Let’s be real: we all love the stunning look of textured braids, but sometimes the maintenance and the time it takes to create intricate styles can feel like a part-time job. You want to protect your hair, express your personal style, and look put-together without spending hours in front of the mirror. If the thought of a complicated styling routine makes you want to just throw your hair in a bun (again), you’ve come to the right place.
This guide is dedicated to all the textured braid lovers who believe in low-maintenance, high-impact beauty. We’re diving into eight incredibly easy hairstyles that celebrate your braids without demanding a degree in cosmetology. Get ready to fall in love with your braids all over again, with minimal effort and maximum style.
1. The Effortless Braided Ponytail
Never underestimate the power of a ponytail. But we’re not talking about a basic, slicked-back look. The braided ponytail takes this classic style to a whole new level of chic. The beauty of this style is that your hair is already braided, so you’re starting with a fantastic texture and foundation.
Simply gather all your braids at your desired height—a high ponytail for a playful look, a low one for elegance, or even a side-swept style for a touch of drama. Secure it with a sturdy, snag-free hair tie. For an extra touch, you can take a small section of braids from the ponytail itself and wrap it around the base to conceal the hair tie, securing it with a bobby pin. It’s a five-minute upgrade that looks like you tried much harder.
2. The Half-Up, Half-Down Crown
This style is the perfect marriage of practicality and romance. It keeps the hair out of your face while showcasing the beautiful length and texture of your braids. To create this regal look, section off the front portion of your hair, from about the top of your ears forward.
Gather these braids as if you’re making a half-up ponytail, but instead of securing it at the back, split the section into two parts. Twist or loosely braid each part and then cross them over the top of your head, pinning them securely at the back with bobby pins. This creates a beautiful crown effect that frames your face beautifully. It’s ideal for bad hair days when you still want to look polished.
3. The Quick & Chic Top Knot
When you’re truly in a rush, the top knot is your best friend. This isn’t just any messy bun; it’s a statement. Gather your braids into a high ponytail, but instead of pulling them all the way through the hair tie on the last loop, leave the ends out to create a bun.
You can then twist the bun around its base for a slightly neater look or leave it as a voluminous, textured puff. The key is to make it look intentional. Gently pull a few braids loose around your face and at the nape of your neck to soften the look. It’s the perfect go-to for the gym, a busy workday, or when you just can’t be bothered.
4. The Simple Side-Swept Braid
Embrace a bohemian vibe with a side-swept braid. This style works beautifully with medium to long braids and requires almost no skill. Simply gather all your braids to one side of your head. Then, loosely braid this large section all the way down. You don’t need it to be tight or perfect—the charm is in its relaxed, textured feel.
Secure the end with a hair tie, and you’re done. For an even simpler version, you can just do a loose, side-parted style without the final braid, letting the braids cascade over one shoulder. This look is effortlessly glamorous and perfect for both day and night.
5. The Accessorized Head Wrap
Sometimes the easiest hairstyle is one where you don’t style your hair at all—you just adorn it. A head wrap or a stylish scarf can instantly transform your look while protecting your edges and scalp. Start by placing the scarf at the nape of your neck, bring the two ends up to the top of your forehead, and tie them into a knot or a bow.
You can tuck all your braids into the wrap for a sleek, sophisticated look, or leave them flowing out the back for a more casual feel. This is not only a zero-effort style but also a powerful fashion statement. It’s the ultimate solution for a day when your braids feel a little frizzy or you just want to add a pop of color to your outfit.
6. The Two-Strand Twisted Ponytail
If you want a look that’s a step beyond a simple ponytail but just as easy, the two-strand twisted ponytail is for you. Create a low or high ponytail and secure it. Then, divide the ponytail into two equal sections. Instead of braiding them, simply twist the two sections around each other until you reach the ends.
This creates a beautiful, rope-like effect that looks intricate but takes seconds to achieve. Secure the end with another hair tie. This style adds a touch of elegance and texture to the classic ponytail, making it look like you put in way more effort than you actually did.
7. The “Halo” Braid (It’s Easier Than It Looks!)
The halo braid sounds complicated, but with pre-braided hair, it’s surprisingly simple. This ethereal style involves creating a braid that wraps around your head like a crown. Start by loosely pulling your braids into a low side ponytail, but don’t secure it with a tie. Instead, gently twist the entire section and begin to wrap it around your head, following your hairline.
As you wrap, use bobby pins to secure the twist to the base of your hair underneath. Tuck the end under the wrapped section and pin it securely. Fluff and adjust the “halo” to cover the pins and create a full, beautiful crown. It’s a show-stopping look that’s perfect for special occasions.
8. The Textured Braid Out
Yes, you can even change up the texture of your braids without taking them down! For a gorgeous, wavy look, carefully take down a few of your braids (or all of them if you’re feeling adventurous). Gently separate the waves with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to create volume and softness.
You can then style these newly textured waves into any of the styles mentioned above—a ponytail, a half-up do, or just leave them down for a stunning, voluminous look. This is a fantastic way to refresh your style midway through your braid lifecycle and enjoy a completely different texture.
Embrace Your Style, Simplify Your Routine
Having textured braids should be a joy, not a chore. These eight easy hairstyles prove that you don’t need complicated techniques or hours of free time to look and feel amazing. Your braids are a versatile canvas, and with a little creativity, you can create a multitude of stunning looks that fit your busy lifestyle.
The key is to work with the beautiful texture you already have. So, the next time you’re staring at the mirror, wondering what to do, remember this list. Your perfect, easy, and gorgeous hairstyle is just a few simple steps away.
