16 Effortlessly Cool Messy Braided Hairstyles to Try
To create effortlessly cool messy braided hairstyles, start by mastering basic braiding—divide hair into sections, braid tightly or loosely, and pull strands for a lived-in look. Use texturizing spray for grip, pancake braid edges for dimension, and blend techniques like French, Dutch, or fishtail.
Secure with discreet elastics, wrap hair to conceal bands, and add face-framing curls for softness. Incorporate accessories, styling wax, or edge control for polish. Explore versatile messy braids and updos waiting for your touch.
1. Messy French Braid
Although the French braid is traditionally neat, you can achieve a modern, messy look by focusing on technique and texture.
Start by dividing your hair into three equal sections at the crown.
As you braid, incorporate additional hair with each crossover.
Loosen the braid by gently tugging each strand, use texturizing spray for grip, and pull face-framing pieces to amplify the undone effect.
2. Simple Side Messy Braid
For a relaxed alternative to the French braid, the simple side messy braid offers an effortlessly cool look with just a few styling tweaks.
Try a simple side messy braid for a relaxed, effortlessly cool vibe that’s a chic twist on the classic French braid.
Start with textured, brushed hair swept to your dominant side.
Create a half-French braid, adding hair only from the front.
Loosen sections for volume, secure with an elastic, and soften face-framing pieces with a curling iron.
Finish with light hairspray for controlled hold.
3. Messy Braided Bun
Whether you’re aiming for a romantic updo or a quick, functional style, the messy braided bun offers versatility with minimal effort.
Start with brushed hair; section and loosely French braid, then gently pancake for volume.
Gather braid and remaining hair into a tousled bun, pin securely.
Texturizing products boost grip and dimension.
Experiment with braid placements, mini-braids for short hair, or accessories for customized, modern finishes.
4. Two-Strand Twisted Messy Braid
Two-strand twisted messy braids offer a relaxed, dimensional style by combining easy twisting techniques with a deliberately undone finish.
Begin with damp, detangled hair; section evenly with clips.
Twist two strands per section, applying moderate tension for security without tightness.
Loosen twists mid-shaft to ends for a textured effect.
Finish with elastic bands, mist for refresh, and use a satin scarf at night for longevity.
5. Feed-In Messy Braid
A feed-in messy braid blends the seamless integration of hair extensions with a deliberately undone texture for a modern, effortless look.
Start by parting your hair and braiding a small section, then gradually feed in extension strands.
Alternate braid tension for a textured finish, letting a few strands fall loose.
Use edge control for soft edges, and personalize with colored extensions or subtle accessories.
6. Loose Crown Messy Braid
Once you’ve mastered the feed-in messy braid, explore the loose crown messy braid for a bohemian, halo-like effect that frames your face.
Begin with a side part, then construct a lace or Dutch braid, wrapping it around your head.
Gradually add loose hair for softness and volume.
Secure with bobby pins and elastics, then gently pull sections for dimension.
Pre-texturize hair for maximum lift and airy movement.
7. Boho-Inspired Messy Braid
Elevate your everyday braid by opting for a boho-inspired messy braid, which relies on volume, texture, and strategic looseness for that signature effortless look.
Begin with textured hair, then create a loose three-strand or French braid, incorporating hair from the crown only.
Gently pull apart braid segments for fullness, wrap a strand to conceal the elastic, and let wispy face-framing pieces fall naturally.
8. Messy Fishtail Braid
For a messy fishtail braid, start by dividing your hair into two equal sections.
Take a small strand from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the opposite side, alternating down the length.
Use your fingers for control and texture.
Secure with a clear elastic, then gently fan out braid edges for volume.
Embrace flyaways for effortless, innovative appeal.
9. Half-Up Messy Braided Style
Why choose a half-up messy braided style? It fuses on-trend aesthetics with technical versatility.
Start by sectioning hair above the ears, then create a French, Dutch, or lace braid along the crown. Let flyaways escape for a relaxed effect. Secure with an elastic, pancake the braid for volume, and mist with texturizing spray.
Accessorize for innovation, and easily restyle throughout the day.
10. Double Messy Braids
Two-section braiding unlocks endless styling potential with double messy braids, a staple for everything from festivals to casual days.
Start by parting hair evenly, securing each side with elastics.
Use Dutch or pull-through techniques, gradually incorporating small sections.
After braiding, gently pancake strands for volume and texture.
Integrate extensions or mix braid types for innovation.
Finish with flexible hold spray and hair-friendly accessories.
11. Messy Braid With Face-Framing Curls
A messy braid with face-framing curls combines relaxed braiding techniques with soft, textured front layers for a versatile, on-trend style.
Start by curling isolated front sections with a 19mm wand, wrapping away from your face.
Secure curls aside, loosely braid the remaining hair, and gently pull for volume.
Release curls, finger-comb for texture, then finish with texturizing spray and subtle accessories for innovative, effortless chic.
12. Messy Waterfall Braid
Building on the relaxed texture of face-framing curls, you can achieve a Messy Waterfall Braid that combines controlled braiding with a carefree finish.
Begin with textured hair, then follow these steps for a modern, innovative look:
- Section and plait, dropping the front strand each stitch for the waterfall effect.
- Loosen braid edges for extra volume.
- Leave wispy strands or add accessories for visual interest.
13. Voluminous Messy Braid With Extensions
For a voluminous messy braid with extensions, start by sectioning your hair in a V formation at the crown, separating it evenly into three sections to form the braid’s base.
Begin your voluminous messy braid by creating a V-shaped section at the crown and dividing it into three even sections.
Tease roots for lift, then begin a French braid, incorporating clip-in or tape-in extensions with each crossover.
Loosely braid, tug sections for fullness, and secure with an elastic.
Conceal bands using wrapped strands, then lock in texture with hairspray.
14. Messy Braid Into Low Ponytail
Switch up your look by styling a messy braid into a low ponytail, perfect for creating an effortless, textured finish.
Begin with dry, textured hair for ideal grip.
Follow these steps:
- Braid using a three-strand, Dutch, or fishtail technique.
- Loosen the braid and secure it into a low ponytail with a thin elastic.
- Apply styling wax or texturizer for definition and volume.
15. Chunky Pancaked Messy Braid
A chunky pancaked messy braid delivers volume and texture by combining a loose braiding technique with strategic pancaking—gently pulling at the braid’s outer edges to create a wider, fuller appearance.
Start with textured, dry hair and form a loose three-strand or Dutch braid. Pancake each section by tugging outward at the braid’s elbows, then secure with bobby pins. Finish by curling face-framing strands.
16. Messy Braided Updo
Effortless texture defines the messy braided updo, blending underhand braiding with volume-boosting techniques for a relaxed yet elegant result. For innovation, follow these steps:
- Create a deep side part, then underhand braid, gradually incorporating hair until the ear.
- Tease the crown, form a loose bun, and secure with elastic.
- Wrap the braid around the bun, pin strategically, and pancake for volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Prevent My Messy Braid From Falling Apart Throughout the Day?
To keep your messy braid intact, prep hair with smoothing product, detangle meticulously, and braid loosely yet securely. Anchor ends with silicone bands, reinforce weak sections with pins, and set with a flexible-hold spray for all-day innovative structure.
What Products Help Add Texture for Better Messy Braids?
To add texture, start with a texturizing spray for grip and separation. Apply volumizing mousse for dimension, then layer lightweight oils for shine. Use plant-based styling gel or edge control to define structure without sacrificing flexibility or build-up.
Can Messy Braids Work on Short or Layered Hair?
Yes, you can create messy braids on short or layered hair. Start by sectioning hair, use texturizing spray, and integrate loose accent braids or twists. Focus on blending layers and secure with micro elastics for innovative structure.
How Do I Keep Messy Braids Looking Intentional, Not Unkempt?
To keep messy braids intentional, finger-loosen strands for controlled volume, secure ends with discreet bands, and mist with lightweight leave-in. Define edges with gel, reapply oil for sheen, and wrap braids in silk nightly to maintain structure.
Are Messy Braids Suitable for Thin or Fine Hair Types?
Yes, you can absolutely wear messy braids with thin or fine hair. Start on second-day hair, apply volumizing spray, braid loosely, then pancake sections for volume. Use root-lifting products and avoid excessive tension to prevent breakage.
Conclusion
With these 16 messy braided hairstyles, you’ve got endless ways to elevate your look. Start by prepping hair with a texturizing spray for grip. Section clean, detangled hair, then braid loosely, pulling strands for volume. Secure with clear elastics and gently pancake the braid to enhance texture.
Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray for all-day wear. Don’t worry about perfection—embrace the flyaways for authentic, effortless style. Experiment, adjust technique, and enjoy your chic, undone braids! For those busy days when time is of the essence, quick braided hairstyles for mornings can be a lifesaver. Try incorporating different types of braids, like fishtails or Dutch braids, to add variety to your looks. Remember, the key is to have fun with your hair and express your unique style every day!
