20 Winter Hair Braid Ideas 2025 | Cozy, Chic & Trending Styles
Winter calls for cozy sweaters, hot cocoa, and… the perfect braid hairstyle! ✨ Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party, skiing down snowy slopes, or just trying to look put together for a day at the office, braided hairstyles are your chic, practical, and stylish solution.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up 20 trending winter hair braids — from classic fishtails to romantic updos — that are already taking over Pinterest and Instagram. Each style is designed to keep your hair polished yet cozy during the chilly season.
Let’s get into the braid inspo! 💕
🌟 20 Winter Braid Hairstyles You’ll Love
1. Winter Fishtail Braid Hairstyle 🐟
The fishtail braid never goes out of style, and in winter, it’s perfect for tucking under coats or scarves. Pull it loose for a boho vibe or keep it sleek for a chic finish.
✨ Best for: Medium to long hair.
💡 Pro tip: Add a velvet ribbon at the end for festive flair.
2. French Braid Winter Style 🇫🇷
A classic French braid works beautifully with chunky sweaters and turtlenecks. It keeps hair neat against static-prone winter air while still looking elegant.
✨ Best for: Everyday wear.
💡 Pro tip: Pancake the braid (gently pull apart sections) for extra volume.
3. Dutch Braid Winter Look 🇳🇱
Also called the “reverse braid,” the Dutch braid pops against darker winter clothes. It’s bold, defined, and looks amazing under a beanie.
✨ Best for: Thick or textured hair.
💡 Pro tip: Try double Dutch braids for ski trips or sporty winter looks.
4. Crown Braid for Winter Outfits 👑
Want to look regal? A crown braid wraps around your head like a halo — perfect for pairing with winter coats or holiday dresses.
✨ Best for: Parties, weddings, or winter photoshoots.
💡 Pro tip: Decorate with pearl or crystal pins for a snowy sparkle.
5. Double Braid Winter Hairstyle ✌️
Two simple braids can transform into a playful, youthful winter look. Whether you wear them pigtail-style or twist them into buns, they’re cute and cozy.
✨ Best for: Casual days, outdoor fun.
💡 Pro tip: Loosen the braids for a carefree, boho effect.
6. Boho Chic Winter Braids 🌿
Boho braids with soft twists and face-framing strands give off a dreamy, romantic winter vibe. Add in tiny flowers or metallic clips for festive flair.
✨ Best for: Date nights or cozy cabin getaways.
💡 Pro tip: Use texturizing spray to keep strands perfectly tousled.
7. Chunky Winter Braids for Thick Hair 💪
Got thick locks? Try chunky braids that show off your volume. Big, bold plaits are perfect for winter because they won’t flatten under hats or hoods.
✨ Best for: Long, thick hair.
💡 Pro tip: Secure with decorative scrunchies for a cute seasonal twist.
8. Waterfall Braid Winter Hairstyle 💦
The waterfall braid lets strands cascade like snowflakes falling. It’s delicate, romantic, and pairs beautifully with soft curls.
✨ Best for: Holiday dinners, winter weddings.
💡 Pro tip: Add subtle glitter spray for a magical finish.
9. Half-Up Half-Down Winter Braids ✨
Half-up braids strike the perfect balance between casual and glam. You’ll stay polished while still showing off length and texture.
✨ Best for: Everyday wear or festive gatherings.
💡 Pro tip: Try two mini braids meeting at the back for a fairy-tale look.
10. Romantic Braided Winter Hairstyle 💕
Soft, loose braids paired with curls scream romance. Perfect for candlelit dinners or snowy date nights.
✨ Best for: Medium-length hair.
💡 Pro tip: Let a few tendrils frame your face for an effortless vibe.
🎄 Occasion-Based Winter Braids
11. Christmas Party Braid Hairstyle 🎁
Braids with red, green, or gold ribbons woven in make the ultimate Christmas party statement.
✨ Best for: Holiday festivities.
💡 Pro tip: Pair with sparkly barrettes to match your outfit.
12. Holiday Braid Hairstyle for Winter 🎉
Think soft braids adorned with glitter, clips, or metallic hair ties. It’s festive but wearable.
✨ Best for: Any holiday celebration.
💡 Pro tip: Add temporary glitter hairspray for extra shine.
13. New Year’s Eve Braided Hairstyle 🥂
A braided updo or sleek Dutch braids add drama to your NYE look. Add rhinestones or gems for that midnight sparkle.
✨ Best for: Glam night-out looks.
💡 Pro tip: Pair with bold earrings to complete the party vibe.
14. Winter Wedding Braid Updo 💍
Braids twisted into an updo are elegant and timeless. They’re perfect for brides who want a romantic, winter-fairytale hairstyle.
✨ Best for: Brides or bridal parties.
💡 Pro tip: Use pearl pins or crystal hairpieces for a frosty touch.
15. Bridesmaid Winter Braid Hairstyle 👯♀️
For bridesmaids, try simple side braids or half-up braided crowns. They’re chic yet won’t upstage the bride.
✨ Best for: Wedding parties.
💡 Pro tip: Match accessories with the bridesmaid dresses for harmony.
16. Winter Date Night Braid Look ❤️
Nothing’s more romantic than a soft, tousled braid paired with cozy knits.
✨ Best for: Casual dinners or evening walks.
💡 Pro tip: Add a subtle spritz of perfume to your braid scarf for charm.
17. Ski Trip Braid Hairstyle 🎿
Functional and cute! Tight Dutch or double braids keep your hair secure while skiing or snowboarding.
✨ Best for: Active winter trips.
💡 Pro tip: Use strong elastics and hairspray to prevent flyaways.
18. Cozy Cabin Braid Hairstyle 🏔️
Messy, laid-back braids are perfect for weekends in the cabin. Think chunky plaits paired with oversized sweaters.
✨ Best for: Relaxed vibes.
💡 Pro tip: Loosen strands for that carefree, cozy look.
19. Office Party Braid Hairstyle Winter 🖤
Keep it polished with a sleek braided bun or side braid. It strikes the perfect balance of professional and stylish.
✨ Best for: Workplace celebrations.
💡 Pro tip: Secure with minimalist clips for a chic finish.
20. Festive Winter Braid Hairstyle ✨
A festive braid can be as simple as weaving in metallic threads or jeweled pins. It’s versatile and works for any seasonal event.
✨ Best for: Holiday dinners, NYE, or casual parties.
💡 Pro tip: Try rose-gold accessories for a modern twist.
🛍️ Editor’s Picks: Braid Essentials for Winter
| Product | Why You’ll Love It |
|---|---|
| Velvet scrunchies | Cozy and stylish for securing braids |
| Texturizing spray | Adds grip so braids don’t slip |
| Pearl hair pins | Perfect for festive winter styles |
| Strong elastics | Essential for ski-trip braids |
| Glitter hairspray | Adds sparkle to any holiday look |
❓ Winter Braids FAQs
Q1: How do I keep my braids neat in winter?
👉 Use a light oil or serum to combat static and dryness. Always secure with strong elastics.
Q2: Can I braid short hair in winter?
👉 Yes! Try half-up braids, mini braids, or crown braids for short styles.
Q3: What braid is best for skiing or outdoor sports?
👉 Dutch braids or double braids work best because they stay tight and secure.
Q4: How do I accessorize winter braids?
👉 Use velvet ribbons, pearl pins, or even metallic threads for festive flair.
💕 Final Thoughts:
Winter braids are more than just hairstyles — they’re a way to express your style while staying practical in cold weather. From cozy cabin looks to sparkling party-ready updos, there’s a braid here for every occasion.
✨ Save this list for your next hair inspo, and don’t forget to share it with your braid-loving besties!