Brides and braids? That’s an enduring love story as old as weddings. Think of this quintessential hairstyle as the little black dress of bridal beauty, thanks to its serious staying power. The real magic of these woven wonders lie in their versatility, effortlessly transforming to match any bride’s personality, occasion and mood. Braids aren’t just limited to conventional plaits. They can be as sweet, sleek or statement-making as you want, blending into buns, half-up styles or elaborate updos with ease.
Dreaming of a whimsical garden mehndi? A loose, flower-crowned braid is a perfect match. Planning a glam sangeet party? A sleek updo featuring multiple braided elements will be a winning choice. Looking for a timeless, classic style for your pheras? An elegant braided updo will have you looking like royalty. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, short or long, braids are a bridal hairstyle that simply won’t disappoint. You can also easily personalise your braid with flowers and accessories. Not only do braids look gorgeous, but they’re also practical. No amount of dancing, hugging or happy tears can mess them up.
The Classic Plait & Its Many Variations
The classic plait may be the most time-and-tested hairstyle in the bridal book, but it is anything but boring. It can be twisted and turned to lend itself beautifully for a different mood. For your mehndi, consider a sleek side fishtail braid or a playful bubble braid. “I like the idea of leaving a few tendrils on the face to frame it. It’s a great way to effortlessly contour the face and inject a touch of boho romance to the look,” recommends celebrity makeup artist and hairstylist Shradha Luthra.
Want to dial up the drama? “Up the ante with two or three braids. Think a fishtail paired with a waterfall plait on the crown.” For the sangeet, intricate braids woven together to bring both glamour and practicality. And when it’s time for the pheras, the classic fishtail gets a royal upgrade with a clean middle or side parting, perfect to perch a statement maang tikka or a passa.
Braids Woven In Your Buns
Composed, understated and yet statement-making, buns are another bridal classic. Add a braid to it, and you could be the belle of the ball or heading to your pre-wedding beach sundowner. “The biggest perk of choosing a braided bun for your wedding is that it’s completely customisable to match your style or outfit,” she shares. From understated elegance to playful drama, braided buns truly offer the best of both worlds.
For the big day, a sleek braided bun or a bun with a braided front makes a chic, polished choice. “For lighter pre-wedding moments, try playful variations such as a milkmaid updo for a mehndi, wraparound Dutch crown braid for a cocktail night, braided chignon or relaxed braided bun. Even Deepika Padukone’s Frida Kahlo-inspired plaited crown shows how plaits can reinvent a classic bun with a contemporary twist.”
Braided Half-Up, Half-Down Hairdos
Half-up, half-down braided hairstyles strike the perfect balance between playful and polished. They allow you enjoy the beauty of open hair without constantly brushing it off your face. No wonder they’re a favourite for pre-wedding celebrations like mehndis, cocktails and sangeets. The beauty lies in endless customisation options. Crown braids create a regal foundation, while side braids add asymmetrical charm. Waterfall braids cascade beautifully into loose waves, and fishtail braids bring textural interest. For a modern twist, try double-layer braided crowns or incorporate multiple small braids throughout the half-up section.
“For a sleek take on your cocktail party, consider a braid with straight hair or pulled-back hair. A braid tucked into a ponytail is perfect for sangeet to dance the night away.” Whether whimsical or glam, this hairstyle adapts beautifully, making it a bridal must-try.
Bridal Braids with Flourishes
Braids are like blank canvases, and the right finishing touches can turn them into showstoppers. Be it a bun, half-up style or simple plait, nothing feels more romantic, soft and timeless than weaving fresh flowers into a bridal braided hairstyle. For a daytime mehndi or haldi, bright blooms, pastel roses or delicate baby’s breath can bring a playful, whimsical touch. Flowers can either line the braid neatly for a polished look or be scattered loosely for an effortless, boho feel. With endless colours to play with, brides can either match their flowers to their outfits or go bold with striking contrasts.
For the walk down the aisle, the classic parandi, too, remains a bridal favourite. Rooted in tradition yet bold enough to make a statement, it comes with an approval from celebrities like Alia Bhatt, Janhvi Kapoor and bride Rakul Preet Singh.
When the tempo celebrations shift into glamorous, braids can be elevated with sparkling accents. Scattered pearls, tiny crystals or jewelled pins bring subtle glamour that shines under the lights. From minimal, dainty clips to dramatic hair chains, accessories let brides personalise their hairstyle to suit each occasion. Embellishments not only add character to a braid but also ensure it transitions seamlessly from traditional rituals to high-glam parties.
Scroll through our gallery below for more ideas.
