27 Royal Medieval Hairstyles for Princesses with Crowns

Medieval princesses were the ultimate icons of grace and elegance, and their hairstyles reflected the grandeur of their royal status.

Whether you’re preparing for a themed event, a Renaissance fair, or simply fascinated by historical beauty, understanding these regal hairstyles will transport you back to an era of castles and courtly romance.

This comprehensive guide explores 27 authentic medieval hairstyles that perfectly complement crowns, from intricate braids to flowing locks adorned with jewels.

You’ll discover the techniques behind each style, the symbolism they carried, and how to recreate them for modern occasions. Get ready to unlock the secrets of royal beauty that have captivated hearts for centuries.

1. The Classic Center Part with Flowing Waves

This timeless style was favored by noble ladies across medieval Europe for its simplicity and elegance.

The hair was parted perfectly down the middle and allowed to cascade in natural waves over the shoulders, creating a frame for the face that complemented any crown style.

• The center part symbolized balance and virtue in medieval society, making it a popular choice for young princesses and unmarried noblewomen.
• Hair was often treated with herbal rinses made from chamomile, rosemary, and lavender to enhance shine and create subtle highlights.
• A lightweight circlet or delicate crown sat perfectly on this style without disturbing the natural flow of the hair.
• The waves were achieved by braiding damp hair before bed and releasing it in the morning for soft, romantic curls.
• This style worked particularly well for formal court appearances and religious ceremonies where modesty was valued.

2. The Elaborate Side Braid Crown Wrap

Medieval princesses often incorporated their crowns directly into elaborate braided designs. This style featured a thick braid that originated from one side of the head and wrapped around to cradle the crown.

• The braid was typically started behind one ear and woven with ribbons that matched the princess’s gown.
• Skilled ladies-in-waiting would take up to an hour to perfect this intricate style for special occasions.
• Small flowers or pearls were often woven into the braid at regular intervals to add sparkle and texture.
• The crown sat in a natural depression created by the braid’s placement, ensuring it stayed secure throughout long ceremonies.
• This style demonstrated both the wearer’s status and the skill of her attendants, making it popular for weddings and coronations.

3. The Double French Braid with Crown Placement

French braiding techniques were refined in medieval courts to create stunning foundations for crown display.

Two parallel French braids running from the hairline to the nape created a textured base that prevented crowns from slipping.

• The braids were intentionally created with slightly loose tension at the crown area to allow the coronet to sit comfortably.
• This practical style was favored for hunting parties and outdoor festivities where active movement was expected.
• Noble ladies often had their braids wrapped with thin gold or silver threads that caught the light beautifully.
• The remaining loose hair at the ends was either coiled into buns or left to hang in decorative arrangements.
• This style became particularly popular in France and England during the 13th and 14th centuries.

4. The Rope Braid Halo Style

This angelic hairstyle involved creating a thick rope braid that circled the head like a halo, with the crown positioned at the front as a centerpiece.

The rope braid technique involved twisting two sections of hair around each other to create a sturdy, textured band.

• The halo effect symbolized purity and divine grace, making it especially popular for religious festivals and saint’s day celebrations.
• Princesses with extremely long hair could wrap the rope braid multiple times for added dimension and security.
• The crown’s weight was distributed evenly across the entire rope braid structure, preventing headaches during long ceremonies.
• Small metal pins made from gold or silver were hidden within the braid to keep everything firmly in place.
• This style was particularly flattering on younger princesses and was often chosen for their first official court presentations.

5. The Cascading Waterfall Braid

The waterfall braid was a sophisticated technique where sections of hair were dropped through the braid to create a cascading effect.

When combined with a crown, this style created a stunning display of both structure and flow.

• Each dropped section was carefully curled to enhance the waterfall effect and create romantic, flowing tendrils.
• The braid typically started at one temple and traveled around the back of the head to the opposite side.
• A crown was positioned just above where the braid began, creating a beautiful transition between structured and loose hair.
• This style required significant skill and was reserved for the most experienced ladies’ maids in noble households.
• Pearl strands were sometimes woven through the dropped sections to add weight and sparkle.

6. The Twisted Crown Foundation

Multiple thin twists of hair were arranged in a crown-like pattern around the head, creating the perfect foundation for an actual crown to rest upon.

This style combined practicality with stunning visual appeal.

• Between five and eight separate twists were typically used, depending on hair thickness and desired effect.
• Each twist was secured with small pins at strategic points to create a stable base.
• The crown sat in the center of this twisted foundation, elevated slightly for dramatic effect.
• Any remaining loose hair hung down the back in waves or curls for added elegance.
• This style was particularly popular in Germanic regions during the medieval period.

7. The Maiden’s Unbound Tresses

Unmarried princesses often wore their hair completely loose as a symbol of their maiden status.

This simple yet powerful style allowed for maximum crown visibility and represented youth and innocence.

• Hair was brushed until it gleamed and sometimes treated with oils to enhance its natural luster.
• A simple circlet or thin crown sat directly on the head without any braiding or pinning required.
• This style was exclusively reserved for unmarried women; married ladies always covered or bound their hair.
• Fresh flowers were frequently tucked into the hair at the sides to add color and fragrance.
• The simplicity of this style made it perfect for everyday wear within castle walls.

8. The Fishtail Braid Crown Accent

The fishtail braid technique created an intricate, scale-like pattern that looked particularly regal when used as a crown accent.

This detailed braid started at the crown of the head and could be arranged in various configurations.

• The fishtail technique involved dividing hair into two sections and repeatedly crossing small pieces from each side.
• The resulting braid was wider and flatter than traditional three-strand braids, creating more surface area for the crown to rest against.
• Gold dust or metallic powders were sometimes applied to the braid to create a shimmering effect at court events.
• The braid could be shaped into a circular crown, left to hang down the back, or wrapped in elaborate patterns.
• This style demonstrated exceptional wealth and status, as it required dedicated servants with specialized skills.

9. The Gothic Pointed Hood with Crown

During the Gothic period, princesses often wore tall, pointed fabric hoods called hennins with their hair styled underneath.

The crown was worn over or incorporated into the hennin structure for dramatic effect.

• Hair was typically pulled back and coiled at the nape to fit smoothly under the hennin.
• A veil or sheer fabric often flowed from the pointed tip of the hennin, adding ethereal beauty.
• The crown sat at the base of the hennin or circled the head beneath it, depending on the specific style.
• This fashion was particularly popular in Burgundy and France during the 15th century.
• The height of the hennin indicated social status, with royal princesses wearing the tallest versions.

10. The Crown-Woven Dutch Braid

The Dutch braid, which sits on top of the hair rather than being woven under, created an ideal platform for crown placement.

This raised braid technique made crowns appear to float above the head.

• The Dutch braid technique involved crossing hair sections under rather than over, creating an inverted appearance.
• Two Dutch braids running from front to back created channels where a crown could sit securely.
• Ribbons in royal colors were often woven into the braids to match ceremonial regalia.
• This style was particularly effective for crowns with prongs or peaks that needed stable support.
• The raised texture of Dutch braids caught light beautifully in candlelit halls and torch-lit chambers.

11. The Looped Braid Coronet

Hair was braided in long sections and then looped back on itself to create a coronet of braids that encircled the head.

A crown was placed on top of this braided structure for added height and grandeur.

• Multiple braids of varying thickness could be combined to create complex patterns and textures.
• The loops were pinned securely at regular intervals to prevent any shifting during movement.
• This style added significant height, making the wearer appear more imposing and regal.
• Small jeweled pins were often placed at each loop point to add sparkle and secure the structure.
• The style was favored for coronation ceremonies where maximum visual impact was desired.

12. The Half-Up Twisted Crown Style

This versatile style involved twisting the top half of the hair and securing it at the crown, while leaving the bottom half flowing freely.

The twisted section created a natural seat for the crown.

• The twists could be simple or elaborate, depending on the formality of the occasion.
• Jeweled hairpins were inserted into the twists for added decoration and security.
• The loose hair below was often curled or waved to create contrast with the structured top section.
• This style worked well for both young and mature princesses, making it universally popular.
• It offered the perfect balance between the maiden’s loose hair and the married woman’s bound hair.

13. The Braided Crown with Veil Integration

Medieval princesses often combined crowns with flowing veils, and this style integrated both elements seamlessly.

A braid circled the head like a crown, with the actual crown pinned on top and a veil flowing from beneath it.

• The veil was attached to hidden pins within the braided crown for secure placement.
• Sheer silk or fine linen veils were preferred for their delicate appearance and light weight.
• The braid was often embellished with small pearls or gems that matched the crown’s jewels.
• This style was particularly popular for weddings and religious ceremonies where modesty was important.
• The veil could be arranged to cover the face, drape over the shoulders, or flow down the back depending on custom.

14. The Low Braided Bun with Crown Placement

A sophisticated style where hair was braided and coiled into a low bun at the nape of the neck, allowing a crown to sit prominently on the upper head.

This style emphasized the crown while maintaining elegant simplicity.

• The low bun was positioned to balance the weight of the crown and prevent neck strain during long events.
• Multiple braids could be woven together before being coiled to create intricate patterns within the bun.
• Gold or silver netting was sometimes placed over the bun for added decoration and security.
• This style was considered appropriate for married princesses and queens, indicating mature status.
• Small jeweled pins decorated the bun while also serving the practical purpose of holding it in place.

15. The Temple Braids with Crown Accent

Braids that started at the temples and traveled backward created decorative frames for the face while providing anchor points for crown placement. This style was both practical and beautiful.

• The temple braids could be thin and delicate or thick and dramatic depending on personal preference.
• They were often braided with ribbons that matched the princess’s gown or the kingdom’s colors.
• The braids met at the back of the head where they could be joined or left separate.
• A crown sat perfectly in the space between the two temple braids at the top of the head.
• This style kept hair away from the face while maintaining a romantic, flowing appearance.

16. The Jeweled Hair Net with Crown

Elaborate hair nets made from gold or silver threads and decorated with pearls and gems were worn over styled hair with crowns positioned on top. This luxurious style showcased wealth and status.

• The hair underneath was typically braided or coiled to create volume beneath the net.
• Each intersection point of the net was often decorated with a small pearl or jewel.
• The net could cover all the hair or just a section, depending on the style.
• Crowns were designed with specific bases to sit securely on the netted hair without snagging.
• This style was particularly popular in Italian courts during the late medieval period.

17. The Voluminous Crown Cushion Style

Hair was arranged to create volume at the crown of the head, forming a cushion-like base for the crown to rest upon. This technique made crowns appear larger and more impressive.

• The volume was created by backcombing or using padding made from horse hair or wool.
• The actual hair was smoothed over the padding to hide it completely.
• This style added significant height and created an imposing, regal silhouette.
• Crowns appeared to float above the head due to the elevated base.
• The technique was commonly used for coronation portraits and important state ceremonies.

18. The Asymmetrical Side Sweep with Crown

Hair was swept dramatically to one side and secured with decorative pins, creating an asymmetrical look that was both modern and medieval. The crown sat at an angle to complement the sweep.

• This style was considered slightly unconventional and was favored by younger, more fashion-forward princesses.
• The swept hair often covered one shoulder while leaving the other bare and elegant.
• Elaborate brooches or jeweled clips held the sweep in place and added decoration.
• The crown could be positioned straight or at a coordinating angle for artistic effect.
• This style became particularly popular during periods of cultural Renaissance when artistic expression flourished.

19. The Milkmaid Braid Crown Base

Two braids were wrapped around the head in the style of a milkmaid crown, creating a substantial base for a royal crown to sit upon. This style combined rustic charm with royal elegance.

• Despite the humble origins of the style name, it was elevated to royal status through the use of silk ribbons and jewels.
• The braids were typically quite thick, providing excellent support for heavy ceremonial crowns.
• Small flowers or herbs were sometimes tucked into the braids for special garden parties or spring celebrations.
• This style was particularly popular for informal royal gatherings and countryside retreats.
• The circular shape of the braided crown created a natural platform that distributed weight evenly.

20. The Crimped Waves with Crown Accent

Hair was crimped using heated irons or braiding techniques to create tight, uniform waves that added texture and volume. A crown sat beautifully on this textured foundation.

• The crimping process involved braiding damp hair into many small braids and leaving them overnight.
• When released, the hair had a zigzag pattern that caught light from every angle.
• This textured hair prevented crowns from slipping and added visual interest to the style.
• The volume created by crimping made even fine hair appear thick and luxurious.
• Scented oils were often applied to crimped hair to enhance shine and add fragrance.

21. The Spiral Curls with Crown Placement

Long spiral curls created using various medieval curling techniques flowed from beneath a crown in romantic cascades. This style required significant preparation but created stunning results.

• Curls were created by wrapping sections of hair around heated rods or fabric strips.
• The curls were then carefully arranged to fall in deliberate patterns that framed the face.
• A crown sat on the smooth top section while the curls began just beneath it.
• This style was particularly popular for weddings and betrothal ceremonies.
• Essential oils and plant-based setting lotions helped the curls maintain their shape throughout long events.

22. The Braided Crown with Ribbons

Thick braids were woven with colorful ribbons representing the princess’s house colors or family crest, then arranged in a crown pattern with an actual crown placed on top.

• Ribbons were woven into the braids from the beginning, creating an integrated, seamless look.
• Royal colors such as purple, gold, and crimson were most commonly used.
• The ribbons added both color and texture to the hairstyle.
• During tournaments and celebrations, the ribbons might match the kingdom’s banners and flags.
• This style created a cohesive look that reinforced the princess’s royal identity and family allegiance.

23. The Pinned Coils with Crown Foundation

Multiple sections of hair were coiled and pinned flat against the head in decorative patterns, creating a textured foundation that kept crowns secure. This intricate style showcased exceptional hairdressing skill.

• Each coil was pinned in a specific pattern to create overall symmetry and design.
• The coils could form flowers, spirals, or geometric patterns depending on fashion trends.
• A crown sat on top of this elaborate base, its weight distributed across multiple pin points.
• This style was time-consuming to create but lasted for several days once set.
• Gold or jeweled pins were used both for decoration and structural support.

24. The Wrapped Braid Bun with Crown

A single long braid was wrapped around itself to create a substantial bun, with the crown positioned on top of the head in front of the bun. This style created an elegant silhouette from every angle.

• The braid was wrapped in a spiral pattern to maximize size and visual impact.
• The bun could be positioned at various heights on the back of the head depending on fashion and crown design.
• Decorative pins with jeweled ends were inserted through the bun to secure it and add sparkle.
• This style worked particularly well with tall, pointed crowns that needed a counterbalance.
• The wrapped braid bun became especially popular in Eastern European courts.

25. The Center Braid with Side Tendrils

A single central braid ran from the forehead back over the crown of the head, with loose romantic tendrils left free on both sides to frame the face. A crown sat perfectly over the braid.

• The central braid was often quite thick and elaborate, sometimes incorporating ribbons or flowers.
• The side tendrils were carefully curled to create soft, face-framing waves.
• This style balanced structure and romance, making it popular for both formal and semi-formal occasions.
• The crown could be positioned at the start of the braid or further back, depending on its design.
• Small flowers or jeweled clips often decorated the point where the braid began.

26. The Pompadour Crown Style

Hair at the front was swept up and back over padding to create height (an early pompadour), with the crown positioned at the peak of this elevated style. The remaining hair flowed down the back.

• This dramatic style created significant height and presence, making the wearer appear taller and more commanding.
• The front section was carefully smoothed and pinned to create a sleek surface.
• Padding made from wool or hair pieces was hidden beneath to create and maintain the shape.
• This style was particularly popular in the later medieval period and transitioned into Renaissance fashion.
• The elevated front provided an excellent display platform for elaborate crowns with front-facing jewels.

27. The Coronet Braid Circle

The final style features hair braided into one or more sections that circle the head multiple times, creating a substantial coronet of braids. The crown sits directly on top of this braided foundation like a jeweled cap.

• Multiple braids of different thicknesses could be stacked to create dimension and interest.
• The circular pattern symbolized eternity and divine right, making it popular for coronations.
• Each layer of braids was secured individually before the next was added.
• The resulting structure was incredibly stable and could support even the heaviest ceremonial crowns.
• This style represented the pinnacle of medieval hairdressing achievement and required hours to complete.
• Gold chains or jeweled bands were sometimes woven between the braid layers for maximum opulence.
• The style could last for multiple days if the braids were carefully maintained and protected at night.

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Conclusion

The 27 Royal Medieval Hairstyles for Princesses with Crowns represent centuries of tradition, artistry, and cultural significance that transformed hair into a canvas for displaying status and beauty.

From the simplicity of flowing maiden tresses to the complexity of elaborate braided coronets, each style tells a story of the women who wore them and the skilled attendants who created them.

These historical hairstyles continue to inspire modern fashion, appearing in weddings, costume events, and theatrical productions around the world.

Whether you’re drawn to the romantic waterfall braids, the structured Dutch braid styles, or the dramatic pompadour crown arrangements, these medieval techniques offer endless possibilities for creating stunning looks that honor the past while remaining timelessly beautiful.

The combination of intricate braiding, strategic crown placement, and thoughtful embellishments showcases the sophistication of medieval beauty standards and reminds us that true elegance never goes out of style.