Who says that short hair can’t be braided? Contrary to that belief, there are actually tons of pretty braids for short hair that can glam you up in a matter of seconds.
They might take a little practice, but these stunning braids are worth every bit of your effort. You will definitely be hooked on these braids once you get the hang of them!
There are so many ways you can braid your short hair. Classy braids, such as French or Dutch, are the favorites of many minimalist girls.
However, intricate braid combinations are always fun to try if you want to kick it up a notch. Accessories can glam up the whole look, so definitely don’t skip them, especially during the festival season!
So scroll down and see 30 brilliant ways to braid your short hair and glam up your locks. Here are the prettiest short hair braids offered by the Internet. Save them for inspiration now!
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Mastering Intricate Styles on a Smaller Canvas
Braids are often mistakenly considered a hairstyle reserved for long, flowing locks.
In reality, short hair offers a unique and chic canvas for braided styles.
Braiding short hair requires slightly different techniques, a focus on texture, and strategic placement, but the result is a sophisticated look that adds dimension, edge, and a surprising amount of versatility.
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The key to styling braids on short hair is to harness the hair you do have, using techniques like tight cornrows, clever pinning, and the half-up halo braid to create the illusion of length and complexity.
Short braids are inherently modern and often possess a clean, deliberate aesthetic that long braids can’t always match.
They are perfect for controlling layers, keeping hair out of the face, and adding an unexpected element of texture to an otherwise simple cut.
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Prep and Technique
Short hair presents two main obstacles for braiding: layers that slip out and limited length. Successful styling starts with preparation.
Product is Paramount: Gaining Grip
Hair that is too clean and soft will slip out of a braid easily. The secret to braiding short hair is adding texture and grip before you even begin.
- Dry Shampoo or Texturizing Spray: Apply this liberally to the hair roots and mid-shaft. The gritty texture helps the hair strands hold onto each other tightly.
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- Pomade or Edge Control: For very short layers (like those near the hairline or at the nape of the neck), use a pea-sized amount of clear pomade or edge control. This sticky product tames flyaways and holds small sections securely in place.
- Second-Day Hair: Styling on hair that hasn’t been washed in 24-48 hours often yields the best results, as the natural oils provide excellent hold.
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Mastering the Angle and Tension
The difference between a short braid that unravels and one that stays put is tension.
- Keep it Tight: For any braid (French or Dutch), you must start and maintain a tight tension close to the scalp. This is non-negotiable for short hair.
- Feed-In Technique: When adding new sections, take very small, consistent pieces. This prevents the main braid from swelling too quickly and ensures you have enough hair left to complete the style.
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Achievable Braided Styles for Short Hair
These styles are specifically designed to maximize the texture and length available in shorter cuts.
The Headband Braid (Crown or Halo Braid)
This is the most popular and flattering style for bobs and lobs, as it keeps front layers secured and creates a chic, pulled-back effect.
- Technique: Start a Dutch or French braid behind one ear, using the hair along the hairline (the heaviest and longest section). Braid horizontally across the forehead, following the curve of the head, until you reach the opposite ear.
- The Finish: Once you run out of hair, finish with a simple three-strand braid and secure the end with a small, clear elastic. Pin the end of the braid discreetly behind the opposite ear using bobby pins that match your hair color. This creates the “halo” effect
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Accent Cornrows (The Side Braid Edge)
Perfect for pixies and asymmetrical cuts, this style uses small, tight cornrows to create an edgy, undercut aesthetic without the commitment of shaving.
- Technique: Choose a side part. Section off a small strip of hair (1-2 inches wide) on the shallower side of the part. Create two or three tight, thin French braids (or cornrows), braiding back toward the nape of the neck.
- The Finish: Once the braids hit the back of the ear, simply tie them off with a tiny elastic or pin the ends underneath the rest of the hair. This instantly adds a punk-rock or modern architectural look.
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The Pinned Double Braid (Half-Up)
Ideal for lobs and shoulder-length bobs, this look is romantic and keeps all face-framing layers perfectly secure.
- Technique: Create a clean, deep side part. On each side of the part, take a generous section of hair from the temple back to the crown. Create a loose, regular three-strand braid on each side.
- The Finish: Bring both braids back toward the center of the crown. Cross them over each other and secure the ends tightly with bobby pins, forming a half-up crown. You can hide the pin cluster with a small decorative clip.
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