Braids are, without a doubt, one of the hottest hairstyle trends of 2014. From Selena Gomez to Katy Perry, we’re seeing them everywhere. Red Carpets are adorned with fancy braided up-dos, while summer beaches are filled with fishtail braids of all different shapes and sizes. Want to hop on the braid train and look fab this 2014 summer? Check out these 10 best braided hairstyles that are nothing short of fun, flirty, and feminine!
#1 Fishtail Braid
Source: via weheartit.com
After seeing Eva Longoria, Blake Lively, and Kendall Jenner sporting fishtail braids, we couldn’t resist our immediate attraction. These incredibly detailed braids are simply fascinating, with twists and turns in every direction and a clean, smooth finish that is sophisticated yet fun. It can be worn tons of different ways from simple fishtail side braids to lovely fishtail ponytails and so much more.
For this particular style, you’ll be using four strands of hair instead of the typical three for braids. We highly recommend checking out a fishtail braid how-to or tutorial, as it can sometimes be as complicated as it looks – especially on the first try. (But they’re well worth the challenge!)
#2 Waterfall Braid
Source: via weheartit.com
The waterfall braid is simply stunning. It’s an elegant look that can easily be welcomed at a five-star restaurant as well as summer parties by the pool. This particular braid style works best with hair that is down, and looks magnificent with slightly wavy locks.
#3 Halo Braid
Source: via weheartit.com
While waterfall braids are typically on the back or side of the head, halo braids go around the front as if it were a real halo. This heavenly style is best paired with a bun, tight or loose, as well as half up-dos and ponytails. We love this lovely halo braid that is slightly messy yet still very edgy and chic.
#4 Braided ‘Hair Ties’
Source: via weheartit.com
Why go with your basic hair tie or scrunchy when you can have a braided one instead? This style is totally cute and even easier to do. It really adds some dimension and flair to typical hum drum up-dos! Simply leave some hair loose when putting your hair up, and use those loose strands to create an adorable braid that will wrap around.
#5 Side Braid
Source: via weheartit.com
What’s not to absolutely love about a side braid? Whether you opt for a fishtail, French, Dutch, or regular side braid, you’re sure to look as elegant and feminine as ever. Side braids are always a hit!
#6 French Braid
Source: via weheartit.com
Remember back in elementary school when French braids were all the rage? Well now they’re back in FULL swing. Much like fishtail braids, French braids come with an extra dash of dimension and profoundness that can’t be ignored. Do a single French braid, double French braids, or a side waterfall braid leading to a bun like the one in this awesome picture!
#7 Backdoor Braid
Source: via weheartit.com
If you’re tired of the same old boring bun or ponytail, then you should absolutely give the backdoor braid a chance. It’s rather simple to do: Instead of braiding the top of your head down, you go from the bottom up, leaving to your up-do! Incredibly easy and takes only a matter of minutes, yet adds so much flirty fun to any up-do. That’s an obvious WIN in our book!
#8 Braided Bun
Source: via weheartit.com
Braids are seriously hot for 2014. You know what else is unbelievably trendy right now? Buns. So why not combine the two for an over-the-top trendy look that kills? Simply put your hair in a few different braids and tie your hair up in a bun like you normally would. The result? A simply fascinating look that is cute, profound, and REALLY trendy.
#9 Accent Braids
Source: via weheartit.com
When a hairstyle seems dull or boring, you’d typically add some waves or curls. Perhaps you’d even use a little bit of hair chalk to put a splash of color. So why not add some braids here and there? Accent braids are cute, fun, and really give your hair a serious enhancement that you will adore. Add one, two, three, even four different braids, all different shapes and sizes. The possibilities are totally endless here, but you will LOVE the results!
#10 Hybrid
Source: via weheartit.com
If you can’t decide on a single braided hairstyle, then why not have them all? When it comes to braids, you can definitely have your cake and eat it, too. Have a French waterfall braid leading down to a fishtail side braid. Um, wow. Did we just do that? WE SURE DID. We’ll just go ahead and call that the Queen of all braided hairstyles. And let’s not kid ourselves: It looks absolutely stunning.
Staying in style for 2014 is a synch. With lovely braided hairstyles like these, who wouldn’t be pleased? Take it easy with a delicate side braid or go all out with a hybrid. Use braids for your buns, half up-dos, ponytails- use them everywhere!