34 Cute And Easy Side Braid Hairstyles & How To Do Them

Versatile, timeless, and beautiful – the side braid is truly a classic hairstyle.

And by versatile, we mean there are many side braid hairstyles you can try! Boho, romantic or messy – you can find a side braid style that suits your personality. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, there is always a side braid hairdo for you. And they are the go-to wedding hairstyles of the season, because side braids are wonderfully elegant. You can either fashion your hair into a side braid or weave the side braid into another hairstyle to make it more intricate. There are many options to choose from with this hairstyle.

So, scroll down and pick your favorite side braid style. And if you do not know how to weave a side braid, we have a tutorial for you! Keep reading.

Before You Get Started

• Side braids with a deep side parting look good on the square, heart, and diamond-shaped faces. It softens the cheekbones and balances the sharp features.
• SIde braids are suitable for long, thick hair. However, if you have fine hair, you will need texturizing spray to add body to the braid and define it.
• A medium-hold hair spray comes in handy for managing flyaways and keeping all your hair in place.

How To Do A Side Braid

Side braids are easy to accomplish. Here is how you can do a messy fishtail side braid.

What You Need

• Brush
• Elastic band
• Curling iron

How To Do

1. Brush all your hair to one side after removing all knots and tangles.
2. Divide your hair into two sections.
3. Take some hair from the bottom of one section and overlap it with the top of the other section.
4. Do the same with the second section of hair.
5. Continue weaving the braid by doing steps 3 and 4 alternately.
6. Since we’re going for a messy side braid, braid your hair loosely and let some strands fall freely.
7. Use an elastic band to secure the end of the braid.
8. Pancake the braid to add to its overall appeal.
9. You can curl the loose strands of hair and the ends of the braid to add a romantic vibe to this hairstyle.

Note: You can also curl the hair before you begin the procedure so the texture is consistent throughout.

Now that you know how to braid your hair in a regular side braid, check out my list of the top 34 side braids to find your dream weave.

34 Intricately Woven Side Braid Hairstyles

1. Beachy Boho Side Braids

A cluster of loose, uneven, and messy braids cascading down the sides and back is the ultimate bohemian look! Put on your creative hats for this one. The more textures, the better.

2. Double Side Braids With Top Knot

Here’s another hippie look to try for beach parties or music festivals. It could be a simple, intricate, or messy top knot, accompanied by thin side braids left loose on both sides. This side braid hairstyle is Insta-perfect from every angle!

3. The Intricate Side Braid

Beautifully intricate side braids can be worn to weddings and formal events.

Imagine sporting this gorgeous braid with a long gown and some elegant jewelry. It’s the perfect red carpet hairstyle!

4. The Slanted Side Braid

Looking for a gym hairdo? Try this side braid. Not only does it keep hair off your face, but it also looks so on point. I bet this braid will steal people’s attention while you work out, exuding composed beauty and elegance.

5. The Fishtail Side Braid

A fishtail braid is all you need to get beach-ready. Sweep your hair to one side and brush it down to detangle it. Divide it into two sections to fishtail braid it. Don’t forget to pancake your braid to give it oodles of volume and dimension.

6. The Side Accent Braid

Side braids don’t always have to be intricate works of art. A simple side braid placed like a half crown can work wonders as an accent braid to make you look spectacular.

7. The Side Braided Updo

So you have a formal event to go to, and none of your regular updos are nailing it? Try adding a side Dutch braid to an updo. It is one of the most elegant side braid hairstyles. It’s sure to spice up your hairdo and give a grand finishing touch to your outfit!

8. The Young Dutch Side Braid

If you love playful hairstyles, you have to try this one! Braid your hair in a side Dutch braid and pancake it to make it look voluptuous.

Quick Tip

You can add rainbow extensions to brighten and complete your Dutch side braid look.

9. The 5-Strand Side Braid

If you’re like me, you sport a braid way too often. Add a nice twist to it with this 5-strand side braid. Divide your hair into five sections and pass the left corner section over and under the other sections alternately. Then, pick up the new left corner section and weave it the same way. Keep braiding this way until you reach the end. This is a great hairstyle that you can sport to work or the gym.

10. The Wedding Side Braid

Side braids are a flawless hairstyle choice for a wedding. A lovely loose intricate braid styled with fresh flowers is all you need to make your day even more special.

Quick Tip

You can add pearl, silver, or gold embellishments to elevate your wedding side braid.

11. The Simple Side Braid

Being young means experimenting with your hair. Try this simple side braid with just your hair in the front. It’s super easy to achieve and shows off your hair texture beautifully.

12. Side Braided Ponytail

Weave a Dutch braid on one side until you reach the back hairline. Secure the braid with a thin elastic band. Gather all your hair in a low ponytail. Wrap an elastic band around the base of the ponytail. Take some hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band to hide it from view. A simple but effective hairstyle for the gym!

13. The Bouffant Side Braid

Side braids are the talk of the town right now, so I know that a lot of girls are sporting it. Add some oomph to it with a subtle bouffant and long bangs. It will make your face appear longer.

14. Loose To Tight Side Braid

I have wide cheeks that stick out when I braid my hair tightly. This makes my face appear even rounder. The simplest solution to this problem is to start off loose and make your braid tighter as you go down. Add some loose strands of hair to the hairdo to raise its appeal.

15. Low Bun Side Braid

It’s amazing what a small addition like a side braid can do. It raises the overall appeal of the low bun. Imagine decorating this updo with some beads and a fancy clip. Perfect!

16. Side Braids With Bubbles

Don’t deny it. When you go to the gym, you want your hair to stay out of your face but still look cute. There’s nothing wrong with it. It’s good motivation! These side bubble braids do just that with perfection.

17. Curled Fishtail Braid

If you have an event to get to, a regular braid might not make the cut. Style your hair in soft big curls and braid a side section in a lovely fishtail braid. This hairstyle looks even better on dark to light ombre hair. Truly stunning!

18. Fluffy Side Braid

If you struggle with adding volume to your hair, you need to try out this hairstyle. Apply mousse to your hair right after blow drying it. Then, weave it in a loose side fishtail braid. Finish off by pancaking it as much as you can. This romantic hairstyle is perfect for a first date.

19. The Undercut Side Braid

One easy way to create a faux undercut hairstyle is with a tight French braid on one side. This is one of those hairstyles that suits all face shapes and personas.

20. The Complete Under Side Braid

The complete undercut braid is one of the trendiest hairstyles of our time. It looks great with just about any attire and makes you look like a total slayer!

21. Color Flaunt Side Braid

If you always have your hair tied up in a side braid, try this little twist trend. Do a French side braid. It looks especially stunning if you have highlights or dual-toned hair.

22. Flawless Side Braid

I’ll be honest. I love loose braids way more than tight ones. There’s something so elegant and royal about a loose side braid. Curl your hair and style it in a mermaid braid. Remember to spritz on a good amount of hairspray, so the curls stay intact even when you pancake the braid.

23. Accessorized Side Braid

Hair accessories are a great way to jazz up a side braid. Instead of over the top hair clips, opt for simple flowers and beads. These tend to accentuate the braid more and add glamor to your look.

24. Braided Updo

A side braid can make for an ethereal updo by itself. Weave a lace side braid in which the top section is always an addition of new hair. Start at one side and reach the back hairline on the opposite side. Curl the ends and pin them up, so they hang loose. If you have long hair, wrap your hair in a bun and let the ends hang loose.

25. Cascading Side Braid

I don’t know about you, but my Insta feed has been filled with this cascading Dutch braid. Yes, it looks a tad bit complicated, but it’s really simple. Make sure the top section of your braid is always a new addition of hair, while you keep merging the prior top section into the rest of the braid.

26. Highlighted Side Braid

If you got your hair highlighted, you want to flaunt it every opportunity you get. The best way to showcase your highlights is with a side braid. It displays your new highlights and your natural hair color in a perfect balance.

27. Edgy Side Braids

Every girl wants to achieve the edgy badass look. This hairstyle will certainly accomplish it! Weave multiple small side cornrow braids to create a faux undercut look. This hairstyle also accentuates your hair volume.

28. Betty Cooper Braid

Want to look edgy without losing that girl-next-door vibe? Say hello to the braided Betty Cooper hair look! I’m going to try this look out soon. It looks stunning.

29. Twisted Side Braids

I love how creative we’ve gotten with our hair. I mean, look at this incredible hairdo. Begin with French twisting two sections of hair on both sides. Stop at the back hairline and secure the twists with thin elastic bands. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic bands to cover them up. Then, braid the tails of these ponytails for about an inch in tight fishtail braids and secure them with elastic bands. Wrap some hair around the elastic bands to cover them up again.

30. Scarfed Side Braid

This has to be THE vintage twist to the side braid. Place the scarf on your head like a headband and sweep your hair to one side. Weave a side braid, merging the scarf ends with the two corner sections.

31. Dutch Side Braided Ponytail

This is a nice little twist to add to a braid. I love how the Dutch braid stands out. It looks perfect with that tight and neat high ponytail. It’s a great way to welcome fall!

32. Side Braid Crown

Who doesn’t want to feel like a Khaleesi? Merge two side braids at the crown to let out your inner queen. You’ll surely rule the world with this eye-catching hairstyle.

33. Twisted Braid Hairstyle

This cute twisted braid hairstyle embodies elegance and creativity. Intertwine sections of hair into intricate twists, weaving them together to form one stunning hairstyle. This chic and versatile hairdo adds is perfect for those greasy hair days and works casual or formal occasions, elevating any look with its sophisticated charm. The best part is that you can pair this with a gown or jeans and a leather jacket!

34. Side French Braid

This hairstyle offers an effortless yet stylish touch to your look. Instead of weaving the French braid at the center of your head, here you weave it on one side, following the curve of your head. Secure the braid near the opposite side ear with hair pins. This classic yet trendy hairstyle adds grace and allure to any ensemble, perfect for various elegant weddings and other similar occasions.

Infographic: How Braiding Is Good For Your Hair

The above-mentioned side-braid hairstyles are a sight to behold and instantly take your style quotient up by a few notches. However, they don’t just serve a cosmetic purpose. Braiding your hair has some great benefits for your hair health. Check out the infographic below to learn more.

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Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do side braids damage hair?

If the hair is pulled too tight into side braids, it may cause breakage. The hair may also become fragile if it is tied into side braids regularly.

Are side braids better than twists?

Side braids last longer than twists as they lock in more hair.

Can I wear a side braid for both casual and formal occasions?

Yes, you can wear messy or loose side braids for informal occasions, while sleek, tight, and polished braids are perfect for formal occasions.

Can I incorporate accessories into a side braid hairstyle?

You can use intricate headbands, pins, and clips on the sides to make the braided hairstyle pop.

Are there any tips for making a side braid stay in place all day?

Use a hair mousse before styling your hair and finish the braided hairstyle with a hairspray to keep the hair in place.

Can I wear a side braid on different hair textures, such as straight, wavy, or curly?

Yes, you can style side braids on different hair textures. For straight hair, use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to add grip. For curly hair, use a curl enhancement product or leave-in conditioner to make braiding easier. For wavy hair, use a hair serum for shiny waves.

Are there any side braid hairstyles that work well for active or athletic lifestyles?

For athletic or active lifestyles, it is better to keep the hair in buns or ponytails so that it doesn’t get in your face while working out.

Can I wear a side braid with bangs or fringe?

Yes, you can pair side braids with various bangs such as blunt bangs, face-framing bangs, side-swept bangs, or fringes.

Are there any celebrities or influencers known for their signature side braid hairstyles?

Blake Lively, Lauren Conrad, Vanessa Hudgens, and Olivia Palermo are usually seen sporting a side braid hairstyle.

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

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Achieve a stylish and easy-to-do hairstyle with this beginner-friendly side braid tutorial. Whether it be for a special occasion or a casual day out, you can create this look in just a few simple steps!

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Samuel AshcroftCelebrity Hairstylist

 

Samuel Ashcroft is an expert stylist and educator at West London’s Josh Wood Atelier, one of the most prestigious salons in the UK. He has eight years of experience and specializes in effortless, simple, but beautiful hairstyles that enhance and embrace natural hair texture and patterns for every hair type and texture. He has extensive fashion and editorial experience and...more

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