Struggling to find cute braided hairstyles that aren’t impossibly complex? You see gorgeous plaits and twists online, but the tutorials feel like they’re for professional stylists. It’s frustrating when you want a stylish look that’s actually achievable for a beginner.
Creating cute braided hairstyles as a beginner is achievable by starting with simple techniques like the basic three-strand braid, fishtail, or bubble braid. Mastering how to properly section hair and maintain even tension are the key first steps. This guide provides 13 easy, step-by-step tutorials designed for beginners to build skills and confidence.
Leveraging tested frameworks and data-driven insights, this guide demystifies the entire process. We will walk you through foundational techniques and fun, trendy styles. You’ll discover how to create beautiful braids while keeping your hair healthy and strong.
How to Do Cute Braided Hairstyles Even If You’re a Beginner
Finding braided hair styles that are both visually stunning and genuinely easy can feel like a losing battle. Many guides showcase intricate looks without providing the foundational skills needed to achieve them. This often leads to tangled messes and giving up. We believe that learning to braid should be a fun and rewarding process, not a source of frustration. Our approach is to build your confidence by starting with the absolute basics and gradually introducing new, simple techniques that look impressive. This guide is your patient friend, here to teach you a new skill with clear, encouraging instructions.
This comprehensive list is designed to be your go-to resource for easy beginner braids. You will find everything from the classic three-strand plait to fun “cheater” braids that require no weaving at all. Each style is broken down into two simple parts: the tools you’ll need and a step-by-step tutorial. By mastering these, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to tackle any braiding styles for girls or adults, ensuring your hair looks fantastic for school, work, or play. Get ready to transform your hair game and impress yourself with what you can create.
13 Cute Braided Hairstyles You Can Master Step-by-Step
Here is your ultimate gallery of inspiration and instruction. We’ve hand-picked 13 distinct and popular braided hairstyles that are perfect for anyone just starting their braiding journey. Each entry provides a pinnable image for inspiration, a clear list of the products and tools used, and a detailed, numbered tutorial. Whether you’re looking for hairstyles for school, a casual weekend, or even a more elegant event, you’ll find an achievable and stylish option here. These tutorials are designed to provide significant information gain, giving you both the process and the product knowledge needed for success.
1. Master the Classic Three-Strand Braid
Pin this foundational braid to your ‘Easy Hairstyles’ board!
Products & Tools Used
- A detangling brush to ensure hair is smooth and free of knots.
- A fine-mist spray bottle with water to lightly dampen hair for better control.
- One small, clear elastic band.
Application/Styling Steps
- Section your hair: Gather a section of hair and divide it into three equal smaller sections—left, middle, and right.
- Cross the right section: Take the right section and cross it over the middle section. The right section is now the new middle section.
- Cross the left section: Take the left section and cross it over the new middle section. The left section is now in the center.
- Repeat the pattern: Continue alternating, crossing the new right strand over the middle, then the new left strand over the middle.
- Secure the end: Once you reach the end of the hair, secure it tightly with a clear elastic band.
Pro-Tip: For a sleeker look, work with slightly damp hair or apply a small amount of mousse. For a thicker-looking braid, gently pull on the edges of the braided sections (a technique called “pancaking”).
2. Create Adorable French Braid Pigtails
Save this classic hairstyle for school to your back-to-school board!
Products & Tools Used
- A rat tail comb for a clean center part.
- Hair clips to hold one side while you work on the other.
- Two elastic bands.
- A light-hold hair spray or smoothing cream to tame flyaways.
Application/Styling Steps
- Part your hair: Use the rat tail comb to create a straight part from your forehead to the nape of your neck, dividing hair into two equal halves. Clip one side away.
- Start the braid: At the hairline of the unclipped side, grab a small section and divide it into three equal strands.
- Braid one stitch: Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the middle, just like a basic braid.
- Add hair: Before you cross the right strand over again, gather a small, new piece of hair from the hairline and add it to that right strand. Now, cross the combined strand over the middle.
- Repeat on the other side: Gather a new piece of hair from the left side, add it to the left strand, and cross the combined strand over the middle.
- Continue down: Keep repeating this pattern of adding hair and crossing strands over the middle until you reach the nape of the neck.
- Finish and secure: Once all hair is gathered, finish the length with a regular three-strand braid and secure with an elastic. Repeat on the other side.
Pro-Tip: To prevent frizz and keep your braids neat, use a small amount of pomade or edge control on your fingertips as you gather new sections of hair. This helps create a smooth finish.
3. Style an Easy Dutch Braid Halo or Crown Braid
Pin this gorgeous bohemian look to your ‘Wedding & Event Hair’ board!
Products & Tools Used
- A comb for parting.
- Two clear elastic bands.
- A dozen bobby pins that match your hair color.
- A strong-hold hair spray to finish.
Application/Styling Steps
- Part your hair down the middle and create two pigtails.
- Start a Dutch braid on one pigtail. A Dutch braid is the opposite of a French braid: you cross the outer strands under the middle strand.
- Section the first pigtail into three strands. Cross the right strand under the middle, then cross the left strand under the middle.
- Continue this “under” pattern all the way down the pigtail and secure with an elastic.
- Repeat the Dutch braid on the second pigtail.
- Lift the right braid up and over your head, laying it across the top like a headband. Tuck the end of the braid and pin it securely behind your left ear with bobby pins.
- Lift the left braid, cross it over the first one, and pin the end securely behind your right ear. Adjust as needed and finish with hairspray.
Pro-Tip: When pinning, use a crisscross pattern with your bobby pins for extra hold. To avoid scalp tension and potential traction alopecia, ensure the braids are not pulled too tightly across your head.
4. Try a Simple & Chic Fishtail Braid
Pin this stunning fishtail braid to your ‘Boho Hairstyles’ board!
Products & Tools Used
- A hair tie to create a temporary ponytail.
- A small, clear elastic band for the end.
- Texturizing spray for grip and volume.
Application/Styling Steps
- Gather your hair into a low side ponytail and secure it with a temporary hair tie.
- Split the ponytail into two large, equal sections.
- Take a small piece from the outside of the right section. This piece should be about half an inch wide.
- Cross it over: Bring that small piece over the top of the right section and add it to the inside of the left section.
- Repeat on the left: Take a similar-sized small piece from the outside of the left section. Cross it over the top of the left section and add it to the inside of the right section.
- Continue this pattern: Keep alternating sides, always taking a small piece from the outside and crossing it over to join the inside of the opposite section.
- Secure the end with a clear elastic, then carefully cut and remove the temporary hair tie at the top.
Pro-Tip: For a fuller, more bohemian look, spray the finished braid with texturizing spray and gently pull the sides of the braid apart. Start from the bottom and work your way up for the best result. This also helps fix any unevenness.
5. Have Fun with a Quick Bubble Braid Ponytail
A faux braid that’s super quick and easy! Pin this to your ‘5-Minute Hairstyles’ board.
Products & Tools Used
- A brush for a smooth ponytail.
- 5-10 small, clear elastic bands, depending on hair length.
- A finishing serum for shine.
Application/Styling Steps
- Create a ponytail: Brush your hair into a high, low, or mid-ponytail and secure it tightly with an elastic band.
- Place the second elastic: About 1-2 inches down from the base of the ponytail, place another elastic band.
- Create the bubble: Gently pull on the sides of the hair section between the two elastics. “Pancake” this section until it forms a round “bubble” shape.
- Repeat down the hair: Place another elastic 1-2 inches below the second one.
- Puff it out: Gently pull and fluff the hair between the second and third elastics to create your next bubble.
- Continue this process until you reach the end of your hair, leaving a small tail at the bottom.
- Apply a small amount of finishing serum to your hands and gently smooth down any flyaways.
Pro-Tip: To elevate the look, after securing an elastic, take a tiny strand of hair from the tail and wrap it around the elastic to hide it. Tuck the end of the strand into the elastic to secure it.
6. Create a Romantic Half-Up Twisted Braid
The perfect elegant and easy style! Pin this to your ‘Date Night Hair’ board.
Products & Tools Used
- A small, clear elastic band.
- Bobby pins or a decorative clip.
- A light-hold mousse to add texture to waves.
Application/Styling Steps
- Prep your hair: If you have straight hair, add some light waves with a curling iron or by sleeping in braids overnight for better texture. Apply mousse for volume.
- Take a section: From one side of your part (near the temple), take a 1-2 inch section of hair.
- Twist the section: Split this section into two smaller, equal strands. Twist both strands in the same direction (e.g., both towards the right).
- Wrap the twists: Now, wrap the two twisted strands around each other in the opposite direction (e.g., to the left). This locks the twist in place.
- Repeat on the other side: Create an identical twisted braid on the other side of your head.
- Secure in the back: Bring both twists to the back of your head. You can either tie them together with a clear elastic or cross them over each other and pin them with bobby pins for a seamless look.
Pro-Tip: For the most flattering look, twist the sections away from your face. When you bring them to the back, gently pancake the twists to make them look fuller and more braid-like before pinning.
7. Make Two-Strand Rope Braid Pigtails
So quick and perfect for the gym! Pin this to your ‘Workout Hairstyles’ board.
Products & Tools Used
- A brush and comb.
- Two strong elastic bands.
- A small amount of hair gel or mousse.
Application/Styling Steps
- Create pigtails: Part your hair down the middle and create two low pigtails, securing each with an elastic.
- Split a pigtail: Take one pigtail and split it into two equal sections.
- Twist both sections: Tightly twist both sections individually to the right until they feel like a rope.
- Wrap the sections: Now, wrap these two twisted sections around each other to the left. The opposing forces will lock the braid in place.
- Secure the end: When you reach the bottom, secure the rope braid with another elastic band.
- Repeat on the other side.
Pro-Tip: The key to a rope braid that doesn’t unravel is keeping a firm grip and consistent tension. If it starts to loosen, you may need to twist the individual strands a bit tighter before wrapping them around each other.
8. Weave a Simple Waterfall Braid
Such an elegant and whimsical style! Pin this to your ‘Special Occasion Hair’ board.
Products & Tools Used
- A small, clear elastic band or bobby pin.
- A light-hold hair spray.
Application/Styling Steps
- Start like a French braid: Take a section of hair near your part at the front of your head. Split it into three strands.
- Braid one stitch: Cross the strand closest to your part over the middle. Then cross the bottom strand over the middle.
- Add hair to the top: Take a new piece of hair from your hairline and add it to the top strand. Cross this combined strand over the middle.
- Drop the bottom strand: Now, instead of crossing the bottom strand over, just let it go. Drop it completely so it hangs down.
- Pick up a new bottom strand: Pick up a new section of hair right next to the strand you just dropped. This is your new bottom strand.
- Cross the new bottom strand over the middle.
- Repeat the pattern: Continue this sequence—add to the top, cross it over, drop the bottom, pick up a new one, cross it over—as you work your way around your head.
- Secure the braid by either pinning it behind your ear or finishing with a small, regular braid tied with an elastic.
Pro-Tip: To keep the braid from drooping, maintain an even, firm tension and try to braid in a slightly downward direction. This helps the “waterfall” strands hang beautifully.
9. Style Quick Braided Space Buns
The perfect festival look! Pin this fun braided hairstyle to your ‘Summer Hair’ board.
Products & Tools Used
- A comb for parting.
- Four elastic bands.
- Bobby pins.
- Edge control gel for a sleek finish.
Application/Styling Steps
- Part your hair down the center to create two equal sections.
- Create high pigtails: On each side, create a high, tight pigtail and secure it with an elastic band.
- Braid each pigtail: Braid each pigtail using a simple three-strand braid and secure the ends with a second elastic.
- Wrap the bun: Take one of the braids and wrap it around the base of its own pigtail, creating a bun shape.
- Pin it in place: Tuck the end of the braid underneath the bun and secure it tightly with bobby pins. Use 3-4 pins per bun, making sure to anchor the bun to the base hair.
- Repeat for the second bun.
- Apply edge control along your hairline for a clean, polished look.
Pro-Tip: For a more advanced, “statement” look, try creating an upside-down Dutch braid starting from the nape of your neck and braiding upwards into the pigtail before you create the bun.
10. Create a Faux Hawk with Pulled-Through Braids
Get this bold, high-volume look without any actual braiding! Pin it to your ‘Edgy Hairstyles’ board.
Products & Tools Used
- 8-12 clear elastic bands.
- Volumizing powder or texturizing spray.
Application/Styling Steps
- Create the first pony: At the top of your head (like for a half-up style), create a small ponytail and secure it with an elastic.
- Create the second pony: Directly below the first ponytail, create a second ponytail of the same size and secure it.
- Split the top pony: Split the first (top) ponytail into two equal halves.
- Pull through: Pull the second (bottom) ponytail up and through the split in the top ponytail. Clip it temporarily on top of your head to keep it out of the way.
- Create the third pony: Let the split top pony hang down. Gather a new section of hair from below and combine it with the two halves of the first ponytail. Secure this new, larger ponytail with an elastic.
- Repeat the process: Unclip the ponytail on top of your head (which was originally the second pony). Split it in two, and pull the third ponytail up and through the gap.
- Continue this pattern of creating a new ponytail, splitting the one above it, and pulling through, until you’ve braided all the hair.
- Pancake each section aggressively for a dramatic faux hawk look.
Pro-Tip: This is a great style for incorporating clip-in hair extensions. Add a weft underneath each new ponytail section before you secure it with an elastic for incredible length and volume.
11. Braid with Beads for a Protective Style
Add a personal touch to your look! Pin this to your ‘Protective Styles’ board.
Products & Tools Used
- Finished braids (box braids, twists, or cornrows).
- A plastic hair beader or a piece of thin wire folded in half.
- Your choice of hair beads.
Application/Styling Steps
- Prepare the braid: Ensure the end of the braid is small and tight enough to fit through the hole in your beads.
- Thread the beader: Slide your desired beads onto the hair beader tool.
- Hook the hair: Push the very end of your braid through the plastic loop of the beader.
- Slide the beads: Hold the beads near the loop and simply slide them from the tool directly onto the end of your braid.
- Secure the beads: To keep the beads from sliding off, you have a few options:
- Add a small elastic band below the last bead.
- If the hair is long enough, loop the tail back up through the last bead’s hole and pull tight.
- Boil the very tips (if using synthetic braiding hair) to seal them.
Pro-Tip: Choose lightweight beads (like wooden or acrylic) over heavy metal or glass ones, especially for fine hair or a child’s hair. This prevents excess tension on the hair follicle and reduces the risk of breakage.
12. Create a Braided Low Bun
A timeless and elegant updo for any occasion. Pin this to your ‘Formal Hairstyles’ board!
Products & Tools Used
- A brush.
- Two elastic bands.
- Bobby pins or U-shaped hair pins.
- A flexible-hold hair spray.
Application/Styling Steps
- Create a low ponytail: Gather all your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic band.
- Braid the ponytail: Create a simple three-strand braid with the hair in the ponytail and secure the end with another elastic.
- Coil the braid: Take the braid and begin to wrap it around the base of the ponytail in a spiral or coil shape.
- Tuck the end: When you get to the end of the braid, tuck the tail underneath the bun you’ve created to hide it.
- Pin securely: Use several bobby pins or U-shaped hair pins to secure the bun to your head. Insert the pins so they anchor the outer edge of the bun to the base hair underneath.
- Gently mist with hairspray to control flyaways and hold the style.
Pro-Tip: For a bigger, more romantic-looking bun, gently “pancake” the braid (pull the sides apart) before you coil it. This will make the bun appear much fuller and more intricate.
13. Accessorize with Simple Side Braids
The easiest way to add a cute detail to your hair! Pin this to your ‘Everyday Hair’ board.
Products & Tools Used
- A comb.
- Two tiny, clear elastic bands.
Application/Styling Steps
- Create a side part: Part your hair deeply on one side.
- Take a small section: Near your hairline on the side with more hair, take a small, half-inch section.
- Braid it: Create a simple three-strand braid all the way to the end and secure it with a tiny elastic band.
- Create a second braid: Right behind the first braid, take another small section and repeat the process, creating a second, parallel braid.
- Let them hang loose within your hair, or you can pin them back with a decorative clip if you prefer.
Pro-Tip: This style is perfect for growing out bangs! The small braids can help hold shorter pieces of hair back from your face in a stylish way. Use elastics designed to be gentle on hair to prevent breakage on these smaller, more delicate sections.
Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Cute Braided Hairstyles
- Preparation is a Non-Negotiable First Step – Always start with thoroughly detangled hair. Working with slightly damp hair or using a bit of mousse can make strands easier to grip and control, preventing tangles and frizz.
- Master the Three Basic Weaves – Almost all cute braided hairstyles are variations of three core techniques: the classic braid (over-over), the French Braid (add hair, go over), and the Dutch Braid (add hair, go under).
- Tension Determines the Finish – For a neat, sleek look, maintain consistent, firm tension as you braid. For a softer, more bohemian style, you can use a looser hand and “pancake” the braid afterwards by pulling on the edges.
- “Faux Braids” are a Beginner’s Best Friend – Styles like the Bubble Braid and Pull-Through Braid create an intricate, voluminous look with zero weaving skills required, making them perfect for building confidence.
- Protect Your Hair and Scalp – Avoid braiding too tightly, especially around the hairline, to prevent traction alopecia. At night, protect your style and reduce frizz by sleeping with a silk scarf or on a silk pillowcase.
- Accessorize for a Personal Touch – Simple additions like beads, hair ribbons, or decorative pins can elevate even the most simple braid into a unique and stylish look.
People Also Ask About Cute Braided Hairstyles
What are the easiest braids to do on yourself?
The easiest braids for a beginner to do on themselves are the classic three-strand braid, the bubble braid, and the two-strand rope twist. These styles have the simplest mechanics. Starting with a side ponytail is often easiest as it allows you to see your work in a mirror without your arms getting tired.
What is the difference between French and Dutch braids?
The primary difference is the direction you cross the strands. In a French braid, you cross the outer strands over the middle section, creating a smooth, flat look. In a Dutch braid, you cross the outer strands under the middle section, which makes the braid pop up for a 3D, more prominent appearance.
How do I make my braids look thicker?
The best technique to make braids look thicker is called “pancaking.” After you’ve secured your braid with an elastic, gently start pulling on the outer loops of the braid. Work from the bottom up, pulling each section slightly to fan it out and create the illusion of more volume and thickness.
How do I stop my braids from getting frizzy?
Start with a smoothing cream or mousse, and protect your braids at night. Applying a small amount of anti-frizz product before braiding helps. To maintain the style, sleeping with your hair wrapped in a silk scarf or using a silk pillowcase is crucial as it reduces friction and prevents frizz and flyaways.
How long should you keep braids in?
For protective styles like box braids or cornrows, it’s recommended not to exceed 6-8 weeks. For simpler, daily braided styles, you should take them out at the end of the day. Leaving braids in for too long can lead to product buildup, scalp issues, and matting of your natural hair, which can cause breakage.
Can you do cute braids on short hair?
Yes, absolutely. Many cute braided styles work well on short hair. Half-up styles, small accent braids, crown braids that frame the face, and short French or Dutch braid pigtails are all great options. The key is to work with smaller sections and keep the tension firm.
What products should I use for braiding?
For beginners, the most important products are a good detangling brush, small elastic bands, and a light-hold mousse or cream. A rat tail comb is also very helpful for creating clean sections. As you advance, you might add edge control for sleekness and a texturizing spray for volume.
How do I maintain braids overnight?
To maintain braids overnight, you must reduce friction. The best way is to wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf or bonnet. If you don’t have a scarf, sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase is the next best option to help keep your braids smooth and reduce frizz.
What are good protective braided hairstyles?
Good protective styles are ones that tuck away your ends and require low manipulation, like box braids, cornrows, and twists. These styles help protect your natural hair from environmental damage and breakage. It is vital they are not installed too tightly to prevent stressing the follicle health.
How do I clean my scalp with braids in?
You can dry-wash your scalp every one to two weeks. Dampen a washcloth with warm water and a small amount of sulfate-free shampoo. Gently part your braids in sections and wipe your scalp down. You can also use a spray bottle with diluted shampoo, focusing only on the scalp, and rinse carefully.
Final Thoughts on Your Braiding Journey
Creating cute braided hairstyles is a skill, and like any skill, it improves with practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first French Braid is a little bumpy or your fishtail isn’t perfect. Each attempt builds muscle memory and confidence. By starting with the simple styles in this guide—like the bubble braid or the classic three-strand—you are building a strong foundation. Remember to prioritize healthy hair tips by keeping tension comfortable and protecting your styles at night. You now have 13 proven, beginner-friendly tutorials to start your journey. Which style will you try first?
Last update on 2026-02-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
