This year will go down in history as the Year of the Braid - everyone’s wearing them, from your favorite celebs (like Lauren Conrad) to that incredibly chic barista who makes your latte every morning. If you long for the look, but can’t quite get the braids you want, keep reading! I’ve scoured YouTube and gathered all the cutest braids, right here in one spot. So grab your comb and some hair elastics, and let’s go! Here are the 7 best braid tutorials on YouTube (or anywhere else)…
1. Mermaid French Braid for Long Hair
Wow, this looks so pretty! I don’t think I could have ever figured this one out if I didn’t see this braid tutorial. It’s very similar to a regular French braid, but you’re only gathering tiny pieces of hair, mostly from the sides of your hair… and it’s perfect for girls who wear hair extensions, too!
2. Ribbon Braid for Long Hair
I love the ribbon! And I love that you can use it as a headband, too… this is one of my favorite braid tutorials… the narrator (Bebexo) makes it look so simple and easy… which color ribbon would you use, and would you do the final step, and make your braid into a headband?
3. Twisted Waterfall Braid for Medium to Long Hair
Okay, I know, I seem very partial to braid tutorials by Bebexo… this is the last one, I promise! I love this romantic Boho braid… wouldn’t it be pretty for wavy hair? I can’t wait til my hair is long enough to do this braid!
4. Katniss Dutch Braid for Medium to Long Hair
For fans of The Hunger Games, this is a must-see braid tutorial! If you want the look of Katniss’s signature curvy French braid, this video makes it simple. I love the twist at the end… it’s an updo! Suddenly I want to try my hand at archery…
5. Upside-down French Braid Bun for Medium to Long Hair
I saw a girl at an outdoor mall with this hairstyle, and I had to try it! It’s so much fun, and so unique… it’s also perfect for summer, because it keeps your hair off your neck. Warning: you might get a little dizzy when you flip upside down… and the narrator is right: you have to try this with hair that hasn’t just been washed.
6. Herringbone Fishtail Braid for Long Hair
This looked so hard to do, I wasn’t sure I could find a braid tutorial I could actually do! But this braid tutorial makes it look so easy, even clumsy me can do it! Now I want to wear a herringbone braid every day… aren’t they pretty? And BTW, isn’t Lauren Conrad gorgeous?
7. Milk-Maid Braid for Medium to Long Hair
Eek, so cute! I love this look… it’s so different, and kind of a nerd-chic, isn’t it? I wish I could do this, but my hair’s not long enough yet… would you try this one? Why or why not? Would you add the ribbon, like she does at the end? I love it… hmm… maybe for a costume or cosplay look?
I love all of these braids… I can’t wait til my hair’s long enough to try them all! Which of these braid tutorials are you most excited about? How will you wear it? Or is there another type of braid you’re dying to try? Please let me know!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the easiest braid style for beginners?
- Try a simple three-strand braid to start; it's quick and looks great on any hair length.
- How can I make my braid last all day?
- Use a bit of texturizing spray before braiding and secure the ends with a strong hair tie.
- Which braid styles work best for thick hair?
- Dutch and fishtail braids hold thick hair well and add beautiful texture.
- Can I braid my hair without damaging it?
- Yes! Just be gentle, avoid tight braids, and use moisturizing products to keep hair healthy.
- Are there braid tutorials for short hair on YouTube?
- Absolutely, many creators offer step-by-step styles perfect for short or medium hair lengths.
- What tools do I need for braiding at home?
- A comb, hair ties, clips, and sometimes styling gel are all you need to get started.
- How do I prevent frizz in braided hair?
- Smooth your hair with anti-frizz serum or light hairspray before braiding for a sleek look.
- Can braids protect hair during sleep?
- Yes, loose braids can reduce tangles and breakage while you sleep.
- Are there braid tutorials for special occasions?
- Definitely! Many channels offer elegant braided updos perfect for weddings and parties.
- How long does it usually take to learn a new braid style?
- With practice, most braids can be learned within 10 to 30 minutes following a good tutorial.