Braids and curls combine elegance with effortless beauty, making them perfect for casual, formal, and bohemian-inspired looks. Whether you have short, medium, or long hair, these 10 stunning braided and curly hairstyles will add volume, texture, and a romantic flair to your look.
1. Waterfall Braid with Loose Curls – Whimsical & Elegant
✔ Best for: Weddings, date nights, special occasions
Why It Works:
- The braid weaves through soft curls, creating a delicate, fairy-tale effect.
- Works beautifully with long, voluminous waves.
- Ideal for romantic, dreamy hairstyles.
How to Style:
– Curl hair into soft, loose waves.
– Create a waterfall braid starting at one side and weaving across.
– Secure with a small hairpin or floral clip.
✔ Bonus: Add tiny pearl or rhinestone pins for extra charm.
2. Side Braid with Cascading Curls – Glamorous & Chic
✔ Best for: Formal events, red carpet looks
Why It Works:
- A side braid adds structure while letting curls flow beautifully.
- Creates a soft yet sophisticated hairstyle.
- Works well with thick, voluminous hair.
How to Style:
– Part hair to one side for an asymmetrical effect.
– Braid one side loosely toward the back.
– Curl the rest of the hair into bouncy waves.
✔ Bonus: Secure the braid with a jeweled hairpiece for extra elegance.
3. Crown Braid with Curls – Regal & Romantic
✔ Best for: Bohemian, vintage, or festival looks
Why It Works:
- A halo-style crown braid frames the curls beautifully.
- Keeps hair secure while still looking soft and feminine.
- Works well with medium to long hair.
How to Style:
– Create two loose braids on each side of the head.
– Wrap them around the crown and pin them at the back.
– Curl the remaining hair for a voluminous, elegant finish.
✔ Bonus: Add baby’s breath flowers for a soft boho touch.
4. Dutch Braid into Curly Ponytail – Trendy & Playful
✔ Best for: Casual outings, trendy everyday looks
Why It Works:
- A Dutch braid adds structure, while curls create a playful ponytail.
- Keeps hair off your face while still looking stylish.
- Works well with medium and long hair.
How to Style:
– Create a Dutch braid from the top of the head to the nape.
– Secure with a hair tie into a high or low ponytail.
– Curl the ponytail for a bouncy, voluminous effect.
✔ Bonus: Wrap a small section of hair around the ponytail base for polish.
5. Fishtail Braid with Soft Waves – Boho & Stylish
✔ Best for: Festivals, weddings, summer looks
Why It Works:
- A fishtail braid adds detail and elegance.
- Soft waves keep the look relaxed and effortless.
- Works for medium to long hair.
How to Style:
– Create a fishtail braid starting from one side.
– Leave the rest of the hair in soft, tousled waves.
– Gently pull apart the braid for a fuller, bohemian look.
✔ Bonus: Looks stunning with hair accessories like beads or floral pins.
6. Half-Up Braided Crown with Curls – Fairy-Tale Inspired
✔ Best for: Romantic, vintage looks
Why It Works:
- The braided crown lifts the hair, adding volume.
- Loose curls keep the look soft and feminine.
- Works well with natural waves or curled hair.
How to Style:
– Take two sections from the front and braid them loosely.
– Secure them at the back, creating a crown effect.
– Curl the rest of the hair for an airy, light look.
✔ Bonus: Try gold or pearl hairpins for added elegance.
7. High Curly Ponytail with Braided Detail – Fun & Flirty
✔ Best for: Sporty-chic, casual glam looks
Why It Works:
- Adds height and volume to thin or flat hair.
- A small braid enhances the ponytail with extra texture.
- Works for medium to long hair.
How to Style:
– Curl hair into bouncy waves before gathering it into a high ponytail.
– Take a small section and braid it into the ponytail.
– Wrap a small section of hair around the base for polish.
✔ Bonus: A sleek front with teased volume at the crown creates a red-carpet effect.
8. Messy Bun with Braided Accents – Casual & Elegant
✔ Best for: Everyday wear, effortless updos
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair off your face while still looking stylish.
- Loose curls add a soft, romantic feel.
- Works well with medium and long hair.
How to Style:
– Curl the hair lightly before creating a loose bun.
– Add small braids woven into the bun for extra detail.
– Pull out a few strands for a relaxed, wispy effect.
✔ Bonus: A pearl or crystal hairpin enhances the look.
9. Bubble Braid with Waves – Playful & Modern
✔ Best for: Trendy, casual, and sporty looks
Why It Works:
- The bubble braid adds a unique twist to classic curly hairstyles.
- Works beautifully on thick or thin hair.
- Keeps hair secure while showing off waves.
How to Style:
– Gather hair into a loose ponytail.
– Tie small elastics every few inches down the ponytail.
– Pull apart each section to create the “bubble” effect.
✔ Bonus: Works great with sleek or tousled curls.
10. French Braid into Curly Bun – Classy & Sophisticated
✔ Best for: Formal occasions, elegant events
Why It Works:
- A French braid adds a polished, timeless touch.
- The curly bun creates a voluminous finish.
- Works for medium and long hair.
How to Style:
– French braid from the top of the head down to the nape.
– Gather the hair into a loose, voluminous bun.
– Secure with pins and a touch of hairspray.
✔ Bonus: Add a lace or pearl headband for an extra classy look.
Final Tips for Styling Braids & Curls
✔ Prep Hair with Curl Enhancers – Mousse or curl creams help hold waves and braids longer.
✔ Use a Light Hold Hairspray – Keeps curls bouncy without stiffness.
✔ Experiment with Parting – Side parts add volume, while center parts look sleek and modern.
✔ Gently Pull Apart Braids – This creates a fuller, more effortless look.
✔ Play with Accessories – Clips, ribbons, and headbands enhance the braided-curly style.
These 10 gorgeous braided and curly hairstyles will elevate your casual, romantic, and formal looks effortlessly! Which one will you try first?