Winter is not always kind to our hair. Cold winds and dry air can leave your strands brittle and flat. When the season rolls in, protective styles like winter hair braids become more than just an option but a necessity as well.
Just as you reach for hoodies and coats to layer up, your hair deserves the same level of care. Braids provide an extra layer of protection against harsh weather while keeping you effortlessly stylish. And we’re not talking about just any braid, but styles that protect your strands and look gorgeous at the same time.
Trust stylists to give you exactly what you’re looking for. Today’s braids have evolved beyond the basics, with stylists bringing fresh, creative touches to classic looks. To save you the stress of searching for ideas, we’ve rounded up the best winter hair braid ideas to inspire your next salon visit. Let’s dive in.
Can You Wear Braids in Winter?
It’s a question many people ask when the temperatures drop, and the answer is yes. Winter doesn’t mean you skip braids; it simply means you adjust how you care for them. The cold can dry out your scalp faster, and heavy fabrics like wool hats can cause friction. But with the right routine, like using hydrating oils and gentle cleansing, braids remain one of the most protective and stylish options for the season.
So rather than avoiding them, winter is the perfect time to explore cute braid styles that keep your hair safely tucked away.
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Why Winter Hair Braids Work for Cold Seasons?
You know that moment when you walk outside and the wind whips your hair everywhere? Braids fix that. They contain your hair when winter decides to throw a tantrum.
When you braid your hair, you create a shield around each strand. And that’s not even the best part, braids cut your morning routine in half. You don’t spend twenty minutes fighting flyaways. You don’t touch up your style after lunch. Your hair just works.
Also, winter fashion loves braids. Pull on a beanie, and your braids slide underneath without weird lumps. Wrap a scarf, and nothing gets tangled. Zip your coat, and your hair doesn’t get caught.
You need styles that last all day when it’s freezing outside and save you from redoing your hair every five minutes in a coffee shop bathroom. Winter hair braids are just that, girl.
Popular Winter Hair Braid Styles for the Season
Recreate any of these styles and thank us later:
Box Winter Hair Braids
Box braids are girls’ best friend when it comes to making a statement while protecting your hair. And it works in winter because the style provides extra coverage for your strands against cold hair. If you’ve been wondering where to start, take this style as your sign to book that appointment. I call it the starter package for winter.
Crown Braids
Crown braids are so cute, and they’re one of the best styles if you love to keep your hair off your face. Not to mention how it gives you a regal, elegant look that elevates any outfit.
Fishtail Winter Hair Braids
Want to stand out with your braid even in winter? Wear fishtail braids. It’s a simple hairstyle that’s gorgeous for the weather. But for more accents, take out some tendrils to frame your face and soften the look.
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Cornrow Braids
If you want no bad hair days, cornrows are the perfect fit for you. To spice things up, ask your stylist for zigzag or curved patterns instead of straight lines. Nonetheless, whichever one you settle for is guaranteed to give you your perfect Insta-worthy shot.
French Winter Hair Braids
Sweetie, French braids are a timeless look that never goes out of style. One thing about them? They always work with everything. You can wear them as your main style or restyle them into updos when you need something fancier.
Lemonade Braids
Popularized by Mama Blue Ivy for the award-winning Lemonade album, the style features long cornrows swept to one side to bring out your face shape beautifully. They sit close to your scalp so your natural hair stays protected, and that dramatic side-sweep gives you instant glamour even when you’re bundled up in winter coats.
Feed-In Winter Hair Braids
One of the easiest ways to protect your hair in winter is to wear feed-in braids. For this hairdo, your stylists start with your hair and gradually add extensions as they braid down. They are lightweight, and you can style them whichever way you want. For a style statement, experiment with different hues and slay the cold months effortlessly.
Halo Winter Hair Braids
Similar to crown braids, but with more styling opportunities. If you want, you can add side braids and accessorize with beads like the picture above, or just stick to the wrap. Whichever one you choose, your braids still stand out beautifully.
Knotless Braids
Knotless braids are a gentler alternative to box braids, plus they’re super stylish. This is one of those winter styles you can wear without losing sleep. The hairdo puts less tension on your edges, which is key since cold weather already makes hair more prone to dryness. Wear it as an updo or half up, half down—you name it. Knotless braids offer many styling opportunities a girl can explore.
Fulani Winter Hair Braids
Fulani braids combine cornrows with loose hanging braids styled with beads or cuffs. It’s a striking style you can pull off in winter because it protects your strands and still gives you room to play with accessories.
Slay the Cold Months with Gorgeous Winter Hair Braids
Winter doesn’t have to dull your style. With the right braid, you can protect your hair from the cold while looking chic. Try any of these inspos and let your braids do the talking. It’s time to slay the season like a fashionista.
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