11 Beautiful Braids for Short Hair

Good news for ladies considering short hair: Braids look great at every length. Go ahead, make the cut, and then add these braided hairstyles to your great big book of beauty ideas.

By Abby Gilman, Fitness 

Inside-Out Side Braids

This double inside-out braided updo is perfect for pulling all hair back when you’re lacking in length. Tip: Add a bit of curl and finishing cream to your hair before braiding for extra hold.

Halo Braid

Hair too short to pull back? Give this halo braid a try. Once finished, muss it up around your crown and the back of your head for a lived-in, relaxed look.

Messy Braided Ponytail

Amp up a low ponytail with messy braids; not only will the playful style add texture and dimension, but it will help hold the shorter front layers back.

Bohemian Braid Updo

Twist Me Pretty is, like, the queen of braids, so when she chopped her hair, we were excited to see what new ‘dos she’d come up with. Safe to say she hasn’t disappointed. Rock this braided updo to work or drinks with the gals.

Braided Low Bun

We love a pretty updo, especially when braids are involved. Add texture to your hair with a 1-inch barrel, and then wrap hair into a low bun, leaving out two sections (from behind your ears forward). Braid the two front sections, and pin into a bun.

Braids for a Grown-Out Pixie

Whether you’re rocking a cropped pixie or looking for hairstyles for the in-between phase, these three braids will amp up your everyday look and keep your hair out of your face.

Half-Up Braids

This braided look is sure to put a spring in your step. Curl your hair with a ¾-inch barrel for an allover beachy wave. Next, braid two sections from the front, pull both back, and pin. Hint: Apply pomade to the ends of your curls by separating and gently tugging down for a piece-y, mussed-up texture.

Waterfall Braid

Waterfall braids were a huge Pinterest hit in 2013 and continue to thrive today. The style is effortless and oh so pretty. Haven’t quite mastered the technique? Check out this video tutorial.

Double-Twisted Gibson Tuck

TBH, we didn’t know what a Gibson Tuck was, but when we saw it, we fell instantly in love. This rolled-back hairstyle is soft, feminine, and a classic—and, best of all, super-simple to create.

Braided Updo with Volume

This short hair updo is for the retro reveler. The thin braid peeking out beneath the roll is a cute—and functional!—touch. Pump up the volume with texture spray and a fine-tooth comb.

French Fringe Braid

Liven up a short cut with a French braid. We love this braid that frames the face while keeping the fringe pulled back. It’s a great versatile look that’s casual enough for the office or can be done up for a boho bride.