Winter’s chill demands hairstyles that combine practicality with undeniable style, and braids offer the perfect solution for the season’s unique challenges.
From protecting your hair from harsh weather elements to creating stunning looks that complement cozy scarves and warm coats, braided hairstyles provide endless versatility throughout the colder months.
Whether you’re heading to holiday parties, cozy indoor gatherings, or braving winter sports adventures, the right braided style can elevate your entire look while keeping your hair healthy and manageable.
This comprehensive guide explores 25 Stylish Winter Hairstyles with Braids, featuring everything from simple everyday styles to elaborate formal arrangements that will carry you through winter’s most memorable moments with confidence and flair.
1. Classic French Braid Crown
The French braid crown creates a regal appearance that works beautifully with winter accessories like headbands and ear warmers.
This elegant style keeps all hair securely contained while creating a sophisticated focal point around the face.
The crown braid proves particularly effective for winter events where you want to look polished despite cold weather conditions.
- Start with slightly damp hair for better grip and control during braiding
- Begin the French braid at one ear and work across the hairline to the opposite ear
- Incorporate small sections of hair as you braid along the crown area
- Continue braiding around the entire head, following the natural hairline
- Secure the end with a small elastic and tuck it under the beginning of the braid
- Pin any loose sections with bobby pins that match your hair color
- Finish with a light mist of flexible hold hairspray for lasting security
2. Dutch Braid Side Sweep
The Dutch braid side sweep combines the security of braiding with asymmetrical modern appeal.
This style creates beautiful texture along one side of the head while keeping hair controlled and weather-resistant.
The side sweep works exceptionally well with winter coats that have high collars or fur trim.
- Create a deep side part using a fine-tooth comb for precision
- Begin Dutch braiding from the heavy side of the part near the hairline
- Braid diagonally across the head toward the opposite ear
- Keep the braid close to the scalp for a sleek, controlled appearance
- Secure the end behind the ear with a small elastic band
- Allow remaining hair to flow naturally over the opposite shoulder
- Use texturizing spray on the loose hair for added winter volume
3. Chunky Fishtail Braid
The chunky fishtail braid offers a relaxed, bohemian vibe perfect for casual winter days.
This style creates beautiful texture without appearing overly formal or structured.
The looser fishtail technique works wonderfully with winter’s cozy fashion aesthetic and provides excellent protection for hair ends.
- Divide all hair into two equal sections at the nape of your neck
- Take a thick piece from the outside of the left section and cross it over to join the right section
- Repeat the process, taking a thick piece from the outside of the right section to join the left
- Continue alternating sides, keeping the crossed pieces chunky rather than thin
- Gently tug at the outer edges of the braid to create fuller, more relaxed appearance
- Secure with a hair tie and wrap a small section of hair around it to hide the elastic
- Apply leave-in conditioner to the braid for added moisture protection in winter air
4. Braided Top Knot
The braided top knot combines the elegance of braiding with the practicality of an updo.
This sophisticated style works perfectly for winter workouts, busy days, or formal events.
The elevated placement keeps hair completely off the neck and pairs beautifully with turtlenecks and scarves.
- Gather hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head
- Secure the ponytail with a strong elastic band for stability
- Divide the ponytail into three equal sections for braiding
- Create a traditional three-strand braid with the ponytail hair
- Wrap the finished braid around the base of the ponytail to form a knot
- Secure the knot with bobby pins, hiding the pins within the braid’s texture
- Pull gently at sections of the knot to create fuller, more voluminous appearance
5. Waterfall Braid Half-Up
The waterfall braid half-up style creates romantic, cascading effects while maintaining practicality.
This intricate technique allows sections of hair to flow freely while incorporating beautiful braided elements.
The waterfall effect works beautifully for winter weddings and holiday celebrations.
- Start with a small section of hair at the temple area
- Begin braiding normally with three strands for the first cross-over
- Drop the bottom strand after the first cross and pick up a new section from above
- Continue this pattern, always dropping the bottom strand and adding new hair from the top
- Work the waterfall braid across the back of the head to the opposite side
- Secure the end with a small elastic behind the ear
- Curl the loose, cascading sections for added romantic texture and winter volume
6. Multiple Mini Braids
Multiple mini braids create textural interest and bohemian flair perfect for winter’s eclectic fashion trends.
This style combines several small braids throughout the hair for dimensional beauty.
The mini braid technique offers versatility in placement and works well with both straight and wavy hair textures.
- Section hair into 6-8 random areas of varying sizes for natural appearance
- Create small three-strand braids in each sectioned area
- Vary the thickness of each mini braid to avoid uniform, rigid appearance
- Start some braids higher and others lower for organic placement
- Leave the majority of hair loose between the braided sections
- Secure each mini braid with tiny clear elastics for invisible hold
- Apply texturizing spray throughout for enhanced grip and winter-appropriate volume
7. Braided Low Bun
The braided low bun offers sophisticated elegance perfect for professional winter settings and formal occasions.
This refined style combines braiding techniques with classic updo appeal.
The low placement works beautifully with winter coats and provides a polished appearance that withstands weather conditions.
- Part hair in the center or to one side according to your preference
- Create two loose Dutch braids starting from the front and working toward the nape
- Allow both braids to meet at the base of the neck
- Combine both braids and twist them together loosely
- Wrap the combined braids into a low bun at the nape of the neck
- Secure with bobby pins, weaving them through the braided texture for invisibility
- Leave a few face-framing pieces loose for softening effect around the hairline
8. Side Braid with Loose Waves
The side braid with loose waves combines structured braiding with romantic flowing texture.
This style provides the perfect balance between control and movement.
The combination works exceptionally well for winter date nights and casual elegant occasions.
- Create a deep side part and section off hair from the heavy side
- Braid the sectioned hair into a loose three-strand braid along the side
- Secure the braid end behind the ear with a small elastic
- Use a large barrel curling iron on the remaining loose hair
- Curl sections away from the face for flattering movement
- Brush through the curls gently with fingers to create soft waves
- Apply shine serum to both the braided and waved sections for cohesive winter luster
9. Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids create athletic-inspired styling with practical benefits for active winter days.
This symmetrical style keeps all hair securely contained while providing interesting visual appeal.
The double braid technique works perfectly for winter sports and outdoor activities.
- Part hair straight down the middle from forehead to nape
- Begin Dutch braiding on one side, starting close to the hairline
- Keep the braid tight against the scalp as you work down toward the neck
- Repeat the same process on the opposite side, maintaining symmetry
- Secure both braids with matching elastics at the ends
- Tuck any short pieces or flyaways into the braids with bobby pins
- Apply strong-hold hairspray to prevent loosening during winter activities
10. Braided Headband Style
The braided headband style creates a beautiful frame around the face while keeping hair controlled and elegant.
This technique uses your own hair to create a headband effect.
The style works wonderfully with winter accessories and provides practical benefits for windy weather.
- Section off hair across the top of the head from ear to ear
- Begin French braiding this section, starting from one side and working across
- Keep the braid relatively thin and close to the hairline for headband effect
- Secure the end behind the opposite ear with a small elastic
- Style the remaining hair as desired – straight, wavy, or in an updo
- Hide the elastic end by wrapping it with a small section of loose hair
- Use bobby pins to secure any loose pieces and maintain the headband shape
11. Twisted Rope Braid
The twisted rope braid offers simplicity with striking visual impact perfect for busy winter mornings.
This technique requires only two sections instead of traditional three-strand braiding.
The rope braid provides excellent hold while creating beautiful spiral patterns throughout the length.
- Divide all hair into two equal sections at the nape of your neck
- Twist each section tightly in the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise)
- Wrap the two twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction
- Continue twisting and wrapping until you reach the ends of your hair
- Secure with a strong elastic band to prevent unraveling
- Gently tug at sections of the rope braid to create fuller appearance
- Apply texturizing spray for enhanced grip and winter weather protection
12. Braided Ponytail with Ribbon
The braided ponytail with ribbon adds festive winter charm while maintaining practical styling.
This decorated approach combines functionality with seasonal appeal.
The ribbon element works beautifully for holiday events and winter celebrations requiring extra decorative touches.
- Gather hair into a ponytail at your desired height – high, medium, or low
- Secure the ponytail with a strong elastic band for stability
- Choose a ribbon that complements your outfit and winter color palette
- Braid the ribbon into the ponytail using traditional three-strand technique
- Alternate between hair sections and ribbon to create integrated appearance
- Secure the end with another elastic, leaving ribbon tails for decorative effect
- Trim ribbon ends at an angle to prevent fraying throughout winter wear
13. Bohemian Side Braid
The bohemian side braid creates effortless, romantic styling perfect for winter’s cozy aesthetic.
This relaxed approach to braiding emphasizes texture over precision.
The bohemian style works beautifully with winter’s layered fashion and provides practical hair control with artistic flair.
- Create a deep side part and gather hair to one side of your neck
- Begin braiding loosely, allowing some shorter pieces to escape naturally
- Vary the tension throughout the braid for organic, imperfect appearance
- Incorporate face-framing pieces randomly for softening effect
- Secure the end with a subtle elastic that matches your hair color
- Gently pull apart sections of the braid to create fuller, messier texture
- Leave the end slightly loose rather than pulling it tight for bohemian authenticity
14. Crown Braid with Low Bun
The crown braid with low bun combines two elegant techniques for sophisticated winter styling.
This formal approach works beautifully for special occasions and professional settings.
The combination provides maximum hair control while creating stunning visual interest around the face and nape.
- Section hair across the crown from ear to ear for the braided portion
- French braid this section along the hairline, incorporating hair as you go
- Continue the crown braid to meet at the back center of your head
- Gather remaining loose hair with the crown braid end into a low ponytail
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it into a neat bun at the nape
- Secure the bun with bobby pins, hiding them within the twisted hair
- Use hairspray on the crown braid to maintain crispness throughout winter events
15. Infinity Braid
The infinity braid creates stunning mathematical patterns with intricate weaving techniques.
This advanced braiding style produces beautiful figure-eight patterns throughout the length.
The infinity technique works wonderfully for special winter occasions requiring show-stopping hair artistry.
- Divide hair into two equal sections and cross them to form an X shape
- Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and weave it over, under, and over again
- Repeat the weaving pattern with a piece from the right section
- Continue alternating sides while maintaining the over-under-over pattern
- Keep consistent tension to ensure even figure-eight shapes throughout
- Secure the end with a clear elastic to maintain the pattern’s visibility
- Practice this technique several times before important winter events due to its complexity
16. Milkmaid Braids
Milkmaid braids create vintage-inspired charm perfect for winter’s nostalgic fashion trends.
This style wraps braids around the head like a crown for timeless appeal.
The milkmaid technique works beautifully for holiday parties and winter weddings requiring romantic, old-world elegance.
- Part hair down the middle and create two equal sections
- Braid each section into traditional three-strand braids
- Wrap the right braid across the top of your head like a headband
- Secure the right braid behind your left ear with bobby pins
- Wrap the left braid across the back of your head, covering the first braid’s end
- Secure the left braid behind your right ear, tucking the end under
- Adjust both braids to sit comfortably and evenly around your head for authentic milkmaid appearance
17. Braided Updo with Twists
The braided updo with twists combines multiple techniques for elaborate formal styling.
This sophisticated approach incorporates braiding, twisting, and pinning for complex beauty.
The combination works perfectly for winter’s most elegant occasions requiring maximum impact and lasting hold.
- Section hair into three parts: crown, sides, and back
- Create loose twists with the side sections, directing them toward the back
- Braid the crown section using Dutch technique for added dimension
- French braid the back section upward toward the crown
- Combine all sections at the back of your head, pinning as you work
- Wrap and tuck sections to create a full, textured updo
- Secure thoroughly with bobby pins and finish with strong-hold hairspray for winter event longevity
18. Lace Braid Accent
The lace braid accent adds delicate detail to otherwise simple hairstyles.
This technique creates beautiful edging effects along the hairline or part.
The lace braid works wonderfully as a subtle winter accent that complements both casual and formal styling approaches.
- Section a thin strip of hair along your desired accent area
- Begin French braiding but only add hair from one side (usually the top)
- Keep the braid thin and delicate like lace trim
- Continue the lace braid along your chosen path – hairline, part, or ear
- Secure the end with a tiny clear elastic for invisible hold
- Style remaining hair as desired, allowing the lace braid to frame your chosen area
- Use light-hold hairspray specifically on the lace braid to prevent loosening without stiffness
19. Zigzag Part with Braided Sides
The zigzag part with braided sides creates playful, youthful styling perfect for winter’s fun-loving activities.
This technique combines creative parting with practical braiding.
The zigzag element adds visual interest while the braided sides provide weather protection and style longevity.
- Create a zigzag part from forehead to crown using the pointed end of a comb
- Section small amounts of hair on each side of the zigzag part
- Braid these sectioned pieces into small, tight braids along the zigzag line
- Secure each small braid with tiny clear elastics
- Style the remaining loose hair as desired – straight, wavy, or in another braid
- Use texturizing spray on the loose hair for winter volume and movement
- Pin the small braids if desired to create different patterns and shapes
20. Braided Half Crown
The braided half crown creates elegant sophistication while leaving most hair flowing freely.
This style provides beautiful framing around the face while maintaining romantic length.
The half crown technique works perfectly for winter dates and semi-formal occasions.
- Section hair from temple to temple across the back of your head
- Begin French braiding from one temple, working across the back
- Incorporate hair as you braid to create the crown effect
- Stop the braid at the opposite temple and secure with bobby pins
- Hide the braid’s end by tucking it behind the ear
- Style the loose, flowing hair with curls or waves for added winter romance
- Use shine spray on both the braided crown and loose hair for cohesive winter luster
21. Dutch Braid Mohawk
The Dutch braid mohawk creates edgy, modern styling perfect for winter’s bold fashion statements.
This technique braids hair straight down the center while keeping sides sleek.
The mohawk effect works beautifully for younger styles and fashion-forward winter looks.
- Part hair to create a wide strip down the center from forehead to nape
- Smooth the side hair back with gel or pomade for sleek appearance
- Dutch braid the center strip, starting from the hairline and working back
- Keep the braid tight and centered for authentic mohawk effect
- Secure the braid end at the nape with a strong elastic
- Pin down any side pieces that don’t lie flat against the head
- Use strong-hold hairspray on the sides and texturizing spray on the braid for contrasting textures
22. Reverse Braid
The reverse braid starts from the nape and works upward, creating unique visual interest and excellent volume.
This technique provides lift at the crown while maintaining length.
The reverse approach works wonderfully for winter styles requiring extra body and distinctive appearance.
- Flip your head upside down and brush all hair forward
- Begin Dutch braiding at the nape of your neck, working toward the crown
- Keep adding hair as you braid upward, maintaining tight tension
- Stop braiding at the crown area and secure with an elastic
- Flip your head back up and gather all remaining hair including the braid
- Create a ponytail, bun, or leave hair loose depending on your desired final look
- Use volumizing spray at the roots for enhanced lift and winter body
23. Braided Flower Bun
The braided flower bun creates romantic, garden-inspired styling perfect for winter weddings and special occasions.
This technique shapes braids into floral patterns for artistic beauty.
The flower effect works beautifully as a statement piece for winter’s most elegant events.
- Create multiple small braids of varying lengths throughout your hair
- Begin wrapping the longest braid into a coil shape at your desired bun location
- Layer additional braids around the center coil, creating petal-like shapes
- Secure each layer with bobby pins as you build the flower shape
- Vary the tightness of each coil to create natural-looking flower dimension
- Tuck braid ends under previous layers to hide them within the flower structure
- Use bobby pins that match your hair color for invisible hold throughout the winter event
24. Side Swept Braided Bang
The side swept braided bang creates face-framing beauty while keeping bangs controlled in winter weather.
This technique braids front sections to prevent wind damage while maintaining style.
The braided bang approach works perfectly for those with fringe who want weather protection.
- Section off your bang area or front hair pieces
- Create a deep side part for dramatic sweeping effect
- Begin French braiding the bang section along the hairline
- Incorporate small amounts of hair as you braid toward the ear
- Keep the braided bang close to your head for sleek appearance
- Secure behind the ear with bobby pins that match your hair color
- Style remaining hair as desired, allowing the braided bang to frame your face beautifully
25. Triple Strand Twist Braid
The triple strand twist braid combines traditional braiding with rope twist techniques for unique texture and visual appeal.
This advanced technique creates complex patterns throughout the length.
The triple approach works wonderfully for winter styles requiring distinctive braiding artistry.
- Divide all hair into three equal sections at the nape of your neck
- Twist each section tightly in the same direction until they hold their shape
- Begin braiding the three twisted sections using traditional over-under technique
- Maintain tension on both the individual twists and the overall braid
- Continue braiding until you reach the ends of your hair
- Secure with a strong elastic to prevent both the braid and individual twists from unraveling
- Gently tug at sections to create fuller appearance while maintaining the twist definition
Conclusion
These 25 Stylish Winter Hairstyles with Braids provide endless possibilities for creating beautiful, practical looks throughout the coldest months of the year.
From simple everyday styles like the classic French braid crown to elaborate formal arrangements such as the braided flower bun, each technique offers unique benefits for winter hair care and styling.
Whether you’re protecting your hair from harsh weather elements, attending holiday celebrations, or simply wanting to add textural interest to your daily routine, these braided styles ensure you’ll look polished and put-together regardless of winter’s challenges.
Remember that mastering these techniques takes practice, so start with simpler styles and gradually work toward more complex braiding patterns as your skills develop throughout the winter season.
