Braided looks are coming in hot for 2025 — they’re fresh, bold, and full of style. Oh, honey, let me tell you! There’s just something about a fresh set of braids that makes you feel like you can take on the world. And guess what? 2025 is bringing some seriously head-turning braided hairstyles our way!
I’m Ella Kohn and I’m so excited to share these looks with you here on TressNails.com. As your beauty editor, I live for finding styles that make you feel amazing.
Whether you have thick curls, fine waves, or something in between, there’s a braided hairstyle out there calling your name. I’ve been playing around with different techniques and talking to stylists, and the variety for all hair types is just incredible.
We’re talking classic looks with a modern twist and brand new ideas that are super fresh. My passion is helping you discover your own unique style, and braids are such a fantastic way to do that. They’re beautiful, protective, and so versatile.
Get ready to find your next favorite look because these 20+ braided hairstyles are going to be everywhere in 2025. Let’s dive in!
21 Braided Styles to Try in 2025
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are 21 incredible braided styles that are going to be huge in 2025. We’re starting with a super chic option and working our way up to the top trend.
There’s something here for everyone and every hair type, I promise. Get ready to get inspired!
21. Short Box Braids
Short box braids are just effortlessly cool, aren’t they? They’re perfect if you want a protective style that’s easy to manage and feels light. This style really suits those with a bob or lob haircut already, but you can totally rock it with longer hair too.
They’re trendy for 2025 because they offer a modern, fresh take on a classic. Plus, you can style them in so many ways!
Maintenance tip: Use a light oil spray on your scalp daily to keep it moisturized.
20. Jumbo Knotless Braids
Jumbo knotless braids are a dream! They give you that bold, defined look without the tension at the root that can come with traditional box braids. This makes them way more comfortable, especially right after you get them done.
They’re ideal for anyone looking for a quick braiding process and a statement style. You can easily put these up in a high bun or a cute half-up style.
Styling suggestion: Add some gold cuffs for a touch of glam.
19. Braided Ponytail with Curls
This style is all about combining sleekness with fun texture. A braided ponytail, usually created with extensions, is finished off with loose curls cascading down. It’s super versatile and works for everything from a casual day out to a fancy event.
I love how you can play with the braid pattern and the type of curl. It adds such a romantic feel! This look fits so many occasions.
Care tip: Gently separate the curls with your fingers rather than a brush to prevent frizz.
18. Half-Up Half-Down Braids
The half-up half-down style is a perennial favorite for a reason. It keeps hair out of your face while still letting you show off length and texture. Adding braids to the top section just takes it to the next level.
You can do simple twists, cornrows, or even small box braids on top. It’s appealing because it’s practical and pretty at the same time. Customize it with different braid designs!
Quick maintenance trick: Use edge control to keep your hairline smooth.
17. Feed-In Braids with Beads
Feed-in braids are created by gradually adding braiding hair as you go, making the braids look really natural at the hairline. Adding beads? That’s where the fun really starts!
You can use colorful beads, wooden beads, or metallic ones to personalize your look. This style is perfect for someone who loves a bit of sparkle and personality. Kids and adults alike can rock this!
Tip for securing beads: Dip the ends of the braids in hot water after adding the beads to seal them in place.
16. Bohemian Braids
Bohemian braids are all about that carefree, free-spirited vibe. They usually involve knotless braids with wavy or curly pieces left out throughout the length. It gives the style movement and a less uniform look.
This look is great for those who love a mix of sleekness and texture. Hair types that hold a wave or curl well are perfect for this. It feels very natural and effortless.
Tip for maintaining the waves: Use a light mousse or wave spray to keep the curly pieces defined.
15. Cornrows with Intricate Patterns
Cornrows are a timeless braided style, but 2025 is seeing a surge in really intricate, artistic patterns. We’re talking geometric designs, curved lines, and combinations of thick and thin braids.
This is where you really see the artistry of a skilled braider. It’s like having a masterpiece on your head! Finding a stylist with a strong portfolio is key for this look.
Tip for scalp care: Apply a soothing oil directly to your scalp with an applicator bottle to keep it healthy.
14. Braided Crown
Feeling like royalty? A braided crown will do that for you! This elegant style involves braiding sections of hair around your head, creating a halo or crown effect. It’s perfect for special occasions like weddings, proms, or even just a fancy dinner.
You can do a simple three-strand braid or a more complex Dutch or French braid. Adding small flowers or sparkly pins can enhance the look. It feels so regal!
Tip for keeping it neat: Use bobby pins that match your hair color to secure any loose ends.
13. French Braid Updo
The French braid updo is a classic for a reason – it’s chic, polished, and keeps your hair securely in place. You can do one large French braid going up the back of your head into a bun, or multiple smaller ones.
Its timeless appeal makes it perfect for professional settings or elegant events. You can vary the thickness of the braid or the placement of the bun. It’s a go-to for when you need your hair out of the way but still want to look put-together.
Tip for a smooth finish: Apply a little styling cream or gel before you start braiding to control flyaways.
12. Dutch Braid Pigtails
Dutch braids are like inside-out French braids, where the strands are crossed under instead of over, making the braid pop out. Doing this on both sides gives you fun, playful pigtails.
This style is great for active days or just when you want a cute, sporty look. You can make the braids tight and sleek or loose and messy. Adding colorful ribbons woven into the braids is a fun touch.
Tip for even tension: Use clips to section your hair neatly before you start braiding each side.
11. Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid looks much more complicated than it is! It involves splitting hair into two sections and taking small strands from the outside of one section and crossing it over to the inside of the other. It creates a beautiful, intricate pattern.
You can wear a single fishtail down your back, or do two pigtails. Loosening the braid after you’re done gives it a soft, boho feel. It’s a unique look that always gets compliments.
Tip for creating a loose, boho look: Gently pull on the outer edges of the braid once it’s finished to loosen the weave.
10. Braided Bun
A braided bun takes a simple bun and elevates it. You can braid your hair first and then wrap the braid into a bun, or create a bun and then wrap a braid around it. It adds texture and interest.
This is a super practical style for keeping hair off your neck, especially on hot days. You can place the bun high on your head, low at the nape, or to the side. It’s a quick way to make a basic bun look special.
Tip for securing the bun: Use plenty of bobby pins, inserting them around the base of the bun and into the hair underneath.
9. Micro Braids
Micro braids are tiny, individual braids that give the appearance of loose hair from a distance. They take a long time to install because they are so small, but they offer incredible versatility in styling once they’re in.
This style is for someone who wants a long-lasting protective style they can wear in many different ways. It’s a significant time commitment, but the result is beautiful. You can wear them up, down, curled, or straight.
Tip for managing them: Keep them moisturized with a light oil or leave-in conditioner spray to prevent breakage.
8. Braided Bangs
Don’t want to commit to cutting bangs? Or maybe you want to get your existing bangs out of your face? Braiding them is a great solution! You can do a small French or Dutch braid along your hairline.
This is a quick and easy way to change up your look. It works well with side-swept bangs or even a full fringe. You can use a simple three-strand braid or try something more intricate.
Quick styling tip: Use a little gel to help smooth the hair before you start braiding your bangs.
7. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is so romantic and ethereal. It looks like a French braid across the back or side of your head, but instead of incorporating all the hair into the braid, you drop strands down to create a “waterfall” effect.
This style is perfect for weddings, festivals, or any time you want a soft, flowing look. It works best on hair that is medium to long. It’s a beautiful alternative to a regular braid.
Tip for keeping the “waterfall” defined: Curl the ends of the dropped strands for extra bounce and definition.
6. Spiral Braids
Spiral braids are individual braids that are installed in a circular or spiraling pattern, often starting from the crown and winding outwards. They create a really cool visual effect and lay flat against the head.
This style is great for showing off the shape of your head and can be done with your own hair or added extensions. Hair lengths that are at least a few inches long work well for this. It’s a modern and stylish look.
Tip for maintaining the shape: Sleep with a silk or satin bonnet to prevent the braids from getting messy.
5. Crochet Braids
Crochet braids involve looping extensions into your own cornrowed hair using a crochet needle. It’s a faster installation method compared to individual braids and offers a huge variety of textures and styles, from straight to curly to pre-braided.
This method is great for protecting your natural hair and trying out different looks without manipulating your own strands too much. There are so many different hair types you can use with the crochet method. It’s a popular and convenient protective style.
Tip for blending your hair: Leave a small amount of your own hair out around the hairline to blend with the extensions for a more natural look.
4. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are essentially thick, raised cornrows. They are created by adding braiding hair to your natural hair as you braid, resulting in bold, prominent braids. You can have just a few large goddess braids or combine them with smaller cornrows.
They look elegant and powerful. This style is super versatile and can be worn straight back, to the side, or in an updo. They flatter many face shapes and are a great protective style.
Tip for keeping them neat: Use a mousse or setting spray to smooth down flyaways and keep the braids looking fresh.
3. Lemonade Braids
Named after Beyoncé’s iconic look in her Lemonade visual album, these are cornrows that sweep to one side. They can be thin or thick and often have intricate patterns on the side they sweep from.
This style is stylish and keeps hair off your neck and shoulders. It suits face shapes that look good with side-swept styles. It’s a chic and popular look that offers a bit of asymmetry.
Tip for maintaining the edge: Use edge control and tie a silk scarf around your hairline at night.
2. Triangle Box Braids
Triangle box braids are a twist on classic box braids, using triangle-shaped partings instead of squares. This unique parting adds an interesting geometric element to the style and makes it stand out.
It’s a subtle change that makes a big difference in the overall look. You can add pops of color by incorporating colored braiding hair. This style works on various hair types and lengths.
Tip for scalp care with this style: Use a pointed applicator bottle to get oil directly onto your scalp between the triangle partings.
1. Knotless Box Braids
Okay, drumroll please! Knotless box braids are my absolute top pick for 2025. Why? Because they start with your own hair before adding extensions, which reduces tension on your scalp. This means less pulling, less breakage, and way more comfort right from the start.
Unlike traditional box braids with that little knot at the root, knotless braids look incredibly natural and lay flatter. I remember the first time I got them, I was amazed at how light they felt! You can get them in different sizes and lengths, and even add curly ends for a bohemian touch.
They truly are a game-changer in the braiding world and perfect if you want a stylish, protective style that’s kind to your hair. They are definitely one of the most popular braided hairstyles right now.
Comprehensive maintenance tip: Moisturize your scalp with a light oil a few times a week, sleep with a silk bonnet, and use a refreshing spray for your braids.
Frequently Asked Questions
I get asked a lot of questions about braided hairstyles, and for good reason! They’re a commitment, and you want to make sure you care for them properly. Here are some of the most common things people ask me.
How long do braided hairstyles last?
The lifespan of braided hairstyles really varies. It depends on the style, how well you care for them, and your hair type. Generally, styles like box braids or knotless braids can last anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks. Cornrows might last a bit less, maybe 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the pattern’s complexity and how tight they are. Micro braids can sometimes last even longer if maintained very well. I usually aim for around 6 weeks to give my natural hair a break.
Can I wash my hair while I have braids?
Yes, you absolutely can and should wash your hair while you have braids! Keeping your scalp clean is super important. I recommend using a diluted shampoo or a clarifying spray. Focus on gently cleansing your scalp between the braids. Rinse thoroughly and make sure they are completely dry afterward to prevent mildew.
How can I protect my braids at night?
Protecting your braided hairstyles at night is key to making them last and keeping them looking neat. The best way is to sleep with a silk or satin bonnet or headscarf. This reduces friction against your pillow, which can cause frizz and breakage. You can also pineapple your braids (gather them loosely on top of your head) before putting on your bonnet, especially for longer styles.
Conclusion
So there you have it, my friends! 2025 is shaping up to be an amazing year for braided hairstyles. From short and sassy to long and intricate, there truly is a style for every taste and every hair type.
Braids aren’t just a trend; they’re a beautiful way to protect your hair and express your personality. Don’t be afraid to try something new and step outside your comfort zone. Find the braided look that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Your hair is your crown, so wear it with pride!
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