As the winter chill sets in, it’s time to embrace cozy styles that not only keep you warm but also elevate your look. Braids are a timeless and versatile hairstyle perfect for the colder months, offering a plethora of options for short hair. From intricate designs to simple and chic styles, winter braids can transform your look and protect your hair from the harsh weather. This season, we’re seeing a fusion of classic techniques with modern twists, incorporating vibrant colors, metallic accents, and textured finishes. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or a more bohemian vibe, there’s a winter braid for every short-haired fashionista. Let’s explore some inspiring ideas to help you rock the winter braid trend.
Dutch Braid Crown with Icy Highlights
Embrace the winter wonderland aesthetic with a Dutch braid crown adorned with icy highlights. This style involves braiding two Dutch braids along the hairline and pinning them together at the back to create a crown effect. Incorporate subtle silver or platinum highlights throughout your hair to mimic the glistening snow. This style is particularly striking on dark hair, creating a dramatic contrast. For a modern twist, pull out a few face-framing strands and curl them for a softer, romantic look. This style is popular in both the US and EU, often seen on runways and street style blogs.
French Braid Pigtails with Burgundy and Copper Accents
Channel your inner child with French braid pigtails, but elevate the look with warm burgundy and copper accents. This playful style involves creating two French braids, one on each side of the head. To incorporate the color trend, use temporary hair color sprays or clip-in extensions in shades of burgundy and copper. These warm tones complement the cool winter weather and add a touch of vibrancy to your look. This style is popular in the US, particularly among younger demographics who are embracing bold color choices.
Side Swept Fishtail Braid with Jewel-Toned Ribbons
Add a touch of elegance to your winter look with a side-swept fishtail braid adorned with jewel-toned ribbons. This intricate braid adds texture and dimension to short hair, while the ribbon adds a pop of color and a festive touch. Choose ribbons in rich emerald green, sapphire blue, or ruby red to complement the winter season. This style is popular in the EU, particularly in countries like France and Italy where classic elegance is always in vogue.
Double Dutch Braid Bun with Gold Cuffs
This chic and practical style involves creating two Dutch braids and then twisting them into a low bun at the nape of the neck. Add metallic gold cuffs to elevate the look and add a touch of glamour. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions and is trending in both the US and EU as a sophisticated yet effortless hairstyle.
Braided Headband with Face-Framing Baby Braids
Create a bohemian-inspired look with a braided headband and delicate face-framing baby braids. This style adds a touch of whimsy and romance to your winter wardrobe. Use small clear elastics to secure the baby braids and a decorative pin to fasten the headband. This trend is popular in the US, particularly on the West Coast, where bohemian styles are prevalent.
Side Fishtail Braid with Pearl Accents
Elevate a simple side fishtail braid with delicate pearl accents. Weave small pearl beads or hairpins into the braid for a touch of understated glamour. This style is perfect for holiday parties and special occasions. Popular in both the US and EU, this look adds a classic touch.
Messy French Braid Bun with Glitter Spray
Embrace the effortless chic look with a messy French braid bun. Gather your hair into a low, loose French braid and twist it into a bun. Finish with a spritz of glitter hairspray for a touch of sparkle, perfect for festive occasions. This trend is gaining traction in the US, particularly for holiday events.
Half-Updo with a Waterfall Braid and Velvet Ribbon
Combine a romantic waterfall braid with a luxurious velvet ribbon for a sophisticated winter hairstyle. This half-updo keeps your hair out of your face while showcasing the beauty of the braid. Deep jewel-toned velvet ribbons are especially popular in the EU this season.
Pull-Through Braid Ponytail with Metallic Thread
Add a futuristic touch to your ponytail with a pull-through braid incorporating metallic thread. Weave silver or gold thread through the braid for a subtle yet eye-catching detail. This edgy style is popular among trendsetters in both the US and EU.
Mini Dutch Braids with Colorful Hair Extensions
Create a playful and vibrant look with multiple mini Dutch braids adorned with colorful hair extensions. Experiment with bold colors like electric blue, hot pink, or emerald green. This trend is particularly popular in the US festival scene.
Twisted Rope Braid Crown with Winter Floral Accessories
Embrace the winter season with a twisted rope braid crown adorned with delicate floral accessories. Incorporate small flowers in wintery hues like white, silver, and deep red. This romantic style is a favorite in the EU, particularly for formal events.
Side Braided Bun with a Knitted Headband
Combine a classic side braided bun with a cozy knitted headband for a chic and practical winter look. This style keeps your hair warm and stylish while embracing the winter aesthetic. Thick knit headbands are particularly trendy in the US this season.
French Braid Pigtails with Colorful Bobby Pins
Add a pop of personality to classic French braid pigtails with colorful bobby pins. Create geometric patterns or use pins with festive designs. This playful style is popular among younger demographics in both the US and EU.
Halo Braid with Silver Hair Wire
Create an ethereal look with a halo braid embellished with silver hair wire. Weave the wire through the braid for a subtle shimmer that catches the light. This romantic style is perfect for special occasions and is trending in the EU.
Dutch Braid Mohawk with Dark Lip Color
Make a bold statement with a Dutch braid mohawk paired with a dark lip color. This edgy style is perfect for those who want to embrace a more daring look. Dark berry and plum lip colors are especially popular in the US this winter.
Fishbone Braid with Beaded Hairpins
Add a touch of bohemian glamour to a fishbone braid with beaded hairpins. Choose hairpins with natural stones or intricate beading for a unique and stylish look. This trend is popular among festival-goers and bohemian fashion enthusiasts in both the US and EU.
Reverse French Braid Ponytail with a Scarf
Elevate a simple ponytail with a reverse French braid leading into it. Tie a colorful silk scarf around the base of the ponytail for a touch of Parisian chic. This style is popular in the EU, particularly in France and Italy.
Milkmaid Braids with Face-Framing tendrils and Glitter
Create a romantic and whimsical look with milkmaid braids, leaving out face-framing tendrils and adding a touch of glitter to the braids for a festive touch. Popular in both the US and EU, this style is perfect for holiday parties.
