35 Braided Hairstyles for Long Hair You’ll Be Obsessed With

Long hair and braids are a match made in heaven, offering limitless styling potential. If you’re seeking fresh inspiration beyond your usual plait, look no further. We’ve compiled 35 diverse and gorgeous braided hairstyles—from effortless cascades to intricate updos—perfect for long hair. Get ready to screenshot your new go-to looks right here.

1/35. Textured High Ponytail with Braids

Chic braided hairstyles for long hair: side view of blonde high ponytail featuring crown braids and a textured, braided tail.

Polished high ponytail gets a major upgrade with braided accents woven along the crown and integrated into the tail. This technique creates gorgeous texture and boosts volume significantly, proving perfect for long hair needing both style and control. Its sophisticated finish makes it ideal for formal occasions or elevating everyday wear.

2/35. Classic Waterfall Braid

Back view of long, straight brown hair featuring a horizontal waterfall braid across the upper section.

Delicate waterfall braid creates beautiful detail across long, straight hair. Sections of hair flow through the horizontal plait, achieving that signature cascading effect with effortless grace. Wonderful for adding romantic flair without complexity, this style keeps hair down while introducing elegant visual interest suitable for day or night wear.

3/35. Embellished Double Fishtails with Braided Headband

Back view of long dark hair styled with a pearl-accented braided headband, two fishtail braids, and decorative butterfly clips.

Complex design features a beautifully detailed braided headband accented with pearls, presiding over twin fishtail braids below. Showing off the styling potential of long hair, this look mixes textures and techniques for maximum visual impact. Decorative butterfly accessories complete the enchanting, almost ethereal aesthetic, ideal for special events.

4/35. Romantic Braided Half-Up with Floral Accents

Back view of long wavy brown hair in a romantic half-up style with converging braids, adorned with small pink floral accessories.

Gentle braids converge elegantly at the back, creating soft definition above cascading waves. Ideal for long hair, this half-up style beautifully balances structure with flowing texture. Scattered floral accessories enhance its inherent romance, making it stunning choice for weddings, proms, or any occasion demanding feminine charm and grace.

5/35. Half-Up Braids with Beads and Curls

Back view of long dark hair in a half-up style with bead-accented braids meeting above flowing curls, featuring a pink butterfly clip.

Sophisticated half-up design features neat braids embellished with delicate gold beads, drawing the eye towards lush curls cascading below. Showcasing long hair’s versatility, this style blends controlled elegance up top with playful volume. Single butterfly accessory provides sweet focal point, making it lovely for parties or special daytime events.

6/35. Subtle Waterfall Braid with Side Accent

Back view of long, straight dark brown hair featuring a subtle waterfall braid accented with a purple floral clip on one side.

Finely woven waterfall braid introduces subtle elegance to smooth, straight tresses. Perfect for long hair, this technique adds detail horizontally without disturbing the vertical flow. Strategic placement of single floral accessory enhances the understated charm, making this look versatile enough for daily wear or more polished events.

7/35. Regal Crown Braid Half-Up

Back view of long wavy blonde hair styled with an elaborate crown braid and central braided details adorned with ornate accessories.

Stunningly intricate crown braid construction defines this half-up style, enhanced by further braiding and embellished with ornate, vintage-style accessories. Demonstrating masterful technique on long, flowing waves, this look exudes regal, almost mythical energy. Truly captivating choice for themed events, photoshoots, or whenever dramatic flair is desired.

8/35. Classic Loose Side Braid

Woman with long dark hair styled in a loose three-strand side braid over one shoulder, with soft face-framing tendrils.

Effortlessly chic side braid provides timeless way to style long tresses. Gathering hair over one shoulder into simple three-strand plait is both practical and pretty. Leaving few strands loose around the face softens the look, ensuring versatility for casual days, work settings, or relaxed evenings.

9/35. Flowing Micro Braids

Woman with long hair styled in numerous thin micro braids, swept predominantly over one shoulder for a textured look.

Countless individual micro braids offer striking texture and intricate detail cascading down long hair. Serving as both protective style and bold fashion choice, these thin plaits look stunning when swept dramatically to one side. Overall effect is effortlessly cool, blending bohemian flair with undeniable edge for standout look.

10/35. Pearl-Accented Braided Headband

Side-back view of long dark hair in a half-up style featuring a pearl-accented braided headband and voluminous curls below.

Graceful braided headband adorned with perfectly spaced pearls offers sophisticated detail above luxurious, cascading curls. Ideal for formal occasions, this half-up hairstyle elevates long hair, blending intricate braid work with glamorous volume. Resulting look feels polished, romantic, and perfect for weddings, galas, or elegant evenings out.

11/35. Voluminous Fantasy Fishtail Braid

Woman with long platinum blonde hair styled with crown braids leading into a very thick, voluminous fishtail braid over one shoulder.

Masterfully crafted style combines detailed crown braids with exceptionally thick, textured fishtail braid brought over the shoulder. Truly maximizes impact of long hair, creating incredible volume and intricate detail. Its inherently romantic yet strong aesthetic channels powerful fantasy vibes, ideal for statement looks or themed occasions.

12/35. Intricate Basket Weave Half-Up

Close-up back view of long dark straight hair styled with an intricate basket weave braid pattern, accented by a central sparkly floral accessory.

Highly detailed basket weave braid forms impressive half-up structure, showcasing intricate patterning and texture. This technique demands skill and looks particularly striking on long, smooth hair. Elegant, sparkling floral accessory placed centrally provides beautiful focal point, ideal for sophisticated bridal or formal event styling.

13/35. Embellished Zipper Braid Half-Up

Back view of long, two-toned hair styled in a half-up look featuring an intricate zipper braid in a V-shape adorned with pearls, above defined curls.

Striking zipper braid forms precise, embellished V-shape, drawing attention down the center back. Contrasting beautifully with voluminous, defined curls, this half-up style is pure sophisticated glamour. Pearls along the braid’s spine add final touch of elegance, perfect for formal celebrations requiring intricate, eye-catching hair.

14/35. Twisted Half-Up Fishtail

Back view of long dark brown hair in a half-up style featuring side twists leading into a central fishtail braid.

Effortless twists starting from the temples meet neatly, transitioning into beautiful fishtail braid detail below. This half-up style offers wonderful way to incorporate intricate texture while letting long hair flow. Its charming blend of simplicity and elegance works equally well for brunch dates or attending wedding.

15/35. Center Accent Braid with Curls

Back view of long dark hair with curled ends, featuring a single prominent Dutch or French braid down the center parting.

Prominent center braid provides gorgeous focal point, running neatly down the crown before dissolving into abundant, defined curls. This popular style expertly blends sleekness up top with dramatic volume below. Perfect for adding sophisticated detail to long hair for events demanding polish and flair.

16/35. Embellished Waterfall Braid

Back view of long hair with curled ends, featuring a half-up waterfall braid adorned with small white floral buds.

Lovely waterfall braid creates elegant horizontal line, punctuated by dainty floral buds tucked delicately within the strands. Flowing into soft curls below, this half-up style feels utterly romantic and ethereal. Perfect choice for enhancing long hair’s beauty for garden weddings or spring celebrations.

17/35. Romantic Twisted Half-Up

Side-back view of long wavy hair in a romantic half-up style created with interwoven twists forming a soft knot.

Beautifully interwoven twists form soft, dimensional knot at the back in this romantic half-up style. Relying purely on twisting techniques, this look creates effortless elegance that enhances long, wavy textures. Its inherent softness makes it stunningly popular choice for bridal parties or any sophisticated gathering.

18/35. High Ponytail with Braids/Twists

Gathering lengthy box braids or twists into sleek high ponytail provides incredibly chic styling option. Cleverly wrapping the ponytail’s base with few braids ensures polished, unified look. Practical yet fashionable choice showcases intricate texture while keeping hair securely off the face and neck with confidence.

19/35. Pearl & Floral Headband Braid

Back view of long straight dark hair in a half-up style with a pearl-accented headband braid and a large purple floral accessory.

Graceful headband braid adorned with scattered pearls creates sophisticated arc across sleek, straight hair. Complemented by striking floral accessory cluster adding vibrant focal point, this half-up style is rich in detail. Perfect for dressing up long hair for weddings, festivals, or celebratory occasions.

20/35. Edgy Deconstructed Braid Pony

Intricate scalp braids provide stunning detail leading into deconstructed, segmented ponytail braid below. Offering cool, modern twist on classic pony, this style plays with texture and volume. Wispy face-framing tendrils add softness, completing edgy yet sophisticated look ideal for fashion-forward statements.

21/35. Butterfly Cascade Half-Up

Back view of long straight dark hair in a sleek half-up style adorned with a cascade of small metallic butterfly clips.

Simple, smooth half-up style becomes whimsical masterpiece thanks to artfully placed cascade of butterfly clips. Letting long, straight hair flow freely below, this look uses accessories for maximum impact. Perfect for adding touch of enchantment and youthful charm to otherwise understated hairstyle.

22/35. Pearl-Lined Headband Braid

Side view of long straight dark hair with a pearl-lined headband braid along the hairline, finished with a large white floral accessory.

Exquisite headband braid, meticulously lined with tiny pearls, elegantly frames the face while sweeping hair back. Transition point features detailed floral accessory for added opulence. Perfect style for showcasing long, straight hair at weddings or celebrations requiring touch of sophisticated glamour and intricate detail.

23/35. Pearl Braid on Crimped Texture

Back view of long dark crimped hair featuring a thin headband braid across the crown adorned with small white pearls.

Delicate pearl-accented headband braid provides striking contrast against voluminous, crimped texture of long hair below. Creating fun juxtaposition of sleek detail and rough texture, this style offers unique visual interest. Great way to add touch of polish to statement-making crimped look.

24/35. Boho Crown Braid with Sparkly Vine

Side-back view of long wavy light brown hair styled with a thick crown braid featuring a sparkly hair vine accessory, in a boho half-up look.

Gorgeous crown braid gains ethereal touch from delicate sparkly vine woven alongside it. Layered beautifully above flowing waves, this half-up style embodies bohemian romance with its textured braids and soft finish. Wonderful choice for outdoor weddings or achieving dreamy, picturesque hair look.

25/35. Waterfall Braid with Fresh Flowers

Side-back view of long straight brown hair with a horizontal waterfall braid accented with fresh purple and pink flowers.

Timeless waterfall braid allows long, straight strands to flow gracefully through delicate horizontal plait. Tucking few fresh, vibrant flowers into the braid elevates the look, adding effortless natural beauty. Ideal choice for garden weddings, festivals, or simply celebrating sunny days outdoors.

26/35. Festive Floral Headband Braid

Back view of long dark straight hair in a half-up style featuring a headband braid accented with baby's breath and a yellow flower.

Charming headband braid offers polished detail across the back, beautifully anchored by festive cluster of baby’s breath and vibrant yellow flower. Set against long, flowing hair, this half-up style blends intricate braiding with cheerful floral accents. Lovely choice suitable for weddings, parties, or joyous cultural events.

27/35. Embellished Central Braid Half-Up

Back view of long straight dark hair in a half-up style featuring a floral accessory and a thin central braid adorned with pearls.

Sleek half-up sections meet, topped by ornate floral cluster, before cascading into delicate central braid adorned with single pearls. This elegant design creates beautiful focal point running down long, straight hair. Ideal for adding intricate detail and formal polish for weddings or festive celebrations.

28/35. Interwoven Twist Half-Up with Sparkle

Back view of long dark hair with lighter curled ends, styled in a half-up look with interwoven twists, a large sparkly accessory, and scattered gems.

Beautifully interwoven twists form textured half-up section, dramatically contrasting with the full, defined curls below. Eye-catching leafy sparkle accessory provides glamorous anchor point, echoed by tiny gems enhancing the waves. Sophisticated, detailed style ideal for upscale evening events or bridal glamour.

29/35. Intricate Heart Braid Combo

Back view of long brown hair styled with two Dutch braids forming a heart shape, with a central fishtail braid below.

Impressive display of braiding skill features two perfectly formed braids creating romantic heart shape at the back. Complemented by delicate fishtail braid running down the center below, this multi-braid look is full of intricate detail. Playful yet complex style wonderful for creative expression or themed fun.

30/35. Chunky Pull-Through Braid

Back view of long highlighted hair styled in a very thick, voluminous, and textured pull-through braid.

Gorgeous volume defines this chunky pull-through braid, where sections are pulled wide for maximum fullness and soft texture. Ideal for making long hair appear incredibly thick, this technique results in relaxed yet sophisticated look. Perfect cozy-chic style statement for cooler weather or casual elegance.

31/35. Beaded Braids with Butterfly Accent

Back view of long straight dark hair styled in a half-up look with gold bead-accented braids meeting under a gold butterfly clip.

Delicate side braids, subtly accented with shimmering gold beads, converge beautifully at the center back. Single golden butterfly clip provides sweet, eye-catching finish to this polished half-up style. Wonderful technique for adding refined detail and charm to long, straight locks for any occasion.

32/35. Baby’s Breath Barrette

Back view of very long straight dark hair adorned with a horizontal cluster of baby's breath flowers.

Understated elegance achieved by placing cloud-like cluster of baby’s breath across long, straight dark hair. Functioning as natural accessory, this simple addition creates beautiful textural and color contrast. Effortless yet impactful choice, perfect for adding touch of romance to minimalist style preference.

33/35. Double Pearl Headband Braids

Close-up back view of long straight dark hair styled with two parallel headband braids across the crown, adorned with pearls.

Elegant double headband achieved with two neat, parallel braids running across crown, each highlighted by delicate pearl accents. This structured approach adds sophisticated visual interest and polish to long, straight hair worn down. Lovely choice for effortlessly chic detail suitable for many occasions.

34/35. Sweetheart Braids with Bow Accent

Back view of long straight dark hair in a half-up style with two braids forming a V-shape, accented by a sparkly bow barrette.

Lovely braids frame the back in soft V-shape, meeting neatly beneath elegant, sparkling bow accessory. Simple yet utterly charming half-up style enhances long, straight hair without complexity. Resulting look has sweet sophistication, making it versatile enough for daytime chic or evening events.

35/35. Boho Braids with Charm Tie

Boho braided hairstyles for long hair: back view shows dark hair with headband braid, scattered thin braids & white cord charm tie.

Eclectic mix combines headband braid detail with several thin, scattered braids accenting long, straight hair. Statement cord accessory, tied in bow with dangling charms, anchors the look with distinct bohemian flair. Fun, free-spirited style perfect for music festivals or showcasing creative, layered textures.

FAQs

How can I make my braided hairstyles last longer, especially with long hair?

Prep hair with a product for grip (like mousse) on detangled, ideally day-old hair. Use even tension when braiding. Protect styles overnight with a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase to reduce frizz. A light mist of flexible-hold hairspray can also help.

Which braided styles work best for different long hair types (fine vs. thick)?

Fine long hair suits styles adding detail without weight, like waterfall braids or gently ‘pancaked’ fishtails. Thick long hair is great for substantial looks like chunky pull-through braids or elaborate crown braids that can handle the volume.

What are some tips for adding accessories like clips, pearls, or flowers to braids tastefully?

Choose accessories that complement the style and occasion – often, less is more with intricate braids (use strategic pearls or one statement clip). Simpler styles allow for more playful scattering. Ensure everything is securely fastened, using bobby pins if needed.

We hope these long braided hairstyles have sparked your creativity! If you’re also curious about styles for slightly shorter locks, be sure to check out our inspiration for gorgeous shoulder-length hairstyles.

Furthermore, don’t underestimate how changing your part can refresh your look! For ideas on how different partings work, explore these middle-part hairstyle ideas suitable for every hair length.