Step into a world where crowns rest upon intricately braided locks and ribbons weave through cascading waves of hair that tell stories of royal elegance.
Medieval hairstyles weren’t just about beauty—they were symbols of status, femininity, and the romantic ideals that continue to inspire us today.
Whether you’re preparing for a Renaissance fair, a themed wedding, a costume party, or simply want to channel your inner princess for a special photoshoot, these 30 Fairytale Medieval Hairstyles for Princesses will transport you back to an era of castles, courtly love, and timeless grace.
From simple braided crowns to elaborate updos adorned with jewels and flowers, each hairstyle in this collection captures the essence of medieval nobility while remaining achievable for modern hair enthusiasts.
This comprehensive guide explores the most enchanting looks worn by ladies of the court, complete with styling tips, historical context, and practical instructions that will help you recreate these stunning styles.
Get ready to discover the secrets behind the flowing locks that once graced the great halls of medieval Europe, and learn how to adapt these regal hairstyles to suit your own hair type, length, and personal style in 30 Fairytale Medieval Hairstyles for Princesses.
1. The Classic Crown Braid
The crown braid stands as one of the most iconic medieval hairstyles, creating a natural tiara effect around the head.
This elegant style was favored by noblewomen who wanted to display their long hair while keeping it neatly secured for courtly activities.
Styling Details:
- The crown braid involves creating one or two thick braids that wrap completely around the circumference of the head, meeting at the starting point.
- This style works exceptionally well for medium to long hair and can be adapted for various hair textures with proper preparation.
- Begin by parting the hair down the middle or to one side, then create Dutch braids or French braids that follow the hairline around the head.
- Secure the ends with small pins tucked beneath the braid to create a seamless circular effect.
- For added medieval authenticity, weave thin ribbons in complementary colors through the braids before styling.
- This hairstyle pairs beautifully with circlets, small crowns, or floral wreaths placed directly on top of the braided crown.
Historical Context:
- Crown braids were particularly popular among Germanic and Celtic noblewomen during the early medieval period.
- This practical yet beautiful style allowed women to keep their hair controlled during daily tasks while still displaying their feminine beauty.
2. Cascading Waterfall Braids
Waterfall braids create a romantic, flowing effect that mimics streams of water cascading down a mountainside. This partially braided style became synonymous with young maidens and unmarried noblewomen in medieval courts.
Styling Process:
- The waterfall braid technique involves dropping sections of hair as you braid, allowing them to fall freely while incorporating new sections from the top.
- This creates a beautiful cascading effect where strands of hair appear to fall through the braid like water through a lattice.
- Start the braid near the temple area and work horizontally across the back of the head toward the opposite ear.
- You can create a single waterfall braid or multiple parallel braids for a more intricate appearance.
- The dropped sections can be left straight, curled into ringlets, or gently waved for different aesthetic effects.
- This style works best on hair that’s at least shoulder-length and benefits from a light texturizing product for grip.
Symbolic Meaning:
- Flowing, partially unbound hair in medieval times often indicated youth and unmarried status.
- The waterfall braid provided a modest compromise between the freedom of loose hair and the propriety expected of noble ladies.
3. The Royal High Bun with Braided Details
Elevated buns positioned at the crown of the head signified the highest levels of nobility and were often worn by queens and high-ranking ladies. These sophisticated updos combined height, volume, and intricate braided details.
Construction Method:
- This style begins by gathering all hair at the highest point of the crown and securing it with a strong elastic.
- Create a voluminous bun using padding, hair donuts, or by backcombing the hair for natural volume.
- Wrap thin braids around the base of the bun or across its surface to add textural interest and medieval authenticity.
- Small sections can be braided before being incorporated into the bun structure for added dimension.
- Secure the style with multiple pins placed in a star pattern for maximum hold throughout the day.
- Ornamental pins, jeweled hairpins, or small golden combs can be strategically placed throughout the bun for royal embellishment.
Royal Significance:
- The height of a woman’s hairstyle often correlated with her social standing in medieval society.
- Queens and duchesses employed specialized servants whose sole responsibility was creating and maintaining these elaborate hairstyles.
4. Long Loose Waves with Partial Braids
This romantic style combined the freedom of flowing hair with the structure of decorative braids. It represented innocence and was especially popular for wedding ceremonies and courtship rituals.
Styling Approach:
- Begin with thoroughly brushed hair that has been curled or waved using heat tools or overnight braiding techniques.
- Create two to four small braids at strategic locations—typically near the temples or along the sides of the head.
- These accent braids can be left to hang with the loose hair or pulled back and secured at the crown.
- The contrast between structured braids and free-flowing waves creates visual interest and medieval authenticity.
- This style requires minimal product to maintain the natural movement and flow of the hair.
- Flowers, small jeweled clips, or ribbon can be woven into the braids for ceremonial occasions.
Cultural Practice:
- Unmarried women in medieval Europe were generally permitted to wear their hair loose during special celebrations and religious ceremonies.
- The presence of braids within loose hair demonstrated that the wearer was still mindful of propriety and modesty.
5. The Elaborate Side Braid with Ribbon Weaving
Side braids adorned with colorful ribbons were a signature look of medieval festivities. This style combined practical hair management with decorative artistry through the incorporation of fabric elements.
Ribbon Integration Technique:
- Select ribbons in colors that complement your outfit or represent family heraldry for authentic medieval styling.
- Begin the braid at the nape of the neck on one side, incorporating ribbon strands as if they were additional sections of hair.
- A five-strand braid works particularly well for ribbon incorporation, allowing for two ribbon colors plus three hair sections.
- Keep tension consistent throughout the braiding process to ensure the ribbons lay flat and display their colors properly.
- Secure the end with both an elastic and a bow tied from the ribbon ends for a decorative finish.
- For festival authenticity, choose ribbons in rich jewel tones like emerald, sapphire, ruby red, or royal purple.
Festival Tradition:
- Colorful ribbons in medieval times often indicated participation in celebrations, tournaments, or courtly festivals.
- Young women would wear the colors of knights they favored during jousting tournaments as a sign of support.
6. The Double Dutch Braids with Crown Connection
This symmetrical style creates two substantial braids that meet at the crown, forming a heart-like shape when viewed from behind. It offered both aesthetic beauty and practical functionality for active noblewomen.
Braiding Instructions:
- Part the hair precisely down the center from forehead to nape, creating two equal sections.
- Begin Dutch braiding (braiding under rather than over) on each side, starting at the temple area.
- Angle both braids slightly upward as you work toward the crown, where they will eventually meet.
- When both braids reach the crown area, secure them together with pins or combine them into a single braid that continues down.
- The Dutch braiding technique creates raised, prominent braids that stand away from the scalp for maximum visual impact.
- This style stays secure during physical activities like horseback riding, archery, or dancing at medieval banquets.
Practical Heritage:
- Active noblewomen who participated in hunting, hawking, or horseback riding favored secure styles that wouldn’t obstruct their vision or movement.
- The symmetry of double braids was also considered aesthetically pleasing according to medieval beauty standards.
7. The Wrapped Low Chignon
The low chignon represented married status and mature sophistication in medieval society. This polished updo sat at the nape of the neck and was often covered with decorative nets or veils.
Chignon Formation:
- Gather all hair at the nape of the neck and secure with a covered elastic that matches the hair color.
- Divide the ponytail into two or three sections and twist each section tightly.
- Wrap the twisted sections around the base of the ponytail in a spiral pattern, creating a compact bun.
- Secure with U-shaped pins inserted vertically through the chignon for maximum stability.
- Small braids can be wrapped around the perimeter of the chignon for added medieval character.
- A jeweled hairnet, called a caul in medieval times, can be placed over the chignon for formal occasions.
Marital Symbolism:
- In many medieval European cultures, married women were expected to cover or bind their hair as a sign of their married status.
- The low chignon provided a neat base for the various head coverings required by social convention and religious practice.
8. The Milkmaid Braids with Floral Crown
This pastoral style evoked the simplicity of country life while maintaining romantic appeal. The milkmaid braid, combined with fresh or fabric flowers, created an approachable yet regal appearance.
Creating the Look:
- Create two standard three-strand braids, one on each side of the head, beginning just behind the ears.
- Bring the left braid across the top of the head and secure it near the right ear with bobby pins.
- Bring the right braid across the top of the head above the first braid and secure it near the left ear.
- This creates a crisscross pattern of braids that frames the face and crown of the head beautifully.
- Tuck the ends of the braids beneath the opposite braid and pin securely to hide them from view.
- Place a wreath of flowers directly on top of the braids, securing it with floral wire or additional pins.
Rural Romance:
- This style was popularized by pastoral poetry and romantic literature that idealized rural life and simple beauty.
- Noblewomen sometimes adopted simplified versions of peasant styles for informal garden parties and countryside retreats.
9. The Celtic Knot Braided Updo
Drawing inspiration from Celtic art and manuscript illumination, this complex braided design creates the appearance of endless knots and interwoven patterns in the hair itself.
Pattern Creation:
- This advanced style requires sectioning the hair into multiple small areas that will be braided separately.
- Create five to seven small three-strand braids from different sections around the head.
- Begin weaving the braids around and through each other, mimicking the under-over pattern of Celtic knot artwork.
- Pin each crossover point securely to maintain the knot pattern’s integrity.
- The ends of all braids should eventually be tucked into the design and hidden from view.
- This style works best with the help of a second person or by working in front of multiple mirrors to see all angles.
Cultural Heritage:
- Celtic peoples had rich traditions of complex braiding that held spiritual and social significance.
- Knot patterns represented eternity, interconnectedness, and the cyclical nature of life in Celtic symbolism.
10. The Princess Leia-Inspired Medieval Buns
While made famous by modern cinema, side buns have historical precedent in medieval fashion. Paired buns positioned above the ears created a distinctive silhouette favored by some European noblewomen.
Bun Construction:
- Part the hair down the center and create two equal sections, one on each side of the head.
- Position each section above the ear at the desired height for the buns.
- For each side, create a tight ponytail and then wrap the hair around the base in a spiral pattern.
- Secure each bun with pins inserted in a circular pattern around the perimeter.
- Small braids can be created from sections before wrapping into buns for added texture and medieval authenticity.
- The buns should be symmetrical in size and placement for the most polished appearance.
Historical Variations:
- Renaissance German and Flemish portraits show variations of side buns, often called “ram’s horns” in period documentation.
- These styles were sometimes created over padding or wire frames to achieve more dramatic proportions.
11. The Rope Braid Crown with Loose Ends
The rope braid technique creates a twisted, corded appearance that adds dimension and texture. When formed into a crown with flowing ends, it perfectly balances structure and freedom.
Rope Braiding Method:
- Divide the hair into sections and create rope braids by twisting two strands around each other in the same direction, then wrapping them opposite.
- The twisting motion creates a thicker, more substantial braid with a distinctive corded texture.
- Create rope braids that frame the face and continue around the head like a crown.
- Leave the remaining hair flowing freely down the back or gather it into additional rope braids.
- This technique works particularly well for hair with natural texture or wave.
- The rope braid holds its shape well and requires fewer pins than traditional braiding methods.
Textural Benefits:
- Rope braids create the appearance of thicker, more voluminous hair, which was highly prized in medieval beauty standards.
- The technique is easier to master than complex multi-strand braiding, making it accessible for self-styling.
12. The Veiled Half-Updo with Braided Details
Veils were essential components of medieval women’s fashion, and hairstyles were specifically designed to accommodate and showcase these fabric elements. This half-up style creates an elegant foundation for veil placement.
Half-Up Construction:
- Section the top half of the hair from ear to ear across the crown of the head.
- Create small accent braids within this top section before gathering it together.
- Secure the top section at the crown with pins or a covered elastic, leaving the bottom section flowing free.
- Drape a sheer veil over the secured portion, attaching it with decorative pins or a small circlet.
- The veil should flow down the back, complementing rather than hiding the loose hair beneath.
- This style maintains modesty requirements while still showcasing beautiful hair texture and color.
Religious and Social Context:
- Veil wearing was expected in many medieval contexts, particularly for religious services and formal occasions.
- The style of veil and the amount of hair showing could indicate marital status, age, and social rank.
13. The Herringbone Braid Down the Back
The herringbone or fishtail braid creates an intricate, scale-like pattern that resembles woven fabric. This sophisticated braiding technique produces a flat, wide braid perfect for showcasing hair texture.
Herringbone Technique:
- Divide the hair into two large sections instead of the traditional three sections used in standard braiding.
- Take a thin strand from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to join the right section.
- Take a thin strand from the outer edge of the right section and cross it over to join the left section.
- Continue this alternating pattern down the length of the hair, keeping tension consistent for a uniform appearance.
- The thinner the strands you cross over, the more intricate and delicate the final pattern will appear.
- Secure the end with a ribbon or covered elastic that won’t damage the hair.
Visual Impact:
- The herringbone pattern catches light differently than standard braids, creating visual interest and dimension.
- This style was particularly popular for showcasing hair that had been dyed or had natural color variation.
14. The Twisted Halo with Flower Accents
This ethereal style creates a halo effect using twisted sections of hair rather than braids. When adorned with small flowers, it evokes images of woodland nymphs and fairy tale princesses.
Twisting Process:
- Take sections of hair from around the hairline and twist them away from the face.
- Wrap these twisted sections around the crown of the head, securing them with pins as you go.
- Layer multiple twisted sections to create a fuller, more substantial halo effect.
- Tuck small fresh or silk flowers into the twists at regular intervals.
- The remaining hair can flow freely down the back or be incorporated into the halo for a full updo.
- This style works well for weddings, handfastings, and other ceremonial occasions.
Floral Symbolism:
- Different flowers carried specific meanings in medieval times, from roses symbolizing love to lavender representing devotion.
- Seasonal flowers in hair indicated connection to nature and the turning of the year’s wheel.
15. The Gothic Pointed Headdress Updo
The dramatic pointed headdress (hennin) defined late medieval noble fashion. The hairstyle beneath required specific construction to support and complement these towering fabric cones.
Supporting Structure:
- All hair must be smoothed back tightly from the face and secured at the crown to create a smooth base for the headdress.
- The hair is typically wrapped around a padded form or rolled into a tight, flat bun at the back of the head.
- Any visible hair at the temples or forehead line was often plucked or covered to create the high, smooth forehead that was fashionable during this period.
- The hennin headdress sits directly on top of this smooth base and is secured with pins through its structure into the hair beneath.
- A sheer veil typically flows from the point of the hennin, adding drama and elegance to the overall silhouette.
- This style represents the height of formal court fashion and requires significant skill to construct properly.
Fashion Evolution:
- The pointed headdress reached peak popularity in Burgundian courts during the 15th century.
- The extreme height of some hennins (reaching up to three feet) required doorway modifications in castles and manor houses.
16. The Braided Mohawk Style
This bold style features a central braid ridge running from forehead to nape while the sides are either braided flat against the head or left smooth. It combines warrior aesthetics with feminine beauty.
Central Ridge Creation:
- Section hair down the center of the head in a strip approximately three inches wide from forehead to nape.
- Create a Dutch braid or mohawk braid along this central section, pulling it tight to create height and structure.
- The side sections can be slicked back with product, braided flat against the scalp, or partially shaved for more dramatic effect.
- This style works particularly well for thick hair that can create a substantial central braid.
- Secure the braid at the nape and either continue it down the back or wrap the end into a bun.
- Small metal ornaments or leather cords can be woven through the central braid for warrior-princess embellishment.
Cultural Fusion:
- While not strictly historical, this style draws inspiration from various warrior cultures including Celtic and Viking traditions.
- The fusion of braiding techniques with bold structural styling appeals to modern interpretations of medieval strength and femininity.
17. The Wrapped Ponytail with Ribbon Cascade
This elegant style features a low or mid-height ponytail with sections of hair wrapped around the base, creating a polished finish. Ribbons cascade from the secured point for festive flair.
Wrapping Technique:
- Gather hair into a ponytail at the desired height and secure with a strong elastic.
- Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to conceal it, securing the end with a pin.
- Multiple sections can be wrapped for a more elaborate appearance, creating a decorative base for the ponytail.
- Tie multiple ribbons of varying colors around the base of the ponytail so they flow down with the hair.
- The ponytail itself can be left straight, curled, or braided depending on the desired level of formality.
- This style works for all hair lengths from shoulder-length to extremely long hair.
Festive Tradition:
- Ribbon-adorned hairstyles were particularly popular during feast days, weddings, and seasonal celebrations.
- The colors and number of ribbons could indicate the specific celebration or the wearer’s role in the festivities.
18. The Side-Swept Fishtail with Jeweled Pins
This asymmetrical style drapes a luxurious fishtail braid over one shoulder, showcasing its intricate pattern while jeweled pins add sparkle and medieval opulence.
Styling Approach:
- Sweep all hair to one side of the neck and secure loosely with a temporary clip.
- Create a fishtail braid starting at the shoulder and working down the length of the hair.
- Insert jeweled pins at intervals along the braid, positioning them to catch the light.
- The pins can be decorative hairpins with pearl or gemstone ends, or small brooches attached to pin backs.
- Gently pull at the edges of the braid to create a fuller, more romantic appearance before adding pins.
- This style showcases the braid while keeping hair manageable and elegant for formal occasions.
Wealth Display:
- Jeweled hair ornaments in medieval times were indicators of wealth and status.
- Hair jewelry was often passed down through generations as family heirlooms and could represent significant portions of a family’s wealth.
19. The French Braid Base with Twisted Bun
This refined style combines the security of a French braid with the elegance of a low bun. The braid provides decorative detail from crown to nape where it transforms into a twisted bun.
Combined Technique:
- Begin French braiding at the crown of the head, incorporating new sections of hair as you work down toward the nape.
- When all hair has been incorporated and you reach the nape, continue with a standard three-strand braid for a few inches.
- Twist the remaining length of the braid tightly and wrap it into a bun at the nape of the neck.
- Secure the bun with U-pins inserted through both the bun and the braid above it for maximum stability.
- This creates a seamless transition from braid to bun with no visible elastics or clips.
- The style remains secure for extended periods, making it ideal for daily wear or long events.
Practical Elegance:
- This style balanced the medieval requirement for bound hair with practical needs for styles that wouldn’t loosen during daily activities.
- Ladies-in-waiting and noblewomen who managed household affairs favored secure yet beautiful styles like this one.
20. The Vintage Rolled Edges with Center Part
This understated elegant style features hair parted precisely down the center with the sides rolled back and secured, creating a smooth silhouette that frames the face beautifully.
Rolling Technique:
- Create a precise center part from forehead to crown using a fine-toothed comb.
- Take sections of hair on each side near the face and roll them back away from the face, creating smooth cylindrical rolls.
- Secure the rolls at the back of the head with crossed bobby pins that grip from both directions.
- The remaining hair can flow down the back, be gathered into a low ponytail, or formed into a bun beneath the rolls.
- This style works best on straight to slightly wavy hair and benefits from light pomade for smoothness.
- Small decorative combs can be inserted into the rolls for formal occasions.
Medieval Simplicity:
- Not all medieval hairstyles were elaborate; many featured clean lines and simple elegance.
- This style reflects the influence of early medieval and Byzantine aesthetics that favored symmetry and restraint.
21. The Ladder Braid with Pearl Strands
This intricate braiding technique creates a ladder-like appearance with horizontal “rungs” connecting two vertical braids. When combined with pearl strands, it epitomizes medieval luxury.
Ladder Braid Construction:
- Section a central strip of hair from the crown to the nape, leaving sections on each side loose.
- Create two thin braids on either side of the central section, which will form the “sides” of the ladder.
- Take horizontal sections from the central loose hair and weave them between the two side braids, creating the appearance of rungs.
- Secure each “rung” by incorporating it into the next stitch of both side braids.
- Thread pearl strands through the horizontal rungs or wrap them around the vertical braids for added elegance.
- This complex style requires practice but creates a stunning visual effect perfect for weddings and formal ceremonies.
Bridal Tradition:
- Elaborate braided styles incorporating precious elements were traditional for medieval wedding ceremonies.
- Pearls specifically symbolized purity and were favored ornaments for brides across medieval Europe.
22. The Asymmetrical Side Bun with Face-Framing Braids
This artistic style positions a large bun on one side of the head while delicate braids frame the face on the opposite side, creating interesting asymmetry and visual movement.
Asymmetrical Design:
- Part the hair dramatically to one side, creating sections of very different sizes.
- On the smaller side, create two to three small braids that follow the hairline and frame the face.
- Gather all remaining hair to the opposite side at ear level or slightly higher.
- Create a large, voluminous bun using padding, backcombing, or a bun form for dramatic size.
- The face-framing braids can either be incorporated into the bun or secured separately and left as decorative elements.
- This style showcases creativity and individuality while maintaining medieval aesthetic principles.
Artistic Expression:
- Asymmetrical styles became more popular during the later medieval period as fashion became more expressive and individualistic.
- Court ladies competed to create unique and memorable hairstyles for important social events.
23. The Circlet-Supporting Center Braid
This style is specifically designed to showcase and support a circlet or thin crown. A single central braid provides structure while the remaining hair flows freely beneath the metalwork.
Circlet Integration:
- Create a Dutch braid along the crown of the head from forehead to the point where the circlet will rest.
- The raised nature of a Dutch braid creates a natural “shelf” for the circlet to sit upon securely.
- Position the circlet directly on top of the braid, securing it with small pins inserted through decorative elements into the braid below.
- The remaining hair flows freely down the back or can be partially styled with waves or curls.
- This method prevents circlets from slipping and eliminates the need for uncomfortable tension to keep them in place.
- Multiple thin braids can be created instead of one central braid for additional support and texture.
Crown Wearing:
- Circlets, crowns, and tiaras were not merely decorative but indicated rank, title, and authority.
- Proper hairstyling to support these pieces was essential for maintaining dignified appearance during long ceremonies.
24. The Spiral Curl Cascade with Temple Braids
This luxurious style features carefully formed spiral curls flowing down the back while small braids at the temples provide structure and keep hair away from the face.
Curl Creation:
- Section the hair and create tight spiral curls using a curling iron, setting them with clips until completely cool.
- Create small three-strand or rope braids at each temple using front sections of hair.
- Pull these temple braids back and secure them at the crown, either by pinning them separately or joining them together.
- Release the curls and arrange them to flow down the back and over the shoulders.
- The curls should maintain their spiral shape without being brushed out, creating dramatic texture and volume.
- Light holding spray helps maintain the curl definition throughout extended wear.
Curl Cultivation:
- Medieval women used various techniques to create curls, from rag curling to heated metal rods.
- Curled hair was associated with youth, beauty, and special occasions throughout the medieval period.
25. The Celtic Warrior Side Braids
This fierce style features multiple small braids pulled back from the face on both sides, meeting at the back of the head. It combines practical security with warrior aesthetics.
Battle-Ready Construction:
- Create four to six small, tight braids on each side of the head starting near the temples.
- Pull all braids back toward the center back of the head and secure them together.
- The remaining hair can flow freely, be contained in a larger braid, or be gathered into a bun for maximum security.
- This style keeps all hair away from the face and neck, preventing interference during physical activity.
- Small leather cords or metal rings can be added to the braids for authentic warrior embellishment.
- The tightness of the braids ensures the style remains secure during combat training, martial demonstrations, or active pursuits.
Warrior Heritage:
- Celtic and Nordic women warriors braided their hair for practical reasons during battle and training.
- The style also served to identify members of specific clans or warrior groups through distinctive braiding patterns.
26. The Nested Crown Braids with Flowers
This elaborate style features multiple braids of different sizes nested within each other like a crown, creating a dimensional, sculptural effect perfect for floral embellishment.
Nested Construction:
- Create a small crown braid close to the hairline as the innermost ring.
- Create a second, larger crown braid using different sections of hair, positioned just outside the first braid.
- If hair length permits, add a third crown braid creating a multi-layered effect.
- Each successive braid should be slightly looser and larger than the one before it.
- Tuck fresh or silk flowers between the braids, securing them with small pins or floral wire.
- This creates a living crown of braids and blooms perfect for spring festivals and celebrations.
Seasonal Celebrations:
- May Day and spring equinox celebrations traditionally featured flower-adorned hairstyles.
- The connection between maiden beauty and spring flowers was a common theme in medieval poetry and art.
27. The Diagonal Rope Braid Wrap
This dynamic style features rope braids that wrap diagonally across the head, creating interesting angles and visual movement rather than following traditional horizontal or vertical patterns.Retry
Diagonal Styling:
- Part the hair into sections that allow for diagonal braiding from one temple area toward the opposite side of the nape.
- Create rope braids by twisting two strands in the same direction, then wrapping them around each other in the opposite direction.
- Angle the braids diagonally across the head, creating dynamic lines that draw the eye across the face and head.
- Multiple diagonal braids can be layered at different angles to create a complex, geometric appearance.
- Secure each braid at its endpoint with pins that are hidden beneath the next layer of braiding.
- The remaining unbraided hair can flow freely or be incorporated into a side-swept style that follows the diagonal theme.
Geometric Beauty:
- Diagonal and angular hairstyles reflected medieval fascination with geometry, architecture, and mathematical proportion.
- The visual movement created by diagonal lines was considered sophisticated and demonstrated advanced styling skills.
28. The Maiden’s Half-Crown with Streaming Ribbons
This youthful style features a partial crown braid across the front of the head while ribbons are woven through and left to stream down with the loose hair, creating a festive, maiden-appropriate look.
Ribbon Integration:
- Create a Dutch or French braid that spans from one ear across the crown to the other ear, forming a half-crown.
- Before beginning the braid, attach multiple ribbons at the starting point so they can be incorporated as you braid.
- Weave the ribbons through the braid along with the hair sections, allowing them to emerge and stream down at intervals.
- The remaining hair below the crown braid flows freely down the back, mingling with the ribbon streams.
- Choose ribbons in colors that complement the outfit or represent seasonal celebrations.
- This style maintains the innocence of loose maiden hair while adding structure and festivity.
Youthful Expression:
- Streaming ribbons were particularly associated with young, unmarried women during festivals and celebrations.
- The playful movement of ribbons represented youth, joy, and freedom before the responsibilities of marriage.
29. The Byzantine-Inspired Jeweled Net Updo
This luxurious style draws from Byzantine Empire influences, featuring hair completely contained within an ornate jeweled net or caul, representing the height of medieval hair accessories.
Net Application:
- Gather all hair into a low bun or multiple small buns at the nape of the neck.
- The hair should be arranged smoothly and compactly to fit entirely within the hairnet structure.
- Place the decorative net or caul over the arranged hair, ensuring it covers completely from crown to nape.
- Secure the net with pins inserted through its decorative elements into the hair beneath.
- Authentic cauls were often made of gold thread, pearls, jewels, and precious metals formed into intricate netting patterns.
- A circlet or crown can be worn over the net-covered hair for additional royal presentation.
Byzantine Influence:
- The Eastern Roman Empire maintained sophisticated hair fashion that influenced Western European nobility.
- Jeweled hairnets represented extreme wealth as they often contained significant amounts of precious materials.
30. The Romantic Twisted Low Ponytail with Tendrils
This softer, romantic interpretation features a low ponytail created from twisted sections rather than braids, with deliberately released face-framing tendrils for an approachable, gentle aesthetic.
Soft Construction:
- Before gathering the hair, release small sections at the temples and near the ears to frame the face as tendrils.
- Divide the remaining hair into four to six sections and twist each section loosely.
- Gather all twisted sections together at the nape and secure with a covered elastic or ribbon.
- The twists create texture and interest while maintaining a softer appearance than tight braiding.
- Gently pull at the twists to loosen them slightly for a romantic, undone quality.
- Curl the face-framing tendrils with a small-barrel curling iron for delicate spiral wisps.
Romantic Movement:
- The rise of courtly love poetry and romantic literature influenced hairstyle aesthetics toward softer, more approachable beauty.
- Deliberately imperfect elements like loose tendrils suggested natural beauty rather than overly constructed formality.
Conclusion
From the simple elegance of crown braids to the elaborate sophistication of jeweled net updos, these 30 Fairytale Medieval Hairstyles for Princesses offer endless inspiration for anyone seeking to capture the romance and grandeur of medieval nobility.
Each style tells a story of courtly life, warrior strength, maiden innocence, or royal power, connecting us to centuries of feminine beauty traditions that continue to enchant and inspire.
Whether you’re preparing for a Renaissance fair, designing the perfect bridal look, creating a costume for a special event, or simply exploring historical beauty techniques, these hairstyles provide a foundation for authentic and stunning medieval aesthetics.
The beauty of medieval hairstyling lies not only in the finished appearance but in the meditative process of braiding, twisting, and adorning—a ritual that connects modern enthusiasts to countless women throughout history who took pride in their elaborate coiffures.
With practice, patience, and the right accessories, anyone can master these timeless techniques and experience the transformative magic of medieval hair artistry.
Remember that authentic medieval beauty embraced individuality within traditional frameworks, so feel free to adapt these styles to suit your personal features, hair type, and creative vision.
As you experiment with these 30 Fairytale Medieval Hairstyles for Princesses, you’re not just styling hair—you’re participating in a living tradition that celebrates femininity, creativity, and the enduring allure of fairy tale romance that transcends centuries and continues to capture hearts in the modern age.
