Amazing Medium Hairstyle Braids: 17 Chic Looks to Try

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Got that in-between hair length? You know, not quite short, not quite long? Medium length hair can sometimes feel like a styling desert, especially when you're craving something a bit more exciting than the usual ponytail. But guess what? It's braid time! We're not talking about those boring braids from elementary school. This is about unlocking the magic of medium hairstyle braids, and I'm here to show you how. Think messy fishtails that scream effortless chic, loose French braids that add a touch of romance, and even some edgier side Dutch braids that are sure to turn heads. This article is your ultimate guide to navigating the world of braids for your medium-length locks. I'll walk you through some basic braiding techniques, then we'll ramp up the creativity with some more intricate styles. Get ready to transform your everyday look with these 17 stunning braid ideas. Whether you're heading to brunch, work, or a night out, there's a braid here for you! So, let's get braiding and discover just how versatile medium length hair can truly be!

Braids for Medium Hair: Your GoTo Guide

Why Medium Hair is a Braid Playground

Okay, so you've got medium-length hair. It's that sweet spot, right? Not too short to be limited, but not so long that it takes forever to style. Honestly, I think it's the perfect canvas for braids. You can do so much with it! From cute and casual to elegant and intricate, braids can totally transform your look. And the best part? They're super versatile. You can rock them at the gym, at a fancy dinner, or just while you're chilling at home. No matter your vibe, there's a braid out there for you. I remember when I first started experimenting with braids, I felt like I was unlocking a whole new world of hair possibilities. It's not just about keeping your hair out of your face, it’s a whole style statement!

I get it though, sometimes staring at your hair and thinking of what to do can feel like looking into an abyss. You want something different, but maybe you're not sure what that is. That's where this guide comes in. We're going to explore some awesome braided styles specifically for medium hair. Think of this section as your personal braid brainstorming session. I'm going to give you some easy peasy ideas to get you started, and then we'll move on to some styles that might need a bit more practice. But don't worry, I promise it's all doable, even if you're a complete beginner. I was once a braid newbie too, and now I’m practically a braid boss!

Braid Benefits

Beyond just looking good, braids are actually pretty great for your hair. They can help protect your strands, especially if you're prone to breakage. They also keep your hair out of your face, which is a lifesaver on windy days or when you're working out. Plus, they can add texture and volume, making your hair look fuller and more vibrant. I know, it sounds like I am trying to sell you some miracle product, but trust me the braid is the real deal. And honestly, who doesn't love a hairstyle that looks amazing and is also kind of practical? Also, if you are having a bad hair day, braids are a perfect way to hide it. They can disguise frizz, and even make greasy hair look intentional—it's like magic! I've used a braid to salvage many a bad hair day.

Think of braids as your hair's best friend. They're like the comfy jeans of hairstyles – reliable, versatile, and always in style. So, whether you're looking for a quick and easy everyday look or something a little more special, braids are your best bet. And with medium-length hair, the possibilities are truly endless. We’re talking about the perfect length for all sorts of styles, from classic plaits to intricate patterns. Ready to dive in? Let's get started and explore some amazing braid ideas! You'll be amazed at how much you can do with your medium-length hair.

Easy Braids: Mastering the Basics for Medium Length

The Classic Three-Strand Braid

Let's kick things off with the OG of braids, the three-strand braid. Seriously, if you can tie your shoes, you can do this. It's the foundation for so many other styles, so mastering it is key. Start by dividing your hair into three equal sections. Then, it's all about the simple steps of crossing the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the middle, and repeat. Keep going until you reach the end, and secure with a hair tie. It might feel a little awkward at first, but once you get the hang of the rhythm, it becomes second nature. I remember when I was little, my mom would braid my hair before school, and now, it's my go-to braid when I'm in a rush. It's that easy and that reliable!

Don't worry if your first few attempts look a bit messy; that’s totally normal. The beauty of this braid is that it can be as polished or as carefree as you want. A loose, slightly messy three-strand braid can look effortlessly stylish, while a tighter braid can appear more formal. It's all about how you wear it. Also, try practicing in front of a mirror so you can see what your hands are doing. This will help you get comfortable with the motion. And if you get frustrated, take a break and come back to it later. Trust me, with a little bit of practice, you'll be braiding like a pro in no time. This braid is a classic for a reason; it's easy to learn, quick to do, and incredibly versatile.

Easy Dutch Braid

Okay, now let's spice it up a bit with an easy Dutch braid. This braid is like the reverse of a French braid, meaning the braid stands out rather than laying flat. It looks a bit fancier but it's not much harder than the three-strand braid. Start with a small section of hair at the top of your head, and divide it into three sections. Then, instead of crossing the strands over the middle, you'll cross them *under* the middle. As you braid, add in more hair from the sides, just like you would with a French braid. The key here is to keep the tension consistent, so the braid looks even. I know it can be a bit tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a game changer. I sometimes do a dutch braid when I want to feel a bit more put-together, and it never disappoints.

The Dutch braid is great because it can be dressed up or down. You can keep it neat for a more polished look, or pull it out a little for a more relaxed vibe. It also works really well with different hair textures. Whether you have straight, wavy, or curly hair, the Dutch braid will look great. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can try doing two Dutch braids, one on each side of your head. It's a fun look that's perfect for festivals or casual outings. So, don't be intimidated by the Dutch braid. It's a fantastic style to add to your braiding repertoire, and it's definitely worth the effort to learn. You'll be amazed at how much it can elevate your look.

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Braiding Styles for Medium Hair

The Fishtail Braid

Alright, so you've nailed the basic braids, huh? Now it's time to get a little fancy with the fishtail braid. I know it looks complicated, but trust me, it's just a matter of patience and a good mirror. Instead of using three sections, you’ll start with two. Take a small piece from the outside of one section and bring it over to the inside of the other section, and repeat on the other side. Keep going down the length of your hair, and you'll start to see that cool, woven fishtail pattern appear. The key is to keep your tension even, so the braid doesn't get too loose or too tight. I remember the first time I tried a fishtail braid, it was a hot mess. But after a few attempts, I finally got it down. And now it's one of my favorite braids to do, it feels so satisfying when it looks good.

This braid is perfect for adding some texture and visual interest to your hair. It looks great for both casual and more dressy occasions. And the best part? It's super versatile. You can wear it down your back, pull it to the side, or even incorporate it into an updo. It’s like a chameleon of braids. Also, don't worry if it's not perfect the first time, it's all about the practice. Even a slightly messy fishtail braid can look effortlessly chic. So, be patient with yourself and keep trying. Once you get the hang of it, you'll feel like a braiding master, and I know you will rock it!

The Waterfall Braid

Next up, let's talk about the dreamy waterfall braid. This one’s a bit of an optical illusion, but it’s surprisingly easy once you understand the technique. You start like you’re doing a French braid, but instead of adding all the hair from the sides into the braid, you drop some of it down, creating a cascading effect. You’ll take a section of hair at your hairline and divide it into three. Start braiding, but when it’s time to add in hair from the side, only add from the top side, and the hair from the bottom falls down. It’s like a mini waterfall flowing through your hair. I always get compliments when I wear a waterfall braid, people think I spent hours on it, but it’s our little secret.

The waterfall braid is perfect for adding a touch of romance to your look. It’s great for weddings, date nights, or any time you want to feel a bit more special. And it’s super versatile. You can wear it with your hair down, in a half-up style, or even incorporate it into a bun or ponytail. It's all about how you style it. Also, don’t worry if you mess up, just undo it and try again. The more you practice, the better you’ll get. Trust me, once you master the waterfall braid, you’ll be able to create some truly stunning hairstyles.

Braided Updos

Now, let's take these braids and turn them into some beautiful updos. Braids aren't just for wearing your hair down. They can be a key element in creating elegant and sophisticated looks. Think of a braided crown, where you take two braids from the side and pin them around your head. Or a braided bun, where you braid your hair first and then twist it into a bun. It's like adding a little extra detail to your usual updo. I love doing a braided updo when I have a special event, it feels so polished and put-together.

The great thing about braided updos is that they’re so versatile. You can make them as simple or as complex as you want. You can use any of the braids we've talked about, from the classic three-strand to the fishtail or the Dutch. It's all about playing around and finding the styles that you love. And don't be afraid to experiment with different placements and textures. You can add some volume at the crown, pull out some pieces for a messy look, or add some hair accessories for extra sparkle. Braided updos are a fantastic way to elevate your look and make a statement. So, go ahead and try them out. You might just surprise yourself with what you can create!