Step into the enchanting world of medieval royalty, where every strand of hair told a story of elegance, power, and romance.
Medieval princesses were known for their elaborate hairstyles that combined artistry with symbolism, transforming hair into crowning glory that rivaled their jeweled tiaras.
From intricate braids adorned with ribbons to flowing locks crowned with delicate circlets, these timeless styles captured the essence of feminine grace and regal beauty.
Whether you’re planning a themed event, a renaissance fair, or simply seeking inspiration from history’s most romantic era, this comprehensive guide to 27 Creative Medieval Hairstyles for Princesses will transport you back to castles and courts where every hairstyle was a masterpiece.
Discover the techniques, symbolism, and step-by-step instructions to recreate these stunning looks that have captivated hearts for centuries.
1. The Classic Crown Braid
The crown braid represents one of the most iconic medieval hairstyles, circling the head like a natural tiara and embodying regal elegance.
This versatile style was favored by princesses across Europe for its practicality and stunning visual impact.
- The crown braid involves taking all the hair and braiding it in a circular pattern around the circumference of the head.
- Start by parting the hair down the middle or to one side, depending on your preference for symmetry.
- Begin braiding from behind one ear, incorporating small sections of hair as you work around the head.
- The braid should sit like a halo approximately one to two inches from the hairline.
- Secure the end by tucking it underneath the starting point and pinning it invisibly.
- Medieval princesses often wove silk ribbons, pearls, or small flowers into their crown braids for added decoration.
- This style works beautifully with both thick and fine hair textures.
- For historical context, braided hairstyles were common across medieval Europe and often indicated a woman’s social status and marital availability.
2. Flowing Locks with Circlet
Loose, flowing hair symbolized youth and virginity in medieval times, making it the signature look for unmarried princesses.
When paired with a delicate circlet, this simple yet stunning style captured pure romantic elegance.
- This hairstyle celebrates natural hair texture by allowing it to cascade freely down the back and shoulders.
- Begin by thoroughly brushing the hair to create smooth, lustrous waves.
- Apply a light oil or serum to add shine and control any flyaway strands.
- Position a metal or jeweled circlet across the forehead, typically sitting about one inch above the eyebrows.
- The circlet should rest comfortably without being too tight, and can be secured with small pins at the temples.
- For added medieval authenticity, create subtle waves by braiding damp hair overnight and releasing it in the morning.
- Princesses often adorned their flowing hair with fresh flowers, particularly roses and lilies.
- This style was particularly popular during spring and summer festivals when displaying unbound hair was socially acceptable.
3. Double Rope Braids
Double rope braids offered a sophisticated alternative to standard braids, creating texture and visual interest through their twisted construction.
This style demonstrated the wearer’s patience and access to skilled ladies-in-waiting.
- Rope braids are created by twisting two sections of hair around each other rather than using the traditional three-strand technique.
- Divide the hair into two equal sections down the middle of the head.
- Take one section and divide it into two smaller strands.
- Twist each strand clockwise individually, then wrap them around each other counterclockwise.
- The opposing directions of twisting create the rope effect and prevent the braid from unraveling.
- Repeat the process on the other side to create matching rope braids.
- These braids can hang loose, be pinned up, or wrapped around the head for variation.
- Medieval ladies often finished rope braids with decorative metal caps or tassels at the ends.
4. The Butterfly Hennin Style
The butterfly hennin represents one of the most dramatic and recognizable medieval hairstyles, featuring tall conical headpieces with flowing veils.
This style reached its peak popularity in 15th-century Burgundian courts.
- The hennin is a tall, cone-shaped headdress that requires hair to be completely pulled back and hidden.
- Begin by slicking all hair back from the face using pomade or styling gel for a smooth foundation.
- Gather hair at the crown and secure it in a tight bun or coil.
- The hennin structure sits on top of this secured hair, typically attached with pins and combs.
- A transparent or colored veil (called a crepine) flows from the hennin’s point, creating the butterfly effect.
- Some versions feature wire extensions on either side that hold fabric wings.
- This elaborate style was reserved for the highest nobility and special occasions.
- The height of the hennin often indicated the wearer’s social rank, with taller versions signifying greater status.
5. Milkmaid Braids with Flowers
Milkmaid braids brought a touch of pastoral charm to royal courts, offering a softer, more approachable aesthetic while maintaining elegant sophistication.
This style connected nobility with idealized countryside beauty.
- Milkmaid braids consist of two braids wrapped over the top of the head from ear to ear.
- Part hair down the center and create two standard three-strand braids on each side.
- Take the right braid and lay it over the top of the head like a headband, securing with pins.
- Repeat with the left braid, tucking the end underneath the first braid.
- Adjust both braids to create a balanced crown effect across the top of the head.
- Fresh flowers can be woven directly into the braids or pinned along their length.
- Common medieval flowers included daisies, roses, forget-me-nots, and lavender.
- This style works particularly well for outdoor celebrations and spring festivals.
6. The Wrapped Bun with Veil
The wrapped bun with veil represented married women’s modesty while showcasing refined elegance through careful construction and luxurious fabrics.
This style dominated both daily wear and formal occasions for medieval matrons.
- This style begins with gathering all hair at the nape of the neck or crown of the head.
- Twist the hair into a rope and wrap it around itself to form a circular bun.
- Secure the bun with pins, ensuring it sits flat and smooth against the head.
- Drape a rectangular veil over the head, allowing it to fall gracefully over the shoulders.
- The veil can be secured with decorative pins, a small crown, or a jeweled brooch at the forehead.
- Medieval veils were made from fine linen, silk, or even delicate gauze depending on wealth.
- The bun’s placement varied by region, with some areas favoring low nuns while others preferred high arrangements.
- This protective style kept hair clean and manageable while meeting social expectations for covered hair.
7. Side-Swept Cascade
The side-swept cascade created romantic asymmetry, drawing the eye with its flowing movement and artistic arrangement.
This style allowed princesses to display their hair’s length and beauty while maintaining courtly propriety.
- Begin by creating a deep side part, with significantly more hair on one side.
- The larger section is brought forward over the shoulder while the smaller section is pinned back.
- Create loose waves or curls throughout the hair for added texture and volume.
- The cascading side can be left completely loose or formed into a loose braid.
- Decorative chains, ribbons, or jeweled pins can be added to the smaller side for visual balance.
- This asymmetrical style was particularly popular for portraits and formal presentations.
- The cascade effect works best with hair that reaches at least mid-back length.
- Medieval paintings frequently depict noblewomen in this style, suggesting its widespread popularity.
8. Braided Coronet with Ribbons
The braided coronet with ribbons combined structural braiding with soft, flowing fabric to create a style that was both secure and visually dynamic.
Colored ribbons allowed princesses to coordinate their hair with their gowns.
- Create two Dutch braids starting at the temples and working toward the back of the head.
- Continue braiding to the ends, but begin incorporating ribbon into the braiding process.
- Weave the ribbon through the braid by treating it as a fourth strand or wrapping it around the braid.
- Bring both braids to meet at the back center of the head, creating a V-shape.
- Pin the braids to form a coronet shape, with ends tucked underneath and secured.
- Allow ribbon ends to hang loose or tie them in decorative bows.
- Silk ribbons in jewel tones were most prized during medieval times.
- This style offered excellent security for active pursuits like horseback riding or dancing.
9. The Fillet and Barbette
The fillet and barbette represented a distinctly medieval combination of headband and chin strap that created a structured, regal frame for the face.
This style emphasized facial features while completely concealing the hair.
- The barbette is a linen band that passes under the chin and over the top of the head.
- All hair must first be secured in a low bun or braided and pinned flat against the head.
- Wrap the barbette around the chin and up over the head, pinning it securely at the crown.
- The fillet is a stiff headband or circlet that sits horizontally across the forehead.
- Place the fillet approximately one inch above the eyebrows, securing it over the barbette.
- A veil or wimple often completed this look, covering any remaining exposed hair.
- This style was particularly common from the 12th through 14th centuries.
- The construction provided both modesty and a lifted, youthful appearance to the face.
10. Loose Curls with Jeweled Headband
Loose curls with a jeweled headband offered a less structured approach to medieval styling, allowing natural texture to shine while adding sparkle through precious ornaments.
This style suited both formal and semi-formal occasions.
- Begin with clean, dry hair and create curls using hot tools or overnight braiding techniques.
- Medieval curls were typically larger and looser than modern tight ringlets.
- Brush through the curls gently with fingers to create soft, flowing waves.
- Position a jeweled headband across the crown of the head, about two inches back from the hairline.
- The headband should sit horizontally and can be secured with small pins at the temples.
- Allow curls to fall naturally around the face, shoulders, and back.
- Jeweled headbands featured precious metals, gemstones, and intricate metalwork.
- This style was particularly popular for younger princesses and during celebratory events.
11. The Heart-Shaped Hennin
The heart-shaped hennin created a distinctive silhouette that framed the face with romantic symbolism.
This variation of the standard hennin was especially popular in French and Burgundian courts during the 15th century.
- The heart-shaped hennin features a V-shaped dip at the front, creating the heart outline.
- Hair must be completely pulled back and concealed, either in braids wrapped around the head or in a low bun.
- The hennin structure typically measures 8-12 inches in height at its peak.
- A sheer veil attaches to the point of the heart and flows down the back.
- The front edge of the hennin often featured decorative trim, pearls, or goldwork.
- Women sometimes shaved or plucked their hairlines to create a higher forehead for this style.
- The heart shape was thought to represent love and courtly romance.
- This dramatic style required significant time and assistance from ladies-in-waiting to construct properly.
12. Twisted Rope Crown
The twisted rope crown offered a textured alternative to standard braided crowns, creating dimensional interest through its coiled construction.
This style worked beautifully for both thick and fine hair types.
- Divide hair into two equal sections at the center back of the head.
- Twist each section tightly in the same direction, typically clockwise.
- Wrap one twisted section around the head like a headband, securing with pins.
- Repeat with the second section, placing it parallel to the first or slightly overlapping.
- The two twisted ropes should create a substantial crown effect.
- Tuck the ends underneath the opposite twist for a seamless finish.
- Small decorative elements can be pinned between the twists for added embellishment.
- This style holds well throughout the day and suits active pursuits.
13. Waterfall Braid with Ribbons
The waterfall braid created a cascading effect where sections of hair appeared to flow through the braid like a waterfall.
This intricate technique showcased advanced braiding skills and created romantic movement.
- Begin the waterfall braid at one temple, taking a small three-strand section.
- Create one stitch of a regular braid, but drop the back strand instead of incorporating it fully.
- Pick up a new section to replace the dropped strand and continue braiding.
- Each dropped section creates the waterfall effect, flowing down with the rest of the hair.
- Continue the braid horizontally around the back of the head to the opposite temple.
- Thin ribbons can be woven into the braid or tied to dropped sections.
- This style works best on hair that is at least shoulder length.
- The waterfall braid pairs beautifully with loose curls in the unbraided sections.
14. The Coiled Side Bun
The coiled side bun brought an element of architectural sophistication to medieval hairstyling, positioning the hair prominently on one side for maximum visual impact. This asymmetrical style was favored for formal court appearances.
- Part hair deeply to one side, bringing the majority over one shoulder.
- Gather all hair at a point just behind and below the ear.
- Twist the hair tightly and coil it around itself to form a large, flat bun.
- Secure with numerous pins inserted both vertically and horizontally for stability.
- A decorative hairnet made of silk cord, gold thread, or pearl strings often covered the coil.
- The bun should sit prominently on the side, visible from front and back views.
- This style effectively kept hair secure during elaborate headdress changes.
- Jeweled pins were often inserted directly into the coil for additional decoration.
15. French Braid into Low Bun
The French braid flowing into a low bun combined the elegance of structured braiding with the refined simplicity of a classic bun.
This practical yet beautiful style suited both daily wear and formal occasions.
- Begin at the crown of the head with a small three-strand section.
- Create a French braid by adding hair from each side as you work down the head.
- Continue the French braid down past the nape of the neck to the hair’s ends.
- Gather the completed braid along with any loose hair at the nape.
- Coil the braid around itself to form a low, secure bun.
- Pin the bun in place, tucking the end underneath for a polished finish.
- This style kept hair completely secure and off the neck.
- Medieval women often performed physical tasks in this practical yet attractive style.
16. The Jeweled Caul
The jeweled caul represented the height of medieval hair accessorizing, encasing braids or buns in decorative network made from precious materials.
This style signaled wealth and refined taste.
- Create two low buns or coiled braids on either side of the head, just behind the ears.
- The caul is a netted covering made from silk, gold thread, or even fine metal chains.
- Place one caul over each bun, securing it with pins inserted through the netting.
- Jeweled cauls featured pearls, gemstones, or gold beads at intersection points.
- The contrast between the contained hair and decorative netting created visual interest.
- Cauls were often made by skilled artisans and passed down as family heirlooms.
- This style was particularly popular in the 14th and 15th centuries.
- The cauls protected expensive fabrics from hair oils while adding ornamentation.
17. Half-Up Medieval Twist
The half-up medieval twist offered a compromise between loose, flowing hair and completely secured styles.
This versatile look worked for both young maidens and married women in less formal settings.
- Section off the top half of the hair from temples to crown.
- Twist this upper section smoothly toward the back of the head.
- Secure the twist at the center back with a decorative comb, barrette, or pins.
- Allow the lower half of the hair to flow freely down the back.
- The flowing section can be left straight, wavy, or curled depending on preference.
- This style effectively kept hair away from the face while showcasing length.
- Decorative combs made from bone, horn, or precious metals were common accessories.
- The style transitioned easily from day to evening with simple embellishment changes.
18. Braided Crown with Center Part
The braided crown with center part created perfect symmetry and balance, emphasizing facial features through its geometric precision.
This style appeared in numerous medieval manuscripts and paintings.
- Create a precise center part from forehead to nape.
- Begin a three-strand braid on each side, starting just behind the ears.
- Braid each section to the ends, securing with small ties.
- Wrap the right braid across the top of the head like a headband.
- Bring the left braid parallel to the first, creating a double crown effect.
- Tuck and pin all ends securely underneath the braids.
- The center part should remain visible between the two braids.
- This symmetrical style was considered especially appropriate for religious occasions.
19. The Horned Headdress
The horned headdress represented one of medieval fashion’s most controversial styles, featuring distinctive horn-like projections on either side of the head.
Despite church criticism, this dramatic look remained popular among nobility.
- Hair is parted in the center and divided into two sections.
- Each section is wrapped around a horn-shaped support made of wire, wood, or stiffened fabric.
- The horns extend outward and slightly upward from the sides of the head.
- Hair is smoothed over the horn structures and pinned securely.
- A sheer veil typically connects the two horns, flowing down the back.
- The horns could span from 6 inches to over a foot in width.
- This style required significant structural support and assistance to construct.
- Fashion historians debate whether the horned style derived from earlier Celtic or Germanic traditions.
20. Loose Braid with Flower Crown
The loose braid with flower crown embodied youthful innocence and natural beauty, connecting the wearer to nature’s cycles and seasonal celebrations.
This style was particularly popular for spring and summer festivals.
- Brush all hair to one side and gather it at the shoulder.
- Create a relaxed three-strand braid, avoiding pulling too tightly.
- Gently pull at the braid’s edges to loosen and widen it for a fuller appearance.
- Secure the end with a ribbon or leather cord.
- Create or place a pre-made flower crown on top of the head.
- The flower crown should sit about an inch back from the hairline.
- Fresh flowers last only hours, but medieval women also used silk or fabric flowers.
- Common flower choices included roses, peonies, cornflowers, and chamomile.
21. The Wimple and Veil Combination
The wimple and veil combination provided complete hair coverage in accordance with religious and social customs of medieval times.
This modest style was required for married women in many regions and time periods.
- All hair must first be completely braided or pinned close to the head.
- The wimple is a cloth that wraps around the neck, chin, and sides of the face.
- Pin the wimple securely at the top of the head, ensuring no hair shows.
- Drape a rectangular veil over the head, covering the wimple’s pinning points.
- The veil falls over the shoulders and down the back.
- Wimples were typically made from white or undyed linen for practical washing.
- This covering protected hair from dirt while meeting modesty requirements.
- Nuns and religious women wore this style throughout their lives, while secular women adopted it after marriage.
22. Cascading Curls with Jeweled Pins
Cascading curls adorned with jeweled pins struck a balance between natural beauty and ornamental luxury.
This style allowed hair’s texture to shine while adding strategic sparkle throughout.
- Create curls throughout the hair using hot tools or period-appropriate methods like rag curls.
- Arrange curls to cascade naturally down the back and over the shoulders.
- Take decorative jeweled pins and insert them at intervals throughout the curls.
- Pins can be clustered on one side, scattered evenly, or arranged in patterns.
- Each pin should be secured into the hair’s base, not just resting on the surface.
- Medieval jeweled pins featured gemstones, pearls, and intricate metalwork.
- The pins served both decorative and functional purposes, helping control voluminous curls.
- This style required wealth to commission multiple jeweled hair accessories.
23. The Padded Roll
The padded roll created height and structure along the hairline, a precursor to later Renaissance styles.
This sophisticated look required padding inserts and careful pinning techniques.
- A padded roll or “bourrelet” is placed along the hairline from temple to temple.
- The padding can be made from fabric, horsehair, or wool formed into a cylindrical shape.
- Hair is smoothed over the padding and pinned securely underneath.
- The visible roll creates a raised frame around the face.
- Remaining hair is typically arranged in braids or a bun at the back.
- A circlet or crown often sits atop the roll for additional decoration.
- This style created the high forehead that was fashionable in late medieval period.
- The construction required skilled ladies-in-waiting and considerable time.
24. Fishtail Braid with Chain
The fishtail braid offered intricate visual texture through its complex weaving pattern, enhanced by delicate chains that caught light with every movement.
This style demonstrated both patience and access to fine accessories.
- Divide hair into two equal sections.
- Take a small strand from the outer edge of the left section and cross it to the right section.
- Repeat on the opposite side, taking from the right and crossing to the left.
- Continue this alternating pattern down the length of the hair.
- The resulting braid has a distinctive herringbone appearance.
- Weave a fine chain through the braid by threading it between sections.
- The chain can be woven straight through or wrapped spirally.
- Gold, silver, or copper chains were used depending on wealth and occasion.
25. Double Crown Braids
Double crown braids created dimension and complexity by layering two separate braided crowns at different heights.
This architectural style showcased advanced braiding skills and abundant hair length.
- Create the first crown braid around the head at mid-height.
- Leave enough loose hair below to create a second braid.
- Form the second crown braid lower, closer to the nape and ears.
- Both braids should be secured with pins and have their ends tucked invisibly.
- The two-tiered effect creates substantial visual interest and height.
- Decorative pins, pearls, or small jewels can be added to either or both braids.
- This style worked best with very long, thick hair.
- The double crown was reserved for special occasions due to its complexity.
26. The Wrapped Ponytail
The wrapped ponytail provided a sleek, sophisticated alternative to loose hanging hair, with sections of hair wrapped around the base for a polished finish.
This style suited active pursuits while maintaining elegance.
- Gather all hair at the desired height, typically at the nape or mid-head.
- Secure with a tie, leaving one small section separate.
- Take the separate section and wrap it around the tie and ponytail base.
- Continue wrapping until the tie is completely hidden.
- Tuck the end of the wrapping section underneath and pin securely.
- The wrapped base creates a polished, seamless appearance.
- Ribbon can be wrapped around the ponytail length for additional decoration.
- This practical style appeared in depictions of women engaged in daily work.
27. Romantic Side Curls with Pins
Romantic side curls with pins created an asymmetrical, sophisticated look that emphasized the profile and allowed curls to frame the face beautifully.
This style gained popularity in the later medieval period.
- Create large, loose curls throughout the hair using hot tools or braiding methods.
- Sweep all curls to one side, typically the right shoulder.
- Pin the curls at the opposite temple and behind the opposite ear.
- Arrange individual curls artfully, pinning them to create the desired cascade effect.
- Jeweled or decorative pins can be placed strategically throughout.
- The unpinned side remains smooth and close to the head.
- This asymmetrical style created visual drama and movement.
- The look worked especially well for portraits and formal presentations.
Conclusion
The world of 27 Creative Medieval Hairstyles for Princesses reveals a rich tapestry of beauty traditions that combined artistry, symbolism, and social meaning in every twist and braid.
From the dramatic heights of hennins to the romantic simplicity of flower-crowned flowing locks, these styles offer endless inspiration for modern interpretations of historical elegance.
Each hairstyle tells a story of the women who wore them, reflecting their social status, marital state, and personal taste within the constraints and freedoms of their time.
Whether you’re drawn to the intricate complexity of jeweled cauls or the natural beauty of waterfall braids, these medieval styles prove that timeless elegance transcends centuries.
Embrace these techniques to transform yourself into royalty, connecting with a legacy of feminine grace that continues to captivate and inspire generations of admirers seeking the perfect balance of romance, regality, and remarkable beauty.
