Elegant Braided Hairstyles For Long Hair
As a hairstylist with over 10 years of experience, I have always been fascinated by the versatility and beauty of braided hairstyles. From classic French braids to intricate fishtail braids, there are endless possibilities to explore when it comes to styling long hair. In this article, I will share some of my favorite elegant braided hairstyles for long hair that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a formal event, or just want to switch up your everyday look, these hairstyles will surely make heads turn.
Elegant Braided Updo
One of my all-time favorite braided hairstyles for long hair is the elegant braided updo. This hairstyle is perfect for formal events such as weddings or proms, where you want to look polished and sophisticated. To achieve this look, start by parting your hair down the middle and creating two Dutch braids on each side. Then, gather the braids at the back of your head and secure them with bobby pins. Finish off the look by tucking any loose ends into the braids and adding a few spritzes of hairspray for hold.
Tips for the Elegant Braided Updo:
- For added elegance, you can incorporate some delicate hair accessories such as pearl pins or a sparkly hair comb.
- If you have thick or heavy hair, use a strong-hold hairspray or hair gel to ensure that your braids stay in place throughout the event.
- To add more volume to your updo, you can gently tease the hair at the crown of your head before braiding.
Elegant Side Braid
If you’re looking for a more relaxed yet stylish look, the elegant side braid is the perfect choice. This hairstyle works well for both casual and formal occasions and is incredibly easy to create. Simply gather all your hair to one side and start braiding from the nape of your neck. You can opt for a classic three-strand braid or experiment with different variations such as a fishtail braid or a rope braid. Secure the end of the braid with a hair tie and gently pull on the sections to create a fuller and more textured look.
Tips for the Elegant Side Braid:
- If you have layers in your hair, use bobby pins to secure any loose strands that may fall out of the braid.
- To add a touch of elegance, you can wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it.
- For a more romantic look, you can loosen the braid by gently pulling on the sections and spraying some texturizing spray for a tousled effect.
Elegant Half-Up Braided Hairstyle
The elegant half-up braided hairstyle is a perfect choice if you want to showcase both your beautiful long hair and the intricate braiding techniques. This hairstyle works well for both formal and casual events and can be customized to suit your personal style. To create this look, start by parting your hair in the middle and taking two small sections of hair from the front. Braid each section and secure them at the back of your head with bobby pins. Leave the rest of your hair down or curl it for a more glamorous look.
Tips for the Elegant Half-Up Braided Hairstyle:
- For a boho-inspired look, you can pull out a few face-framing strands of hair and curl them with a curling iron.
- If you want to add some extra flair to your hairstyle, you can incorporate some small flowers or hair accessories into the braids.
- For a more polished look, you can use a flat iron to straighten your hair before braiding.
Elegant Braided Ponytail
The elegant braided ponytail is a classic hairstyle that never goes out of style. Whether you’re attending a formal event or running errands, this hairstyle is perfect for any occasion. To achieve this look, start by creating a Dutch braid on one side of your head, starting from the front and working your way towards the back. Once you reach the nape of your neck, gather all your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. To add a touch of elegance, you can wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it.
Tips for the Elegant Braided Ponytail:
- For a more voluminous ponytail, you can gently tease the hair at the crown of your head before creating the braid.
- To make the braid stand out, you can pancake it by gently pulling on the sections to create a fuller and more textured look.
- If you have thin or fine hair, you can use a hair extension or a clip-in ponytail to add length and volume to your hairstyle.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: How long does it take to create these elegant braided hairstyles?
A: The time it takes to create these hairstyles will vary depending on your skill level and the complexity of the braids. On average, it can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 30 minutes to complete these hairstyles.
Q: Can these elegant braided hairstyles be done on short hair?
A: While these hairstyles are designed for long hair, some of them can be adapted for shorter hair. For example, you can create a mini version of the elegant side braid or opt for a half-up braided hairstyle with shorter hair.
Q: What products do I need to create these elegant braided hairstyles?
A: To create these hairstyles, you will need basic hair styling tools such as a comb, bobby pins, and hair ties. Additionally, you may also need hairspray, hair gel, and texturizing spray to hold the braids in place and add texture to the hair.
Q: Can I sleep with these braided hairstyles?
A: It is not recommended to sleep with these braided hairstyles as it may cause the braids to become messy and lose their shape. It is best to take out the braids before going to bed and create a new hairstyle the next day.
Whether you’re attending a special event or just want to switch up your everyday look, these elegant braided hairstyles for long hair are perfect for adding a touch of style and sophistication. With a little practice and patience, you can easily recreate these hairstyles at home and make a statement wherever you go. So, go ahead and embrace the beauty of braids and have fun experimenting with different styles!