Braided Hairstyles with Hair Clips: Creative Ideas
Braids are a timeless and versatile hairstyle, offering an endless variety of looks. From simple plaits to intricate fishtails, braids have been a staple in fashion for centuries. And when it comes to styling braids, hair clips are the perfect accessory to add personality, flair, and even practicality to your braid. Whether you’re looking to enhance a simple braid or create a bold, statement-making style, the right hair clips can take your braided look to the next level.
In this guide, we’ll explore different braided hairstyles that work beautifully with hair clips and provide creative ideas for incorporating clips into your braids.
1. Classic Fishtail Braid with Statement Clips
The fishtail braid is a sophisticated, edgy style that works well with a variety of hair types and lengths. While it’s already a beautiful braid on its own, adding a few statement clips can elevate this look and make it stand out even more.
- How to Style: Start by sectioning your hair into two parts. Take small pieces from each section and cross them over one another to create the fishtail braid. Once you’ve completed the braid, use small, decorative clips along the length of the braid for a trendy, eye-catching effect. You can even place one or two clips at the end of the braid to secure it, adding a touch of glamour.
- Best Hair Clips: Bold, oversized clips with rhinestones or pearls work well for adding visual interest to a fishtail braid. You can also experiment with flower-shaped clips or geometric designs for a modern, chic touch.
2. French Braid with Vintage-Inspired Hair Pins
The French braid is a classic, elegant braid that adds texture and dimension to any look. By incorporating vintage-inspired hair pins, you can infuse this timeless style with a retro vibe.
- How to Style: Start by dividing your hair into three sections and braid them together, incorporating small pieces of hair as you work down the length. Once you reach the nape of your neck, secure the braid with a small elastic. To enhance the vintage feel, use decorative hair pins or barrettes to secure sections of the braid along the side or back of your head.
- Best Hair Clips: Vintage-style hair pins with intricate detailing, such as pearls, rhinestones, or metal flowers, are perfect for French braids. These pins add a touch of elegance and sophistication, making your braid look like it’s straight out of a 1950s film.
3. Dutch Braid with Double Clips for a Bold Look
Dutch braids are a fun and bold alternative to the classic French braid. The key to this style is braiding the hair underneath instead of over, creating a raised, 3D effect. Adding double clips can enhance the impact of the braid and create a striking visual.
- How to Style: Begin by parting your hair down the middle and creating two Dutch braids on each side of your head. Once you’ve finished braiding, secure each braid with a clip at the base. To amp up the look, place a second clip slightly above the first one for added symmetry and style. This layered clip look will give the Dutch braids a more structured and fashionable appeal.
- Best Hair Clips: Use large, statement clips in metallic finishes, such as gold or silver, to highlight the boldness of the Dutch braids. You can also opt for clips with rhinestones or embellishments for an added touch of glamour.
4. Bohemian Braided Crown with Flower Clips
The bohemian braided crown is a beautiful, relaxed style that exudes elegance and charm. Flower clips, in particular, can add a soft, romantic touch to this braided look, making it ideal for weddings, festivals, or summer events.
- How to Style: To create a braided crown, braid two sections of hair on each side of your head and then pin them together at the back to form a crown. You can create loose, soft waves with the remaining hair to add volume and texture. To finish, place flower clips around the crown for a whimsical, boho vibe. These clips not only keep the braids in place but also provide an extra layer of beauty.
- Best Hair Clips: Flower clips in pastel colors or metallic finishes add a bohemian flair. Floral clips adorned with pearls or beads are especially popular for creating an enchanting, ethereal effect.
5. Dutch Braid Pigtails with Colorful Clips for a Playful Look
If you’re aiming for a playful and youthful look, Dutch braid pigtails with colorful clips are the perfect choice. This style is fun, carefree, and full of personality. Colorful hair clips can complement the boldness of the braids, making them even more eye-catching.
- How to Style: Part your hair down the middle and create two Dutch braids, one on each side. Once the braids are complete, secure them with colorful clips or barrettes. You can use multiple clips along the length of the braids for a fun, eclectic look, or stick to one large clip at the base of each braid for a more minimalist approach.
- Best Hair Clips: Bright, colorful clips in neon shades, pastel tones, or even clear acrylic clips can enhance the playful feel of Dutch braid pigtails. Look for clips that match or contrast with your outfit to create a coordinated, fun look.
6. Crown Braid with Crystal Clips for a Luxe Effect
A crown braid can look sophisticated and elegant, especially when paired with crystal hair clips. These clips can add sparkle and shine, making the crown braid perfect for formal events or nights out.
- How to Style: Begin by braiding your hair into two sections, just like a bohemian braided crown, but with more defined and sleek braids. After securing the braids at the back of your head, place crystal hair clips along the braids for a luxurious touch. The clips will not only keep the braids in place but also enhance the overall look with their reflective shine.
- Best Hair Clips: Opt for crystal clips or ones adorned with rhinestones to add an element of luxury. These clips will make the braided crown feel more glamorous and refined.
7. Side Braid with Minimalist Clips for a Subtle Touch
For those who prefer a more subtle braided look, a side braid secured with minimalist hair clips is an elegant and understated style. This style is perfect for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
- How to Style: Simply braid your hair to one side, either in a simple three-strand braid or a more intricate fishtail braid. Once the braid is complete, secure it with a minimalistic clip, such as a small metal barrette or a slim bobby pin. The simplicity of this look is what makes it so chic.
- Best Hair Clips: Slim, minimalist clips in neutral tones, such as black, gold, or silver, work well with side braids. Choose a clip that complements your outfit and the overall vibe of your look.
8. Waterfall Braid with Decorative Clips for a Delicate Look
The waterfall braid is a delicate and romantic style that’s perfect for brides, bridesmaids, or anyone looking to add an extra touch of elegance to their braid. By adding decorative clips, you can create a beautiful, flowing effect that draws attention without overwhelming the style.
- How to Style: To create a waterfall braid, begin by braiding a small section of hair near your ear and allowing pieces of hair to fall through the braid as you move down the length of your hair. Once you’ve finished the braid, secure it with a hair clip. Place additional decorative clips along the waterfall braid for added visual interest.
- Best Hair Clips: Delicate, small clips with pearls, rhinestones, or crystals are perfect for this style. Look for clips that won’t overpower the softness of the waterfall braid but instead add a subtle touch of sparkle.
9. Messy Braid with Chunky Clips for a Modern Twist
For a more relaxed, modern approach to braids, try a messy braid with chunky clips. This style is perfect for casual days when you want to look effortlessly chic while adding a bit of edge to your look.
- How to Style: Create a loose, messy braid by simply braiding your hair and allowing some strands to fall out naturally. Once the braid is complete, secure it with a large, chunky clip at the base or along the length of the braid. The loose, imperfect nature of the braid pairs perfectly with bold, oversized clips for a contemporary twist.
- Best Hair Clips: Large, chunky clips in bold, vibrant colors or geometric designs add a modern edge to this style. Opt for matte or metallic finishes for a more striking appearance.