Braids Menu

Picking a braid style shouldn’t feel like homework 😅

If you’ve ever sat in the chair (or in front of your mirror) thinking, “I want braids… but which ones?” same. There are so many different types of braids, and the names can get confusing fast: French braid, Dutch braid, fishtail, knotless, boho, passion twists, faux locs… and then on top of that you still have to choose the size, the parting, and the finish (curly ends? sleek ends? half up?).

So I put together a real-life “braids menu” that breaks down the most common braid types I see people asking for, plus the little details that actually change the whole look. I’m keeping it practical, like the kind of notes I’d want saved on my phone before booking or DIY-ing.

1) Classic braid styles (the ones you can wear anywhere)

These are the “foundation” styles. Even if you end up doing a more extra look later, knowing these basics helps you communicate what you want.

French braid

A French braid is the classic “braid that sits into the hair” look. Hair gets added as you go, and it lays flatter and more blended. It’s one of those styles that can look super clean for work/school, but still cute for a casual day.

Best for: quick protective styling without extensions, gym days, travel days, and “I need my hair out of my face” moments.

Dutch braid

A Dutch braid is basically the French braid’s bolder sister. Instead of braiding over, you braid under, so the braid pops up and looks more raised. If you want your braid to be seen from across the room, Dutch is that girl.

Tip: Dutch braids look amazing as two braids (“boxer braids”), or as one big braid down the back.

Pull-through French braid

This one gives the illusion of a super thick braid, but it’s made with sections (often with elastics) that “pull through” each other. If you want that chunky, Instagram-y braid look but your hands get tired doing a traditional braid… this is a lifesaver.

Best for: people who want volume and drama without complex braiding technique.

3-strand braid

The 3-strand braid is the basic braid everyone learns first. But don’t underestimate it—how you section it, how tight you pull, and whether you pancake it (gently tug the edges) can make it look totally different.

Quick upgrade: do a deep side part first, then braid. It instantly looks styled, not “I just braided it.”

4-strand braid

A 4-strand braid looks more woven and detailed than a 3-strand. It’s not hard once you get the pattern, but it does take focus. The final look is smoother and a little more “fancy,” like you tried harder (even if you didn’t 😌).

5-strand braid (and Dutch 5-strand)

The 5-strand braid is for when you want that intricate, almost basket-weave effect. It’s gorgeous for events, photos, or just because you’re in your “main character hair” era. A Dutch 5-strand version will make it stand out even more because it sits raised.

Reality check: it takes time. If you’re DIY-ing, plan for a learning curve and don’t start 10 minutes before you need to leave.

Infinity braid

The infinity braid gives that looped, figure-eight look. It’s one of those styles that makes people ask, “How did you do that?” even though it’s basically a repeating wrap pattern. It’s cute as a detail braid on the side, or as a half-up accent.

Rope braid (French rope)

A rope braid is a two-strand twist that looks like a rope. A French rope version adds hair as you go (like a French braid, but twisting). This is perfect when you want something sleek and quick, especially for ponytails.

Pro tip: twist each strand in the same direction, then wrap them around each other in the opposite direction. That’s what keeps it from unraveling.

Fishtail braid (French fishtail too)

The fishtail is that mermaid-looking braid made by taking small pieces from each side and crossing over. A French fishtail adds hair as you go, so it’s like a fishtail + French braid combo. It looks detailed and soft, especially when you loosen it a bit for that airy finish.

Best for: date nights, weddings, vacations, and “I want effort without looking too done.”

2) Protective braid installs (the ones people book and keep in)

Now we’re getting into the styles people usually mean when they say “I’m getting braids done.” These are the ones you wear for weeks, and the details matter a lot: parting, tension, braid count, and how you finish the ends.

Knotless braids (the crowd favorite for a reason)

Knotless braids are loved because they start more gradually at the root, so they can feel lighter and look more natural. I’ve seen people rate knotless braids like “1000/10” and honestly… I get it. When they’re done right, they’re neat, flexible, and easy to style.

What to ask for: clean parts, consistent braid size, and a comfortable grip (not too tight). The goal is cute AND wearable.

Stitch braids

Stitch braids are those super crisp, straight-line cornrow styles where each “stitch” looks perfectly separated. They give a very clean, designed look—like your scalp is part of the hairstyle (because it is).

Best for: sleek looks, updos, and anyone who loves a sharp, polished finish.

Goddess braids (short goddess braids too)

Goddess braids usually mean larger, more dramatic braids (often cornrow-based or big individual braids) that give a soft, feminine vibe. Short goddess braids are especially cute if you want something lighter and bouncier without all the length.

Style vibe: effortless but still elevated. Like you woke up pretty on purpose.

Boho braids

Boho braids are the “it girl” braid look: braids with curly pieces left out (usually throughout or at the ends). People rate them high for a reason—boho can look romantic, fun, and very photogenic.

Keep in mind: the curly pieces can tangle and frizz faster than regular braids. If you love the look but hate maintenance, consider boho curls mostly at the ends instead of all over.

Flip-over braids

Flip-over braids are all about the styling and the parting so you can swoop everything to one side. It gives that “hair commercial” movement, especially when the braids are medium or small.

My favorite pairing: flip-over + boho ends. It’s giving soft glam without trying too hard.

French curls (braids with curly ends)

French curls (often talked about as braids with curly ends) are a whole vibe: neat braids at the top, then curls at the bottom. This is one of the easiest ways to get a “done” look even when you’re wearing a simple outfit.

Why people love it: you get the structure of braids plus the softness of curls—best of both worlds.

Mohawk braids

Mohawk braids are for when you want edge. The sides are usually braided upward toward the center, creating that mohawk shape. It’s protective, stylish, and looks amazing with big earrings or a bold makeup look.

Wear it when: you want compliments. Because you will get them.

3) Twist and loc-inspired options (still in the braid conversation)

Even though these aren’t always “braids” in the strict sense, people shop for them in the same category. If you’re deciding what to get done, these belong on the list.

Passion twists

Passion twists give a soft, curly, textured twist look. They’re lighter than some braid installs and have that carefree finish that still looks intentional.

Great for: vacations, warm weather, and anyone who wants movement without leaving hair loose.

Butterfly locs

Butterfly locs have that distressed, textured loc look with little loops and “imperfect” pieces. They’re meant to look lived-in and boho.

Style note: they look even better after a little time when they settle and get that natural vibe.

Faux locs

Faux locs are a classic protective style that mimics locs without the commitment. The look can be sleek or textured depending on the hair used and the method.

Best for: anyone who wants a long-lasting style with a bold silhouette.

Curly micro braids

Curly micro braids are tiny braids with a curly finish. They’re super pretty and give a lot of styling flexibility, but they can be time-consuming.

Be honest with yourself: if you don’t like long takedowns, you might want to size up.

4) Mini braids: cute… but not always easy 🥲

I have to talk about mini braids because they look so good in pictures, but the experience can be very real. Mini braids can feel lightweight and give that natural, low-key look, but if you’re someone who wants big volume, you might end up wishing they looked fuller.

And the takedown? That part can make you think twice. Mini braids usually mean a longer removal process, more detangling time, and you really have to be patient. If you love the look but hate the idea of spending forever taking them down, consider smedium instead of extra small. Same vibe, less stress.

5) Size matters: jumbo to extra small (and what it changes)

Choosing braid size isn’t just about aesthetics—it affects time, braid count, weight, and takedown.

Jumbo: fewer braids, faster install, bold look. Great if you want something quick and dramatic.

Large: still fairly quick, but with a bit more detail. Easy to style into buns and ponytails.

Medium: the “safe middle.” Not too heavy, not too tiny, very versatile.

Smedium: more braids, more movement, still manageable for takedown.

Extra small: the most detailed look and usually the longest wear potential, but also the longest install and takedown.

6) Braid count guide (for picturing the final look)

Sometimes it helps to think in braid count instead of just “small” or “medium.” A simple guide people use looks like this:

Jumbo: about 17 braids

Large: about 37 braids

Medium: about 57 braids

Smedium: about 88 braids

Extra small: about 111 braids

Not every head is the same, and parting style changes everything, but this gives a rough idea of how full and detailed your install will look.

7) Styling ideas for box braids (especially curly ends)

Once the braids are in, the fun part is switching up the look without redoing anything. If you have box braids with curly ends (or any braids, honestly), these styles stay on repeat: