Okay babe lets chat about side braid hairstyles because Im kinda in my side braid era right now and I cant stop. Like have you ever done a quick braid over one shoulder and suddenly feel ten times cuter?? Thats the magic of side braids for you. I used to think they were just for festivals or bad hair days but nope youll throw one in for literally any occasion and it always works.
Side braid hairstyles are that effortless vibe that looks like you tried when you really just spent five minutes in front of the mirror.
I obviously went down the Pinterest hole again (shocker) and saved a ton of side braid hairstyle ideas because once you start you cant stop right?? Some of these are so pretty and easy youll be doing them on repeat.
Quick story time my friend Emma hates doing her hair like actually avoids it but I showed her a simple side braid last summer and now every time we go out shes got one in and texts me “you created a monster” lol. Youll turn into that girl too its inevitable.
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.
Honestly side braid hairstyles are my secret weapon when I wanna look like I put in effort but actually just wanted to sleep longer. They work on clean hair dirty hair curly straight every texture every length youll find one that becomes your signature I promise. Plus theyre so forgiving if you mess up a section just pull it looser and call it intentional haha.
One more little story my roommate caught me practicing a side fishtail in the mirror at like 2am because I was bored and now every time she sees me do my hair shes like “here comes the braid girl” but joke’s on her because she asked me to teach her last week. Youll convert all your friends too it always happens with these.
So next time youre staring at your hair like “what now” just sweep it to one side and start braiding. Youre gonna feel so pretty and put together with basically no skill required. Which one are you trying first?? Send me pics I wanna see!
FAQ: Side Braid Hairstyles Questions Answered
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.
There you go babe your full guide to falling head over heels for side braid hairstyles just like I did. Go practice one tonight play some music throw your hair over your shoulder and have fun with it. You deserve to feel this cute every day with zero stress. Cant wait to hear which one becomes your fave!
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
