We’re smart enough to know that braids definitely don’t fall under the category of “trend.” They’ve been around for-ev-er—but that teeny fact doesn’t make us love ‘em any less. Anytime we’re hoping to switch up our ‘do, they tend to be the solution, so when Pinterest shared its top pinned braided styles with us, obviously we had to share. Check out all the different types people are digging these days, then clear out some time in your schedule. Yes, these looks are stunning, but not all of them are easy (or quick to recreate).
Feed-in Braid
This protective style is definitely a popular one for the summer, but that doesn’t mean people aren’t searching for ideas and tutorials year-round: the search term is up by a whopping 4,000%!
Braided Top Knot
Looking for a way to spice up your simple bun? A braid, either in the front of your hair or in the bun itself, might just do the trick.
Box Braid
While this braid style was definitely big in the ’90s, box braids have made huge comeback in recent years, having been spotted on stars like Zoë Kravitz, Keke Palmer, and Beyoncé.
Halo Braid
This romantic style wraps around your head and is perfect for weddings. Hint: looser braids are often better!
Ghana Braid
Different than traditional cornrows, this style requires slowly adding in extra hair as you braid, getting thicker toward the bottom.
Boxer Braid
Also known as a double french braid—check out our tutorial here!
Dutch Braids
The dutch braid is slightly different than a french braid in that it’s the reverse: you place each piece hair *under* instead of *over.* (PS—we like the addition of the double buns!)
Braided Pony
More proof that the addition of a braid can give any easy, everyday style a boost.
Crown Braid
A similar look to the crown braid, but a bit easier to master. Braid your hair first, then wrap it around your head and pin in place—done!
Micro Braid
With extensions, without extensions, this look consists of—you guessed it!—tons of tiny braids. The overall process can be pretty time-consuming, but the results are stunning.