful and trendy appearance. The Bubble Braid is ideal for women with medium to long hair and works well with all face shapes.

To create a Bubble Braid, start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail and securing it with an elastic band. Place additional elastic bands down the length of the ponytail, spacing them a few inches apart. Gently pull at each section to create a “bubble” effect. To maintain this style, use a lightweight hairspray and a texturizing spray to add volume and keep the bubbles in place.

In conclusion, braids offer endless possibilities for women over 50 to express their style and personality in 2024. Whether you prefer a classic, elegant look or something more modern and edgy, there’s a braided hairstyle that’s perfect for you. Each of these braids not only enhances your natural beauty but also offers the practicality and ease that every woman deserves. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and find the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Share your thoughts on these styles in the comments and let us know which one you’re excited to try!