The greatest thing about fashion is that it takes inspiration from everywhere – the sun, the stars, cultures, commodities, everything. This artfully disheveled braid takes inspiration from unkempt, free-flowing styles to create an unconventional look.
Hair carries stories – personal, cultural, emotional. Braids, in particular, have threaded their way through generations, not just for their function, but for the timeless grace they hold. Whether worn to honor tradition or to dress things up a bit, they remain one of the most expressive forms of styling. These 30 braided hairstyles for long hair celebrate that legacy with wearable beauty.
If you are running out of ways to style your voluminous, long tresses, give this dramatic yet easy triple braid hairdo a go. You can rock this exaggerated hairstyle with a simple tee and a pair of rugged denim jeans. Being stylish has never been this simple!
Functionality is the need of the day, where we are all set out to make the best of everything. This trend-savvy Dutch braid hairdo can work both as a side braid and as a braided updo. This hairstyle looks exceptionally good if your hair is thick and long. You can carry off the two looks fabulously well, both during the day and the night.
This braided updo spells elegance and class. It beautifully culminates the elements of vintage charm with a modern edge. You can wear this hairdo almost anywhere – from a formal evening do to a day out with your girl gang.
There’s truly nothing better than adding a fun twist to a hairstyle that’s already high up on the cute quotient. This amazing variation of the fishtail braid has added volume thanks to the puffed-up sections. Try it out and you’re sure to get some amazing Instagram-worthy shots!
Here’s yet another hairstyle for those who appreciate little details. The woven fishtail braid can give your hair the illusion of thickness while ensuring you’re on point with your glam factor.
Want to channel the edge of an undercut, without sacrificing your long, thick hair? Then you need to try these braids. They mimic the cool look of a side shave while still showcasing your femininity. Not to mention, they’re 100% commitment-free.
@circlesofhair
Take advantage of the ample volume of your tresses to create this dragon-tail-inspired ‘do. Don’t let the style’s intensity fool you because it’s easy to DIY. Start with your usual Dutch braid, also known as a reverse French braid. After the first cross-under, gently pull at the outside of the plait and fan it out. Continue this technique down its length to create the final look.
@heatherchapmanhair
Fishtails are a fun way to change up everyday braids. Show off yours on top of back-skimming strands and frame it with two twists on either side. Straight hair enhances the sleek appeal of braiding styles. This is especially true for half-updos where braids can’t get lost in (or lose the spotlight to) thick curls.
@game_of_braids
Just because you want to keep it simple doesn’t mean it can’t be elegant too. Case in point is this angelic half-updo. Loose twists tucked into a bun allow your long tresses to flow underneath while adding some polish to your hairdo.
@nicoledrege
This coif boasts a braid within a braid, creating an intricate and unique alternative to a headband or flower crown. Braided hairstyles for long hair allow you to be creative and fun, using your hair as an unexpected medium for crazy, cool art and woven masterpieces.
@whatsbraiding
If you’re up for a challenge, try this braid that tackles six strands, instead of the traditional three, to achieve that jumbo size and beautiful style. Average ponytails and half-updos get stale, so switch it up by topping off your plait with a loose overhand knot.
@jbraidsandbows
From deep brown to ashen blonde, this ombre mane is simply gorgeous. The waterfall braid perfectly accents the angelic quality of the coif, while also showing off the bold colors. Loose ends enliven the style with volume and movement.
@hairbykacie1
Take your top-knot up a notch by encircling it with a reverse French braid. It elevates your everyday bun, making it a flirty choice for work and special occasions alike. Updos like this one are a fool-proof option because of how they tame and tuck your back-skimming tresses, keeping them out of your face on your busiest days.
@sunkissedandmadeup
Exuding boho-chic vibes, this wavy hairstyle is a free spirit’s dream. Loose French braids really pop with highlights woven throughout. The coif’s rose gold hues finish it with delicious warmth and ample personality.
@lalasupdos
Two side twists with a jumbo Dutch braid in the middle are the perfect trio for a romantic updo. Infusing the look with sweetness, the heart-shaped hairpiece ties the look together. If you’re seeking more decorative ideas with braids, try adding fresh flowers for a festival or jewel-encrusted clips for a formal affair.
@taylor_lamb_hair
Taking its cues from the ancient Greeks, this braided hair wraps around the crown of the head like a halo. Add blonde highlights for a golden glow, like a true ring of light. This hairstyle creates an ethereal, angelic appearance.
@hairandmakeupbysteph
Modernize your go-to Dutch braids by leaving their ends undone and using strands of hair to secure the plaits instead of hair ties. A new take on the half-up, half-down look, it lets your balayage tresses flow. Plus, it isn’t as casual as traditional braids.
@circlesofhair
Dress up your braids by using them on either side of your coif and tucking them into a sizeable bun. Play up the volume even more by teasing the top of your hair. With a look like this, braids are better than hair gel for keeping your sides tamed because they fashionably keep your strands tucked away.
@kykhair
Cute braids for long hair offer virtually effortless chic when you’re on the go. Their wow-factor doesn’t rely on bold colors or crazy cuts, just the intricate appearance of the braid. Luckily, they are easy to do, like this fishtail. Just braid a thick section of hair and tuck it into a low pony for a coif that’s easy and stylish in equal measure.
@christinagunnell
A lot of people turn to hair extensions to achieve a braid this thick, but with your long locks, don’t worry about that. Your naturally full tresses will give the would-be simple hairdo a luxurious feel. And if your strands are a little on the thinner side, you can fake the volume by fanning out the pieces of your braid.
@neon_beauty
A messy braid down the side of these waist-length locks accents the hairstyle like a headpiece. It adds texture to straight hair and is an easy way to enliven your mane.
@headstudio
Long braids can be very sleek and refined for schoolgirls or horseback riders. But loosen up those French braids, and you’ll create the opposite effect with a laid-back look. Messy braids are a fuss-free option when you’re feeling lazy or when you’ve run out of ideas for your tresses. The magic about braids is that people are always impressed by them, no matter the effort you actually put into braiding.
@hairby_chrissy
From chocolate brown to platinum blonde, the dramatic contrast in color brings even more dimension to this jumbo braid. Wearing it to the side, instead of down the middle, is one quick trick to add a little more attitude to the popular types of braids.
@glamhairbymarie
The subtlest of changes can make a big difference with braids. Instead of letting your plaits hang separately, start them as two individual braids and bring them together at the nape. It will lift the simple pigtail look to the next level, making it as sporty as it is stylish.
@braidstudio
Use the volume of your long hair to your advantage. Style your plait like a pompadour for extra height and drama. You can braid it all the way down or finish it off with a perky ponytail at the back of your head.
@celebrittany_hairstyles
Unleash your inner boho goddess with this beautiful braided hairstyle that exudes a free-spirited vibe! It works best on wavy-textured, long hair, with shaggy edges. If you’re a straight-haired beauty, but want to experiment with this hairdo, you can work some sea-salt spray into your towel-dried hair and ruffle it until it dries. Later, style it as explained in the tutorial.
Whether you’re a stylish bridesmaid or the ravishing bride herself, you’re going to love this updo, either way! If your hair is layered, the braided sides will keep any loose pieces from falling out of the style. Overlap the braids around the stacked bun for architectural complexity.
Here’s a hairstyle that fuses a touch of class with subtle romantic hints, giving you the ideal look for a swanky day/night affair! If dainty and delicate is more like your innate style, this waterfall braid is surely something you’d want to try out!
The greatest thing about fashion is that it takes inspiration from everywhere – the sun, the stars, cultures, commodities, everything. This artfully disheveled braid takes inspiration from unkempt, free-flowing styles to create an unconventional look.
Game of Thrones doesn’t just give us our weekly dose of entertainment; it also offers us some major fashion motivation! If Daenerys Targaryen’s looks and styling in GoT enamor you, here’s an easy tutorial to help you recreate her long braid hairstyle.
These stylish braids for long hair promise to kindle your inner fashionista in a lot more ways than one. Whether you’re adhering to traditions or chasing trends, each braid invites you to express your beauty with intention and a touch of artistry.
