21 French Braid Hairstyles 2025 For Women With Long, Medium Length, Short And Curly Hair For Every Occasion

French braids continue to reign supreme as one of the most versatile and elegant hairstyles. From casual outings to glamorous events, French braid hairstyles offer endless styling opportunities. In this article, we’ll explore the best trends for 2025, highlighting each look with detailed descriptions and tips for recreating them.

Elegant Braided Crown with Side Braid

This stunning braided crown hairstyle merges elegance with practicality, making it ideal for special events or even a casual day out. The crown braid wraps seamlessly around the head, while the thick side braid cascades over the shoulder, adding texture and volume. This look is perfect for medium length or long hair and works beautifully with natural highlights.

To achieve this look, create a traditional French braid starting from one temple and wrapping it around to form a crown. Leave some strands loose at the front for a soft, romantic vibe. Secure the side braid with a clear elastic, and mist with a light hairspray for hold. This style pairs wonderfully with boho-inspired outfits or flowing maxi dresses.

Double Dutch-Inspired French Braids

These double French braids are a fresh take on a classic style, blending structure and style for a youthful, modern appearance. Perfect for white women with long hair, this look is both functional and chic, making it ideal for workouts, casual days, or even a sporty event.

Start with a middle part and divide the hair into two sections. Create step-by-step French braids on each side, pulling tightly for a sleek finish. Add a touch of texture by gently tugging on the braid edges. This hairstyle is simple yet striking and can be styled with a cap or scrunchie for a laid-back vibe.

Romantic Braided Pigtails with Front Layers

For a softer, more playful look, these braided pigtails are a trendy option. Featuring loose front layers that frame the face, this hairstyle is ideal for kids, teens, or anyone looking for a youthful flair. It’s a perfect pick for casual outings or school days.

To create this look, part the hair down the center and braid each side using a traditional French braid technique. Allow the front layers to fall naturally, or curl them slightly for added dimension. This hairstyle looks especially beautiful on shoulder-length hair and pairs well with cozy sweaters and casual outfits.

Half-Up French Braids with Loose Waves

This half up half down hairstyle exudes a romantic, bohemian vibe, making it perfect for weddings or outdoor gatherings. Two French braids lead into loose, voluminous waves, creating a mix of texture and movement.

To achieve this style, start by braiding the top sections of your hair and secure them at the back with pins or a small elastic. Curl the remaining hair into soft waves for added volume. This look works best on medium length or long hair, and hair extensions can be used to enhance fullness.

Edgy Braided Undercut

For those looking for something bold and edgy, this braided undercut hairstyle is the ultimate trend for 2025. The shaved sides create a sharp contrast to the intricate braided crown, making it ideal for fashion-forward women.

To recreate this look, braid the top section of your hair into a French braid, leaving the shaved sides visible. Finish with a touch of wax for added texture. This look is perfect for short hair and makes a statement at concerts, festivals, or casual outings.

Sleek French Braids for Everyday Wear

These sleek side French braids offer a clean and polished aesthetic, making them perfect for work or school. The braids are tight and structured, showcasing the natural shine of the hair.

Start by parting the hair on one side and braiding each section tightly down to the ends. This style is perfect for medium length or long hair and is easy to maintain throughout the day with a bit of hairspray.

Thick and Textured French Braids

Thicker braids add an extra element of drama to the classic French braid hairstyle. Ideal for curly hair, this look emphasizes volume and texture, making it a great option for evening events.

To achieve this style, use a wide-tooth comb to add volume before braiding. Start braiding from the crown, incorporating larger sections of hair. Pair this look with bold accessories to complete the ensemble.

Voluminous Side-Swept French Braid

This side-swept French braid combines the elegance of traditional braids with a modern twist. The loose, voluminous braid cascades to one side, making it a stunning choice for formal occasions or a romantic date night.

To create this look, start braiding from one side and work your way across, keeping the braid loose for a messy hair effect. This style complements natural or slightly curled hair and works beautifully with evening gowns or cocktail dresses.

Side-Swept French Braids with a Wavy Bob

This style combines a medium-length wavy bob with small, tight side French braids, offering a touch of edge to an otherwise classic cut. Perfect for white women who want to experiment with a daring yet wearable look, this hairstyle highlights asymmetry and adds dimension to the waves.

To recreate, section off a side portion of your hair and create two small braids, pulling them tightly for contrast. Leave the rest of your hair loose with soft waves. This look pairs effortlessly with statement earrings or bold makeup.

Sleek French Braid Ponytail with Volume

This high ponytail with French braids is the epitome of elegance and practicality. The braids add intricate detail, while the voluminous ponytail creates a stunning silhouette. Ideal for formal occasions or an upscale party, this look works best on long hair or with hair extensions.

Begin by braiding two or three tight French braids along the crown, merging them into a high ponytail. Use a curling wand to add waves to the ponytail for extra drama. This style pairs beautifully with sleek outfits and bold accessories.

Half-Up French Braid Crown with Bun

This half-up half-down hairstyle is the perfect choice for weddings, formal dinners, or other special events. The braided crown seamlessly transitions into a soft bun, creating a mix of structure and softness.

To achieve this look, braid two sections from either temple and pin them into a bun at the crown. Leave the remaining hair loose or add soft curls for texture. This style is a versatile option for both shoulder-length and long hair.

Textured French Braided Low Bun

This low French braided bun is a sophisticated choice for corporate events or upscale occasions. The braid starts at the crown and leads into a neat bun at the nape, showcasing elegance and practicality.

To recreate, start with a loose French braid from the crown, incorporating sections as you move toward the nape. Secure the hair into a bun using bobby pins. This natural hairstyle works well on medium-length hair and looks stunning when paired with neutral-toned outfits.

Classic French Braid with a Twist

A timeless French braid with a modern update, this style features a smooth braid that flows down the back, making it ideal for a professional setting or casual day out. The sleekness enhances the braid’s detail, making it suitable for white women with long hair.

To style, create a clean part and braid from the top of your crown, pulling the sections tightly for a polished finish. Use a shine serum to keep flyaways in check. Pair this look with tailored outfits for a cohesive vibe.

Romantic Halo Braid with Loose Curls

The halo braid offers an angelic and romantic feel, perfect for weddings or formal evening events. The braided crown encircles the head, while loose curls frame the face, adding softness and volume.

To achieve this look, braid from one temple around the head, incorporating hair as you go. Curl the loose strands for a touch of elegance. This shoulder-length hairstyle is best complemented with dainty jewelry and subtle makeup.

Elegant Side French Braid for Shoulder-Length Hair

This sophisticated side French braid effortlessly combines functionality and style, making it perfect for women with shoulder-length or medium length hair. The braid starts at the front, framing the face beautifully, and transitions into soft waves for a relaxed, chic finish. This style works wonderfully for white women with natural texture, but hair extensions can be added for extra volume.

Ideal for brunches, workdays, or even casual evenings, this simple yet elegant look can be achieved with minimal effort. Start braiding along the hairline, keeping the braid tight, and secure it at the side for a polished finish. Use a texturizing spray to enhance the waves and give it a subtle messy hair vibe.

Double Braided Top Knot for Kids or Teens

This fun and vibrant two braided top knot is the ultimate hairstyle for kids and teens! The look features two sleek French braids that transition into playful buns, combining practicality with a modern edge. It’s perfect for sports, school events, or even a weekend outing.

To create this look, part the hair in the middle and begin French braiding on each side, incorporating all strands until you reach the crown. Wrap the ends into small buns, securing with elastics or pins. This step-by-step style can be further accessorized with colorful ribbons or clips to make it even more playful.

Traditional French Braid Ponytail

The classic French braid ponytail is back in 2025, and it’s the perfect style for any occasion. Starting from the crown, the braid cascades elegantly into a low ponytail, combining timeless sophistication with practicality. This is an excellent option for long hair and can be adapted for medium length with hair extensions or a weave.

This tutorial-friendly style requires only a few steps: Begin a traditional French braid and stop at the nape, then gather the remaining hair into a ponytail. Add a touch of shine serum for a polished finish or keep it loose and textured for a casual vibe.

Double Dutch Braids for White Women with Curly Hair

Double Dutch braids are a trendy upgrade to the traditional French braid, ideal for women with curly hair or those using wigs or weaves for added volume. The symmetrical braids run down both sides, exuding a sporty yet feminine charm.

This easy hairstyle is ideal for gym sessions, running errands, or even a casual night out. Part your hair evenly down the middle and start braiding tightly from the scalp to the ends, securing with elastics. Leave the ends loose or wrap them into small buns for a more playful touch.

Side-Swept French Braid with Undercut

For bold and edgy women, this side-swept French braid paired with an undercut is the ultimate statement look. Perfect for short hair, this hairstyle balances sophistication and attitude, making it a favorite among fashion-forward individuals.

To achieve this style, braid one side of the hair tightly, incorporating strands towards the nape, while leaving the other side sleek and styled. Finish with a lightweight shine spray for a polished yet daring finish.

Crowned French Braid Updo with Twists

This crowned French braid updo is a dreamy choice for formal occasions like weddings, galas, or parties. The style intertwines intricate braids with soft twists, creating a regal effect that’s perfect for both medium and long hair.

To recreate this updo, section the hair into halves and braid each side, pinning them into a crown-like shape. Add soft curls to the loose ends or incorporate small flowers for a whimsical touch. This style pairs beautifully with an elegant dress or gown.

Messy Half-Up French Braid Bun

The half-up half-down style meets the classic French braid in this relaxed and romantic look. Perfect for black women or those with textured curly hair, the style offers versatility and charm, making it suitable for anything from date nights to casual hangouts.

Start braiding at the crown and stop midway, securing with a small elastic. Gather the rest into a bun, leaving the bottom section loose. For added texture, fluff the braid slightly and let a few strands frame the face. This look works wonderfully with medium length or long hair.

French braids are truly timeless, offering endless possibilities for women of all ages and hair lengths. Whether you’re embracing a bold look like the braided undercut or keeping it classic with double braids, these hairstyles are set to dominate 2025. Try these stunning styles and let us know your favorites in the comments below! For more inspiration, explore the latest tips from beauty experts and hairstyling icons.