Unleash Your Elegance with Side Braid Hairstyles

Side braids are not just hairstyles; they’re a blend of elegance, grace, and versatility. Whether you’re aiming for a bohemian vibe, a romantic flair, or a bit of playful messiness, there’s a side braid style that perfectly resonates with your personality. Suitable for an array of hair types – be it straight, wavy, or curly – side braids can transform your look, making them a popular choice for weddings and other special occasions. They can be worn as a standalone braid or integrated into more complex hairstyles for added intricacy. There’s a world of side braid hairstyles waiting for you to explore, so let’s get started!

Before we dive into the tutorial, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Side braids are particularly flattering on square, heart, and diamond-shaped faces, softening cheekbones and balancing sharp features.
• Ideal for long, thick hair, but don’t worry if you have fine hair – a texturizing spray can add the needed body to your braid.
• A medium-hold hairspray is your ally for taming flyaways and ensuring your hairstyle stays put.

Crafting the Perfect Side Braid: A Messy Fishtail Tutorial

What You’ll Need:

• Hairbrush
• Elastic band
• Curling iron (optional)

Steps to Achieve the Look:

• Preparation: Start by brushing your hair to one side, ensuring all knots and tangles are removed.
• Sectioning: Divide your hair into two equal parts.
• Weaving the Braid: Take a small strand of hair from the bottom of one section and cross it over to the top of the other section. Repeat the process with the other section.
• Creating the Messy Effect: Continue braiding loosely, allowing some strands to fall freely for a relaxed, messy look.
• Securing the Braid: Use an elastic band to tie the end of your braid.
• Adding Volume: Gently pull apart or ‘pancake’ the braid for a fuller appearance.
• Styling Touches: For added romance, curl the loose strands and the ends of the braid.

Note: You can curl your hair before starting the braid for a consistent wavy texture throughout.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of the side braid, it’s time to experiment with my curated list of 32 top side braid hairstyles. Find your perfect style and weave your dream braid. Remember, each braid you create is a reflection of your unique charm and elegance. Happy braiding!

32 Exquisitely Chic Side Braid Hairstyles

Beachy Boho Side Braids:

• Unleash your inner bohemian goddess with a symphony of haphazard, free-flowing braids. Let them meander down your shoulders, embodying the spirit of a beachy boho dream. It’s all about the wild textures here – the more varied, the more enchanting.

Double Side Braids With a Trendsetting Top Knot:

• This style screams festival chic! Whether you’re hitting the beach or losing yourself in the music, these twin side braids, coupled with a casually chic top knot – be it sleek or tousled – make for an Instagrammable, head-turning statement.

The Enchanting Intricate Side Braid:

• A tapestry of delicate side braids is the epitome of elegance for weddings and upscale events. Picture yourself in a flowing gown, these braids adding a touch of sophistication, complemented by just the right sparkle of jewelry. It’s red-carpet ready!

The Sporty Slanted Side Braid:

• For the fitness enthusiasts seeking both function and fashion, the slanted side braid is a perfect choice. It’s not just practical, keeping hair away from your face during workouts, but also stylishly chic, turning heads with its effortless charm.

The Bohemian Fishtail Side Braid:

• Get beach-bound with this effortlessly cool fishtail braid. Start by sweeping your hair to one side for a laid-back vibe, then weave it into a fishtail, fluffing it out for an added touch of breezy volume. This style is the epitome of summer cool.

The Subtle Side Accent Braid:

• Sometimes, less is more. A discreet side braid, draping like a delicate crown, can elevate your look with understated elegance. It’s a subtle yet stunning way to add a touch of glamour to your everyday style.

The Sophisticated Side Braided Updo:

• When an ordinary updo just won’t cut it for that formal event, weave in a side Dutch braid. This hairstyle adds a layer of refined sophistication to your look, ensuring you stand out with a polished and exquisite finish.

The Playful Young Dutch Side Braid:

• Embrace your fun side with this playful Dutch braid. Pancake it for added fullness and enjoy a youthful, vibrant look that’s perfect for any casual outing.

The Innovative 5-Strand Side Braid:

• Bored of the same old styles? Experiment with this intricate 5-strand side braid. It’s a creative twist on the classic braid, ideal for adding a touch of elegance to your work or workout ensemble.

The Romantic Wedding Side Braid:

• For your special day, opt for a dreamy side braid adorned with fresh flowers. This look is the essence of bridal beauty, exuding romance and grace, perfect for making your wedding day unforgettable.

The Effortlessly Chic Simple Side Braid:

Perfect for those who love to experiment, this simple side braid starts with your front hair and cascades down, showcasing your hair’s natural texture in all its glory. It’s the epitome of effortless style, ideal for young, adventurous spirits.

Dynamic Side Braided Ponytail:

Craft a Dutch braid along one side, ending at the back hairline, and secure it with an elastic band. Pull your hair into a low ponytail, wrapping a strand around the base for a sleek finish. This style is both practical and chic, perfect for your gym sessions!

The Glamorous Bouffant Side Braid:

Elevate your side braid with a touch of vintage glam. Incorporate a bouffant and long bangs to elongate your face, giving you a look that’s both classic and trendy. It’s a style that stands out in any crowd.

Loose to Tight Side Braid for Round Faces:

If you have a round face, try starting your braid loosely at the top and gradually tightening it towards the ends. This technique helps to elongate your face, while loose strands add a flirtatious flair to the look.

Elegant Low Bun with a Side Braid:

Transform a simple low bun into a masterpiece with the addition of a side braid. Adorn this chic updo with beads and a fancy clip, and you’re ready to dazzle at any event.

Cute and Functional Side Braids with Bubbles:

For those gym days when you want your hair out of the way yet still look adorable, these bubble side braids are your go-to. They’re practical, cute, and add a playful touch to your workout ensemble.

Glamorous Curled Fishtail Braid:

When you need a hairstyle that’s a notch above the ordinary, opt for soft curls combined with a side fishtail braid. This look is especially stunning on ombre hair, making you the center of attention at any event.

Romantic Fluffy Side Braid:

Struggling with flat hair? Try this fluffy side fishtail braid. Apply mousse post-blow drying and pancake your braid for maximum volume. This dreamy hairstyle is perfect for a memorable first date.

Edgy Undercut Side Braid:

Create a faux undercut look with a tight French braid on one side. This versatile hairstyle suits all face shapes and adds an edgy twist to your persona.

The Bold Complete Under Side Braid:

Embrace the trend with a complete undercut side braid. This fashion-forward hairstyle complements any outfit and exudes confidence, making you look like an absolute trendsetter.

Color Flaunt Side Braid:

For those who love to keep their hair in a side braid, add a French twist to it. This style particularly shines if you have highlights or dual-toned hair, flaunting your vibrant colors with every turn of your head.

Flawless Loose Side Braid:

There’s an undeniable elegance to a loosely woven side braid. After curling your hair into soft waves, weave it into a mermaid braid. A spritz of hairspray will keep the curls defined, even when you gently pancake the braid for that effortlessly chic look.

Accessorized Side Braid:

Elevate your side braid with subtle yet striking hair accessories. Think delicate flowers and shimmering beads that enhance the braid’s texture and add a touch of glamour to your overall style.

Ethereal Braided Updo:

Transform a side braid into an enchanting updo. Create a lace side braid, continually adding new hair to the top section, sweeping from one side to the back hairline. For those with long locks, twirl your hair into a bun, letting the ends cascade in loose curls.

Cascading Side Braid:

Instagram has been abuzz with the cascading Dutch braid, and it’s easier to achieve than it looks. Keep adding new hair to the top section of your braid, blending the previous top section into the braid for a flowing, waterfall-like effect.

Highlighted Side Braid:

Show off your new hair highlights with a stylish side braid. This hairstyle is perfect for displaying both your highlighted and natural hair, striking a beautiful balance.

Edgy Side Braids:

Achieve that bold, edgy look with multiple small side cornrow braids. This style creates a faux undercut effect while also accentuating your hair’s volume and texture.

Betty Cooper Braid:

Channel your inner Betty Cooper with this girl-next-door yet edgy braided style. It’s a blend of sweet and sassy, perfect for those who love to stand out.

Twisted Side Braids:

Get creative with your hair by starting with French twists on both sides. Stop at the back hairline, secure with thin elastic bands, and hide them with strands of hair. Then, braid the ponytail tails in tight fishtail braids for an intricate finish.

Scarfed Side Braid:

Add a vintage twist to your side braid with a scarf. Position the scarf as a headband, then weave a side braid, incorporating the scarf ends for a chic, retro look.

Dutch Side Braided Ponytail:

Put a twist on the classic braid with a standout Dutch braid into a high ponytail. This style is neat, elegant, and perfect for ushering in the cooler fall days.

Side Braid Crown:

Feel like royalty by merging two side braids at the crown of your head. This majestic hairstyle is sure to make you feel like a queen, ruling your domain with style and grace.

The Effortless Charm of Side-Braid Hairstyles

Side-braid hairstyles have this magical ability to make you look effortlessly stylish with minimal effort. Isn’t that the dream for most of us? On days when spending hours on hair styling feels like a chore, side braids are your stylish saviors. From the intricately woven to the flexible loose-to-tight braids, every style in our list guarantees you’ll look stunning without the fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do side braids damage hair?
Tight side braids can lead to hair breakage, and regular braiding may cause hair fragility. It’s crucial to find a balance between snug and gentle to keep your hair healthy.

Are side braids better than twists?
Side braids generally have a longer-lasting hold than twists, as they secure more hair within their weave.

Can I wear a side braid for both casual and formal occasions?
Absolutely! Opt for messy or loose braids for a relaxed, casual vibe. For formal settings, sleek and polished braids are your go-to.

Can I incorporate accessories into a side braid hairstyle?
Definitely! Elevate your braids with elegant headbands, pins, and clips for an extra touch of glamour.

Are there any tips for making a side braid stay in place all day?
Prep your hair with mousse before braiding and finish with a spritz of hairspray to ensure your braid stays put from dawn till dusk.

Can I wear a side braid on different hair textures?
Side braids are versatile and can be styled on straight, wavy, or curly hair. Use texturizing sprays, curl enhancers, or serums to manage your hair texture while braiding.

Are there any side braid hairstyles that work well for active or athletic lifestyles?
For those with an active lifestyle, combining braids with buns or ponytails keeps hair manageable and out of your face during workouts.

Can I wear a side braid with bangs or fringe?
Side braids pair beautifully with various types of bangs, from blunt to side-swept, adding a chic element to your look.

Are there any celebrities or influencers known for their signature side braid hairstyles?
Celebrities like Blake Lively, Lauren Conrad, Vanessa Hudgens, and Olivia Palermo are often spotted rocking the side braid, each adding their unique twist to this classic style.

Side-braid hairstyles offer a perfect blend of elegance and ease, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Embrace these styles and step out in confidence, knowing you look fabulous with minimal effort.