College life can be fast-paced, and finding a quick yet stylish hairstyle is essential. Braided hairstyles are versatile, easy to do, and keep hair neat throughout busy classes, study sessions, and social events.
Here are 10 effortless braided hairstyles perfect for college students who want to look put together with minimal effort!
1. Classic Three-Strand Braid
The easiest and quickest braid to do when you’re in a rush!
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Brush your hair and divide it into three sections.
2️⃣ Cross the right section over the middle, then the left over the middle.
3️⃣ Continue until you reach the ends and secure with an elastic.
💡 Best for: Everyday wear, gym, casual outings
💡 Styling Tip: Loosen the braid slightly for a relaxed, effortless look.
2. French Braid (Neat & Classic)
A chic and practical braid that keeps hair secure and stylish.
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Divide the top section of your hair into three sections.
2️⃣ Start a regular braid but add more hair to each side as you move down.
3️⃣ Secure at the bottom and pull lightly for extra volume.
💡 Best for: Class, study sessions, campus events
💡 Styling Tip: Keep the braid tight and sleek for a polished look.
3. Dutch Braid (Sporty & Trendy)
Also known as an inside-out braid, this style adds volume and stays in place all day.
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Divide a section at the crown into three parts.
2️⃣ Instead of braiding over, cross the sections underneath each other.
3️⃣ Continue braiding, adding hair as you go.
💡 Best for: Workouts, exams, long class days
💡 Styling Tip: Keep it tight for a sleek look or loosen it for a boho vibe.
4. Half-Up, Half-Down Braid
A quick, stylish braid that keeps hair off your face while showing off your length.
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Take two front sections of your hair and create a small braid on each side.
2️⃣ Pull both braids to the back and secure them together.
3️⃣ Let the rest of your hair flow naturally.
💡 Best for: Casual days, dates, campus activities
💡 Styling Tip: Add waves to the loose part for a softer, romantic effect.
5. Side Braid (Effortless & Cute)
Perfect for lazy days when you don’t want to spend too much time on your hair.
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Sweep all your hair to one side.
2️⃣ Do a loose three-strand braid or fishtail braid.
3️⃣ Secure at the bottom with an elastic.
💡 Best for: Morning lectures, errands, casual hangouts
💡 Styling Tip: Pull on the braid to create a messy, fuller effect.
6. Double Dutch Braids (Boxer Braids)
A trendy, sporty braid that stays in place all day.
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Part your hair in the middle into two sections.
2️⃣ Create a Dutch braid on each side.
3️⃣ Secure both braids at the nape or continue into pigtails.
💡 Best for: Gym days, sports, college festivals
💡 Styling Tip: Keep the braids tight and sleek for a bold look.
7. Messy Boho Braid
For an effortlessly chic, laid-back style that takes minutes!
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Make a loose three-strand braid.
2️⃣ Pull apart the sections to fluff it up.
3️⃣ Leave a few face-framing pieces loose.
💡 Best for: Coffee dates, campus hangouts, casual outings
💡 Styling Tip: Use texturizing spray for extra volume.
8. Rope Twist Braid Ponytail
An easy alternative to a traditional braid that adds a twist!
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Tie your hair into a low or high ponytail.
2️⃣ Divide it into two sections and twist them around each other.
3️⃣ Secure with an elastic.
💡 Best for: Quick styling, busy mornings, simple elegance
💡 Styling Tip: Wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for a sleek look.
9. Braided Headband (Cute & Functional)
Keeps hair out of your face while looking super stylish!
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Take a small section from one side and create a thin three-strand braid.
2️⃣ Pull the braid over your head like a headband and pin it on the other side.
💡 Best for: Study sessions, bad hair days, quick styling
💡 Styling Tip: Secure with bobby pins for a seamless look.
10. Fishtail Braid (Stylish & Elegant)
A detailed, trendy braid that works for both casual and dressy occasions.
✨ How to Do It:
1️⃣ Split your hair into two sections.
2️⃣ Take a small strand from one section and cross it over to the other side.
3️⃣ Repeat until you reach the end and secure.
💡 Best for: College parties, date nights, stylish everyday looks
💡 Styling Tip: Loosen the braid for a thicker, voluminous finish.
Final Thoughts
These braided hairstyles are quick, stylish, and perfect for college life! Whether you need a functional gym braid, a chic style for class, or something effortless for casual days, there’s a braid for every occasion.
💇♀️ Which braid will you try first? Let us know in the comments! ✨