Top 10 Most Popular Braided Hairstyles of 2023
Braids never go out of style, but 2023 has some fresh new takes on this classic look. From creative patterns to on-trend accents, these braided hairstyles will be huge this year. Upgrade your look with these 10 beautiful braid styles dominating 2023.
1. Goddess Braids
Channel mythical elegance with goddess braids. These intricate, face-framing plaits are braided close to the scalp for a dazzling effect. The braids flow loosely away from the head in a hairstyle that’s both feminine and strong. Add gold cuffs or beads for a divine accent. Goddess braids allow creative freedom – make them thin and delicate or large and prominent. This majestic protective style works for all hair lengths and textures.
2. Inverted Braids
Flip braiding on its head with the inverted braid trend. As the name suggests, inverted braids are plaited underneath the hair, with the braid itself hidden and just the loose ends exposed. The resulting wispy, tapered shape almost mimics layered hair. Inverted braids are quick, create cool volume, and can be styled in creative ways. Pull the flowing ends into an updo, leave them dangling at the nape of your neck, or sweep them regally over one shoulder.
To learn how to achieve the perfect braided style, check out this guide on picking the best mousse for braids. The key is starting with the right products for your hair type. A quality mousse will help braids hold their shape and stay frizz-free.
3. Fishtail Braid
For beautiful dimensions, you can’t beat the fishtail braid. The fishtail consists of two pieces repeatedly crossed over in an intricate “weaving” pattern. The intersecting look has a natural, organic feel like a fishtail from nature. The dazzling texture works for single braids, accent plaits, updos, or braided buns. For special occasions, embellish your fishtail with metallic strings or dainty flowers woven throughout.
4. Halo Braid
Frame your face in style with the Insta-worthy halo braid. True to its name, a halo braid elegantly encircles your head right near the hairline. It adds pretty detail just where you want it most – drawing attention to your face and eyes. The dimensional plaits help pull hair cleanly away into an updo. For added flair, braid strands like hair jewellery, beads or silk ribbons into the halo.
5. Pull Through Braids
Pull through braids continue trending strong for their gorgeous, woven look. As the name describes, small segments are split off, pulled through the braid, and incorporated into the pattern. This folding technique creates an eye-catching braid that almost appears twisted or knotted. Pull through braids are easier than they look and add showstopping detail.
6. Four Braids
Four braids promises is becoming an increasingly popular hairstyle for braid-lovers. The quad braid gives you symmetry and visual interest. Having four uniform plaits is also on trend – whether as pigtails, accent braids, or cornrows. Get creative criss-crossing or gathering the four braids in different ways for volume and 3D effects. For an edgy but feminine vibe, braid both sides loosely away from a centre part.
7. Bubble Braids
TikTok fueled the bubble braid craze for its fun, ‘90s appeal. Bubble braids have small segments that puff outward between plaits, creating a bumpy dimensional look. The technique works on single braids, pigtails, or as accents scattered throughout hair. Add barrettes that match the massive bubble shapes for amplified Y2K nostalgia. Bubble braids playfully transform even basic braided styles.
8. Heidi Braids
Heidi braids dominated runways and red carpets over the past year, meaning their popularity will continue in 2023. The romantic style features twin braids coiled neatly around the head like Princess Leia buns. The modest plaits evoke a wholesome country charm with a dose of elegance. For outdoor weddings or events with natural aesthetics, Heidi braids are perfection.
9. Stacked Braids
Why choose one braid when you can rock stacked, multi-level braids? These sky-high braided styles showcase braids of varying heights and patterns. Mix chunky Dutch braids, sleek cornrows, trendy inverted plaits, and more – piling on intricate detail. The sculptural stacked shapes almost resemble a braided crown. This high-fashion look commands attention for evening events or making a statement.
10. Jumbo Box Braids
There’s no doubt that you’re seeing more and more jumbo box braids everywhere in 2023. These huge, chunky square plaits spawned from 90’s nostalgia but feel modern and fresh. The larger size helps box braids stay neat longer than tiny plaits. Go dramatic with knee or waist-length XL box braids. Or keep them shorter and club-ready for a night out. Decorative gold cuffs or beads on the ends take the style up another notch.
With endless options for patterns, accents, and styling, braids let you showcase your individuality. Whether you crave whimsy, elegance or edge, these ten braided styles deliver fabulous inspiration for the year ahead. Express your personal flair while staying on trend with these elevated, statement-making braids.