Side braids feel effortless, but they can look uneven fast if the sections shift or the braid slides off your shoulder. The side placement changes everything, including how your braid frames your face, how secure it feels, and how your ends behave. Once you understand those small adjustments, a side braid becomes a go-to style for both casual days and more put-together moments.
Many people assume side braids only suit long, thick hair. They don’t. You can make them work on medium lengths, layered cuts, and finer textures by choosing the right braid pattern and keeping the tension consistent where it counts.
In this article, you’ll find more than nine side braid ideas, plus practical tips on parting, face-framing pieces, and finishing methods that prevent puffiness and slipping. You’ll know exactly which version fits your hair and your day.
9 Side Braid Hairstyles Youre About to Obsess Over
Loose Side Braid with Soft Face-Framing Pieces
This one is pure romance.
Classic Three-Strand Side Braid
The OG that never fails.
Side Fishtail Braid with Textured Finish
Fishtail but make it messy and side-swept.
Side Dutch Braid with Volume
Volume queen. The Dutch braid sits on top so it gives that cool 3D effect and throwing it to the side just makes it even better. Youll feel so edgy and pretty at the same time.
Side French Braid Starting at the Crown
Start at the top French braid down then finish regular over your shoulder its giving boho princess vibes. I wore this to my cousins wedding and my grandma kept touching it saying how fancy I looked youll feel like the main character all day.
Also great for keeping hair out of your face when its windy.
Messy Side Braid with Romantic Waves
Messy on purpose and I love it. Add some waves first then braid loosely to the side pull a few pieces out and youre golden. This is my lazy girl favorite youll do it on second or third day hair and it hides everything.
Side Braid Ponytail with Braided Detail
Ponytail but elevated. Braid a small section first wrap it around the base then let the rest hang in a side braid its such a cool detail. Youll wear this to the gym or brunch and it works both ways.
Side Waterfall Braid with Loose Length
So pretty I could cry. The waterfall effect with everything swept to one side leaves gorgeous strands falling down youll look ethereal. I tried this for a holiday party last year and spent the whole night flipping my hair like an idiot because it was just that good.
Thick Side Braid with Pull-Through Effect
Big and bold. Pull each section out after braiding for that chunky bubble effect over one shoulder its giving Viking princess but cute. Youll love how much volume it adds especially if your hair is fine like mine.
Why Side Braids Look So Chic When You Get the Balance Right
A side braid looks chic because it shifts visual weight to one side and creates a soft line across your collarbone. That asymmetry flatters you when you keep the top controlled and the braid shape consistent.
Make it look refined:
- Start with a clean part. A deep side part gives drama. A soft off-center part gives a relaxed vibe. Pick one and commit.
- Control the top first. Smooth the hair over your crown before you start braiding. A messy top can make the braid look sloppy.
- Match braid thickness to your hair. Thick hair can handle a wide, “pancaked” braid. Fine hair looks better with a tighter, narrower braid plus a little texture spray.
Common mistakes:
- You drag all the hair to one side too early and create bumps at the back. Keep hair centered while you smooth and secure, then sweep to the side.
- You pull the braid too tight near your face and too loose at the end. Keep tension even, then loosen gently after you tie it off.
Quick upgrade:
- Leave a small face-framing piece, curl it lightly, then tuck it behind your ear.
- Hide the elastic with a wrapped strand or a small ribbon for a polished finish.
FAQ:
Are side braids still in style?
Yes babe they never really go out! Theyre classic but keep coming back in new ways. Youll see them everywhere from runways to TikTok theyre timeless for a reason.
How do you keep a side braid from falling out?
Texturizing spray is your bestie and a good clear elastic at the end. Also pull it a little looser throughout the day it actually stays better that way. Ive worn mine all day running around and they hold up great.
Can you do side braids on short hair?
Totally! Even bob length works just make it smaller and messier. Youll end up with the cutest little side plait that frames your face perfectly. Dont let length stop you.
What face shapes look best with side braids?
Every single one honestly! They soften round faces elongate square ones and just look romantic on everyone. Youll find the perfect version for your features trust me Ive seen it on all my friends.
Just a little note - some of the links on here may be affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you decide to shop through them (at no extra cost to you!). I only post content which I'm truly enthusiastic about and would suggest to others.
And as you know, I seriously love seeing your takes on the looks and ideas on here - that means the world to me! If you recreate something, please share it here in the comments or feel free to send me a pic. I'm always excited to meet y'all! ✨🤍
Xoxo Charlotte
