Braiding my daughter’s hair has become one of my favorite bonding moments. Whether I’m rushing through the morning routine or prepping her for a special occasion, I always turn to a simple braided hairstyle to keep her looking adorable while ensuring her hair stays neat all day. If you’re looking for easy French braid hairstyles that work for all occasions, I’ve got you covered with some of the best braid hairstyles for little girls!
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What You’ll Need French Braid Hairstyles for Toddlers
Before we start, let’s gather the essentials:
- Hair brush & comb – To detangle and section the hair
- Rubber bands – To secure the braids
- Bobby pins – For extra hold
- Hair accessories – Think jewel clips and cute bows for that elegant look
1. The Classic French Braid
The single French braid is a classic style that never goes out of fashion. It’s one of the first styles I mastered on my own hair, and now I love creating it for my little lady.
Simple Steps:
- Start by brushing the hair back from the center hairline to remove any tangles.
- Take a small section of hair from the top of the head and divide it into three equal sections.
- Use your left hand to hold the left strand and your right hand index finger to guide the right strand.
- Cross the right strand over the middle strand. Then, cross the left strand over the new middle strand.
- Add a small section of hair to the next strand before crossing it over.
- Repeat until you reach the nape of the neck, then secure with a rubber band or a cute clip.
2. Double French Braids for a Playful Look
If your little princess is always on the move, double French braids are a great idea! They keep hair out of the face and last all day.
How to Do It:
- Part the hair down the center hairline into two equal sections.
- Follow the same braiding technique as above, working on the left side first.
- Secure each braid with a rubber band at the nape of the neck.
@simplekidshairsty 5 simple steps to pigtail french braids!! Step-by-Step Guide Section the Hair: Divide the hair on the left side into three equal sections. Begin Braiding: Cross the right-hand section over the middle, then the left hand section over the new middle. Add Hair: As you braid, add small sections of hair to each strand before crossing it over the middle. Continue Braiding: Repeat the process, adding hair from the left and right sides, until you reach the nape of the neck. Secure the Braid: Use a rubber band to secure the braid at the nape of the neck or continue with a basic French braid down the length of the hair. Repeat on the Other Side: Follow the same steps on the right side.
Pro Tip: I like to add stitch braids near the crown of the head for an extra polished look!
3. Side French Braid for an Elegant Look
For a softer, more elegant look, try a side French braid. This works especially well on curly hair or long hair.
Steps to Achieve This Style:
- Create a deep side part on the left side or right side of the head.
- Start braiding near the crown of the head, working toward the opposite nape of the neck.
- Secure with a rubber band and add a jewel clip for extra charm.
4. High Ponytail with a French Braid Accent
A high ponytail is always a cute hairstyle, but adding a small braid into the ponytail takes it to another level!
How to Achieve This Style:
- Pull hair into a high ponytail and secure with a rubber band.
- Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and create a strand braid fashion.
- Wrap the braid around the base and secure with bobby pins
5. Mini French Braids with Loose Hair
This style combines the neatness of mini French braids with the flow of loose hair. It’s easy to create and looks adorable.
Simple Steps:
- Start by creating two small French braids on each side of the head.
- Leave the bottom half of the hair loose for a more relaxed, fun look.
- Secure with small rubber bands or hair ties.
6. Side French Braid Ponytail
This style keeps hair out of the face while creating a cute hairstyle that’s perfect for school or playdates.
Simple Steps:
- Begin a side French braid from the side part of the head.
- Braid down to the nape of the neck, then gather all the hair into a high ponytail.
- Secure the ponytail with a hair tie and add a cute bow for extra flair.
7. Half-Up French Braid with Waves
This style combines the best of both worlds: the elegance of a French braid and the carefree look of loose waves.
Simple Steps:
- Begin a basic French braid at the crown of the head.
- Once you reach the nape of the neck, let the rest of the hair flow in soft waves.
- Secure the braid with a rubber band
8. Double French Braids into Buns
Two French braids twisted into buns create a playful and practical look. Perfect for busy days when your toddler still wants to look stylish.
Simple Steps:
- Part the hair down the middle.
- Create two French braids from the center hairline down to the nape of the neck.
- Twist the ends of the braids into two buns and secure with bobby pins.
9. Reverse French Braid into a Bun
The reverse French braid gives a fun twist to the traditional braid and looks fantastic when paired with a bun.
Simple Steps:
- Start at the nape of the neck and braid upward toward the top of the head.
- Once you reach the crown, twist the end into a bun and secure with a rubber band or bobby pins.
10. French Braid Mohawk
For a bold, fun look, the French braid Mohawk is perfect. It combines a single braid with the edgy look of shaved sides.
Simple Steps:
- Start with a French braid down the middle of the head, from the center hairline to the nape of the neck.
- Leave the sides of the hair flat or slicked back for a mohawk-inspired style.
11. French Braided Pigtails
The classic pigtail style gets a neat upgrade with French braids. This style is both playful and practical.
Simple Steps:
- Part the hair in the middle.
- Create two French braids, one on each side.
- Finish each braid at the nape of the neck and secure with rubber bands.
12. Heart-Shaped French Braids
This style adds a fun twist to the classic French braid by forming a heart shape. It’s perfect for special occasions.
Simple Steps:
- Begin two French braids at the crown of the head.
- Guide the braids into a heart shape as you move towards the nape of the neck.
- Secure with small rubber bands and add a cute accessory for extra flair.
13. Crisscross French Braids
The crisscross French braid creates a fun, intricate look. It’s ideal for a busy day when you want your toddler’s hair to stay neat and stylish.
Simple Steps:
- Start with two French braids at the crown of the head.
- Once you’ve braided a few inches, cross them over each other.
- Secure with a high ponytail and rubber band.
14. Side Braid with a Twist
This look is perfect for adding a little extra time to the morning routine while still keeping the hair out of the face.
Simple Steps:
- Create a side braid from the side part.
- Add a small braid underneath for extra dimension.
- Secure with a rubber band and leave the ends loose.
15. Messy French Braid Bun
For a laid-back, stylish look, the messy French braid bun is perfect. It keeps hair out of the way while looking effortless.
Simple Steps:
- Begin with a French braid at the crown of the head, but leave it a bit looser than usual.
- Twist the braid into a bun and secure with bobby pins.
16. Bubble French Braid
This is a fun twist on the traditional French braid, adding volume and texture with rubber bands.
Simple Steps:
- Braid the hair as usual, but after every few inches, add a rubber band.
- Gently pull the sections of hair to create a bubbly effect.
17. French Braid with Ribbon Weave
Add a ribbon for a unique hairstyle that’s perfect for a special event.
Simple Steps:
- Begin a French braid, but thread a ribbon into the braid as you go.
- Continue braiding, making sure the ribbon is woven evenly through the strands.
18. Braided Bangs
This style keeps the bangs neat while still adding a fun twist to the classic look.
Simple Steps:
- Braid just the front section of the hair, creating a French braid.
- Secure the braid behind the left ear with a bobby pin.
19. French Braid into a Fishtail
Start with a French braid, then finish the style with a fishtail braid for a stunning look.
Simple Steps:
- Start with a regular French braid.
- Once you reach the nape of the neck, switch to a fishtail braid to finish the style.
20. Double French Braids into Dutch Braid
Combine two classic styles for a bold look that stays neat all day.
Simple Steps:
- Start with two French braids on each side of the head.
- When you reach the nape of the neck, combine them into a Dutch braid.
21. Braided Ponytail
For an easy yet chic look, a braided ponytail is perfect.
Simple Steps:
- Start with a French braid at the crown of the head.
- Once you’ve reached the nape of the neck, gather the hair into a high ponytail and secure with a rubber band.
Final Touches: Hair Accessories & Baby Hair Styling
No hairstyle is complete without a few finishing touches! I love smoothing baby hairs with a soft brush and adding hair accessories like jewel clips or bows. It’s a good thing to keep a variety of accessories on hand so you can switch up the look depending on the occasion.
French Braid Tutorial FAQs
Q: How can I make my French braid last all day?
A: Use a light styling gel to smooth the hair before braiding, and secure it tightly with a rubber band.
Q: What’s the best way to keep my child’s hair from getting frizzy?
A: Moisturize the hair before braiding and use a satin pillowcase at night to reduce friction.
Q: Can I do a French braid on short hair?
A: Absolutely! Just use small sections of hair and secure the ends with a rubber band.
I love experimenting with different braid hairstyles on my daughter, and these easy hairstyles are always a hit! Whether you’re styling for a school day or a special event, there’s always a perfect hairstyle to match the occasion.
Have you tried any of these styles? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Try this really cute Heart Hairstyle
@simplekidshairsty #creatorsearchinsights heart hairstyle for VALENTINE’S DAY! this was out practice round! we will had some cute Heart ❤️ bows and @LollipopFriday Valentine’s hair glitter for the Holiday! #hearthairstyle #valentinesday #valentineshair #girlshairstyle #simplekidshairstyle #easyhairstyles #momsoftiktok
Suggested Articles to Check Out
- What is Easter for Kids? 2025 Easter Basket Gift Guide and Meaningful Celebrations – Simple Kids Hairstyles
- Easy Hairstyles for Little Girls
- French Braid Hairstyles for Toddlers
And don’t forget to add a touch of sparkle with Lollipop Friday Glitter Hair Gel—it’s the best part!
So, if you’re looking for french braid hairstyle for toddlers give these cute kids twist hairstyle a try. It’s a win-win for moms and kids on holiday! Don’t forget to share your own tips and favorite hairstyles on Tiktok, Instagram or Pinterest.
