Winter braids are both practical and stylish, keeping your hair protected from the cold, reducing static, and adding a chic touch to your winter outfits. Whether you’re looking for elegant, boho, or casual winter braids, these 10 braided hairstyles will help you stay warm while looking effortlessly beautiful.
1. Chunky Side Braid – Cozy & Chic
✔ Best for: Casual winter days, sweater weather looks
Why It Works:
- A thick, loose braid adds volume and warmth.
- Looks effortless with sweaters, scarves, and beanies.
- Works well for medium to long hair.
How to Style:
– Gather hair to one side and create a loose, thick braid.
– Gently pull apart sections to add volume.
– Leave a few face-framing strands out for a cozy feel.
✔ Bonus: Add a knit beanie for extra warmth and winter style.
2. Fishtail Braid with a Beanie – Stylish & Practical
✔ Best for: Outdoor winter activities, ski trips, cozy outfits
Why It Works:
- A fishtail braid stays secure under winter hats.
- Adds a sophisticated, bohemian touch to any outfit.
- Prevents hair from tangling in winter wind.
How to Style:
– Part hair to one side or the center.
– Create a fishtail braid by crossing small sections over each other.
– Secure with a clear elastic and fluff the braid for volume.
✔ Bonus: Wear with a chunky knit scarf and wool coat for a cozy winter aesthetic.
3. Double Dutch Braids – Sporty & Warm
✔ Best for: Active days, winter hikes, or ski trips
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair secure and frizz-free under hats or hooded coats.
- Adds a sporty yet stylish touch.
- Works well for medium to long hair.
How to Style:
– Part hair down the middle into two sections.
– Create Dutch braids on each side (braiding under instead of over).
– Secure at the ends or wrap into buns for extra warmth.
✔ Bonus: Try a faux fur-lined hooded coat for extra winter vibes.
4. Braided Low Ponytail – Elegant & Classy
✔ Best for: Office, formal winter events, evening looks
Why It Works:
- A low ponytail looks polished and sophisticated.
- Works well with winter coats, turtlenecks, and chic scarves.
- Keeps hair smooth and frizz-free in cold weather.
How to Style:
– Gather hair into a low ponytail at the nape.
– Braid the ponytail loosely for a soft effect.
– Wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic.
✔ Bonus: Add a velvet or pearl hair tie for a festive touch.
5. Crown Braid with Waves – Romantic & Winter Wonderland-Inspired
✔ Best for: Holiday parties, romantic winter looks
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair secure while looking elegant.
- Adds a touch of vintage and festive charm.
- Works for medium to long hair.
How to Style:
– Create two braids on either side of the head.
– Wrap them around the crown and pin them in place.
– Curl the remaining hair into soft waves.
✔ Bonus: Add small pearl pins or a glittery hairpiece for a holiday effect.
6. Messy Braided Bun – Cozy & Effortless
✔ Best for: Lazy winter days, casual outings
Why It Works:
- A braided bun is both functional and stylish.
- Works perfectly with chunky sweaters and warm scarves.
- Looks effortlessly chic without much styling.
How to Style:
– Create a loose braid from the crown down to the nape.
– Wrap it into a low bun and secure with bobby pins.
– Pull out a few face-framing strands for a relaxed effect.
✔ Bonus: Pair with gold hoop earrings for a minimal yet polished look.
7. French Braid into a Twisted Bun – Classic & Timeless
✔ Best for: Elegant winter dinners, work, formal occasions
Why It Works:
- A French braid adds detail, while the bun keeps it classic.
- Keeps hair tangle-free under scarves and coats.
- Looks polished yet easy to achieve.
How to Style:
– Start with a French braid from the crown to the nape.
– Gather the hair into a twisted bun and secure with pins.
– Use hairspray for hold and a sleek finish.
✔ Bonus: Add a silk ribbon or crystal hair clip for extra glam.
8. Bubble Braid – Fun & Trendy
✔ Best for: Playful winter looks, cozy outfits
Why It Works:
- A bubble braid is easy to create and adds volume.
- Works great under hats or alone as a statement look.
- Looks amazing on medium to long hair.
How to Style:
– Tie hair into a low or high ponytail.
– Add small hair ties every few inches down.
– Gently pull each section for a bubbly effect.
✔ Bonus: Use velvet scrunchies or holiday-colored elastics for a festive feel.
9. Rope Braid Ponytail – Sleek & Stylish
✔ Best for: Sleek winter looks, evening outings
Why It Works:
- A rope braid is simple yet elegant.
- Works well with structured winter coats and tailored outfits.
- Keeps hair frizz-free and polished.
How to Style:
– Tie hair into a high or mid ponytail.
– Divide it into two sections and twist them around each other.
– Secure with a small elastic at the end.
✔ Bonus: Use a satin ribbon for a polished winter finish.
10. Braided Headband with Loose Waves – Feminine & Cozy
✔ Best for: Casual or festive winter looks
Why It Works:
- The braided headband keeps hair away from the face stylishly.
- Loose waves add a soft, feminine touch.
- Looks great with sweaters, scarves, and coats.
How to Style:
– Take a small section of hair above the ear and braid it.
– Wrap it over the crown like a headband and pin it in place.
– Curl the rest of the hair for soft, natural waves.
✔ Bonus: Try adding a jeweled or velvet headband for extra warmth and style.
Final Tips for Styling Winter Braids
✔ Moisturize Hair – Cold weather dries out hair, so use leave-in conditioner or oil before styling.
✔ Choose Protective Styles – Braids protect hair from winter static and dryness.
✔ Use Accessories – Beanies, scarves, and ribbons enhance winter braid styles.
✔ Secure Braids Properly – Use clear elastics and bobby pins for long-lasting hold.
✔ Experiment with Loose & Tight Braids – Tight braids stay put in windy weather, while loose braids add a relaxed charm.
These 10 winter hair braids will keep you looking chic, cozy, and stylish throughout the cold months! – Which one will you try first?