29 Simple Renaissance Hairstyles for Long Hair

The Renaissance era remains one of history’s most celebrated periods for elegance, artistry, and breathtaking beauty standards that continue to inspire modern fashion.

When you think of Renaissance hairstyles for long hair, images of elaborate braids, romantic waves, and jeweled adornments likely come to mind—styles that transformed women into walking masterpieces.

This comprehensive guide to 29 Simple Renaissance Hairstyles for Long Hair will walk you through achievable, stunning looks that capture the essence of this golden age without requiring a royal court hairdresser.

Whether you’re preparing for a themed event, a Renaissance fair, a wedding, or simply want to add historical elegance to your everyday style, these hairstyles range from beginner-friendly to moderately challenging.

You’ll discover techniques for creating classic braided crowns, cascading curls, twisted updos, and jeweled arrangements that defined the beauty standards of the 14th through 17th centuries.

Each style has been adapted for modern wearers, ensuring you can recreate these timeless looks with contemporary tools and products while maintaining authentic Renaissance charm.

1. The Classic Renaissance Crown Braid

The crown braid served as one of the most recognizable Renaissance hairstyles, symbolizing nobility and grace throughout European courts.

This style wraps braided hair around the head like a natural crown, creating an elegant frame for the face while keeping hair secure and sophisticated.

How to Create:

Begin by parting your hair down the middle from forehead to nape
Create two equal sections on either side of your head
Dutch braid each section, starting from behind the ear and working toward the opposite ear
Cross the braids over the top of your head, creating a crown effect
Secure the ends with bobby pins, tucking them beneath the opposite braid
Gently pull at the braid edges to create fuller, more romantic-looking plaits
Add small pearl pins or gold hairpins for authentic Renaissance embellishment

Best For: Medium to long hair, oval and heart-shaped faces, formal occasions

2. Flowing Maiden Waves

Loose, flowing waves represented youth, innocence, and unmarried status during the Renaissance period, making this one of the simplest yet most beautiful historical hairstyles.

Young noblewomen often wore their hair down in gentle cascades that caught the light and moved gracefully with every step.

Styling Steps:

Wash and condition hair thoroughly, allowing it to air dry until slightly damp
Apply a heat protectant spray throughout all sections
Divide hair into 2-inch sections for even curl distribution
Use a 1.5-inch curling iron or wand, wrapping hair away from your face
Hold each section for 8-10 seconds before releasing
Allow curls to cool completely before touching them
Gently brush through with a paddle brush to create soft, flowing waves
Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the style without stiffness
Optional: Add a jeweled headband or floral crown across the hairline

Best For: All face shapes, casual Renaissance events, romantic occasions

3. The Italian Renaissance Twist

Popular in Florence and Venice, this sophisticated updo combined twisted sections with elegant height at the crown.

Italian noblewomen favored this style for its ability to showcase expensive hair ornaments while maintaining a refined silhouette.

Creation Process:

Part hair down the center from forehead to crown
Take a 2-inch section from the front right side
Twist it tightly while moving backward toward the crown
Secure with bobby pins at the crown area
Repeat on the left side, crossing the twist over the right one
Gather remaining loose hair at the nape
Twist this section upward, coiling it into a low bun
Secure the bun with U-shaped hairpins
Tuck any loose ends under the twisted sections
Add decorative elements like gold chains or jeweled pins

Best For: Long thick hair, square and oval faces, weddings

4. Braided Half-Up Renaissance Style

This versatile hairstyle combined the modesty of secured hair with the beauty of flowing locks, making it appropriate for various social occasions.

The half-up style allowed women to display their hair’s length while maintaining control over the upper sections.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Create a horizontal part from ear to ear across the crown
Clip the lower section out of the way
Divide the upper section into three equal parts
Create a three-strand braid with the right section
Repeat with the center section
Repeat with the left section
Bring all three braids together at the back of the crown
Secure with an elastic band, then cover with a decorative ribbon
Release the lower section, allowing it to flow freely
Curl the loose ends with a curling iron for added romance

Best For: Medium to long hair, all face shapes, Renaissance fairs

5. The French Hood Hairstyle

Though technically requiring a headdress accessory, this iconic Tudor-era style shaped how hair was arranged beneath the famous French hood.

The hair was parted severely and smoothed back, with the sides visible in elegant loops.

Preparation Steps:

Create a precise center part from hairline to crown
Apply smoothing serum to eliminate flyaways and frizz
Brush hair flat against the head on both sides
Take front sections on each side of the part
Create small loops by folding hair back on itself near the temples
Pin these loops securely with bobby pins
Gather remaining hair at the nape into a low bun or braid
Wrap a decorative hair net or snood over the bun
Position a French hood headpiece (or decorative headband) over the arrangement
Ensure the side loops remain visible and symmetrical

Best For: Long hair, oval faces, Tudor-themed events

6. Cascading Side Braid

This romantic style swept all hair to one side in an elaborate braid that cascaded over the shoulder, displaying both technical skill and feminine grace. Side-swept styles were particularly popular during the later Renaissance period.

Braiding Instructions:

Brush all hair over to your preferred shoulder
Divide into three thick, equal sections
Begin a loose French braid at the crown, adding hair as you work downward
Continue braiding past the shoulder and down the length
Secure the end with a ribbon or covered elastic
Gently pull at the outer edges of the braid to create volume
Pancake the braid by pulling each woven section slightly apart
Tuck small flowers or pearl pins throughout the braid
Allow a few face-framing wisps to escape naturally

Best For: Very long hair, round and square faces, outdoor events

7. The Venetian Courtesan Style

This bold, sensual hairstyle showcased bleached or naturally blonde hair in elaborate arrangements that emphasized height and volume. Venetian women were famous for their hair lightening techniques and dramatic styling.

Styling Method:

Backcomb hair at the crown to create significant height
Smooth the top layer over the teased section
Pull hair back from the face, maintaining the volume
Secure at the mid-crown with hidden pins
Allow the remaining length to flow freely down the back
Create loose ringlets in the flowing sections using a curling iron
Apply gold dust or shimmer spray to catch light
Add strings of pearls or gold chains woven through the style
Position decorative combs at the sides for added ornamentation

Best For: Long, thick hair, special occasions, dramatic looks

8. Simple Renaissance Ponytail

Even the humble ponytail took on Renaissance elegance when positioned correctly and adorned with period-appropriate accessories. This style offered practicality without sacrificing beauty.

Easy Steps:

Brush hair thoroughly to remove all tangles
Create a center or slight side part
Gather all hair at the nape of the neck
Secure with a fabric-covered elastic or ribbon
Wrap a long ribbon around the base, tying it in a bow
Curl the ponytail length with a curling iron
Allow curls to cool and gently separate them
Add a jeweled hair clip at the elastic base
Leave a few face-framing tendrils loose

Best For: All hair lengths over shoulder-length, everyday Renaissance styling

9. Double Dutch Braid Updo

This intricate style combined two Dutch braids that wrapped around the head before being secured in a low bun, creating architectural interest and securing even the longest hair.

Construction Process:

Part hair down the center from forehead to nape
Begin a Dutch braid on the right side at the hairline
Continue braiding along the hairline toward the back
Repeat the process on the left side
When both braids reach the nape, cross them over each other
Coil the remaining length into a low bun
Secure with U-pins and bobby pins
Tuck all ends neatly inside the bun
Apply hairspray for hold
Add decorative pins or a jeweled hair net over the bun

Best For: Very long, thick hair, formal Renaissance events

10. The Elizabethan Heart-Shaped Hairline

Queen Elizabeth I popularized this distinctive look featuring a heart-shaped hairline created through careful styling and sometimes enhancement with false hair pieces. The style emphasized a high, broad forehead considered beautiful in the period.

Creating the Look:

Create a widow’s peak or heart shape at the center hairline
Pin back side sections to emphasize the heart shape
Apply styling gel or pomade to keep front hair smooth and defined
Gather remaining hair into a high bun at the crown
Pad the bun with a hair rat or foam donut for volume
Wrap your hair around the padding
Secure with numerous pins for stability
Add decorative elements like jeweled pins or small crown
Apply hairspray to maintain the sculptural shape

Best For: Long hair, oval and heart-shaped faces, Elizabethan-themed events

11. Romantic Loose Chignon

This softer interpretation of Renaissance styling created a low, loose bun that appeared effortless while maintaining period-appropriate modesty. The style worked particularly well for daytime and informal occasions.

Assembly Instructions:

Part hair on the side for a romantic asymmetry
Gather hair loosely at the nape
Twist the gathered hair gently, not too tightly
Wrap the twisted section into a loose coil
Secure with bobby pins, leaving the bun slightly loose
Pull out a few face-framing pieces
Allow some strands to escape from the bun naturally
Add a decorative comb or pin to one side
Mist with flexible-hold hairspray

Best For: Medium to long hair, relaxed Renaissance looks, all face shapes

12. Braided Crown with Flowing Hair

Combining secured and loose elements, this style featured a braided crown around the head while allowing the remaining length to flow freely, representing both control and freedom.

Braiding Technique:

Create a horizontal part from ear to ear across the crown
Leave the back section loose and free
Dutch braid the front section from left to right
Continue braiding around the head like a halo
Secure the braid end near the opposite ear
Tuck the end under the braid and pin securely
Curl the loose flowing section for added texture
Add small flowers or pearls along the braided crown
Apply light hairspray to the braid only

Best For: Very long hair, outdoor Renaissance events, bohemian looks

13. The Spanish Renaissance Mantilla Style

Spanish Renaissance women often wore their hair beneath decorative mantillas (veils), but the hair arrangement underneath followed specific styling principles featuring center parts and low, elegant arrangements.

Styling Foundation:

Create a perfect center part with a tail comb
Apply smoothing cream to both front sections
Brush hair flat against the head on both sides
Gather hair at the nape into a low ponytail
Braid the ponytail in a three-strand braid
Coil the braid into a flat bun against the neck
Secure with bobby pins in a spiral pattern
Place a decorative comb at the crown
Drape a lace mantilla or veil over the arrangement
Secure the veil with decorative pins

Best For: Long hair, oval faces, Spanish-themed Renaissance events

14. Twisted Rope Braid

This deceptively simple style created the appearance of an intricate rope through a basic two-strand twisting technique, making it accessible for Renaissance styling beginners.

Twisting Process:

Brush hair smooth and gather at desired height
Divide hair into two equal sections
Twist the right section clockwise several times
Twist the left section clockwise several times
Cross the right twisted section over the left counterclockwise
Continue this pattern down the entire length
The sections will naturally wrap around each other like rope
Secure the end with a ribbon or covered elastic
Gently pull on the rope braid to create fuller appearance
Add decorative elements along the length

Best For: All hair types, quick Renaissance styling, beginners

15. The Medici-Inspired Headband Braid

Noble Italian families like the Medici inspired this style featuring a thick braid positioned like a headband across the front hairline while the remaining hair flowed freely or was partially secured.

Creation Steps:

Section off a 2-inch width of hair along the hairline from ear to ear
Clip the remaining hair away temporarily
French braid this front section from left to right
Keep the braid tight and close to the hairline
Secure the end behind the right ear with bobby pins
Release the remaining hair
Style the loose hair in gentle waves or curls
Position the braid to sit like a natural headband
Add small jewels or pearls pinned into the braid
Apply hairspray to the braided section only

Best For: Long hair with layers, round and oval faces, festival events

16. Coiled Serpentine Braid

Named for its snake-like appearance, this style coiled a long braid around itself in an elaborate pattern that showcased the hair’s length and the stylist’s skill.

Coiling Method:

Brush hair and gather it all at the crown
Create a standard three-strand braid down the entire length
Secure the end temporarily with a small elastic
Begin wrapping the braid around the base in a spiral pattern
Work outward, creating a coiled disk shape
Secure each loop with bobby pins as you work
Remove the temporary elastic when nearing the end
Tuck the final end under the coiled structure
Pin securely from multiple angles for stability
Add decorative pins at intervals around the coil

Best For: Very long, thick hair, dramatic Renaissance looks

17. Renaissance Side Swept Curls

This asymmetrical style gathered all hair to one side in a cascade of romantic curls, creating movement and drama while maintaining period-appropriate modesty.

Curling Process:

Wash and completely dry hair before styling
Apply heat protectant and volumizing mousse
Sweep all hair over to your preferred shoulder
Secure at the nape on that side with bobby pins
Divide the swept section into 1-inch pieces
Curl each piece with a 1-inch curling iron
Alternate curl directions for natural-looking results
Allow curls to cool completely before touching
Gently separate curls with fingers, not a brush
Add decorative pins or a jeweled comb where hair is secured
Finish with medium-hold hairspray

Best For: Long hair, round and square faces, evening Renaissance events

18. The Milkmaid Braid Crown

Popular among working-class Renaissance women but adopted by nobility for its charming simplicity, this style wrapped braids over the crown in a practical yet beautiful arrangement.

Braiding Instructions:

Part hair down the center from forehead to nape
Create two equal sections
Braid each section in a simple three-strand braid
Secure both ends with small elastics
Lift the right braid up and over the crown
Pin it in place above the left ear
Lift the left braid up and over the crown
Pin it above the right ear
Tuck all ends beneath the opposite braid
Secure with additional bobby pins for stability
Gently pull the braids to create fuller appearance
Add small flowers tucked into the braids

Best For: Medium to long hair, casual Renaissance styling, all face shapes

19. Jeweled Renaissance Updo

This opulent style combined twisted sections, braids, and abundant jeweled decorations to create a truly regal appearance suitable for the highest nobility.

Assembly Process:

Divide hair into multiple sections (front, sides, back)
Create small braids and twists in each section
Begin pinning sections at the crown, working upward
Build height by layering twisted and braided sections
Create an elaborate architectural structure
Secure each component with multiple bobby pins
Add jeweled pins, small chains, and decorative combs throughout
Insert pearl strands woven between sections
Apply strong-hold hairspray to maintain the structure
Finish with a light dusting of gold shimmer spray

Best For: Very long, thick hair, weddings, formal Renaissance balls

20. The German Renaissance Wrapped Braid

Popular in German territories, this style featured long braids wrapped with ribbons or fabric, creating colorful, intricate patterns that extended the braid’s visual length.

Wrapping Technique:

Create one or two braids depending on hair thickness
Select a ribbon 1-2 inches wide and several feet long
Beginning at the top of the braid, place ribbon alongside it
Wrap the ribbon around the braid in a spiral pattern
Keep wraps close together or spaced evenly as preferred
Secure the ribbon periodically with small pins
Continue wrapping down the entire braid length
Tie the ribbon at the end in a decorative bow
Allow the braid to hang down the back or coil it into a bun
Add additional ribbons in contrasting colors for more visual interest

Best For: Very long hair, German Renaissance events, colorful styling

21. Renaissance Gibson Tuck

Though named after a later period, this tucked style has Renaissance roots in creating elegant, secure updos that kept long hair controlled while maintaining a sophisticated appearance.

Tucking Method:

Brush hair smooth and gather at the nape
Position your hands to create a horizontal roll
Tuck the ends under and upward, rolling hair toward the head
Continue rolling upward until reaching desired height
Secure the roll with bobby pins along its entire length
Pin from both the bottom and top of the roll
Ensure all ends are tucked invisibly inside
Smooth any flyaways with gel or pomade
Add a decorative comb or jeweled pins along the roll
Apply hairspray for lasting hold

Best For: Long hair, oval and square faces, formal occasions

22. Waterfall Braid with Flowing Locks

This romantic style created the illusion of hair cascading through a braid like water, combining technical skill with natural-looking beauty perfect for Renaissance recreations.

Braiding Technique:

Create a deep side part
Begin near the part on the heavier side
Take three small sections to start a braid
Cross the back section over the middle
Cross the front section over the middle
Drop the back section, allowing it to fall
Pick up a new section to replace the dropped one
Continue this pattern across the back of the head
The dropped sections create the “waterfall” effect
Secure the braid end behind the opposite ear
Curl all the dropped sections and remaining hair
Add small pearl pins along the braid line

Best For: Medium to long hair, romantic Renaissance looks, all face shapes

23. The Tudor Mary Braid

Named after Mary Tudor, this style combined a center part with neat braids wrapped around the head, creating a modest yet elegant appearance favored in English Renaissance courts.

Creating the Style:

Create a precise center part from hairline to crown
Divide hair into two equal sections
Braid each section in a tight three-strand braid
Bring the right braid across the back of the head
Pin it above the left ear
Bring the left braid across the back
Pin it above the right ear
Ensure braids lie flat against the head
Tuck all ends securely beneath the opposite braid
Add a jeweled headband or decorative pins where braids cross
Apply smoothing serum to the parted front sections

Best For: Long hair, oval faces, Tudor-themed events

24. Loose Renaissance Half-Crown

This softer interpretation of crown braiding left portions of hair loose while creating a partial crown effect, balancing structure with natural movement.

Styling Steps:

Leave the back lower section of hair loose
Section off hair from temple to temple across the crown
Divide this section into three parts
Dutch braid the center section straight back
Create loose three-strand braids on each side section
Bring all three braids together at the back crown
Secure where they meet with bobby pins or a ribbon
Allow the remaining loose hair to flow freely
Curl the loose section for added texture
Gently pull at braid edges for a softer appearance
Add small decorative pins throughout the crown area

Best For: Medium to long hair, casual Renaissance styling, outdoor events

25. The Flemish Renaissance Loop Style

Popular in the Low Countries, this distinctive style created loops of hair arranged around the face and secured at the back, showcasing elaborate pinning techniques.

Loop Creation:

Part hair down the center
Take a 1-inch section from each front side
Create a loop by folding hair back toward the crown
Pin each loop securely with bobby pins
Repeat with additional sections, working backward
Create 2-3 loops on each side of the part
Gather remaining hair at the nape
Braid or twist the back section
Coil the braid into a low bun
Secure the bun with U-pins
Ensure all loops are visible and symmetrical
Add jeweled pins to embellish the loops

Best For: Long, thick hair, historically accurate Renaissance recreations

26. Simple Renaissance Top Knot

This elevated version of a basic bun positioned hair high on the head, creating height and elegance while keeping the neck cool—practical for indoor Renaissance festivities.

Construction Guide:

Brush hair upward toward the crown
Gather into a high ponytail at the desired position
Secure with a strong elastic band
Twist the ponytail length tightly
Wrap the twisted hair around the elastic base
Create a neat, round bun shape
Secure with bobby pins around the perimeter
Tuck all ends invisibly into the bun
Smooth any flyaways with hairspray or gel
Add a decorative hair net in gold or jeweled design
Position jeweled pins around the bun base

Best For: Long hair, oval and heart-shaped faces, warm-weather events

27. Romantic Asymmetrical Braid

This style created visual interest through purposeful asymmetry, with a side braid that incorporated face-framing sections while maintaining Renaissance aesthetic principles.

Braiding Process:

Create a deep side part (70/30 ratio)
Begin a French braid on the heavier side
Start at the part line near the forehead
Braid diagonally back toward the opposite ear
Add hair sections as you work down and across
Continue braiding past the shoulder
Secure with a ribbon that matches your costume
Allow the braid to rest over one shoulder
Leave a few wispy pieces loose near the face
Curl these face-framing sections gently
Add small decorative pins along the braid path

Best For: Long hair, round and square faces, romantic Renaissance looks

28. The Renaissance Pretzel Bun

This intricate style twisted hair into shapes resembling pretzels or figure-eights, showcasing advanced pinning skills and creating architectural interest at the back of the head.

Twisting Technique:

Gather hair into a low ponytail at the nape
Divide the ponytail into two equal sections
Twist each section individually in the same direction
Cross the twisted sections over each other in a figure-eight pattern
Continue creating loops and twists in decorative patterns
Pin each loop and crossing point securely
Create a pretzel or infinity symbol shape
Secure all ends by tucking them into the design
Add decorative pins at intersection points
Apply strong-hold hairspray to maintain the sculptural shape
Embellish with jeweled pins or small chains

Best For: Very long hair, special Renaissance occasions, advanced styling

29. Natural Renaissance Waves with Headband

This accessible style combined loose, natural waves with a decorative headband, creating an instantly Renaissance appearance without requiring advanced braiding skills.

Simple Styling:

Wash hair and allow to air dry until slightly damp
Apply curl-enhancing mousse throughout hair
Braid hair in 2-3 loose braids before bed
Sleep with braids in to create natural waves
Remove braids in the morning and gently separate waves
Do not brush—use fingers to arrange waves
Position a decorative headband across the hairline
Choose jeweled, beaded, or metallic headbands for authenticity
Allow hair to flow naturally over shoulders and down back
Add a few strategically placed pearl or jeweled pins
Apply light-hold hairspray to maintain waves without stiffness

Best For: All hair types and lengths, Renaissance beginners, casual events

Conclusion

The timeless elegance of 29 Simple Renaissance Hairstyles for Long Hair continues to captivate modern audiences with its combination of artistry, history, and romantic beauty.

These styles transcend their historical origins to offer contemporary wearers versatile options for themed events, special occasions, or everyday elegance with a historical twist.

From the accessible flowing maiden waves to the intricate jeweled updos worthy of Renaissance royalty, each style connects us to an era that celebrated beauty, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.

Whether you’re preparing for a Renaissance fair, a themed wedding, a theatrical performance, or simply exploring historical beauty techniques, these hairstyles provide a gateway to experiencing the grace and sophistication of one of history’s most aesthetically rich periods.

The beauty of these Renaissance styles lies not only in their visual appeal but in their adaptability—each can be modified to suit different skill levels, hair types, and personal preferences while maintaining authentic historical character.

By combining period-appropriate techniques with modern hair care knowledge and products, you can achieve stunning results that honor Renaissance tradition while ensuring your hair remains healthy and beautiful.

Remember that the most successful Renaissance hairstyle is one that makes you feel confident, elegant, and connected to the artistic spirit of this extraordinary historical period, so experiment with these 29 styles until you find the ones that resonate with your personal aesthetic and bring the magic of the Renaissance into your modern life.Retry