36 Side Braid Hairstyles From Real Stylists: Easy, Bridal & Everyday Looks
A side braid solves two problems at once: it keeps hair off your face and gives your style a clear focal point. That’s why stylists use it for weddings just as often as for busy school mornings. It’s also a forgiving style. It hides uneven layers, works on anything from a curled bob to long hair, and suits straight, wavy, and textured hair.
To build this list, we went through client work posted by hairstylists and bridal artists, and kept only the looks where you can clearly see how the braid was made. The list covers French braids, which lie flat against the head; Dutch braids, which sit raised on top; and fishtail, pull-through, waterfall, and cornrow styles. Each idea tells you the braid type, the occasions it suits, and one practical tip, so you can recreate it at home or show it to your stylist. Every photo belongs to the artist who created it.
36 Side Braid Hairstyles for Every Hair Length and Occasion
1. Side French Braid Low Bun
A loose French braid runs along one side and wraps into a soft low bun at the nape. Face-framing strands keep it romantic, making it a great pick for bridesmaids and wedding guests. Gently pull the braid loops for extra fullness.
2. Loose Pull-Through Side Braid
This relaxed braid is built from pull-through sections swept over one shoulder for an effortless, textured finish. It works best on long, layered hair and looks even better on second-day hair. Leave a few strands out around the face for a soft boho touch.
3. Side Dutch Braid Messy Bun
A single Dutch braid follows the hairline on one side and ends in a messy bun held with a claw clip. It keeps hair off the face on hot days and is quick to do. Ideal for errands, travel, or a casual day out.
4. Small Cornrows on One Side
Several small cornrows are braided tightly along one side while the rest of the hair stays long and sleek. The contrast gives a bold, edgy look without braiding the whole head. Finish with laid edges and a little shine spray for a clean look.
5. Half-Up Braid with Rose Bun
A Dutch braid sweeps across the head and twists into a small braided rose bun, with soft curls left down. It's a sweet choice for girls, flower girls, and special occasions. Secure the rose with a few bobby pins so it holds all day.
6. Bridal Side Braid with Flowers
A soft, voluminous braid falls over one shoulder, decorated with fresh white blooms and baby's breath. The loose texture feels romantic and pairs beautifully with strapless or sweetheart gowns. Tuck the flowers in after braiding so they sit evenly down the braid.
7. Boho Side Bubble Braid
Messy bubble sections and a loose braid are twisted together over one shoulder and dotted with dried flowers. This undone texture suits rustic, garden, and boho weddings. Curl the hair first to give the braid more grip and volume.
8. Voluminous Pull-Through Side Braid
Big pull-through sections build a thick, dramatic braid that drapes to one side and ends in soft curls. It adds instant volume, so it works well for mehndi, receptions, and prom nights. Clip-in extensions help if your hair is fine or shorter.
9. Pearl Side Braid with Open Waves
A chunky Dutch braid runs along one side, accented with small pearl pins, while the rest of the hair falls in loose waves. It's elegant enough for weddings yet simple enough to do at home. Pancake the braid slightly to make it look fuller.
10. Crystal Dutch Side Braid
A thick Dutch braid transitions into a pull-through braid over one shoulder, with crystal hairpins placed along its length. It's a standout option for brides and bridesmaids who want volume without an updo. Use texturizing spray before braiding to help it hold.
11. French Braid Ribbon Ponytail
A classic French braid leads into a low ponytail tied with a thin black satin ribbon. The ribbon adds a cute, feminine finish that suits dinners, dates, and parties. Curl the ponytail ends for a softer, fuller look.
12. Sleek Side Part Waves
This look features a deep side part with smooth, glossy waves swept over one side of the face. Add a small braid along the part to turn it into a side braid variation. Use a curling iron or rollers to create the bouncy ends.
13. Side Fishtail Braid Messy Bun
A delicate fishtail braid runs along one side and blends into a loose, textured low bun. Soft curled strands around the face keep it relaxed and romantic. A lovely option for wedding guests and formal events.
14. Side Stitch Braids with Straight Hair
Neat stitch braids sit along one side of the head and flow into the rest of the sleek, straight hair. This look is low-maintenance and can last for days. Sleep with a satin scarf to keep the braids neat and frizz-free.
15. Loose Korean-Style Side Braid
A soft, loosely woven braid rests over one shoulder with wispy face-framing strands left out. It's one of the easiest side braids to do yourself and looks polished in minutes. Gently loosen the braid after tying it for a relaxed finish.
16. Side Cornrows with Blonde Waves
Thin cornrows are braided along one side while the rest of the hair falls in big, glossy waves. It creates a bold, glam contrast that's perfect for vacations, festivals, and nights out. Curl the loose hair after braiding so the waves stay defined.
17. Side Braid for Short Curled Bob
A Dutch braid along one side keeps short hair off the face while the ends are curled for bounce. It proves side braids work even on bobs and shoulder-length cuts. Start the braid close to the parting to catch shorter layers.
18. Pull-Through Braid for Weddings
A French braid transitions into a pull-through braid for a long, textured look down the back. Loose strands around the face keep it soft and flattering. Great for wedding guests who want a polished but easy style.
19. Half-Up Side Braid with Waves
A single braid runs across one side of the head and is pinned at the back, leaving glossy waves flowing down. It pairs well with traditional outfits for festivals, mehndi, and family events. Add a small jeweled pin where the braid ends for extra detail.
20. Classic Side Braid Low Bun
A thick three-strand braid wraps along one side and flows into a neat, polished low bun. The sleek finish makes it ideal for formal events, prom, and bridesmaid looks. Set it with hairspray to keep flyaways under control.
21. Double Pull-Through Side Braids
Two chunky Dutch braids are pulled out for extra volume, one on each side of the head. The look is sporty yet stylish, great for school, the gym, or casual outings. Stretch the loops gently to make thin hair look thicker.
22. Half-Up Braid with Crystal Pins
A slim braid sweeps across one side and is secured at the back with crystal pins and a small floral accent. The rest of the hair falls in loose curls for a soft, festive finish. A beautiful choice for engagements and wedding functions.
23. French Side Braid with Big Curls
A bold French braid runs across the top and side, flowing into voluminous curled lengths. It adds height at the crown and plenty of bounce below. Perfect for prom, homecoming, and party nights.
24. Side Braids into Top Knot
Several braids run along one side of the head and meet in a small top bun, leaving wavy hair down. Curtain bangs soften the braids for a trendy, playful look. Great for summer outings and festivals.
25. Multiple Braids with Gold Cuffs
Several Dutch braids of different sizes are combined and finished with gold hair cuffs and rings. The mix of small and large braids gives a trendy, street-style vibe. Add the cuffs after braiding to personalize the look.
26. Blonde Layered Side Part
This style shows long blonde layers with a deep side part and flipped, bouncy ends. It isn't braided, but a small braid along the side part turns it into a side braid look. Blow-dry with a round brush for voluminous layers.
27. Half-Up Braid with Loose Waves
A soft braid starts on one side and is pinned at the back, keeping hair off the face while waves flow freely. It suits long hair and looks elegant with embroidered outfits. Ideal for wedding guests and daytime events.
28. Half-Up Fishtail with Pink Ends
Braids from both sides meet at the back and continue into a fishtail, showing off pink and purple ends. It's a fun way to highlight colored hair while keeping it off the face. Loosen the fishtail slightly for more texture.
29. Indian Bridal Twist Braid
A thin twisted braid with sparkling accents wraps across the back, leaving long, bouncy curls open. It's light, elegant, and pairs perfectly with a red bridal lehenga or dupatta. Great for brides who prefer open hair over a heavy bun.
30. Half-Up Side Braid with Curls
A braid runs across one side and is pinned at the back, with tiny rhinestones sparkling along it. Loose, bouncy curls fall below for a romantic, bridal finish. Ideal for engagement parties and receptions.
31. Two Side Braids with Gems
Braids from both sides meet at the back and are decorated with sparkling gems, while long curls fall down. It frames the head beautifully and matches heavy wedding outfits. Perfect for brides and bridesmaids at Indian weddings.
32. Floral Pull-Through Side Braid
A voluminous pull-through braid sweeps over one shoulder with tiny sunflowers and lavender tucked in. Soft curls around the face add a romantic touch. A lovely choice for mehndi, haldi, and garden parties.
33. Two Feed-In Dutch Braids
Two sleek feed-in Dutch braids run from front to back and are finished with gold cuffs. The added hair makes the braids long, neat, and long-lasting. A popular low-maintenance style for everyday wear.
34. Braided Half-Up for Lehenga
Braids along both sides meet at the back with crystal pins, while long curls flow down. The side view shows how the braid frames the face. Great for Indian brides and wedding guests.
35. Easy Waterfall Side Braid
A simple waterfall braid runs along one side and is finished with a pretty butterfly clip. Straight hair flows through the braid for a neat, fresh look. Quick and easy for school, college, or casual days.
36. Double Dutch Braids
Two tight Dutch braids start at the hairline and run down both sides, finished with bubble ends. Wispy curls around the face soften the look. Great for festivals, gym days, and hot weather.