Braids are one of the oldest hairstyles of all time, with artwork showing Egyptians and Pharaohs sporting the plaited look. They can be of simple or extremely intricate design, and are great for those of us who seem to have more bad hair days than good. Braids are a great and timeless style that you can dress up or down, and are perfect for busy moms. Even if you have short hair, you can still partake in the braid trend! We’ve rounded up some great braid styles that most any mom can do (no crazy braids here!), and will make you feel put together in no time.
Source: TheSmallThingsBlog.com
1. Half French Braid Ponytail
If you can french braid, you’ll love this style. Its great if your arms get tired and you have a difficult time braiding your own hair and getting it to look smooth and even. Simply take a section on one side of your hair and french braid down and towards the back. Then gather the braid and remainder of your hair into a low pony. This is a great look for any time of day.
Check out TheSmallThingsBlog.com for TONS of more hair ideas and tutorials!
Source: SixSistersStuff.com
2. Twist Braid
If you just want a little braid action or have bangs you’d like to keep out of your face, then a twist braid is just for you. Its actually not even a braid! You will be taking two strands of hair and wrapping them around each other, picking up more pieces as you go. Its a great look that looks much more difficult than it really is.
SixSistersStuff.com has the full tutorial on this great look, along with another tutorial on the waterfall braid.
Source: Hairstyles-Haircuts.com
3. Braided Bun
This is a match made in heaven for a mom: a bun AND a braid. If you’re like me, you already wear a bun half of the week anyways and this will give you a new look! Simply make a pony tail and divide in two. Then make two braids and wrap around into a bun, pinning with bobby pins. Instant, pulled together look!
Head over to Hairstyles-Haircuts.com for a full tutorial and tons of other great hairstyle ideas.
Source: Self.com
4. Crown Braid
I love this style for many reasons, one of which is its perfect for any hair length. Second, it’s super simple! All you do is make two classic braids, one on each side of your hair only using the crown section of your hair. Then gather them in the back using a rubber band of bobby pins. This is a great way to actually wear your hair down, but having it not hang in your face.
Check out Self.com for even more braid styles!
Source: TwistMePretty.com
5. Braided Updo
Even if you aren’t going anywhere fancy, this updo is a great addition to your hairstyle repertoire. It’s made up of 4 classic braids that are then just pinned up at the nap of your neck. No one will believe how easy this style is, because it look so elegant. Perfect for cleaning house or going out!
TwistMePretty.com has this tutorial and more than 150 other gorgeous hairstyles!
Source: VioletLeBeaux.com
6. Ribbon Braid
If your braiding skills are limited like mine, you get tired of a regular braid. But you can easily spice it up by adding a ribbon! Tie it to a section of hair and just weave it in as you begin your braid. It will add a pop of color and dress up your braid just a little. Depending on your ribbon material, you can make it boho, casual or chic!
VioletLeBeaux.com has a simple tutorial on this ribbon braid and lots of other great info on crafting, beauty and home design.
Source: BarefootBlonde.com
7. Loose Braid
I love this style because you don’t have to be concerned with a tight and even braid, something that’s virtually impossible to do with my thick and curly hair. You are basically doing an upside down French Braid, or Dutch braid. Instead of pulling all the strands tight, you will actually loosen each strand as you go. You will make 1 on each side of the crown of your head and pin together in pack.
BarefootBlonde.com has a great tutorial on this beautiful style. Once you’re done with that, check out her other amazing hair styles!
Source: HeyWandererBlog.com
8. Brilliant Braid
This braid is in fact brilliant, because it’s so easy and is actually just masquerading as a braid! Its appearance is very similar to a fishtail, and if you know anything about fishtail braids you know they are gorgeous but time consuming. This braid looks almost identical, but is really just a series of topsy turvies!
HeyWandererBlog.com has a better explanation on how to get this look for yourself as well as other great design, fashion and jewelry ideas.