It is fall in the air, can you feel it? It is crisper, sweaters are out and with them that urge to shake things up. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to chop all your hair off or go wild with color (unless you want to, of course). A really good braid will sometimes do the trick. No, not the simple type, we mean high, fancy, scroll-catching braids that will cause you to do a double-take in the mirror. So which braid are you screenshotting next? Which style will make your bad hair day a moment? Let’s find out.
These looks all add a little something to the mix texture, structure, softness and I wrote this guide to not only teach you how to recognize your new favorite braid but also to wear it with confidence. Whether you’re someone who braids every week or someone who’s always admired from afar, there’s a look here just waiting to become your new signature.
So, we can begin to scroll.
Protective Energy Luxe Lengths
So, just to begin with–wow. These extra long, waist-grazing micro braids are all I need in the fall. They are smooth but not harsh, they blow in the wind in the most dramatic manner and they exude silent confidence. The separation is clean and the color is a soft caramel shade that makes the style stand out against a dark neutral blazer- this is boardroom beauty that easily becomes dinner-date glam.
These are protective braids that need maintenance- hydrating sprays such as Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil are fantastic to keep the shine and promote growth underneath. Wear them this long and you will want to sleep with a silk scarf and hydrate those ends. Such a small sacrifice, but it is worth it.
I had something like this two winters ago, but the color in this makes it so much more wearable in the fall. It is something about the combination of honey-gold strands and falling leaves that is so seasonally right.
Fall tip: wear it with a deep berry lipstick and a trench coat- you will feel like you are in a movie in the best way.
Soft Power Blazer Street Chic
It is the combination of the form and the delicacy that makes this braid moment so special. We continue to work with long micro braids but with a side part and a very business-casual pink blazer. It is a gift: I know what I am doing and I look fabulous doing it. This braid style is a finishing touch to any fall ensemble, but it does not dominate.
In order to keep this style crisp, I would recommend using a mousse like Design Essentials Natural Almond & Avocado Curl Enhancing Mousse at the roots so that it will remain sleek especially when you plan on wearing this style down most of the time. When the temps drop and humidity increases, flyaways will sneak in.
I suppose it is the contrast that appeals to me most. The audacity of the braids and the gentleness of the tailoring? Ugh. Chef’s kiss. This entire ensemble is fit in a Paris street-style roundup. And that it works even on the daily errands? Iconic.
This fall, I am embracing surprises, hard and soft, sleek and cozy. This plaited style is on point.
Braids Which Are Statement Pieces
Side of sass and chunky French braids? Yes, please. These golden-blonde braids are thick, built and simply bold. The face-framing strands make the appearance soft enough, yet feminine and strong. And we can not forget the cleanliness of those parts either- this is top-notch braiding work.
What I like here is the contemporary twist to a traditional childhood style. It is nostalgic but not dated and the color brings it to a more editorial level. I would match this outfit with a high neck top and hoops similar to this to add some strength to the softness.
Ursula Stephen, a celebrity stylist once stated that, braids are one of the most timeless styles but it is their evolution which keeps them relevant. And this appearance? Fully evolved.
Fall is the season of layers, and this braid style layers in texture, contrast, and appeal–without having to use a single hair accessory.
Close Top-Knot Braided Energy
Here is one that surprised me completely, in a good way. It is half top-knot, half double braid and all cozy-chic. This braid combo is delivering a high-impact without the pressure of a full-head style. The crown knot is formal and adds height and flair, and the twin braids make it casual. The balance? So good.
It is the type of style that works well with a bit of texture so do not be afraid of dry shampoo such as Kristin Ess Style Reviving Dry Shampoo to ensure that the roots are lifted. It also comes in handy in the fall mornings when your hair routine should take no more than five minutes.
As a person, I adore this braid style on weekends apple picking, farmer markets, or just pretending you are the star of a Netflix fall romance. This is your default hair style in case you have medium-to-long hair.
Also? It is an excellent day three style when you are not quite ready to have wash day but you want to appear like you tried.
Cool Weather Days Romantic Crown Braid
Classy but not stuffy, this supersized plait twisting around the head is the solution to the question of what to do with your hair at this wedding/event/dreamy date this fall. It is organized but gentle, romantic but not too sweet. You can pluck some few wisps to make it look lived-in and contemporary. And the dark glossy brown color? So green this time of year.
I believe this style is ideal in low humidity and cooler temperatures- which is ideal in fall. A shine serum such as Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser Invisible Oil will help smooth it down and provide it with the reflective finish without weighing it down.
I have always been partial to styles such as this one. They make you feel elegant when you are merely wearing sneakers and a coat. It is providing silent luxury without uttering the words. And to be honest, fall is all about those small occasions when you need to look like you made an effort even though you did not.
Put it together with a lace top, a longline coat, and a bold lip- and you are ready.
Loose Curls Cascading Double Braids
I have always been a sucker of the romantic vibe of braids that do not overdo it and this one does it perfectly. The massive twin plaits cascade down both sides, and face-framing curls soften the style. The crown braids are intertwined into the top and melt into the twin plaits, and the blonde balayage adds this creamy, fall-lit warmth to the entire thing. It is the type of braid that is old-world princess but modernized, and it looks great with a comfy ribbed sweater or even something more edgy in contrast.
This style will last all day on thick hair or hair with natural volume. Fine-haired girls can use a volumizing mousse (I love the Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse) before blow-drying to keep the braid looking full. And don’t forget a texture spray like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray for that grip before braiding.
I personally believe that this is one of those looks that you can wear to the pumpkin patch to late dinner without having to touch up once. It only improves because it loosens up a bit as the day goes on– and is not that the charm of a good braid?
This one is low effort too once you get it down, you can even sleep in it in case of a next-day wave scenario. Frankly, this is the one braided look you need to do this fall.
Low Bun Twist Halo Braid
This braid is all class. It starts with a Dutch halo crown that wraps around the head like a headband (but way better) and ends in a low, sleek bun. The thickness of the braid provides a significant visual interest without being excessive, and the cool caramel highlights pop just enough to bring out the twists. It’s giving “fall wedding guest” energy but also totally wearable with a turtleneck and gold hoops.
My secret to a clean finish: smooth with a taming balm such as Virtue Un-Frizz Cream and blow-dry straight then braid. The polish and the management are enormous with this kind of structure. Spray a light mist of Color Wow Extra Shine Spray to finish off and make the braid shine.
What do I love best? This makes you feel instantly put together. It’s the kind of braid that replaces your blowout — and no one will ask if you “just threw your hair up.” Bonus: it is safe and slim enough to wear under a beanie without ruining the mood. Do that in a messy bun.
It is a go-to when you are in the mood to wear braid hairstyles that are not old-fashioned yet polished. Eternal, not tedious.
Soft Voluminous Side-Swept Boho Braid
This is where hard and soft come together in the most perfect manner. The braid begins at the crown, and works diagonally across and down into a thick, boho-inspired plait. There are loose strands left out around the face to give it a whispery feel and the general silhouette is relaxed though not messy. The darker base that has some golden brown in it gives it depth and makes it even more seasonal.
If you’re planning to recreate this, use a 1.5-inch curling iron beforehand to add bend — trust me, it makes the braid fall better. Then loosely braid and pull the loops to pancake it out to be full. Complete with R+Co Balloon Dry Volume Spray to give a lifted, airy finish.
It is one of those Pinterest braid hairstyles that I would pin and pin before I eventually tried. And when I did? Obsessed. It is surprisingly wearable not only to brunch or farmers markets but also with a structured blazer to add contrast.
The tail could be pinned under as well and you could fake a braided chignon on fancier occasions. Seriously versatile.
Loose Waves and Half-Up Crown Braid
This is the one to wear when you want to feel put together but at the same time free-flowing. The braid is wound round and round the temples, and melts into curling, smooth waves. It’s a classic half-up style, but way more detailed and seasonal. I love the way that front braid is sweeping across the hairline and it gives it a bit of woodland fairy vibe and I am not upset about it.
Low-maintenance girlies, this one’s for you. In case you have heat-styled waves, you only need to spritz a light-hold hairspray such as LOréal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold and you are ready. Natural waves? Better still, work in a touch of Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Cream and go.
The thing that surprised me most is that this looks much better as the day progresses. The braid remains, but the waves relax and it is this lived-in, dreamy effect. It can be worn with a sweaterdress or oversized cardi and you still feel like you did something with your hair.
It also allows you to add to it later on- a low bun on the bottom, or pull the rest into a pony should the weather turn hot.
Slicked Sides Sculpted Dutch Braid
This plait is business. The Dutch braid begins with a center section, which is pulled taut and tidy in the front to back direction, leaving everything extra defined. The braid pattern is dense and high, and there are no flyaways, which means that it is an ideal choice during that transitional period when frizz is attempting to destroy your life. The styling around the ears is clean, almost sculptural, which really brings out bone structure and lets your makeup (or earrings) shine.
The trick to getting this right is a strong-hold gel, I swear by Got2b Glued Styling Gel. Use it bit by bit when you are braiding to maintain everything smooth and tamed. Spray TIGI Masterpiece Shine Hairspray to finish with a bit of sheen and hold.
I believe that this braid is underestimated. It provides you with a put-together appearance to work, meetings, or whenever you need to look chic and not too hard. And it is so good with a turtleneck or mock-neck, so fall capsule wardrobe coded.
If you’re into minimalist braid hairstyles but still want compliments, this one checks every box.
Fall Texture Two-Toned Braids
This style is so a slight flex. A two-strand Dutch braid arrangement with multi-dimensional colors that run through it- it is layered, soft, and effortlessly elevated. The warm blonde ends have a gorgeous contrast with the darker base and those braids are perfectly sectioned and not too tight, but just loose enough to be organic, not overdone. Just right in that middle ground where you want to appear styled and yet not styled-to-death.
I adore the way the braid fades into free ends so naturally–it makes it look lived in, which is very fall hairstyle coded. In case you are doing something similar in color mix, I would suggest using Pureology Color Fanatic Leave-In Treatment to maintain the vibrancy in place and detangle prior to braiding. It’s a game-changer when you’re dealing with color-treated hair and intricate braids.
Frankly, the entire aesthetic gives me the urge to wear a giant sweater, order a latte, and pretend I am the protagonist of a Hallmark fall film. You get me? The informal cafe setting simply clinches it- it is cozy girl time.
It also is surprisingly wearable, when you have to run errands or meet friends. This is the braid to save in case you have long hair with highlights or balayage.
Low Braided Chignon Fall Events
Your fall wedding season savior is this braided bun. It is classy, well-built and says the right kind of thing- subtle but purposeful. The side braid starts high and cascades into a low chignon at the nape, giving it texture and form to what would otherwise be another bun. I love sleek updos that have some dimension, and this one does not disappoint.
The appearance certainly can use prep. I would even it out with Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream and braid it, to achieve that soft satin look and tame frizz. And it pays to pin deliberately–clear grips or U-pins will keep the shape without interrupting the flow.
This has a timelessness to it. It reminds me of candlelight dinners and jazz. Not all braids have to scream, this one speaks sophistication in the sweetest manner.
It is also multi-purpose. Tone it down with a silk shirt or turn it up with statement earrings. It is both ways.
Frosty Locks With a Touch of Cold
And in case you have been fantasizing about that fall hair color transition into the cooler side of the spectrum, this braid style is it. The icy lavender-blonde alone is impressive, but when it is put in two voluminous Dutch braids that fall into airy, beachy ends, it is something different. The shape of the braid is emphasized by the color, almost as a sculptural component. It’s giving “autumn fairy sipping cider” and I’m into it.
In such light hair, maintenance of the tone is important. I would have a dpHUE Cool Blonde Shampoo on hand in the shower and a deep conditioner to follow up with after that- bleach and braids are not low maintenance friends. But the consequence? Well worth the routine.
What I, personally, love about this is that it combines edgy and soft. The audacious silver-lavender color and the warm blue sweater? Chef’s kiss. It narrates something. Maybe of a girl who reads poetry in cafes and isn’t afraid of being a little extra with her hair.
It is also an excellent method of growing out cool tones or trying muted fashion fall colors without being neon.
Side Drama Oversized Milkmaid Crown
I stared at this one a whole minute. A heavy, sculpted braid that begins high and winds around the head completely, like a crown–but with volume, so it has a modern fairytale quality. The artistry in this is superb. It is full, clean, dimensional but not stiff. Frankly, this is what you should dress in when you feel like being a king or queen, but in a low-key style.
This type of braid works best on thick or long hair and the texturizer such as Kenra Volume Spray 25 is used to give it that plush puffed-up appearance. It does not look crispy- which is important when you want structure without losing softness.
I have done something like this before, but the volume and separation is different here. It is not so much milkmaid as runway. And it is the sort of braid that makes strangers in the street compliment you on it.
It also goes perfectly well with neutral outfits. So whether you are in a comfortable sweater or silk set it grounds the entire outfit.
Dutch Crown Braid Side Bangs
All right, now we will discuss this eye-catcher. The Dutch braid is swooped to the front and cradles the head like a crown, but the face-framing bangs are what really take the look to the next level–they just soften everything and make it feel so fresh. The whole braid is made to stand out by the platinum blonde with shadow roots. It is such a lovely contrast and quite in fashion this fall with hairstyles that are both structured and soft.
Keeping bangs and light blonde colors is definitely work. I recommend a heat protectant like Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray if you’re blow-drying, especially to avoid dryness and breakage near the front. Dry shampoo is your bestie when it comes to touch-ups.
This appearance is very personal. It is powerful, contemporary and yet romantic. I would wear this to an opening at a gallery or a date night- somewhere the braid can speak for itself.
And it is so fun to combine old and new. It is all about the cut, color, and styling that leads to something very special here.
Cool Sleek Blonde Boxer Braids
The sleek center part and two tight, structured braids are something timeless. These boxer braid-like plaits are symmetrical and start at the front hairline and all the way down until they reach the longer lengths that have been neatly hugging the scalp. The icy platinum blonde adds major contrast against the simplicity of the style — it’s giving minimal effort, maximum impact. And with a black turtleneck? The fashion is perfect fall.
I would normally suggest second-day hair to get this type of style. Add a touch of Amika’s Power Hour Curl Refreshing Spray even on straight hair — not for the curl, but for a bit of tack and control. Then go to it with a fine-tooth comb and tighten that braid section by section. The roots are sprayed with a light mist of Redken Quick Tease 15 to give you the grip you desire.
What I personally like here is that this looks so fresh and versatile. It’s practical without being boring. You can wear it to class, to brunch or even under a leather jacket in case you are going out at night. It’s definitely one of those braid hairstyles I turn to when I want to keep things simple but not plain.
And the bonus is, this braid is magic as an overnight heatless styling technique. Take it down in the morning, and you’ve got instant soft waves. Two in one.
Relaxed French Side Braid
This is a braid that is fall in Paris, casual, sophisticated but not too much. This French braid begins with a deep side part and swoops across and falls down in one thick, uniform braid. The volume and texture are what is special about it; it has been fluffed a bit, which softens the edges and prevents it to be too strict. The amber honey color contributes even more warmth to it, it almost seems to glow.
This one I think works best on hair that has been curled overnight. Day-old texture is used to maintain the braid full and bouncy. I would prime with Gisou Propolis Infused Polishing Primer to add grip and reduce frizz, which is really handy when the air becomes drier in the fall.
This braid type is sort of in my everyday rotation. It’s so easy to throw together, especially when your hair’s doing that “not cooperating” thing. I also love that it does not appear that you are trying too hard even when you are. Put it on with a comfy knit and some gold jewelry and boom, you are done.
Fancy something hot? Take some strands out around the hairline and spray with Ouai Wave Spray. The small flaws make it even greater.
Bold Highlights on Halo Braids
It is straight-up fairytale-core with a twist. The thick halo wraps around the entire head in a classic milkmaid style, but the real magic lies in the hair color — look at those rich, chunky highlights! The interchanging warm and cool blondes interlace the braid like ribbons and bring an insane amount of dimension to an already striking style on its own. It is daring yet not too outrageous to wear-a mature version of something fairytale.
Since this one goes all the way around the head, you will want to part your hair in equal sections and begin with a center part. Work slowly so that the braid is even on both sides. A dollop of Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Working Serum will make the strands smooth and defined without making them look heavy.
This is like a red lip with that same effect of instant polish. I have worn this same style to a holiday dinner and just running errands and oddly enough it works both ways. Throw on a chunky sweater, or something satin and dressy it bends to your vibe.
And want to experiment with a braid hairstyle that brings out your color? This one does all the hard work.
Silver Mauve Braids of Cool Tones
I want this braid as my cold-weather hairstyle. The silvery mauve hue is chef kiss cool, mysterious, edgy enough. It is done in a sculpted Dutch braid down the crown and into a tapered tail, with root volume and only a few face-framing tendrils to give it some softness. And if ever there was a braid that resembled a chill fall wind that had been turned into hair–this is it.
It is a commitment to keep a color like this, but worth it. I would always suggest Olaplex No.4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo to prevent the silver going brassy. And a purple-tinged mask once a week dpHUE Cool Blonde Masque is amazing to this specific shade.
This look is like a fashion statement but not loud to me. It is subtle and assertive and reminds me of fresh air, heavy scarves, and bright lipstick. This icy braid is a total change of pace if you are the type of person who is sick of the same warm fall colors.
It’s also unexpectedly wearable — pair it with neutrals and let your hair do the talking.
Soft Glam Side Braid Dimensional Blonde
This braid is everything soft and elegant. The sections are big and bubble-like, and this is what makes the style look dreamy and plush. It’s draped to the side in a dramatic sweep, with delicate face-framing strands left loose. The blonde is dimensional, with hints of buttercream and vanilla–in other words, it looks like it was blended by a balayage fairy. Sentimental and not sentimental.
To maintain the braid full, apply a texturizing powder at the crown before you begin braiding I adore Big Sexy Hair Powder Play. When you are working down, pancake the braid by pulling the loops apart to achieve that pillowy look. Tie off with a thin elastic and seal with Kenra Volume Spray 25 to hold that won t go crunchy.
It is one of those braids that make me feel like I woke up in a spa even when I am running on iced coffee and four hours of sleep. It is madly flattering on every face shape and looks amazing with loungewear, silky sets, or even a leather trench to contrast.
Honestly? If there’s one fall braid hairstyle that screams “you’re the main character”, it’s this one.
Braided Updo Sculptural Serious Impact
It is not a regular braid but an architectural masterpiece. We are talking height, volume, and that fancy reverse braid wrapping at the crown to the bottom. Worn with a slim black turtleneck? The entire atmosphere is strong, futuristic style. The drama of the large bun in the back is balanced out by the side braid that softens the structure just enough to feel balanced.
This type of style needs hold and shine but not stiffness. I would use Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray to fix everything in place and yet have some movement. In case your hair is flat, begin with a root-lifting mousse to give that cushiony volume on top.
Whether you are going to a formal fall party or simply wish to appear as the protagonist at a dinner party, this is the braid that will tell everyone, I have arrived.
It is royal, contemporary and completely memorable.
Twin Braids And Modern Cool
Two are better than one, sometimes, and this braid style is one of them. These thick and even Dutch braids that run down the sides in parallel give symmetry and edge. The platinum blonde shade and some icy gray? It makes the entire style even more up to date. Add the soft, loose pieces in the front and it adds just the right softness to frame the face perfectly.
This look is perfect if you’re trying to stretch out a few extra days between washes. R+Co Spiritualized Dry Shampoo Mist is sprayed to keep the scalp fresh but not to disturb the braid work. And since this style is close to the scalp, there is no way around keeping those roots hydrated, particularly in dry fall air.
The thing I like about this look is that it is wearable. Whether you’re walking into a café or hopping on a weekend trip, it’s stylish without screaming, “I spent an hour on my hair.”
Extra points to wear it with a black turtleneck it is the instant editorial vibes.
Extra Long Braid Cafe Flair
This braid is a real statement braid-long, voluminous and positioned to the last detail down the back. It is that type of braid that is low-key but with massive reward. The lightness of the light blonde colors with slight root melt adds depth to the entire thing and makes each twist and pull in the braid even more noticeable.
A couple of drops of Moroccanoil Treatment Light will give it a silky finish and smooth flyaways without making things heavy. I also suggest blow-drying beforehand to assist the braid to lie flat down the back.
I am being honest here, I like this one because it is simple. It is like the ultimate iteration of a braid we all had as children but made more appropriate to a brunch date in Paris. It is mature, sophisticated and so pretty.
If you’ve got the length (or extensions), don’t sleep on this one for fall.
Comfy Side Braid With Whisper-Soft Texture
This look is magical somehow, it is like entering a fairytale. The side braid is loose, thick, soft and somewhat messy in the best way possible. The outstanding feature about it is the crown part braid, which sweeps over the head like a halo. With a snug white sweater? This is straight up fall energy.
To keep this style casual, I would use Ouai Air Dry Foam, which does not need any heat, only a little natural wave to style. And when your hair has a hard time keeping texture, a light hold texturizing spray will work wonders before you braid.
As an individual, this is the type of style I would go to when I want to feel romantic and relaxed simultaneously. It makes you feel like it is a special occasion whether you are going out on a fall walk, or staying in with a book and chai tea.
And you can add small gold cuffs or flower pins to give it a seasonal touch should you feel so inclined.
Flannel-Ready Flannel-Ready Charm Soft Side Braid
Side braids are the fall staple and this one is flannel shirt perfection. The plait is full and slightly disarranged, and there are soft curls of hair around the face to give that casual lived-in effect. The Dutch-style braid is wound around the head to one shoulder and is pulled tight enough to add that volume without losing definition.
Hold without crunch, I would apply IGK Beach Club Soft Texture Spray on braided hair, it gives you that fluffy, Instagram-filtered hair that we all secretly adore.
I had this kind of a braid when I went apple picking last fall, and I had so many compliments on it I lost count. It has a quality of being casual and unforced, as though you did not strain too hard–but certainly tried.
Best part? It looks great on second- or even third-day hair, particularly with a cute flannel or oversized scarf.
Which one are you trying first then? Fall braids are technically in the moment and, regardless of whether you want something soft and comfy or dramatic and edgy, there is something here to suit you.
This season, talk with your hair. Do something different, tag your favorite stylist, or braid something on a slow Sunday. Fall is a time to reinvent yourself and these braids are far too good to not steal.
If you’re loving the inspo, leave a comment or save this for your next salon visit.
