38 Sexiest French Braid Hairstyles That Are Easy to Try

Picture of a perfect double French braids

French braids have been really in style for a while. The French braid is a beautiful type of braid that we’ve been doing for ages! It may seem complicated but is actually really easy. You just have to break it down, learn, and practice its few steps.

Once you master the classic French braid, you can learn different variations of it such as Dutch braids, cornrows, and the waterfall braid and many more. Don’t limit yourself to just these! Enjoy these fun French braid hairstyles!

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How to Do a French Braid

How to Do a French Braid
Instagram @braids.by.del

Learn how to do a French braid hairstyle, so in case you need an easy-to-create style, you have one in mind. Divide the hair, depending on the number of plaits you want. For braided pigtails, two sections are enough. Gather three small sections from one side, hold each and interlace one at a time. Make the braids tight as much as possible for a sleeker effect. For a cute finish that lasts a day, spritz hairspray all over.

French Braid Undercut

French Braid Undercut
Instagram @ikerpeloss

This is a French braid undercut for babes out there with a strong persona. It’s easy to recreate the style when you have neat, shorter sides and longer strands at the top. The stylish and powerful impression it provides is eye-catching. Don’t miss out on this hairstyle once you decided to go short.

Braid Your Hair with a Weave

Braid Your Hair with a Weave
Instagram @everylittlestrand

Braid your hair with a weave to add fullness and length to the style. Cornrows are a great option as they create a more detailed and edgy result. The edges make a sweet, soft touch to make it appear very girlish.

Mohawk French Braid

Mohawk French Braid
Instagram @lettileipuri

Wear this mohawk French braid hairstyle and give people some hair envy. It works well on curly hair, as its texture makes the updo look so much better. Add dainty accessories or small flowers for a more feminine style.

French Braid Crown

French Braid Crown
Instagram @sydneyannlopezhair

This French braid crown lets you feel like royalty. Its softness makes it appear very feminine and chic. There are loose strands underneath the updo, to give that undone effect. If you’re down to go the extra mile, you may want to paint your locks with a silver blonde shade.

Updo French Hairstyle

Updo French Hairstyle
Instagram @anastasiia.terebova

Here’s an updo French hairstyle to complete your fancy style! It gives off a romantic vibe that appears flattering on straight, blonde locks. If you have a rounded fringe, it’s sure to add a youthful touch to its finish. For an effortless and softer edge, a little bit of texture makes a difference.

French Braid Waterfall

French Braid Waterfall
Instagram @curledbysierra

Rock a French braid waterfall hairstyle, and be as gorgeous as ever! This kind of style matches soft, voluminous curls on a rich brown hue so well that you can wear it on formal events. To maximize your curls’ texture, use a sea salt spray.

French Braid Fishtail

French Braid Fishtail
Instagram @beautybylassana

Lovin’ a French braid fishtail like this one? Its simplicity will allow you to wear it any time of the day. It appears chic on bright, golden blonde tresses as it accentuates the color better.

French Fishtail Braid

French Fishtail Braid
Instagram @luiscarlos.artistry

Healthy long strands deserve to be shown off in the most exceptional way – these defined pieces weaved into this french braid style perfection will surely get you noticed everywhere you go!

Side French Braid

Side French Braid
Instagram @myhairstyle_xo

A fun, adorable way to do pleats – add some extra details in the middle for a unique French braid look.

French Crown Braid

French Crown Braid
Instagram @lauraslookbook

It seems difficult but this one’s quite easy! Just do your normal French braid hair but grabbing on hair around the head to create this crown of beauty.

Long 4 Braid Twist French Braid

Long 4 Braid Twist French Braid Hairstyle
Instagram @alannamariehair

Create a boho chic look from the basic French braid with these on-point four braids twisted into one. This cool ‘do is perfect for any summer day when you wanna feel the cool breeze on your skin.

Vibrant Rainbow French Braid

Vibrant Rainbow French Braid Style
Instagram @uggoff

If you’ve got a spectacular color play like this then you definitely must show it off by wearing it in a flattering pigtail French braid hairstyle like this one.

Mini French Braid

mini French braid hairstyle
Instagram @ray.voltage

This romantic updo starts with a thin braid that parts the hair and finishes with a looped low bun. This mini French braid works well on hair with highlights that gives the whole style dimension and depth.

French Braid Updo for a Formal Event

French Braid Updo for a Formal Event
Instagram @mrs.q.makeuphairnails

You can achieve this dazzling French braid updo by curling your braid into a low chignon and adorning it with pretty flowers.

Trendy Mermaid French Braided Updo

Trendy Mermaid French Braided Updo
Instagram @hairbykristenball

Go for a swim with this super cute red mermaid French braided hairstyle.

Edgy Viking French Braids for a Party

Edgy Viking French Braids for a Party
Instagram @hairsalon_houseofmann

Go old school with by using the Viking French braiding technique for your next party.

Fun Fishtail French Braid

Fun Fishtail French Braid
Instagram @jecin_svet_pletenica

A fishtail French braid that’s wonderful for back to school hairstyles.

Simple French Braid with Flower Pins

Simple French Braid with Flower Pins
Instagram @kaycdoeshair

This casual French braid hairstyle is surely doable by anyone. Just create a loose braid around your head going down to one side and accessorize with cute pins.

Half French Braid

Half French Braid
Instagram @adri.slezak

This French crown braid looks classy, but it’s not over the top! It’s a super easy braid that you can do it in 5 minutes.

Good bobby pins! Not all bobby pins are created equal. Try Premium MetaGrip Bob pins from Sally’s beauty supply. These bobby pins won’t slide down your hair as the day goes on.

Cute French Braid for Short Hair

This look is the best way to fake a Dutch braid if you can’t do a French braid. Especially for fine hair. It’s also a wonderful style for when you wake up late and don’t have time to wash your hair. The greatest thing about this look is that the dirtier your hair is, the easier it is to rock it!

Don’t overthink it and don’t overwork it. By don’t overthink it I mean, no matter what your style is, this look works with it. A professional day at the office or fun night out these friends, this works. By don’t overwork it I mean, don’t fight what your hair wants to do in this style. Messy, smooth, big, let it do its thing. It looks good anyway.

French Braid Pigtails

This braid is called a Dutch braid, different than a traditional french braid because the braids are more visible. I would describe this hairstyle as a boho style. The braids are loose which gives an effortless feel. Also, I added hair jewelry on the braids which in my opinion is my favorite thing about the style. It really makes the style stand out.

This hairstyle would be perfect for going out and just having fun. If you’re a girl who loves to take pictures, I would definitely have this hairstyle for a photo shoot. But ultimately, this hairstyle completes a really cute fashion look for just going out. That’s the beauty of this look it’s a game-changer. You can have a normal outfit on but when you style this hair look, you just added spice to your look.

French Braid Ponytail

French Braid Ponytail
Instagram @hairbykatelynn

Opt for the perfect French braid ponytail! The cutest thing about it is you can dress it up for a wedding or special event or even a casual night out!

To best achieve this look, use dry shampoo, hairspray, and shine spray. As for styling goes, curl your hair first then add a loose French braid leaving out front pieces for a softer look!

Tousled French Braid Hairstyle

Tousled French Braid Hairstyle
Instagram @hairbyleahnoel

Consider tousled French braids, which is an excellent style for a sunny day. It’s so easy to achieve yet still looks intricate.

This style would work with any type of hair that is shoulder length or longer. If your hair is very silky, try spraying a light hold hairspray or texture spray through your hair before braiding it. Pull a few pieces out around your face for a softer look. When doing a braided style, I always pull the braids apart to make the style look fuller.

This style transitions perfectly from a summer dress to something sporty like your gym clothes!

Twisted French Braid Updo

Twisted French Braid Updo
Instagram @jhair_stylist

Opt for a twisted low knot with french braided details. It looks really simple and soft from the front, and has a lot of details and textures from the back. The elastic makes it very secure, so it will last all night.

This look works for anyone with mid-long hair. Key products were mousse (dried in first) for hold, and then a dry shampoo to achieve texture.

It also works great on a blonde, but if working on darker hair, use different colored elastic to show off the bow detail more.

This look could work for anyone who wears a luxe yet relaxed vibe.

Gorgeous French Braid for Long Hair

Gorgeous French Braid for Long Hair
Instagram @gothg1rl37

It’s a loose french braid on the right going from the temple to just past the ear, then braided it all the way down in a three strand. The other half was kept loose.

Do the standard french braid again, but when you get past the crown, include three-strands on the right side into the braid and just continued to the bottom.

It only takes 6 minutes to do this cute little style without brushing.

Make sure the hair is well-brushed before, then brush the strands during styling to ensure a smooth braid.

If you are not confident doing it, ask for help so that the braid will not end up off center.

Have fun! Do what feels natural and what flows when you are braiding.

Half Up Half Down French Braid

A half up half down french braid is neat and simple. The best part of this braid hairstyle is curling the ends to give an amazing finish and putting both braids together to neaten up the middle part of the hair.

Always use an anti-frizz serum beforehand, so it can be easier to handle the hair and the hair would fall into place as you like it. You should also use a hair protectant before curling the ends of the hair to avoid hair damage. Try the 7 in 1 hair anti-frizz serum by John Frieda which helps a lot and you can easily see how it helps.

Do this hairstyle on longer hair rather than short, as it won’t look very effective.

Chunky French Braid with Vivid Rainbow Colors

This French braiding style is carefree or easygoing. One of the best things about it is that it’s a look that looks better the more lived in it gets.

Because of the nature of these fashion colors fading from one shampoo to the next, this look is ideal for someone who enjoys the versatility. The number of washes can be limited when you are willing to experiment with style. Down one day, braided the next and then maybe followed up with a bun or dressy pony.

It’s a low maintenance style that’s gorgeous for so many different occasions.

Start with some sort of texture spray to give the hair some grip, making it easier to braid. Adding some loose beachy waves always adds a little something to this look as well. And depending on the occasion, braided looks like this can be dressed up or dressed down with some accessories.

Big French Braids

Big French Braid Hairstyle
Instagram @prive_danielle

The best thing about these big French braids is its versatility. You can wear it with an updo, or as a bridesmaid in a wedding, or simply just out on the town.

This type of braid fits best with women who have a heavy head of hair, so keep that in mind when contemplating this look. Extensions can be added for fullness in the hair to accomplish this braid. This side braid is fabulous for those who still want to wear their hair down, but not have to worry about hair in their face.

Double French Braid Updo

Double French Braid Updo
Instagram @themintdoor

This pretty pink double french braid is gorgeous. It features a pop of pink and illusion of thickness from the braids!

These braids are a fun and easy style for almost any length that’s longer than chin length, and will last all day long with the right products. Use a soft hold styling cream and medium hold hairspray.

It’s a great style for anyone with a job that requires the hair to be pulled back or just for a fun upstyle to keep the hair out of your face.

Three French Braid Updo

Opt for three simple French braids.

It’s an easy protective style to keep up, just wrap it at night. You don’t have to do much with it. The most you may need is a little holding spray for fly always every now and then and maybe a little shine spray.

Simple Versatile French Braided Wrap

Simple Versatile French Braided Wrap
Instagram @theupdogirl

This style is a simple versatile updo with french braids. It looks more complicated than it is! It’s the perfect day to night hairstyle because you can wear it to work with a couple of cute clips or a bandana, or alternatively wear it looser with relaxed curls to frame the face for the evening.

The best thing about the look is the texture the braids create and how it looks so pretty from every angle.

This look is great for women with thick hair as the braids will keep it really secure. However, this would work for all hair types, you just need to ensure you pull on the braids to create more fullness if needed.

Use a texturizing powder such as the Sexy Hair Powder Play Lite to give you a better hold on the hair. This is essential for those of you with silky locks. Section in a zig-zag. This helps to achieve the more relaxed and imperfect look that we want from this style.

French Braided Topknot

Q&A with style creator, Hadley Kruse
Hairstylist @ Stephen Alan Salon in Yorkville, IL

How would you describe this look?

The best thing about this french braided topknot is its versatility! The style can be worn with every hair type, and you can easily dress it up with little pins as pictured here. It is a super quick style that can dress up any look, whether it be on freshly washed or second-day hair.

Any advice for someone considering it?

This style is for any age or lifestyle and a Dutch or French braid can be used for this look. Adding a little tease to the ponytail before wrapping it into a bun is a great way to get some volume and texture.

I love to use Paul Mitchell Sugar Tease texture spray to add a little grip to the bun and to the waves for a piece-y look. I also layer Paul Mitchell Sugar Dry Conditioner to add shine and softness to the waves!\. Overall, this versatile look is fabulous for all ages!

Side French Braid with Hollywood Waves

Side French Braid with Hollywood Waves
Instagram @liezelstyles

Q&A with style creator, Liezel Asi
Owner / Hair Designer / Braider @ Liezel Styles in Bay Area, CA


How would you describe this look?

This look has a side french braid with Hollywood waves. My favorite thing about this look is the French braid combo with the braid instead of using a hair accessory.

Any advice for someone considering it?

This is a very edgy look. This look is great if you have a very outgoing personality or if you are considering a side ‘do or all down hairstyle that is loose and not so uptight and curly.

Overall, this would be an awesome look for a bride, bridesmaid, or if you want to stand out for any special event.

Half-Up French Braid Bun

Q&A with style creator, Jill Renate Liland
Hairdresser in Tromso, Norway


How would you describe this look?

I would describe the look as a new modern bun. It gives you the creative freedom of a modern half up french braid bun.

I love the way you can make a half updo into this cool, Friday night look. It’s a chic alternative to the typical prom/bridesmaid look for updos. And the best thing is that it’s easy! Just let your mind be creative.

Any advice for someone considering it?

The important thing for this look is the prep. If the hair is too soft and shiny, it can be really hard to braid. Beach spray is perfect! Create the braids and then tease the hair in the high ponytail for the massive volume. The bigger the better. Then you get the stylish texture for the bun look.

When you create this look, hairspray is your best friend. Use a hairspray that’s not too hard. You want the hold but not too much rigidity.

This look is excellent on straight, curly, or wavy hair, but my favorite is waves like you see here. You can make it rock with long or short hair. Just be creative!

Youthful French Braid Bun

Youthful French Braid Bun
Instagram @lucygluna1

Q&A with style creator, Lucy Espinoza
Hair Designer @ The Salon in Los Alamitos, CA


How would you describe this look?

So I described this look as a trendy and youthful french braid.

My favorite thing about it is that I learned this technique when I was 12 years old and I still love to French braid!

Any advice for someone considering it?

Anyone with short or medium length hair could wear this look. Depending on the occasion, the bun on the top could be more or less messy, and you can add some beach waves.

Don’t forget to add Unite Texturing Hairspray and R+Co Glossing Wax for the braids.

Urban Braids

Urban Braids
Instagram @beautybyy_mel

Q&A with style creator, Melissa Labios
Hairstylist / Student @ Paul Mitchell the School in Tampa, FL


How would you describe this look?

I would describe this look as not merely a French braid, but more of a Dutch braids with the braid more exposed.

My favorite thing about this look is not only just the braid, but also the blue color that she already had. The color brings out the braid more in detail. This braid is basically a cornrow.

Any advice for someone considering it?

This is a very tight braid that requires a lot of tension. Many girls who prefer this tight of a braid like to have it very tight on the scalp.

I recommend using some type of gel while braiding to maintain flyaways and calm frizz. The gel could be used on each section while braiding, and also right before the braiding starts. This will give the braid more detail.

This look fits coarse or curly hair and is perfect for any girl who loves an urban braid.

French Braid Mohawk

French Braid Mohawk
Instagram @rudeb123

Q&A with style creator, Ashley Murphy
Hairstylist @ Phenix Salon Suites in Lakewood, CA


How would you describe this look?

I described this French braid Mohawk as “Avatar Feline Meets Bride-to-Be”. It’s so bold but classy, adventurous but still subtle.

I like the fact we incorporated three different types of braids to make one awesome piece of art.

Any advice for someone considering it?

My suggestion to anyone wanting this look is to OWN IT. It only took minutes to do and is a great and easy way to stand out on the go.

Double French Braid

Double French Braid Hair
Instagram @hairstylist.holly_herrington

Ready to rock and rave through the day? Spice up that purple hair with this cool double French braid hairstyle that would secure your tresses in place while you dance and sing your heart out!

French Braid Inside Out

Q&A with style creator, Veida Veintimilla
Hair Stylist @ QALI Hair Extention Studio & Salon in Chinatown in Vancouver, BC


How would you describe this?

This French braid inside out is a single large cornrow. It’s a very simple, easy braid.

What’s your best advice?

This french braid is suitable for all hair types and lifestyles, just make sure your hair is long enough.