There’s a certain magic in a hairstyle that looks like it was thrown together in a moment of effortless inspiration. It whispers of confidence, of a woman who is too busy living her fabulous life to fuss over perfection. And at the heart of this aesthetic lies the messy braid. Gone are the days of tight, severe plaits; today’s braids are all about texture, volume, and a beautifully undone finish.
1. The Classic Messy Fishtail Braid
Let’s start with a timeless favorite. The fishtail braid already has a bohemian, intricate feel to it, and when you deliberately loosen it up, it becomes a masterpiece. The key is to pull gently at the sections of the braid after you’ve finished, creating a wider, softer, and more textured look. This style works beautifully on second-day hair, as the natural oils provide the perfect grip and texture.
2. The Messy Side Braid
Perhaps the simplest way to dip your toes into the messy braid trend. A low, side-swept braid is incredibly forgiving and flattering on almost every face shape. Instead of braiding tightly, keep it loose from the start. After securing the end, tug at the outer loops of the braid to create volume and let a few face-framing strands escape. It’s the perfect I woke up like this hairstyle that takes mere minutes to achieve.
3. The Boho Messy Crown Braid
Channel your inner earth goddess with a messy crown braid. This style is less about a perfect halo and more about a romantic, woven crown. Create two loose braids—either Dutch or regular—and gently pin them around your head, tucking in the ends. The messier, the better! Pull out plenty of tendrils around your hairline and nape for a soft, ethereal effect that’s perfect for weddings and special events.
4. The Pull-Through Braid
If you struggle with traditional French braiding, the pull-through braid is your new best friend. This style creates the illusion of a complex braid using simple ponytails and hair elastics. The messy version involves leaving out chunks of hair from each ponytail and aggressively pulling the sections apart to create immense volume and a lacy, intricate look. It’s a guaranteed show-stopper.
5. The Messy Double Dutch Braids
Move over, sleek athletic braids. The messy double Dutch braid is a street-style star. After braiding your hair in two classic Dutch braids (which are essentially inverted French braids), you must aggressively pull them apart. Loosen every single loop to transform them from sporty to edgy and cool. This style is perfect for a festival, a workout, or just making a bold everyday statement.
6. The Tousled Rope Braid
For a more delicate and refined messy look, the rope braid (or twist) is a gorgeous option. Simply divide a section of hair into two parts and twist them around each other. Once secured, gently pull the twist apart to flatten and widen it. This works wonderfully as a side braid or incorporated into a half-up style. The result is elegant, soft, and surprisingly easy.
7. The Messy Braided Bun
Elevate your basic bun by adding a braided element. You can wrap a loose braid around a messy top knot, or create a braid leading into the bun itself. The goal is for the bun to be soft and not too round or perfect. Allow pieces to fall out and keep the braid sections loose and pulled apart. It’s a sophisticated yet effortless updo for work or dinner.
8. The Waterfall Braid with a Messy Twist
The waterfall braid is inherently romantic, but giving it a messy upgrade takes it to a new level. Instead of letting the dropped sections fall neatly, backcomb them slightly or twist them loosely before pinning them into a disorganized half-up style. Let the “waterfall” sections blend more naturally with the rest of your hair for a truly ethereal, head-turning look.
9. The Messy Four-Strand Braid
Ready to level up your braiding game? A four-strand braid looks incredibly complex, but the technique is simple once you get the hang of it. The messy version is even better because it hides any minor imperfections. After braiding, pull it apart to reveal a uniquely beautiful, woven pattern that is far more interesting than a standard three-strand plait.
10. The Mermaid Braid
This is essentially a voluminous, messy version of a classic braid, often a fishtail or a four-strand, that starts at the crown. The focus is on creating a thick, textured braid that flows down your back like a mermaid’s tail. The more you pull it apart and fluff it up, the more dramatic and enchanting it becomes. Perfect for long-haired individuals wanting to make a statement.
11. The Messy Braided Ponytail
Why have a plain ponytail when you can have a braided one? Take a high or low ponytail and braid it loosely, then pull it apart to create texture and width. You can also wrap a small braid around the ponytail holder to hide it for a more polished-yet-undone finish. It instantly adds interest and effort to an otherwise simple style.
12. The “Hiding a Bad Hair Day” Messy Braid
This is less a specific style and more a philosophy. On days when your hair is unwashed, frizzy, or just not cooperating, a messy braid is your savior. A loose, side-swept French or Dutch braid can strategically conceal the mess while looking intentionally stylish. The greasier your hair, the better it holds the braid—so it’s a true win-win.
13. The Messy Halo Braid with Bangs
A variation of the crown braid, this style specifically incorporates bangs or shorter face-framing layers. Instead of trying to force every piece into the braid, let your bangs and layers remain free, curling them softly to blend with the undone braid. This creates a beautifully soft and romantic frame for your face, making your features pop.
14. The Tousled Milkmaid Braid
This historical style gets a modern, messy makeover. Create two braids—as messy or neat as you like—and then cross them over the top of your head, pinning them securely. The key is to not make them sit flat. Pull the braids apart for volume and pull out plenty of face-framing pieces. It’s a whimsical and incredibly charming look.
15. The Messy Braided Headband
A fantastic way to keep hair out of your face with immense style. Take a small section of hair from the front, braid it loosely (a simple three-strand or rope braid works well), and pull it apart. Then, drape it across your forehead like a headband and pin it behind your opposite ear. Let the rest of your hair flow freely, whether it’s curly, wavy, or straight.
16. The Deconstructed French Braid
Our final look is the epitome of effortlessness. Start a French braid at the crown, but add hair inconsistently and braid very loosely. Halfway down, let the braid fall apart into loose waves or simply stop adding hair and finish it as a regular braid, then pull the entire thing to pieces. The result is a hairstyle that looks like it’s beautifully unraveling, capturing a moment of pure, romantic chaos.
Mastering the Art of the Mess: Pro Tips
Creating the perfect messy braid isn’t just about being haphazard. A little strategy goes a long way.
Start with Texture: If your hair is very clean and silky, it will be harder to work with. Use a texturizing spray, dry shampoo, or sea salt spray to add grit and hold. Braiding second or even third-day hair is always easier.
Braid Loosely: The foundation of a messy braid is a loose plait. Don’t pull the sections tightly as you braid. Keep a gentle hand.
The Pull-Apart is Key: After securing the end of your braid with a clear elastic, gently tug at the outer loops of the braid with your fingertips. Start from the top and work your way down, pulling each section sideways to widen the braid and create volume.
Embrace the Flyaways: Do not slick them down! The wispy pieces around your face and neck are what make the style soft, romantic, and intentionally messy. You can even tease a few out intentionally.
