Looking for your next hairstyle? Consider the braid! A simple hairdo with minimal upkeep, braids will keep your hair out of your face and make you look good while doing it. Celebs like Penelope Cruz, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Lucy Liu are all fans — and if these red carpet snaps prove anything, it's that braids are the perfect hairstyle.
Whether you're looking for something low-maintenance and casual or a braided updo for a special night out, braids work for pretty much any occasion (including those times when you need to get your daughter's hair done before school starts). From classic French braids to protective styles that work best with natural hair like box braids, here are some of our favorite braided hairstyles.
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1
Half Undone Box Braids
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Half-undone box braids add some fun volume to your hair — just like with Jessica William's casual style here.
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2
Two Front Braids
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FKA Twigs is certainly making a case to bring back this classic '70s style. Two face-framing braids are a fun way to keep your hair out of your eyes, without involving an updo.
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3
Double Braids
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Janelle Monae nails this particularly Parisienne look, down to the long, symmetrical braids. Don't worry, it looks just as good without the beret.
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4
Thick Cornrows
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Thick cornrows have become Tracee Ellis Ross's signature look. But here, the Blackish star takes it up a notch with these even thicker, three-dimensional braids.
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5
Braids With an Undercut
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We'd expect nothing less from the queen of cool herself, Zoe Kravitz. The best part about this daring undercut is that you can hide it under your braids, or show it off with a bold updo.
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6
Jumbo Crown Braid
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Now this is one gorgeous braid. Issa Rae's thick, voluminous braid starts at the center of her head, and follows along to her shoulder, creating a look fit for a modern-day Rapunzel.
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7
Braids Into Natural Hair
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Keke Palmer's fun and flirty hairstyle will keep your hair out of your face, but also allows you to put rest of your hair in a voluminous ponytail or leave it completely down.
Does this style look familiar, Hunger Games fans? Lucy Liu proves that a Dutch side braid following the nape of your neck isn't just for Katniss Everdeen.
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9
Double Crown Braid
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Penelope Cruz's lovely double braid takes your typical halo braid up a notch. The results is this striking, Grecian-inspired updo.
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10
Dramatic Side Part
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In a look that's the inverse of Lucy Liu's braid, This Is Usstar Susan Kelechi Watson proves that a massive side braid instantly enhances any look. To create, part your hair to one side and then braid the crown into a thick, voluminous braid.
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11
Faux Hawk Braid
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It's not just about the braid here. Selena Gomez added volume to her locks with a larger-than-life pompadour, thanks to a handy-dandy teasing brush.
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12
Grecian-Inspired Ponytail
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If anyone knows how to make a statement, it's Queen Bey. Create two inverted French braids on each side and one inverted braid down to the back to mimic the star's ethereal look.
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13
High Ponytail
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Sure, this look may be a little more understated (we're looking at you, Beyonce!) but it's just as intricate. Section the top of your hair in thin sections and braid. Instead of combining them into the ponytail, let 'em hang to the side.
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14
Tapered Tail
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Gina Rodriguez's high-braid ponytail is plumper at the top and tighter at the base, creating a fun, playful shape. It also brings out the gorgeous dimension of her highlights.
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15
Loosely Tied With a Ribbon
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Is there any braided look more romantic than this? We think not. Braid your hair to one side as loosely as possible, allowing strands on the opposite side to fall as they may. Don't forget the velvet ribbon!
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16
Cornrow Fishtail Side Braid
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Tight corn rows on one side of the head are balanced by a soft, draped fishtail braid on the other.
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17
French Braid Low Chignon
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French braids can vary in thickness and placement. This around-the-back look is great for any occasion, whether you're trying to keep your hair out of your face at the gym or dressing up for the evening.
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18
Halo Braid With Bangs
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As their name implies, halo braids wrap around the wearer's head like a halo. Halo braids give you a unique updo that beautifully shows off your hair color, weaving the layers together and pinning them up.
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19
Cornrows
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For a crisp pulled-back look that keeps your hair out of your face, try Jada Pinkett Smith's sleek cornrows.
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20
Braided Top-Knot
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For a modern take on the classic ballerina bun braid your hair first, then twirl it up top.
As an Editorial Fellow for Good Housekeeping, Katie covers health, beauty, home, and pop culture. Outside of the office, you can find her killing it on the karaoke machine or listening to true crime podcasts.