14 Gorgeous Messy Braided Hairstyles to Try Today

Messy braided hairstyles are the perfect blend of effortless style and a touch of boho chic. These fun and flirtatious looks can take you from casual outings to stylish events with ease. With a little creativity and some basic techniques, you can create a range of messy braids that show off your personality while keeping things relaxed and playful.
Beachy Waves with Braids

Beachy waves paired with braids create a stunning look that’s perfect for sunny days by the ocean. The image shows a young woman with two loose braids, giving a relaxed and effortless vibe. Her hair cascades in gentle waves, enhancing that breezy feel.
This hairstyle looks great when you want something stylish yet easy to manage. The braids keep hair away from the face while adding a fun twist. Whether you’re at the beach or just enjoying a casual day out, this look is both practical and pretty.
To achieve beachy waves with braids, start with damp hair. You can either braid sections of your hair and let them dry naturally or use a curling wand for added texture. A little sea salt spray can give it that perfect beachy finish. Simple and chic!
Messy Braid with Ties

Messy braids are a fun and relaxed way to style your hair, and adding colorful ties takes it to the next level. In the image, you can see a braided hairstyle adorned with vibrant ribbons. These ties not only add a splash of color but also give the braid a playful vibe.
The braid looks effortless, creating a casual look perfect for any day out. Each colorful tie brings a unique touch, making it easy to express your personality. The combination of the soft braid and bright ribbons creates a cheerful appearance, ideal for a stroll through the city.
Whether you’re heading to a casual brunch or just running errands, this hairstyle is both stylish and practical. The messy braid keeps hair off your face while still looking chic. You can easily recreate this look by simply braiding your hair and tying it off with your favorite ribbons or ties.
Fishtail Braid with a Twist

The fishtail braid is a stunning hairstyle that’s both stylish and easy to create. It’s perfect for those who want to add a twist to their everyday look. In this section, we’ll explore how this braid can stand out and bring a fresh vibe to your hair game.
In the image, you can see a close-up of a fishtail braid with beautiful, blended colors. The braid falls down gracefully, showcasing the intricate weaving of the hair. The loose strands peeking out add a relaxed touch, making it ideal for casual outings or even special events.
This hairstyle works well with different hair types and lengths. You can wear it tight for a polished look or loosen it up for a more bohemian feel. Either way, the fishtail braid with a twist is a versatile choice for any occasion.
Also Read: 14 Stunning Short Braided Hairstyles You Need to Try
Messy Crown Braid

The messy crown braid is a stunning hairstyle that combines elegance with a carefree vibe. This style features a braid that wraps around the head like a crown, giving you that effortlessly chic look. It’s perfect for both casual outings and special occasions.
In the image, you can see a beautiful example of this braid. The hair is loosely braided, allowing some strands to fall out naturally. This adds a relaxed feel, making it look soft and approachable. The rich tones in the hair, highlighted by the light, create a gorgeous visual depth.
To create this style, start by gathering your hair at the crown. Braid sections of hair loosely, securing them with small elastics. Then, wrap the braid around your head and pin it in place with bobby pins. Pull out a few strands around the face for a softer look. This hairstyle works well with various hair types, making it versatile and easy to wear.
Boho-Inspired Messy Braid

The boho-inspired messy braid is a perfect blend of carefree and stylish. This hairstyle showcases a loose and textured braid, allowing strands to fall gracefully around the face. It gives off an effortless vibe that is both charming and laid-back.
In the image, the braid is adorned with delicate white flowers, adding a fresh touch. These floral accents enhance the bohemian feel, making it ideal for outdoor events or casual gatherings. The soft waves in the hair and the natural look of the braid create a beautiful balance between relaxed and chic.
For those looking to recreate this look, simply braid your hair loosely and allow some sections to escape. Incorporating small flowers or hair accessories can elevate your style, making it unique. This hairstyle is perfect for any occasion, from picnics to festivals.
Side-Swept Messy Braid

The side-swept messy braid is a go-to hairstyle that combines style and ease. This look is perfect for casual outings or even a chic night out. The braid drapes elegantly to one side, showcasing soft waves that add texture and volume.
In this hairstyle, the braid is not overly tight, allowing for a relaxed and carefree vibe. Loose strands frame the face nicely, softening the overall look. The blend of colors in the hair adds depth, making the braid stand out even more.
To achieve this look, start by lightly curling your hair for added texture. Then, gather your hair to one side and braid it loosely. A hair tie can keep it secure without being too rigid. Finally, pull out a few strands for that effortlessly messy finish.
Also Read: 13 Stunning Braided Ponytail Hairstyles for Black Women
Double Braided Pigtails

Double braided pigtails are such a fun and playful hairstyle, perfect for kids and adults alike. This look combines two braids that hang down on either side, giving a lively vibe. The image shows a young girl wearing these adorable pigtails, and it adds to her cheerful appearance.
The girl in the picture has her hair neatly braided, with colorful elastics. This adds a pop of color and a personal touch to the hairstyle. It’s a great way to express individuality while keeping hair neat and tidy. Pigtails are not just for playtime; they can be styled for casual outings or even festive occasions.
Creating double braided pigtails is straightforward. Start by parting the hair down the middle. Then, braid each side and secure them with hair ties. For added flair, use colorful accessories or ribbons. This hairstyle is not only cute but also practical, keeping hair out of the face while allowing for plenty of movement.
Whether at the playground or a family gathering, double braided pigtails are sure to bring smiles. They capture a sense of joy and freedom, making them a timeless choice.
Accent Braid with Loose Hair

The accent braid with loose hair is a stylish choice that blends elegance with a relaxed vibe. This hairstyle features a beautiful braid that adds a pop of interest, while the loose strands create a carefree look. The contrast of the tight braid against the flowing hair gives a sense of balance and movement.
In the image, you can see how the braid wraps around the head, showcasing different shades of hair. The loose sections on the side soften the overall appearance, making it perfect for casual outings or parties. This hairstyle is easy to achieve and can suit various hair types and lengths.
For those looking to replicate this look, start by braiding a section of hair at the front. Secure it with a hair tie, then let the rest of your hair cascade down. You can leave a few strands loose to frame your face, enhancing the soft, inviting feel of the style. This versatile hairstyle can be dressed up or down, making it a great go-to for any occasion.
Intricate Messy Braided Updo

This intricate braided updo is perfect for those who love a mix of elegance and casual flair. The design features a stunning arrangement of braids that come together in a beautiful, textured look. The braids are loose yet structured, creating a relaxed vibe that makes it suitable for various occasions.
The golden-brown tones in the hair add warmth and depth, enhancing the overall style. The subtle shine gives the braid a polished finish, making it stand out even from a distance. This look works wonderfully for both daytime outings and evening events, proving its versatility.
To achieve this style, start by sectioning off the hair. Then, create multiple braids that can be wrapped and pinned into an updo. Don’t worry about perfection—embracing a bit of messiness adds to the charm!
Also Read: 13 Stunning Half Braided Hairstyles to Try Today
Layered Hair with Messy Braids

Layered hair with messy braids offers a fun and relaxed look. This style keeps things casual while showcasing texture and volume. The layered cut adds movement, making braids appear fuller and more dynamic.
In the image, you can see two braids cascading down, accentuated by loose strands of hair. This creates a playful vibe that balances elegance with effortlessness. The warm sunset in the background adds to the overall charm, making it perfect for outdoor settings.
Messy braids work well for various occasions. Whether you’re at a casual gathering or enjoying a day out, this hairstyle can add a touch of flair. Plus, it’s easy to achieve with a bit of practice. Just pull sections of hair into braids and let some pieces fall freely for that laid-back look.
Messy Braid with Hair Accessories

Messy braids are a fun and stylish choice for any occasion. They offer a carefree vibe that is perfect for both casual outings and more dressed-up events. The image shows a delightful messy braid adorned with bright and cheerful hair accessories.
The braid itself has a relaxed, tousled look, which adds a playful touch. The addition of colorful flowers and cute clips makes it even more eye-catching. These accessories not only elevate the hairstyle but also give it a unique flair. Choosing the right accessories can transform a simple braid into a statement piece.
Whether you’re going to a picnic or a birthday party, a messy braid with fun hair accessories is sure to turn heads. It’s easy to create and can be modified to fit any style. So grab some pretty clips and flowers, and try out this look for your next outing!
Asymmetrical Messy Braid

The asymmetrical messy braid is a fun and stylish look that adds flair to any outfit. This hairstyle features a braid that’s not perfectly symmetrical, creating a playful vibe. It’s great for casual outings or even a day at the office.
In the image, you can see a beautiful example of this hairstyle. The braid is loose and slightly tousled, giving it that effortless appearance. The hair has warm, blended colors that catch the light, adding dimension to the style. The casual top complements the relaxed feel of the braid, making it perfect for day-to-day wear.
This hairstyle works for various hair types and lengths. It’s versatile enough to dress up or down. You can wear it with a simple outfit or pair it with a chic dress. The asymmetrical nature allows for creativity, so don’t hesitate to play around with the look!
Messy Braids for Short Hair

Messy braids can be a fun and stylish option for short hair. They add texture and flair, making your look effortlessly chic. A short hairstyle can be enhanced with a simple braid tucked into the side, giving a playful vibe.
In the image, we see a beautiful example of a short hairstyle with a neatly done side braid. This adds a touch of elegance while keeping the look casual. The braids help to frame the face, drawing attention to the features.
Short hair is often seen as limiting, but messy braids show that you can definitely have fun with it. With a bit of creativity, you can incorporate braids in various ways—like a small braid along the hairline or a loose braid that flows into the rest of your hair.
Whether you’re heading out for a day with friends or a casual night out, messy braids can bring a fresh twist. Pair them with your favorite outfit, and you’re all set!
Half-Up Messy Braided Hairstyle

A half-up messy braided hairstyle is a fun way to mix elegance with a relaxed vibe. This style takes the best of both worlds. It allows you to keep hair out of your face while embracing a carefree look.
The image showcases a stunning braid that starts at the crown and flows into loose curls. The braid itself is chunky and textured, giving it a playful feel. This contrasts nicely with the soft, flowing hair that cascades down.
To achieve this look, start by sectioning off the top half of your hair. Create a braid, ensuring to pull it slightly loose for that messy effect. Secure with a hair tie, then let the remaining hair flow naturally. A bit of wave or curl adds to the overall appearance, making it stylish yet effortless.
This hairstyle works for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. It’s versatile and can easily be dressed up or down, depending on your outfit. So, whether you’re going out with friends or attending a wedding, this half-up messy braid is sure to impress!