42 Fun and Easy Braided Hairstyles for Little Girls

Braids are a fantastic way to keep little girls’ hair neat, playful, and stylish — whether for school, playdates, or special occasions. For inspiration on classic techniques and variations, check this timeless braided hairstyles guide to refresh basic skills and try new combinations.

Below are 42 kid-friendly braided styles with short descriptions and quick tips so you can pick looks that suit hair length, texture, and the day’s activities.

Simple Everyday Braids (1–10)
These styles are fast and gentle on hair, great for school mornings and active days.

1. Single Classic Braid — A straightforward three-strand braid down the back; secure with a soft elastic.
2. Low Side Braid — Sweep to one side for a relaxed, comfortable look.
3. Double Braids (Pigtail Braids) — Two symmetric braids for balance and security.
4. Rope Braid Ponytail — Twist two sections before wrapping into a pony for texture.
5. French Braid at Crown — One French braid starting at the forehead and ending at the nape.
6. Dutch Braid (Inside-Out Braid) — Pops on top of the hair for a bold, defined braid.
7. Halo Braid — Braid around the head for a sweet, crown-like finish.
8. Three Mini Braids — Create three small braids and leave the rest of the hair loose for a boho vibe.
9. Braided Ponytail — Start with a high ponytail then braid down for an easy sporty look.
10. Side Waterfall Braid — A delicate cascade braid that blends into loose hair.

These simple looks are perfect to pair with colorful nails — check some fun back-to-school nail art ideas for girls to coordinate colors.

Cute School Styles (11–20)
Designed to stay put through recess and classroom activity, while still looking polished.
11. Boxer Braids — Two tight Dutch braids for long-lasting wear.
12. Milkmaid Braids — Two braids pinned over the crown for a tidy, pretty style.
13. Zigzag Part with Braids — Add interest by braiding along a zigzag part.
14. Braided Bun — Wrap a braid into a bun for formal events or performances.
15. Peekaboo Braids — Small hidden braids under loose hair for a fun surprise.
16. Braided Headband — Create a braid from temple to temple to act as a headband.
17. Crossed Braids — Two braids that cross at the back for a woven look.
18. Bubble Braid — Braid small sections then pull gently to form bubbles.
19. Accent Braid with Ribbon — Weave ribbon into a braid for extra charm.
20. Twisted Braids — Two twists that are braided together for softer texture.

If you’d like help scheduling a styling session or asking about techniques, feel free to contact us for styling help.

Updos and Special Occasion Braids (21–30)
These styles lift hair off the neck and add a dressy touch for parties and recitals.
21. Braided Chignon — A low braided bun that looks elegant yet comfortable.
22. Fishtail Bun — Fishtail braid wrapped into a neat bun for texture.
23. Crown of Braids — Multiple small braids woven into a regal crown.
24. Braided French Twist — A modern twist on a classic updo using French braiding.
25. Double Halo — Two halo braids stacked for fuller crown coverage.
26. Side-Swept Braid Updo — Sweep a braid to the side and pin into a sculpted updo.
27. Braided Rose — Coil a braid into a rose-shaped bun at the nape.
28. Beaded Braided Updo — Add beads at the ends before pinning for sparkle.
29. Intricate Weave Updo — Combine small braids into an intricate woven pattern.
30. Tucked Braid Bun — Tuck the braid ends under for a smooth, tidy finish.

For haircuts that complement updos and help braids sit smoothly, these soft layered medium cut tips can be helpful when discussing styles with your stylist.

Playful & Festival Looks (31–42)
Bright, colorful, and perfect for photos, parades, or themed parties.
31. Rainbow Microbraids — Tiny braids with colorful thread woven through.
32. Space Buns with Braids — Two buns accented by small braided sections.
33. Mermaid Braid — A loose, flowing braid with a swirled, oceanic shape.
34. Starburst Braids — Small braids radiating from a central point (like a star).
35. Boho Side Braid with Flowers — Tuck real or faux flowers into the braid.
36. Braided Mohawk — Braids down the center with shaved or slicked sides (age-appropriate!).
37. Crisscross Braids — Multiple braids crossing for a lattice effect.
38. Glitter Root Braids — Add temporary glitter gel to roots along the braid lines.
39. Ribbon Ladder Braid — Weave ribbons between laddered braids for color pops.
40. Jellyfish Braid Pony — Thin braids cascading from an elastic for a whimsical look.
41. Festival Fishtail with Beads — Fishtail braid threaded with beads for movement.
42. Mixed-Texture Party Braid — Combine twist, Dutch, and fishtail sections for drama.

Pair festival braids with seasonal color palettes — for example, these maroon nail looks for fall work beautifully with rich braid accessories.

Tips and Troubleshooting

• Prep hair with a light conditioning spray or detangler to reduce snagging.
• Use soft elastics and snag-free clips to avoid breakage.
• For finer hair, try adding texture with a little mousse before braiding to help hold styles.
• Practice on a doll or mannequin head to build speed and confidence.

Conclusion

Want more braid inspiration from family-friendly bloggers? Visit this helpful Cute Girls Hairstyles archive for tutorials and visuals that complement many of the styles above.
For ideas geared toward older kids and teens that can translate into trendier kid-friendly versions, see the collection of braided hairstyle ideas for teens.
If you enjoy reading personal stories tied to community and creativity, check this local feature titled VOICES: From homelessness to having a business of my own for an inspiring perspective.
For a lighter, personal essay that connects craft and everyday life, here’s Beer and Braids – Lesleigh Kowalski Frank which blends storytelling with hands-on projects.

Enjoy trying these 42 fun braid ideas — mix and match techniques, add ribbons or beads, and most importantly, have fun styling together.