20 Quick Braided Hairstyles Ideas
Let’s be real—some mornings you’re feeling yourself, and other mornings you’re just trying to look semi-put-together while praying no one notices you’ve skipped hair wash day… again.
That’s where quick braided hairstyles swoop in like the unsung heroes they are.
Whether you’ve got 5 minutes before a Zoom call or you’re running out the door for brunch, there’s a braid that’ll save the day—and your style rep.
I’ve been there: standing in front of the mirror, hairbrush in one hand, coffee in the other, debating between messy bun or “I actually tried” vibes.
Spoiler alert—braids win every time. Ready for a list that’ll make your hair routine 100% easier and way cuter? Let’s go.
1. The Classic Three-Strand Braid
Sometimes old-school just works. The three-strand braid is quick, easy, and literally impossible to mess up.
- Start at the nape of your neck.
- Divide your hair into three equal parts.
- Cross right over middle, left over middle, repeat until done.
You can wear it tight for a polished look or pull it apart for a soft, boho vibe.
Pro tip: Add a cute scrunchie or ribbon at the end if you want bonus style points.
2. French Braid
Ah, the braid that makes you look like you woke up 30 minutes earlier than you actually did. The French braid works for gym days, office days, and “oops I forgot to do my hair” days.
- Start at the crown, working in small sections.
- Add hair to each strand as you cross over.
- Finish with a regular braid.
Why it’s great: It’s tight enough to last all day and hides greasy roots like magic.
3. Dutch Braid
Think of it as the French braid’s cooler, edgier cousin—but instead of braiding over, you braid under. That little flip creates a braid that sits on top of your hair instead of blending in.
Perfect for:
- Adding texture to fine hair.
- Making your braid pop in photos.
4. Side Braid
The lazy girl’s best friend. Sweep your hair over one shoulder, braid, and boom—you’re done.
- Works best with slightly messy hair.
- You can do French, Dutch, or just three-strand.
IMO, the side braid always looks like you’re headed to a beach picnic, even if you’re just grabbing groceries.
5. Fishtail Braid
Yes, it takes a tiny bit longer, but the wow factor is worth it. The fishtail braid is made by splitting hair into two sections and crossing tiny pieces over each other.
Shortcut: Pull your hair into a low ponytail first, then fishtail the rest. You can cut the elastic at the top later for a seamless look.
6. Rope Braid
If braiding makes your brain hurt before coffee, this one’s for you. The rope braid is literally twisting two strands around each other.
- Twist both strands in the same direction.
- Wrap them together in the opposite direction.
It looks chic, takes two minutes, and works for ponytails or buns.
7. Braided Ponytail
This one’s perfect for those “I need my hair out of my face, but make it cute” moments.
- Put your hair into a high or low ponytail.
- Braid the ponytail and secure the end.
Extra style tip: Wrap a small piece of hair around the hair tie for a more polished finish.
8. Crown Braid
Yes, you can look like a boho goddess in under 10 minutes.
- Create two regular braids from pigtails.
- Wrap them over your head like a headband.
- Pin with bobby pins and fluff for volume.
Perfect for festivals, weddings, or hiding the fact that you didn’t wash your hair for three days. 😉
9. Half-Up Braid
When you can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down, half-up braids are the happy middle ground.
- Take two small sections from each side.
- Braid them and secure at the back with an elastic.
It’s casual, cute, and works with curls, waves, or straight hair.
10. Waterfall Braid
This one looks complicated, but trust me—it’s just a French braid with strands dropped along the way.
- Braid normally, but each time you cross a section over, let it fall and pick up a new piece from underneath.
It’s like magic for romantic, soft hairstyles.
11. Boxer Braids
Two tight Dutch braids running from your hairline to the nape = instant sporty-chic.
- Keeps hair secure all day.
- Great for workouts or outdoor events.
Plus, you’ll get those perfect braid waves when you take them out later.
12. Infinity Braid
Okay, this one’s a little extra, but it’s called infinity braid for a reason—it’s shaped like an infinity symbol.
- Works best with medium-to-long hair.
- Pair it with a ponytail for a unique twist.
13. Bubble Braid
Technically not a braid, but it’s too cute to skip.
- Secure your ponytail with multiple elastics down the length.
- Gently tug each section to create “bubbles.”
Takes literally 3 minutes and looks Pinterest-worthy.
14. Braided Bun
Perfect for date nights, formal events, or when you want to look like you have your life together.
- Make a low braid.
- Twist it into a bun and secure with pins.
You can make it sleek or pull pieces out for a relaxed, romantic look.
15. Micro Braids
Add a few tiny braids randomly through your hair for that effortless “I just stepped out of a music video” vibe.
- Works on straight, wavy, or curly hair.
- Bonus: No need for perfect parting.
16. Accent Braid
Sometimes less is more. Add one small braid to frame your face or tuck it into your ponytail for subtle detail.
Why it works: It’s minimal effort but makes people think you spent more time than you did.
17. Pull-Through Braid
The illusion braid—because you don’t actually braid it.
- Start with two small ponytails stacked on top of each other.
- Flip one over the other and keep going.
It looks big and voluminous without complicated finger gymnastics.
18. French Rope Braid
Combine the rope braid with French braid technique, and you’ve got a unique twisty texture.
- Great for adding interest to basic ponytails.
19. Milkmaid Braid
Like the crown braid but with bigger, chunkier braids wrapped around the head.
- Secure with pins and a few spritzes of hairspray.
Gives instant cottagecore princess energy.
20. Messy Braid
Sometimes, you just embrace the chaos.
- Make a loose three-strand braid.
- Pull pieces out and mess it up intentionally.
It’s effortless chic—and IMO, it’s the best way to rock braids on lazy days.
Final Thoughts
Braids are basically the Swiss Army knife of hairstyles—they work for bad hair days, special events, workouts, and everything in between. Once you know a few quick techniques, you can mix and match them to create endless looks.
So, next time you’re standing in front of the mirror wondering how to make your hair look good in under 10 minutes, just remember: there’s a braid for that. And if anyone asks how long it took, feel free to lie and say “oh, just a few seconds” 😉
