Posted by Braids for older women have become a timeless hairstyle choice that blends elegance, practicality, and style. Whether you’re attending a formal event, a casual outing, or a day at the office, braids offer a versatile and chic way to express your personal style. For women over 50, braids can provide a youthful appearance while maintaining an air of sophistication. They’re not only beautiful but also easy to manage, making them the perfect choice for busy women.
In this article, we’ll explore 17 fabulous braids for older women over 50 that are ideal for any occasion. From simple everyday braids to glamorous updos, there’s a style for every mood and event. Let’s dive into the best braids that can complement your mature beauty!
1. Classic French Braid
The classic French braid is a timeless option that’s not only elegant but also incredibly versatile. This style is perfect for older women because it pulls the hair back neatly, offering a polished and professional look. To achieve this style, the hair is gathered from the crown and woven into a braid, adding sections as you go down the back of your head.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The French braid keeps your hair neatly in place throughout the day, so you don’t have to worry about constant touch-ups. It’s especially useful for those with long or thick hair, as it helps to keep the hair secure and tidy. Additionally, it’s a fantastic option for formal events like weddings or dinner parties, as it exudes sophistication.
Styling Tip: To make your French braid stand out, consider adding a few hair accessories like elegant pins or a decorative clip. These small touches can elevate the look and make it even more special.
2. Loose Fishtail Braid
For those who prefer a more relaxed yet stylish braid, the loose fishtail braid is an excellent choice. This braid is created by weaving sections of hair into a fishtail pattern, but with a looser, softer finish. It’s ideal for casual occasions or when you want to add a bit of bohemian flair to your look.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The loose fishtail braid gives a carefree vibe, perfect for women who enjoy a laid-back, stylish appearance. It’s also a fantastic way to frame the face and add texture to your hair without it feeling too rigid. Additionally, the fishtail braid is ideal for women who have thin or fine hair, as it adds volume and texture.
Styling Tip: If you want to add some volume, gently tug on the sides of the braid to loosen it up and create a fuller, more textured look. You can also incorporate a few loose curls at the ends for added dimension.
3. Dutch Braid Updo
The Dutch braid is similar to the French braid but involves braiding the hair under rather than over. This creates a braid that stands out more prominently from the scalp. A Dutch braid updo is an elegant, sophisticated style that works beautifully for both casual and formal occasions. The braid can be secured at the nape of the neck and twisted into a bun, creating an effortless yet chic appearance.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The Dutch braid updo gives you a fresh and youthful look while keeping the hair off the face, which can be especially flattering for women with fine or thinning hair. It’s also an excellent option for older women who want a modern, edgy style that’s still polished.
Styling Tip: For added texture, use a texturizing spray before braiding your hair. This will give the Dutch braid more grip and ensure it holds its shape throughout the day.
4. Side-Swept Braid
A side-swept braid offers a soft and romantic look, with the braid positioned to one side of the head. This style can be done in many variations, from a loose side braid to a more structured, classic version. Whether you choose a French, Dutch, or simple three-strand braid, this style is flattering for older women looking for a feminine touch.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The side-swept braid is particularly great for those with shoulder-length hair or longer. It adds a youthful flair while also being practical and easy to maintain. Additionally, it helps to keep hair away from the face, making it a great choice for warmer weather or busy days.
Styling Tip: For a more boho look, leave a few loose strands of hair around the face to soften the overall appearance. This works especially well for women with textured or wavy hair.
5. Braided Crown
A braided crown is a beautiful and regal hairstyle that looks stunning for any special occasion. It involves braiding two sections of hair on either side of the head and then wrapping them around the crown to create a halo effect. This style is perfect for older women who want to achieve a sophisticated and elegant appearance.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The braided crown is a fantastic option for those with medium to long hair. It’s a great way to wear braids in a formal, polished manner without feeling too young or trendy. The crown braid is also excellent for those who want to keep their hair off their face while still maintaining a soft and romantic vibe.
Styling Tip: Add some volume to the crown by gently pulling the braids apart after they’re secured. This will give the look a fuller, more textured feel, perfect for a wedding or a garden party.
6. Waterfall Braid
A waterfall braid is a beautiful and delicate style that creates the illusion of cascading hair. This braid works by weaving hair into a traditional braid but letting strands fall loosely between the sections as the braid progresses. The result is a stunning, flowing style that looks like a waterfall of hair, making it ideal for special occasions.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The waterfall braid adds a soft, romantic touch to your look without being overly complicated. It’s perfect for older women who want a graceful, feminine hairstyle with a bit of flair. Additionally, this style is fantastic for women with medium to long hair, as it allows for movement and texture while still maintaining an elegant, polished appearance.
Styling Tip: For a more dramatic effect, curl the ends of your hair after braiding it. This will enhance the cascading waterfall look, adding more volume and bounce to the style.
7. Messy Low Braid
The messy low braid is a relaxed and casual style that’s perfect for everyday wear. This style involves loosely braiding the hair at the nape of the neck, creating a soft, lived-in look. It’s ideal for women who prefer a low-maintenance yet chic style.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The messy low braid is a fantastic option for older women who want a more youthful, carefree look without the need for precision. This style is especially flattering for women with fine or medium hair, as it creates the illusion of fullness and texture. It’s also a great option for casual outings or relaxed office days.
Styling Tip: To create a more voluminous braid, gently tug on the sections of the braid after it’s completed. This will give it a fuller, more textured look. You can also add a few loose strands of hair around the face to soften the overall appearance.
8. Boho Braid
The boho braid is perfect for older women who want a carefree, hippie-inspired style that’s both stylish and practical. This braid is typically loose, often incorporating loose waves or curls, and can be worn in a variety of ways—whether as a simple side braid or as a braided crown. It’s perfect for outdoor events, vacations, or weekends away.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The boho braid offers a relaxed, youthful look while still being flattering and age-appropriate. It’s an ideal choice for women who want a romantic, effortless hairstyle that feels fresh and fun. The loose, flowing nature of the boho braid works well for various hair textures, making it a versatile option for many different hair types.
Styling Tip: For a more authentic boho look, use a curling iron or hair wand to create soft, natural waves before braiding. This will add texture and enhance the relaxed vibe of the style.
9. Double Braids
Double braids are a playful and modern hairstyle that involves creating two symmetrical braids, usually starting from the front or the sides of the head. This style can be customized to your preference, from tight and neat braids to looser, more relaxed ones. Double braids work well for both casual and formal occasions.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: Double braids are an excellent option for older women who want a youthful, fun style that’s still sophisticated. This style can be as intricate or as simple as you like, and it’s perfect for those with medium to long hair. Double braids are a great way to add volume to fine hair while keeping the style chic and modern.
Styling Tip: To make the double braids stand out, you can twist them or incorporate some textured waves for added volume. This will give the braids a more modern, edgy feel that’s both youthful and stylish.
10. Braid with a Bun
For a sophisticated yet easy-to-maintain look, a braid with a bun is the perfect option. This style involves braiding a section of hair and then gathering the rest of the hair into a low bun. The braid can either be wrapped around the bun or left trailing to the side. This chic style is ideal for formal events or days when you want a polished yet effortless appearance.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: A braid with a bun combines two classic hairstyles—braids and buns—into one elegant look. This style is perfect for women who want a refined, put-together appearance without spending too much time on their hair. It’s also a fantastic option for those with fine hair, as the bun adds volume, while the braid adds texture and interest.
Styling Tip: To create a more voluminous bun, gently pull the sections apart after securing the bun. This will give the look more fullness and make it appear more luxurious.
11. Pigtail Braids
Pigtail braids may remind you of childhood, but they can be a stylish and fun choice for older women when styled right. This look involves creating two braids that hang on either side of the head, either tight and neat or loose and playful. This style is great for casual settings or when you’re feeling adventurous.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: Pigtail braids offer a playful, youthful look while remaining simple and easy to maintain. They’re ideal for women who want a carefree hairstyle but still want to look put together. Pigtail braids are also great for women with thick hair, as they help control volume and prevent frizz.
Styling Tip: For a more mature take on pigtail braids, try a side-swept version or add subtle waves to the braids. This will give them a more refined and polished appearance.
12. Side Braid with Curls
A side braid paired with soft curls is a romantic and elegant style that’s perfect for more formal occasions. The braid is typically placed to one side, either as a loose French or Dutch braid, and the remaining hair is left in soft, flowing curls. This combination is feminine, sophisticated, and ideal for older women looking for a chic yet relaxed look.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The side braid with curls works beautifully for women with long hair, as the curls create volume and movement, while the braid keeps the hair secure and neat. This style also softens the face, making it a great option for older women who want a flattering, age-appropriate look that’s still trendy.
Styling Tip: Add some shine serum to the curls to give them a smooth, polished finish. This will help prevent frizz and keep your hair looking sleek throughout the day.
13. Halo Braid
The halo braid is an elegant and regal style that wraps around the head like a crown. This style is created by braiding the hair into a circular shape that sits comfortably around the head, giving the illusion of a crown. It’s perfect for both formal and semi-formal occasions and works beautifully with both straight and textured hair.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The halo braid is a classic and timeless hairstyle that exudes sophistication. It’s ideal for older women looking for an updo that offers both elegance and a touch of whimsy. This style is perfect for weddings, parties, or other special events where you want to feel graceful and refined. The halo braid also helps keep your hair off your face, offering both practicality and beauty.
Styling Tip: To add a touch of glam, incorporate a few decorative pins or jewels into the braid. This can make the halo braid even more eye-catching, giving it a more elevated and luxurious feel.
14. Braided Ponytail
The braided ponytail is a simple yet chic style that combines the best of both worlds—braids and ponytails. This style involves braiding a portion of your hair (usually the top or sides) and gathering the rest into a sleek ponytail. It’s perfect for those who want a stylish, easy-to-do look without much hassle.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The braided ponytail is a youthful and trendy look that’s still incredibly polished. It works especially well for women with medium to long hair, as it provides a great way to control volume while adding texture and interest. Whether you’re running errands or attending a casual gathering, the braided ponytail is versatile enough for any setting.
Styling Tip: To make the ponytail appear fuller, wrap a section of your hair around the base of the ponytail. This will hide the elastic and give the ponytail a more sophisticated, finished look.
15. Pull-Through Braid
The pull-through braid is a more modern take on the classic braid. Instead of traditional braiding, this style involves using hair elastics to create sections, then pulling them through to form a braid-like effect. The pull-through braid is a great alternative for those who find traditional braiding difficult or time-consuming but still want a beautiful, intricate style.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The pull-through braid is ideal for women looking for a simple, yet stylish option. It’s especially great for women with medium to long hair who want a chic, textured look without the complexity of traditional braids. This style can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, making it versatile and practical.
Styling Tip: For a more voluminous effect, gently tug on each section after pulling it through. This will create a fuller, more dramatic look. You can also incorporate small braids into the sides for added texture.
16. Reverse French Braid
The reverse French braid, also known as an “inverted” French braid, is a unique twist on the classic French braid. Instead of braiding the hair over, you braid it under, creating a more prominent, 3D effect. This style works beautifully as an updo or a long braid down the back.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The reverse French braid is a great way to add depth and volume to your hair without it looking too overdone. It’s perfect for women with medium to long hair, as the inverted braid gives a more sculpted appearance. This style is particularly flattering for those with round or square faces, as it helps elongate the shape of the face.
Styling Tip: If you want to make your reverse French braid more dramatic, finish it off with a voluminous bun or ponytail. This will create a modern and edgy look, perfect for evening events or casual outings.
17. Glamorous Braided Bun
The glamorous braided bun is an elegant updo that combines the sophistication of a bun with the beauty of braids. This style starts by braiding the hair and then twisting it into a chic, low bun. It’s the perfect option for women who want a glamorous and polished look for formal events, parties, or even weddings.
Why It’s Great for Older Women: The glamorous braided bun offers a refined, age-appropriate style that is both timeless and chic. It’s a fantastic choice for older women who want to look elegant while still embracing their natural beauty. This style is perfect for formal occasions where you want to feel both sophisticated and modern.
Styling Tip: Add some shine serum or hairspray to keep the braided bun in place throughout the day. For an extra touch, incorporate small pearl or crystal accessories into the braid for added elegance.
Final Thoughts
Braids for older women are a fantastic way to achieve a youthful, stylish, and elegant look, no matter the occasion. From the classic French braid to the glamorous braided bun, these 17 braid styles offer a wide variety of options for women over 50. Whether you’re looking for something casual and easy to maintain or something more intricate and formal, there’s a braid style that’s perfect for you.
Remember, braids aren’t just for younger women—older women can rock braids just as well, if not better! They’re versatile, functional, and beautiful, offering a great way to express your personality and style.
Conclusion
Braids are an excellent and stylish choice for women over 50, providing a versatile, elegant, and practical way to keep your hair looking fabulous for any occasion. From simple side braids to intricate braided buns, there are countless options to suit your style, hair texture, and personal preferences. Whether you’re attending a formal event, heading to the office, or enjoying a weekend outing, these 17 fabulous braids will give you the confidence to rock any look.
By incorporating these braids into your routine, you can embrace a chic, youthful appearance while maintaining an air of sophistication. Remember, braids are not just for the younger generation—they’re perfect for adding texture, volume, and personality to your hair at any age.
So, why not experiment with a new braid style today and transform your look? You’ll be surprised at how easy and beautiful it can be to wear braids at any stage of life.
For more hairstyle tips and inspiration, be sure to check out our Hairstyles for Women Over 50 section.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the best braids for older women with fine hair?
For older women with fine hair, braids like the loose fishtail braid or messy low braid work beautifully. These styles add volume and texture, making your hair look fuller. Additionally, the Dutch braid and waterfall braid are great options to create the illusion of thicker hair.
2. Can I wear braids if I have short hair?
Yes! There are many braid styles that work well for short hair, such as a side-swept braid or braided crown. You can also experiment with double braids or a braid with a bun to add some fun and style to your shorter locks.
3. How can I keep my braids looking neat throughout the day?
To keep your braids neat and in place, use a strong-hold hairspray or texturizing spray before you start braiding. A small amount of leave-in conditioner can also help smooth frizz and make braiding easier. For extra hold, secure your braids with a clear elastic band that blends with your hair color.
4. Can I add accessories to my braids?
Absolutely! Adding accessories like decorative pins, small flowers, or hair clips can elevate any braid, especially for formal occasions. Choose subtle, elegant pieces that complement your outfit for a polished look.
5. Are braids good for women with aging hair?
Yes, braids are a fantastic way to style aging hair. They offer volume, control, and texture, making them perfect for those with thinning or fine hair. Braids can help disguise hair thinning and create fuller, more structured looks without sacrificing elegance.
6. How can I make my braids look more voluminous?
To add volume to your braids, gently pull apart the sections once the braid is complete. This technique works especially well with styles like the Dutch braid and fishtail braid. You can also curl your hair before braiding for added texture and fullness