If you’re blessed with thick wavy hair, you already know it’s both a gift and a challenge.
The volume is enviable, but styling can feel overwhelming when you’re racing against the clock.
That’s where braided hairstyles become your secret weapon.
These 34 braided hairstyles for thick wavy hair that look effortless will transform your daily routine from stressful to stylish.
Whether you’re heading to the office, meeting friends for brunch, or attending a special event, braids work with your hair’s natural texture instead of against it.
The beauty of braiding thick wavy hair lies in how it enhances your natural volume while keeping everything beautifully controlled.
From simple three-strand braids to more intricate patterns, each style in this collection celebrates the unique texture of your hair.
You’ll discover techniques that take minutes but look like you spent hours in front of the mirror. Get ready to bookmark your favorites and finally make peace with your gorgeous, voluminous locks.
1. Classic Three-Strand Side Braid
The three-strand side braid is where every braiding journey begins, and for thick wavy hair, it’s absolutely stunning.
This timeless style lets your hair’s natural texture shine while keeping it neatly contained throughout your day.
- Start by brushing your thick wavy hair to one side of your head, letting the natural texture remain visible rather than smoothing it completely flat.
- Divide your hair into three equal sections at the nape of your neck, ensuring each section has similar thickness for a balanced appearance.
- Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section, maintaining consistent tension throughout.
- Continue this pattern all the way down to your ends, securing with a clear elastic band that won’t distract from the braid itself.
- Gently pull on the outer edges of each braided section to create a fuller, more relaxed appearance that perfectly suits thick hair.
- Spray with a light-hold hairspray to manage flyaways without making your braid look stiff or unnatural.
- This style works beautifully for casual weekends and can be dressed up with accessories for evening events.
2. Messy French Braid Crown
A French braid crown creates a bohemian halo effect that’s perfect for thick wavy hair, as the added volume makes the braid look fuller and more dimensional.
This style keeps hair off your face while showcasing your hair’s natural beauty.
- Begin by creating a deep side part and sectioning off a small portion of hair near your hairline on the heavier side.
- Start your French braid by taking three small sections and incorporating additional hair from your hairline as you braid along your head’s curve.
- Work the braid around your head like a crown, following your natural hairline and picking up hair as you progress.
- The thickness of wavy hair means you don’t need to pull sections tight—a looser braid actually looks more romantic and effortless.
- When you reach the opposite side of your head, continue braiding the remaining length without adding new sections.
- Tuck the end of the braid behind your ear or pin it discreetly under the crown section for a seamless finish.
- Pull gently on the braid segments to create volume and texture, embracing any pieces that naturally fall loose for an intentionally undone look.
- This style holds up remarkably well throughout the day thanks to the natural grip that wavy hair provides.
3. Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids offer a sporty yet stylish option for thick wavy hair, creating two symmetrical braids that keep your hair secure during any activity.
The Dutch braiding technique makes these braids stand out from your scalp, creating a bold three-dimensional effect.
- Part your hair straight down the middle from your forehead to the nape of your neck, creating two equal sections.
- Clip one side away while you work on the first braid to keep sections clearly separated.
- Begin your Dutch braid by taking three sections at the front hairline and crossing the outer strands under the middle strand instead of over.
- As you progress down your head, add small sections of hair from each side, crossing them under the middle strand to create the raised effect.
- The thickness of your hair will make these braids particularly prominent and textured without any additional styling.
- Secure the first braid with a hair elastic once you’ve incorporated all the hair from that section.
- Repeat the exact process on the second side, trying to match the tension and section sizes for symmetrical results.
- These braids work exceptionally well for workouts, outdoor activities, or any time you need your hair completely out of your face.
4. Waterfall Braid with Loose Waves
The waterfall braid combines structure with flowing movement, making it an ideal choice for thick wavy hair that you want to show off while adding visual interest.
This romantic style lets sections of hair cascade through the braid like a waterfall.
- Start with your natural waves or enhance them slightly with a curling iron if you want more defined texture.
- Create a side part and take a three-inch section of hair near your part to begin the waterfall braid.
- Begin with a standard three-strand braid for the first stitch, then drop the bottom section and pick up a new section from the top.
- This dropping and replacing motion creates the waterfall effect as sections of hair fall through the braid naturally.
- Continue braiding across the back of your head at ear level, maintaining the waterfall pattern throughout.
- The thickness of wavy hair makes each dropped section look voluminous and intentional rather than sparse.
- Secure the braid behind your opposite ear with bobby pins that match your hair color for invisible hold.
- This style beautifully frames your face while letting the length and texture of your thick wavy hair remain the star of the show.
5. Fishtail Braid Ponytail
Combining a ponytail with a fishtail braid gives you the best of both worlds—the convenience of pulled-back hair with the intricate beauty of detailed braiding.
Thick wavy hair creates a fishtail that looks complex and full without requiring perfection.
- Gather all your hair into a high ponytail at your crown, securing it with a strong elastic that can handle thick hair’s weight.
- Divide the ponytail into two equal sections rather than three like a traditional braid.
- Take a small piece from the outer edge of the right section and cross it over to join the left section.
- Then take a small piece from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to join the right section.
- Continue this alternating pattern down the length of your ponytail, keeping your sections relatively small for a more defined fishtail texture.
- The natural wave in your hair will make the fishtail look perfectly imperfect with interesting dimension throughout.
- Secure the end with another elastic and gently pancake the braid by pulling on the edges to create width and volume.
- This style transitions seamlessly from day to night and holds up beautifully regardless of your activity level.
6. Boho Side Braid with Face-Framing Pieces
A bohemian side braid lets thick wavy hair shine in all its textured glory while maintaining a relaxed, carefree vibe.
Leaving face-framing pieces out softens the look and creates a romantic, approachable style.
- Before braiding, pull out a few thin sections around your face and at the hairline to frame your features naturally.
- Sweep all remaining hair to one side, letting it fall over your shoulder in a position that feels comfortable.
- Create a loose three-strand braid starting just below your ear rather than at the scalp for a more relaxed appearance.
- Don’t worry about making the braid tight or perfect—thick wavy hair looks best in braids when they’re slightly undone.
- Allow some pieces to escape the braid naturally as you work down the length, adding to the effortless aesthetic.
- Secure the end several inches from the bottom, leaving some length unbraided to show off your wave pattern.
- Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it and create a more polished finish.
- This style works wonderfully for festivals, beach days, or any casual occasion where you want to look put-together without trying too hard.
7. Crown Braid with Low Bun
The crown braid leading into a low bun combines elegance with practicality, perfect for thick wavy hair that needs to stay secure for formal events or professional settings.
This style showcases your hair’s volume in a sophisticated way.
- Part your hair on one side and begin a Dutch or French braid starting at the part line.
- Braid along your hairline like a headband, incorporating hair as you work across your forehead toward the opposite ear.
- Once you’ve braided across the top, continue down past your ear and braid the remaining length without adding new sections.
- Gather any unbraided hair along with the braided section and twist everything together at the nape of your neck.
- Coil this twisted hair into a low bun, securing it with bobby pins placed in an X pattern for maximum hold.
- The natural texture of wavy hair helps the bun look fuller and more textured without needing additional teasing.
- Smooth any flyaways with a small amount of styling cream or light pomade applied with your fingertips.
- This style stays put all day and looks equally appropriate in boardrooms, wedding venues, or elegant dinner settings.
8. Rope Braid Twist
The rope braid offers a unique alternative to traditional braiding techniques and looks especially stunning on thick wavy hair.
This simple two-strand technique creates a spiral effect that’s both eye-catching and easy to achieve.
- Gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height—low, mid, or high depending on your preference.
- Divide the ponytail into two equal sections rather than the traditional three.
- Twist each section clockwise (or in the same direction) individually until both sections are tightly twisted.
- Then wrap these two twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction (counterclockwise) to create the rope effect.
- The opposing twist directions create tension that keeps the rope braid secure without additional styling products.
- Continue twisting and wrapping all the way down to your ends, then secure with an elastic band.
- Thick wavy hair creates a rope braid with beautiful dimension and interesting texture variations throughout the length.
- This style holds up remarkably well and requires minimal maintenance once completed, making it perfect for long days.
9. Half-Up Braided Crown
A half-up braided crown gives you the best of both worlds by braiding the top section while leaving the length down to showcase your wavy texture.
This style works beautifully for thick hair that might feel too heavy when fully pulled back.
- Section off the top half of your hair from ear to ear, leaving the bottom section completely loose.
- Divide the top section into two parts and create a simple three-strand braid on each side starting at the temple area.
- Braid loosely to match the relaxed nature of thick wavy hair, allowing the natural texture to show through.
- Bring both braids to meet at the back center of your head, crossing them over each other for added visual interest.
- Pin the braids securely with bobby pins, tucking the ends under to hide them completely.
- The bottom section of your hair remains loose and flowing, showcasing your natural waves in all their glory.
- Gently pull on the braided sections to create more width and a softer, more romantic appearance.
- This style beautifully frames your face while keeping hair off your forehead and out of your eyes.
10. Bubble Braid Ponytail
The bubble braid transforms a regular ponytail into something special and works particularly well with thick wavy hair that creates full, voluminous bubbles.
This playful style is easier than it looks and perfect for adding dimension to your hair.
- Create a ponytail at your desired height and secure it with a strong elastic suitable for thick hair.
- Place additional clear elastic bands down the length of your ponytail at even intervals, spacing them two to three inches apart.
- After securing each elastic, gently pull on the hair between the bands to create the bubble effect.
- The thickness and texture of wavy hair makes these bubbles look especially full and rounded without any additional teasing.
- Continue adding elastics and creating bubbles all the way down to the ends of your ponytail.
- You can make the bubbles as dramatic or subtle as you prefer by adjusting how much you pull on each section.
- This style adds instant visual interest to a simple ponytail and holds up well throughout active days.
- Customize the look by using decorative elastics or adding small accessories between each bubble for special occasions.
11. Milkmaid Braid
The milkmaid braid creates a vintage-inspired crown effect that’s both practical and pretty for thick wavy hair.
This style wraps braids around your head like a halo, keeping everything secure while looking effortlessly charming.
- Part your hair straight down the middle from your forehead to the nape of your neck, creating two equal sections.
- Braid each section into a traditional three-strand braid, starting at the nape and working down to the ends.
- The thickness of your hair will create substantial braids that wrap beautifully around your head without looking flat.
- Take the right braid and bring it up and over the top of your head like a headband, securing it with bobby pins as you go.
- Then take the left braid and bring it across in the opposite direction, tucking the end under the first braid for a seamless look.
- Pin both braids securely, focusing on the areas where they cross over and where the ends tuck under.
- Pull gently on the braids to create more volume and a softer appearance that suits the romantic nature of this style.
- This look works wonderfully for summer events, garden parties, or any occasion where you want a fresh, feminine appearance.
12. Side-Swept Fishtail Braid
A side-swept fishtail braid drapes elegantly over one shoulder and highlights the beautiful texture that thick wavy hair naturally provides.
This style looks intricate and time-consuming but comes together more quickly than you’d expect.
- Brush all your hair to one side, choosing whichever side feels more natural and comfortable for you.
- Divide your hair into two large sections instead of the traditional three used in standard braiding.
- Take a small piece from the outer edge of one section and add it to the inner edge of the opposite section.
- Repeat this motion alternately from each side, keeping your sections relatively small for a more defined fishtail pattern.
- The natural wave in your hair creates beautiful dimension within the fishtail without requiring any additional texturizing.
- Work all the way down to the ends and secure with a clear elastic that won’t distract from the braid’s intricate appearance.
- Gently pancake the braid by pulling on the outer edges to create width and emphasize the fishtail’s distinctive pattern.
- This style looks equally beautiful for casual daytime activities and more formal evening occasions depending on how you accessorize it.
13. Dutch Braid into Messy Bun
Combining a Dutch braid with a messy bun gives you a practical style that keeps thick wavy hair under control while looking effortlessly chic.
The braid adds structure while the bun showcases your hair’s natural volume.
- Flip your head upside down and begin a Dutch braid at the nape of your neck, braiding upward toward your crown.
- Add hair from both sides as you braid, keeping the braid centered and working against gravity for an impressive effect.
- Once you reach your crown area, secure the braid with an elastic and let the remaining hair fall forward.
- Flip your head back upright—you’ll now have a braid running from your nape to your crown with the rest of your hair loose on top.
- Gather this loose hair along with the end of the braid and twist everything together into a messy bun at your crown.
- Don’t worry about making the bun perfect—thick wavy hair looks best when the bun has an intentionally undone appearance.
- Secure with bobby pins and pull out a few face-framing pieces for a softer look.
- This style works beautifully for workouts, busy days running errands, or casual social gatherings.
14. Four-Strand Braid
A four-strand braid elevates your braiding game and creates a complex-looking style that’s perfect for thick wavy hair.
While it requires a bit more coordination than a traditional three-strand braid, the result is absolutely worth the effort.
- Divide your hair into four equal sections instead of the usual three, mentally numbering them one through four from left to right.
- Cross section two over section three, bringing it toward the middle.
- Then cross section one over section two, and section four under section three.
- Continue this pattern of over-over-under, maintaining consistent tension for an even appearance throughout.
- The thickness of wavy hair makes each strand in the four-strand braid look substantial and well-defined.
- Work methodically down the length of your hair, taking your time to maintain the proper crossing pattern.
- Secure the end with an elastic and gently pull on the outer edges to create more dimension and fullness.
- This braid creates a unique woven appearance that stands out from traditional braiding styles and showcases your skill.
15. Braided Headband with Loose Hair
Creating a braided headband from your own hair while leaving the rest loose combines the practical benefits of keeping hair off your face with the beauty of showing off your natural waves
. This style is incredibly versatile and flattering on thick wavy hair.
- Section off a two-inch wide strip of hair from behind one ear, following your natural hairline across your forehead to the opposite ear.
- Clip away the remaining hair to keep it separate from the section you’ll be braiding.
- Braid this front section into a simple three-strand braid, starting at one ear and working toward the other.
- The natural texture of wavy hair gives this headband braid a soft, romantic appearance without looking too structured.
- Secure the end with a small clear elastic once you reach the opposite ear.
- Tuck the end of the braid behind your ear or pin it discreetly under your loose hair for an invisible finish.
- Release the remaining hair and let your natural waves flow freely down your back and shoulders.
- This style keeps your face clear and showcases your features while letting the length and volume of your thick hair shine.
16. Twisted Rope Braid Updo
A twisted rope braid updo transforms your thick wavy hair into an elegant style that’s sophisticated enough for formal events yet comfortable enough to wear all day.
The rope braid technique adds texture and visual interest to the updo.
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a strong elastic.
- Divide the ponytail into two equal sections and twist each section individually in the same direction until fully twisted.
- Wrap the two twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction to create the rope braid effect.
- Once the rope braid is complete, coil it around the base of your ponytail to form an elegant bun shape.
- The thickness of your hair creates a substantial updo that looks full and impressive without needing additional padding.
- Secure the coiled bun with bobby pins placed strategically around the base and through the center for maximum hold.
- Smooth any flyaways with a light styling cream and spray with flexible-hold hairspray to maintain the style throughout your event.
- This updo works beautifully for weddings, formal dinners, or professional presentations where you need to look polished and put-together.
17. Infinity Braid
The infinity braid creates a figure-eight pattern that looks impossibly intricate but becomes manageable once you understand the technique.
Thick wavy hair makes this braid look especially dimensional and interesting.
- Start with a three-strand braid for the first few stitches to establish your starting point and create stability.
- Hold two sections in your left hand and one section in your right hand as you prepare for the infinity pattern.
- Create a figure-eight motion by crossing the right section over the middle, then under the left section, then over the middle again.
- This creates the distinctive infinity symbol pattern that gives this braid its name and unique appearance.
- The natural texture of wavy hair helps the infinity pattern stand out clearly without the braid looking overly tight or constructed.
- Continue the figure-eight pattern consistently down the length of your hair, maintaining even tension throughout.
- Secure the end with an elastic and gently loosen the braid by pulling on the edges to enhance the dimensional appearance.
- This statement braid works wonderfully as a centerpiece hairstyle for special occasions or when you want to showcase your braiding abilities.
18. Braided Low Ponytail
A braided low ponytail combines the simplicity of a ponytail with the detail of braiding, creating a polished look that’s perfect for thick wavy hair.
This style keeps your hair contained while showing off its beautiful texture.
- Gather all your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, positioning it wherever feels most comfortable.
- Secure the ponytail with a strong elastic that can handle the weight and volume of thick hair.
- Divide the ponytail into three equal sections and create a traditional three-strand braid down the entire length.
- The waves in your hair create natural texture within the braid, making it look fuller and more interesting than it would on straight hair.
- Secure the end of the braid with another elastic, leaving an inch or two of unbraided ends for a softer finish.
- Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the top elastic to hide it and create a more polished appearance.
- Gently pull on the edges of the braid to create more volume and a slightly undone aesthetic that suits thick wavy hair perfectly.
- This versatile style transitions seamlessly from office settings to casual weekend activities without missing a beat.
19. Pull-Through Braid
The pull-through braid creates the illusion of a complex braid without actually requiring any traditional braiding technique.
This style is perfect for thick wavy hair and creates a dramatic, voluminous effect that looks professionally styled.
- Start by creating a ponytail at the crown of your head and securing it with a clear elastic band.
- About two inches below the first elastic, secure another elastic around the ponytail to create a section.
- Split the section above the second elastic in half and pull the hair below through the center of this split section.
- Clip the split sections temporarily out of the way and create another ponytail with the pulled-through hair two inches below.
- Release the clipped sections and bring them down over the new ponytail, then repeat the splitting and pulling-through process.
- Continue this pattern all the way down the length of your hair, creating a chain of pull-through sections.
- The thickness of wavy hair makes each section look incredibly full and dramatic without requiring any additional teasing or backcombing.
- Gently pull on each section to create even more volume and pancake the braid for a statement-making appearance.
- This show-stopping style works beautifully for special events, photoshoots, or any time you want maximum impact.
20. French Braid Pigtails
French braid pigtails offer a youthful, playful style that works surprisingly well on adults with thick wavy hair.
This dual-braid style keeps your hair completely secure while looking charming and put-together.
- Part your hair straight down the middle from your forehead to the nape of your neck, creating two equal sections.
- Clip one side away while you focus on braiding the first section to maintain clean separation.
- Begin a French braid at the hairline of the first section, starting with three small pieces and adding hair as you work down.
- Braid close to your head, incorporating new sections evenly from both sides to create a smooth, rounded braid shape.
- The natural volume of thick wavy hair ensures your French braids look full and substantial rather than flat against your scalp.
- Secure the first braid with an elastic once you’ve incorporated all the hair from that section and braided to the ends.
- Repeat the exact process on the second side, trying to match the tightness and section sizes for balanced, symmetrical results.
- This style keeps hair completely off your neck and face, making it ideal for hot weather, physical activities, or long days.
21. Halo Braid with Textured Finish
The halo braid wraps around your entire head like a crown and looks absolutely stunning on thick wavy hair, as the natural texture adds dimension and interest to this romantic style.
This braid keeps everything secure while looking ethereal and feminine.
- Create a center part and divide your hair into two equal sections from front to back.
- Begin braiding one section at the nape of your neck, working upward and around the side of your head toward your forehead.
- Braid loosely to accommodate the natural wave pattern and create a softer, more romantic appearance.
- When you reach your starting point on the opposite side, continue braiding the remaining length without adding new sections.
- Tuck this braided tail under the starting point of your braid and secure it with bobby pins that match your hair color.
- Repeat the process with the second section, braiding it in the opposite direction to complete the halo.
- The thickness of wavy hair creates a substantial halo that looks impressive and holds its shape throughout the day.
- Pull gently on the outer edges of both braids to create more texture and volume for a softer, more lived-in appearance.
22. Diagonal Waterfall Braid
A diagonal waterfall braid adds an unexpected twist to the classic waterfall technique by working at an angle across your head.
This asymmetrical approach looks particularly striking on thick wavy hair where the cascading sections create beautiful dimension.
- Create a deep side part and section off hair from the heavier side near your temple to begin the braid.
- Start with a standard three-strand braid, then begin the waterfall technique by dropping the bottom section and replacing it with new hair from above.
- Work diagonally across your head rather than horizontally, angling the braid downward as you move toward the opposite side.
- Each dropped section falls at a slight angle, creating a cascading waterfall effect that follows the diagonal line of your braid.
- The natural wave in your hair makes each dropped section look bouncy and full, enhancing the waterfall effect.
- Continue the diagonal pattern until you reach just behind your opposite ear, then secure the braid with bobby pins.
- Leave the remaining hair loose and flowing to showcase your thick wavy texture in all its glory.
- This creative variation on the waterfall braid adds visual interest and looks like you put serious effort into your hairstyle.
23. Triple Braid Ponytail
A triple braid ponytail takes a regular ponytail and elevates it with three separate braids that combine into one impressive style.
Thick wavy hair makes each braid look substantial and creates a ponytail with incredible texture and dimension.
- Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it tightly with a strong elastic that can support thick hair’s weight.
- Divide the ponytail into three equal sections, separating them clearly so you can work on each independently.
- Braid each section into its own traditional three-strand braid, working down to the ends and securing each with a small clear elastic.
- The thickness of your hair ensures each individual braid looks full and well-defined rather than thin or wispy.
- Once all three braids are complete, you can leave them separate for a fun, textured look or combine them into one mega-braid.
- To create a unified look, braid the three individual braids together into one large braid for an incredibly thick, statement-making ponytail.
- Secure the final mega-braid with another elastic and gently pull on the edges to maximize volume and texture.
- This style makes a bold statement and showcases the full potential of your thick wavy hair’s volume and texture.
24. Lace Braid Accent
A lace braid works like a French braid but only adds hair from one side, creating a delicate, ribbon-like effect that’s perfect for accenting thick wavy hair.
This subtle braid adds detail without overwhelming your natural texture.
- Section off a thin strip of hair from your hairline, starting at your temple and working back toward your ear.
- Begin with three small sections as you would for any braid, crossing them over each other once to establish the starting point.
- As you continue braiding, only add new hair from the top side (closer to your hairline) while the bottom side remains unchanged.
- This one-sided adding technique creates the distinctive lace appearance that looks delicate and feminine.
- Work the lace braid along your hairline or wherever you want to add a subtle detail to your hairstyle.
- The natural texture of wavy hair gives the lace braid a soft, romantic quality that enhances rather than competes with your waves.
- Secure the end of the lace braid with a small clear elastic or bobby pin, depending on where it ends in your style.
- This accent braid works beautifully on its own or combined with other braiding techniques for a more complex look.
25. Braided Faux Hawk
A braided faux hawk gives thick wavy hair an edgy, fashion-forward appearance while keeping the sides sleek and the center dramatic.
This bold style makes a statement and works surprisingly well for various occasions when styled appropriately.
- Section your hair into three parts—a wide center strip from forehead to nape, and two smaller side sections.
- Smooth the side sections back toward the center using gel or styling cream for sleek, controlled sides.
- Secure the sides with bobby pins or small elastics, positioning them so they create lift for the center section.
- Dutch braid the center section from front to back, pulling it tight to create the raised faux hawk effect.
- The volume of thick wavy hair makes this center braid particularly impressive and dramatic without needing additional teasing.
- Continue the Dutch braid all the way to your nape, then braid the remaining length in a standard three-strand braid.
- Pull on the edges of the Dutch braid to create more width and emphasize the mohawk-inspired ridge down the center of your head.
- This daring style works for music festivals, fashion events, or any time you want to showcase your adventurous side.
26. Basket Weave Braid
The basket weave braid creates an intricate woven pattern that looks complex but follows a logical sequence once you understand the technique.
Thick wavy hair makes this braid look particularly full and textured with beautiful dimension.
- Divide your hair into three sections, but make the middle section slightly wider than the two outer sections.
- Split the middle section in half temporarily, creating a total of four sections to work with.
- Cross the right outer section over to the left, weaving it over and under the two middle sections in a basket weave pattern.
- Then cross the left outer section over to the right, weaving it under and over the middle sections in the opposite pattern.
- Continue alternating sides, maintaining the over-under weaving pattern that creates the basket weave appearance.
- The natural texture of wavy hair enhances the woven look and makes the basket pattern more visible and dimensional.
- Work methodically down the length of your hair, keeping your tension consistent for an even basket weave throughout.
- Secure the end with an elastic and display this intricate braid proudly—it’s a true conversation starter that showcases your braiding expertise.
27. Side-Swept Dutch Braid
A side-swept Dutch braid creates an asymmetrical look that’s both modern and flattering, working beautifully with thick wavy hair’s natural volume.
This style keeps hair off one side of your face while creating visual interest with the raised braid technique.
- Brush all your hair to one side, choosing whichever side you prefer or where your natural part falls.
- Begin your Dutch braid at the hairline near your temple, starting with three sections as you would for any braid.
- Cross the outer sections under the middle section instead of over, which creates the raised, three-dimensional effect characteristic of Dutch braids.
- Add hair from both sides as you work the braid down toward your shoulder, incorporating all hair from the opposite side of your part.
- The thickness and texture of wavy hair makes this Dutch braid look particularly prominent and eye-catching.
- Continue braiding without adding new sections once all hair has been incorporated, working down to your ends.
- Secure with a clear elastic and gently pancake the braid to create more width and showcase the Dutch braiding technique.
- Bring the braid forward over your shoulder for a romantic, asymmetrical look that highlights your hair’s beautiful volume and the intricate braiding.
28. Braided Space Buns
Braided space buns combine playful double buns with the detail of braiding, creating a fun style that thick wavy hair executes perfectly.
This youthful look has serious staying power and works for festivals, parties, or creative workplaces.
- Part your hair straight down the middle from your forehead through to your nape, creating two equal sections.
- Gather one section into a high ponytail on the side of your head, positioning it where you want the space bun to sit.
- Braid the entire ponytail in a traditional three-strand braid, securing the end with a small elastic.
- Wrap the braided ponytail around its base in a circular pattern, creating a bun shape that shows the braid texture.
- The thickness of wavy hair creates substantial space buns that look impressive and hold their shape throughout the day.
- Secure the bun with bobby pins placed strategically through the braid and into the base for maximum hold.
- Repeat the entire process on the opposite side, matching the height and size of the first bun for symmetrical results.
- This quirky style brings personality to your look and keeps all your hair completely off your neck and face.
29. Viking-Inspired Braid
Viking-inspired braids combine multiple braiding techniques and often feature shaved or slicked sides with intricate braiding on top.
For thick wavy hair, you can achieve this look without actually shaving by using strategic sectioning and styling.
- Section your hair horizontally from ear to ear across the back of your head, clipping the top section up and away.
- Slick the bottom section down tightly with gel or pomade to create the appearance of shorter hair or a faux undercut.
- Divide the top section into multiple smaller sections and create tight Dutch or French braids working from front to back.
- The natural volume of thick wavy hair creates impressive raised braids that look bold and warrior-like.
- Continue each braid down to the nape area, then gather all the braids together and secure them as one ponytail or single braid.
- Pull on the edges of the top braids to create more width and drama, emphasizing the Viking aesthetic.
- This style works beautifully for costume events, Renaissance fairs, or simply when you want to channel your inner warrior goddess.
- The combination of sleek sides and textured braids on top creates striking contrast that showcases your hair’s versatility.
30. Elegant Low Braided Chignon
An elegant low braided chignon combines the sophistication of an updo with the texture of braiding, perfect for thick wavy hair that needs to look refined for formal occasions.
This style keeps every strand in place while looking timelessly beautiful.
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, positioning it off to one side slightly for added interest.
- Divide the ponytail into two or three sections and braid each section separately into loose three-strand braids.
- The natural wave in your hair creates beautiful texture within these braids that will be visible in the final chignon.
- Coil the braids around each other and around the base of the ponytail, creating a woven chignon effect.
- Thick hair creates a substantial chignon that looks impressive and elegant without needing padding or hairpieces.
- Secure the chignon with bobby pins placed in an X pattern for maximum hold that lasts through long events.
- Smooth any flyaways around your face and hairline with a light pomade or styling cream for a polished finish.
- This sophisticated style works beautifully for weddings, galas, job interviews, or any occasion requiring refined elegance.
31. Mohawk Braid
A mohawk braid creates a bold center braid that runs down the middle of your head while leaving the sides sleek or styled differently.
Thick wavy hair makes this edgy style particularly impressive with substantial volume down the center.
- Section your hair into three parts—create a wide strip down the center from forehead to nape, separating it from the side sections.
- Decide how to style the sides—slick them down, leave them loose, or create smaller accent braids depending on your desired look.
- Focus on the center section and create a Dutch braid or French braid running straight down the middle of your head.
- The thickness of wavy hair ensures your center braid looks bold and prominent, creating the mohawk-inspired ridge effect.
- Pull on the outer edges of the center braid to maximize volume and create more width down the middle.
- Secure any loose side sections with bobby pins or small elastics to keep them separate from the main mohawk braid.
- Continue the center braid all the way down to your ends or stop at the nape and leave the remaining hair in a ponytail.
- This daring style works for music events, creative professional settings, or anytime you want to make a bold statement with your hair.
32. Wrapped Ponytail Braid
A wrapped ponytail braid features sections of hair wrapped around the elastic to hide it while incorporating braiding for added detail.
This refined style suits thick wavy hair beautifully and elevates a simple ponytail into something special.
- Gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height—mid-height tends to be most versatile for this style.
- Before securing, section off a small portion of hair from the underneath of the ponytail to use for wrapping later.
- Secure the main ponytail with a strong elastic, leaving that small section separate and unbound.
- Braid the main ponytail into a traditional three-strand braid, working from the base down to the ends.
- Take the small section you left out and wrap it around the elastic several times to completely conceal it.
- The natural texture of wavy hair helps this wrapped section grip the elastic and stay in place without slipping.
- Secure the end of the wrapped section with a bobby pin hidden underneath the ponytail where it won’t be visible.
- This polished detail transforms an ordinary ponytail into a refined style suitable for both professional and social settings.
33. Ladder Braid
The ladder braid creates a unique appearance where sections of hair appear to weave through the braid like rungs on a ladder.
This intricate style looks stunning on thick wavy hair and makes an impressive statement.
- Begin by creating a traditional French braid but leave small sections loose on alternating sides as you work down.
- These loose sections will become the “rungs” of your ladder braid, so keep them separated and distinct from the main braid.
- Once you’ve completed the main braid with the loose sections left out, secure the end of the central braid.
- Working from top to bottom, thread each loose section through the braid horizontally, weaving it over and under like a shoelace.
- The thickness of wavy hair makes these ladder rungs substantial and clearly visible, creating the distinctive ladder appearance.
- Continue weaving each loose section through the braid until all rungs are incorporated into the pattern.
- Secure any loose ends with small clear elastics or tuck them into the braid and pin them for an invisible finish.
- This show-stopping braid takes practice but creates an absolutely unique look that’s worth the effort for special occasions.
34. Twisted Crown with Low Ponytail
A twisted crown combined with a low ponytail keeps hair elegant and controlled while showcasing thick wavy hair’s beautiful texture.
This style combines the structure of twists with the flowing nature of a ponytail for a balanced, sophisticated look.
- Section off the front portion of your hair from ear to ear, clipping the back section away temporarily.
- Divide the front section into two parts, one on each side of your head running from temple to crown.
- Twist each section tightly as you work it back toward the center of your head, keeping the twists smooth and controlled.
- Secure both twists at the back center of your head where they meet, using bobby pins to hold them in place.
- Release the back section of your hair and gather it along with the ends of the twists into a low ponytail at the nape.
- The natural wave in your hair creates a beautiful textured ponytail that contrasts nicely with the sleek twisted crown.
- Smooth any bumps or flyaways in the twisted sections using a light pomade or styling cream for a polished appearance.
- This style keeps hair off your face while letting the length and volume of your thick wavy hair shine in the ponytail portion.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect hairstyle for thick wavy hair doesn’t have to be a daily battle when you have the right braiding techniques in your styling arsenal.
These 34 braided hairstyles for thick wavy hair that look effortless prove that your hair’s natural texture and volume are assets to be celebrated, not challenges to overcome.
Whether you’re drawn to simple three-strand braids for everyday wear or ready to master intricate techniques like the ladder braid for special occasions, there’s a style here that matches your skill level and lifestyle needs.
The beauty of these braided styles lies in how they work with your hair’s natural texture rather than fighting against it, creating looks that appear polished yet relaxed.
Remember that thick wavy hair holds braids beautifully throughout the day thanks to its natural grip and texture, meaning your morning styling efforts will last until evening.
Start with the simpler techniques to build your confidence, then gradually work your way up to more complex braids as your skills develop.
Your thick wavy hair is capable of creating stunning braided styles that turn heads and simplify your beauty routine simultaneously.
Embrace these techniques, experiment with different combinations, and discover which braided hairstyles become your go-to looks for every occasion.
