50 Pretty Dutch Braid Hairstyles for Women in 2022 (with Images)

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Dutch braids, also known as reverse French braids or inside-out braids, have become one of the most versatile and popular braiding techniques in modern hairstyling. This stunning braid creates a raised, dimensional effect that sits beautifully on top of your head, making it perfect for everything from casual everyday looks to elegant formal occasions.

What sets Dutch braids apart is their distinctive technique of crossing hair sections under instead of over, creating a braid that appears to pop off your head with incredible texture and visual interest. Whether you prefer a single statement braid, intricate double Dutch braids, or creative combinations with other styling techniques, these 50 beautiful Dutch braid ideas will inspire your next hairstyle adventure.

Classic Dutch Braid Styles

1. Single Side Dutch Braid

The single side Dutch braid is perfect for beginners and creates an effortlessly chic look. Starting from one side of your head, this braid incorporates hair as it travels down, creating a beautiful asymmetrical style that works wonderfully for both casual and professional settings.

2. Double Dutch Braids

Perhaps the most iconic Dutch braid style, double Dutch braids create two parallel braids that frame your face beautifully. This athletic-inspired look has become a fashion statement, perfect for workouts, festivals, or adding an edgy touch to your everyday style.

3. Dutch Crown Braid

The Dutch crown braid wraps around your head like a beautiful headband, creating a romantic and regal appearance. This style works exceptionally well for special occasions, weddings, or any time you want to feel like royalty while keeping your hair elegantly styled.

Dutch Braid Updos and Formal Styles

4. Dutch Braid Low Bun

Combining the texture of a Dutch braid with the elegance of a low bun creates a sophisticated style perfect for professional settings or formal events. The braid adds visual interest to what might otherwise be a simple bun, making it both practical and beautiful.

5. Dutch Braid Updo with Twists

This intricate style combines Dutch braiding with twisted sections, creating a complex updo that looks professionally styled. Perfect for weddings, proms, or special occasions where you want your hair to be a true showstopper.

6. Braided Dutch Ponytail

Elevate a simple ponytail by incorporating a Dutch braid from your hairline to the ponytail base. This style adds texture and interest to an everyday look while keeping your hair secure and stylish for active days.

Dutch Braids for Different Hair Lengths

Short Hair Dutch Braids

Don’t think short hair can’t rock Dutch braids! Short hair Dutch braids work beautifully with pixie cuts, bobs, and lobs. Focus on braiding along the hairline or creating multiple small Dutch braids for texture and interest. Use bobby pins to secure shorter sections and finish with texturizing spray for hold.

Medium Length Dutch Braids

Medium-length hair offers the perfect canvas for Dutch braids, providing enough length for substantial braids while remaining manageable. Try half-up Dutch braids, side-swept styles, or incorporate braids into loose waves for a boho-chic appearance.

Long Hair Dutch Braids

Long hair allows for the most dramatic Dutch braid effects. Create intricate patterns, multiple braids, or combine Dutch braids with other techniques like fishtail or regular braids for complex, artistic styles that showcase your hair’s full length and beauty.

How to Create the Perfect Dutch Braid

Step-by-Step Dutch Braid Tutorial

Creating a Dutch braid is simpler than it appears once you understand the basic technique. Start with clean, dry hair and follow these essential steps:

Section off hair at the crown of your head into three equal parts
Cross the right section under the middle section
Cross the left section under the new middle section
Add hair to the right section before crossing under again
Add hair to the left section before crossing under
Continue this pattern, always crossing under and adding hair
Secure with an elastic when you reach the nape of your neck

Essential Tools and Products

Having the right tools makes Dutch braiding much easier and ensures better results. Essential items include a rat-tail comb for clean sections, small clear elastics, bobby pins in your hair color, and a light-hold hairspray or texturizing spray for grip and hold.

Dutch Braid Styling Tips and Tricks

Creating Volume and Texture

To make your Dutch braids appear fuller and more textured, gently tug at the outer edges of each braid section after completing the braid. This technique, called “pancaking,” creates a wider, more voluminous appearance that’s especially beautiful for formal occasions.

Making Braids Last Longer

Start with slightly dirty hair for better grip, use texturizing products before braiding, and sleep with a silk pillowcase or bonnet to reduce friction. Touch up loose sections with bobby pins and refresh with dry shampoo to extend your style’s lifespan.

Fixing Common Dutch Braid Problems

If your braids look too tight, gently loosen them by pulling at the outer edges. For braids that won’t stay in place, use bobby pins strategically and ensure you’re adding enough hair with each section. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t flawless.

Dutch Braids for Special Occasions

Wedding Dutch Braid Styles

Dutch braids create stunning bridal hairstyles that photograph beautifully and withstand long celebration days. Consider Dutch braid crowns with loose curls, braided updos with baby’s breath, or side Dutch braids that transition into romantic low buns.

Workout and Athletic Dutch Braids

Dutch braids excel at keeping hair secure during physical activity. Double Dutch braids prevent hair from falling in your face during workouts, while a single Dutch braid down the back keeps long hair contained and comfortable during sports or exercise.

Festival and Creative Dutch Braids

Festivals and creative events call for bold Dutch braid interpretations. Try multiple small Dutch braids, incorporate colorful extensions or ribbons, or combine Dutch braids with space buns, top knots, or other trendy elements for a unique festival look.

Maintaining and Caring for Braided Hair

Proper care ensures your Dutch braids look fresh and your hair remains healthy. Here are essential maintenance tips:

Don’t leave braids in for more than a week to prevent breakage
Use a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction while sleeping
Apply leave-in conditioner before braiding to protect hair
Gently cleanse your scalp with a diluted shampoo while braided
Take breaks between braided styles to let your hair rest
Moisturize your scalp with light oils if it becomes dry

Frequently Asked Questions About Dutch Braids

What’s the difference between Dutch braids and French braids?

The main difference lies in the braiding technique: Dutch braids cross hair sections under each other, creating a raised effect on top of your head, while French braids cross sections over each other, creating a flatter braid that sits closer to your scalp.

Can Dutch braids work on thin or fine hair?

Absolutely! Dutch braids can actually make thin hair appear fuller. Use texturizing products before braiding, gently pull apart braid sections to create volume, and consider adding temporary extensions or padding for extra thickness if desired.

How long do Dutch braids typically last?

With proper preparation and care, Dutch braids can last 3-7 days depending on your hair type, activity level, and how well you protect them while sleeping. Fine hair may need refreshing sooner, while thicker hair often holds braids longer.

Are Dutch braids damaging to hair?

When done correctly with proper tension and care, Dutch braids are not damaging. However, braiding too tightly, leaving braids in too long, or neglecting scalp care can cause breakage. Always braid with gentle tension and give your hair breaks between braided styles.

What products work best for Dutch braiding?

Texturizing sprays, light-hold mousses, and leave-in conditioners work excellently for Dutch braiding. Avoid heavy oils or creams that can make hair slippery. A light mist of hairspray after braiding helps maintain the style without stiffness.

Conclusion

Dutch braids offer endless possibilities for creative, beautiful, and practical hairstyling. From simple single braids perfect for everyday wear to intricate updos suitable for the most special occasions, mastering the Dutch braid technique opens up a world of styling possibilities that work for every hair type, length, and lifestyle.

Remember that practice makes perfect when learning to Dutch braid. Start with simple styles and gradually work up to more complex designs as your skills improve. With patience and creativity, you’ll soon be creating stunning Dutch braid hairstyles that reflect your personal style and make you feel confident and beautiful.

Which Dutch braid style are you most excited to try? Start with a simple side braid and work your way up to more complex designs!

Richard L. Greene

Richard is fascinated by everything that has to do with styling techniques and how technology can play an important part in the industry’s development. He started out his career as a barber, and later found his passion for both men and women’s hairstyles. Richard now works as a writer for fashion magazines, blogs, and is actively taking steps toward launching his own online platform!