Braided Hairstyles for Long Hair: 18+ Elegant Variations
Be enchanted by intricate braids that bring elegance and charm to your long hair. Discover styles like the fishtail braid or the waterfall braid and let yourself be inspired.
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Braided Ponytail
The braided ponytail is a true multitasker among braided hairstyles – easy to style yet so cool. As you can see, it’s not just a pretty hairstyle for school but a casual head-turner for any day. Perfect for long hair, as it gives structure without weighing it down. Its beauty really shines with well-maintained hair, which can suffer less breakage through braiding. So, grab a strong hair tie and let the magic brush glide through your mane to perfect the look. With a bit of practice and the right hair accessories, you’ll create a look that will blow your friends away!
Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid – a classic with a certain flair! Its elegance is highlighted by the intricate pattern that turns your long mane into a work of art. For the perfect fishtail effect, it's important to select even strands, giving your braid that unique look. A small tip: If you thoroughly brush the strands before braiding, they become easier to manage and the braid will be beautifully even. Do you love the casual beach look? Then simply add some texture to your hair beforehand, for example with a salt spray. A braided beauty that fits both quirky casual styles and chic evening outfits. And for those who prefer something a bit unconventional: A side-braided fishtail gives it a modern twist!
French Braid
The French braid is a true gem in the world of hairstyles, adding a touch of elegance to your everyday life. Like an art of braiding, it takes a bit of practice – but don't worry, with a little patience, you'll soon master the technique. Start with well-groomed, untangled hair for a smooth braiding experience. When doing a French braid, you gradually add hair from the outside to each section, weaving it in – much like the intricate decoration of a cake with cream. Don't forget to keep the strands even to maintain the beautiful pattern. Once completed, the braid not only looks stunning but also provides a secure hold – perfect for long days or special occasions. With shimmering accessories like curlies, you give it the finishing touch and let your hair shine like a starry sky.
Dutch Braid
The charm of a Dutch braid is undeniable – a mix of elegance and playful chic, perfect for long hair and any occasion. This braid, known in some places as a Dutch Braid, is a real style miracle for your hair. Imagine each strand being skillfully woven under the next, creating the typical 'on-top-of-the-head' braid look. With a bit of texturizing spray before braiding, you give your hair the necessary grip, ensuring your braided look not only looks fantastic but also holds up. And don't worry, with a little practice this braiding technique is absolutely doable – a beautiful braid for a celebration or as a highlight in everyday life. Celebrate the look by gently pulling apart the braid to give it a voluminous charm.
Related styles
Optimal Preparation of Hair for Braided Hairstyles
To ensure that your braided hairstyles not only look stunning but also hold, start with optimal preparation of your long hair. First, it's important that your hair has some grip – meaning it's not freshly washed. However, if necessary, you can add some texture by washing your hair the day before and applying styling mousse or a bit of dry shampoo. Before braiding, it's advisable to thoroughly brush your long hair to remove any knots and tangles. This way, your fingers will glide more easily through the hair, and the strands will separate better. Also, make sure to brush your hair in the direction you plan to braid the style – whether for a middle or side part or straight back.
Proper Care and Handling After Braiding
After styling your hair into a beautiful braid, it's important to care for it appropriately. Undo the braid before going to sleep to avoid tension on the scalp and hair breakage. Use a soft, silk pillowcase to minimize friction while sleeping. The next day, you can gently brush your hair to distribute the natural oils accumulated on the scalp and to give it a nice shine. In the meantime, for added care, you can use a hair oil, massaging it into the ends and lengths to keep them smooth and prevent split ends.
Creative Styling and Variation of Classic Braided Hairstyles
Do you want to give your classic braided hairstyles a creative touch? No problem! With a few simple tricks, you can turn even a basic ponytail or a French braid into a work of art. For example, add some ribbons or bows by weaving them into the braid, or tie them at the end of the braid. You can also decorate individual strands with a hair bead or incorporate thin braids into your hairstyle for a surprising effect. Achieve a romantic touch by gently pulling out a few strands after braiding to give the hairstyle more volume and a casual look. Experiment with different braiding techniques like the waterfall braid or a crown braid to create impressive looks that showcase your long mane.
