Crown braids are a classic and exquisite hairdo that lends romance and sophistication to any ensemble. A crown braid, also known as a braided crown, hair crown braid, or crown plait, is a versatile design that may be worn for a bohemian look, a bridal updo, or a cute everyday look. This article will teach you all you need to know about creating one at home, the finest supplies for care, and the various styles to try.
What is a crown braid?
A crown braid hairstyle is created by wrapping one or more braids around the head like a halo. It can be done with Dutch, French, or fishtail braids for different textures.
Can I do a crown braid on short hair?
Yes! If your hair is too short, use extensions or try a looser, messy crown plait for a boho effect.
How long does a crown braid last?
With the right technique and products, it can stay neat for 1-2 days.
Are crown braids good for thick hair?
Absolutely! Thick hair holds braids well, but you may need extra pins for security.
Can I sleep with a crown braid?
Yes, but wrap it in a silk scarf to prevent frizz.
It was my best friend’s garden wedding, and I had spent weeks searching for the perfect hairstyle—something elegant yet effortless. That’s when I decided on a bohemian crown braid, a soft, twisted halo that framed my face like a fairytale.
As I carefully braided my hair, wrapping it like a regal crown plait, I wasn’t sure if I’d pulled it off. But the moment I stepped outside, the compliments poured in.
“Your hair looks magical!” my sister gasped.
“Is that a Dutch crown braid? It’s so intricate!” a bridesmaid asked, touching her own hair wistfully.
Even strangers at the wedding stopped me—”How did you do that? It’s stunning!”
What surprised me most wasn’t just the admiration but how the braided crown made me feel. It wasn’t just a hairstyle; it was a confidence boost. My posture straightened, my smile widened, and I felt like a goddess in a sea of updos and loose curls.
By the end of the night, three friends had begged me to teach them. As we sat in the garden, laughing and fumbling over braiding techniques, I realized: crown braids aren’t just pretty—they’re joy wrapped in hair.
Now, I wear them for dates, brunches, even grocery runs. Because why wait for a special occasion to feel beautiful?
Moral of the story? A crown braid isn’t just a hairstyle—it’s a tiny, wearable celebration.
How to Do a Crown Braid at Home (Step-by-Step)
Prep Your Hair – Brush out tangles and apply a light styling cream.
Choose Your Braid Type – Dutch, French, or fishtail works best.
Start Braiding – Begin at one temple, braiding around the head.
Wrap & Secure – Pin the ends under the braid with bobby pins.
Set with Hairspray – Lightly mist to hold the style.
Tips for Maintaining a Crown Braid
Use dry shampoo to refresh oily roots.
Sleep with a silk scarf to reduce frizz.
Touch up loose strands with a small comb and extra pins.
3 Best Products for Crown Braid Care & Maintenance
Texturizing Spray – Adds grip for better hold (e.g., Bumble and Bumble Dryspun Finish).
Strong-Hold Hairspray – Keeps flyaways in place (e.g., L’Oréal Elnett).
Bobby Pins & Hair Ties – Use clear or matching pins for a seamless look.
15+ Different Types of Crown Braids
Classic Crown Braid
Effortlessly chic and eternally flattering, the Classic Crown Braid is the ultimate go-to for a polished, romantic look. This iconic style weaves a single braid, like a delicate halo, around the head, blending sophistication with a touch of fairy-tale charm. Perfect for weddings, brunches, or even a graceful everyday upgrade, it’s a versatile favorite that never goes out of style.
Whether your hair is long, short, or somewhere in between, the Classic Crown Braid frames your face beautifully and keeps strands neatly in place, all while making you feel like royalty.
Double Crown Braid
For those who love drama and dimension, the Double Crown Braid is a showstopping twist on the classic halo style. This intricate look features two parallel braids, often Dutch or French, woven like a regal headpiece for added volume and texture. Perfect for brides, festival-goers, or anyone craving a bold yet romantic vibe, this style offers unmatched hold and visual interest while keeping hair securely in place.
Whether you’re channeling bohemian glamour or vintage sophistication, the Double Crown Braid ensures you’ll turn heads, all while feeling like a modern-day queen.
Dutch Crown Braid
A bold, 3D halo braid with inverted sections for standout texture. Perfect for adding drama to any look!
French Crown Braid
A sleek, polished braid wrapped like a regal headband. Elegant and timeless for any occasion.
Fishtail Crown Braid
Delicate, woven strands create an intricate halo effect. Boho-chic and effortlessly pretty.
Halo Braid
A softer take on the crown braid, loose, romantic, and dreamy. Ideal for ethereal vibes. Is Platinum Blonde Hair Worth It
Bohemian Crown Braid
Messy, textured, and carefree. The ultimate boho hairstyle for festivals and sunny days.
Viking Crown Braid
Thick, warrior-inspired braids for a fierce yet feminine edge. Strong and stunning.
Rope Crown Braid
Twisted strands form a sleek, rope-like crown. Simple but striking.
Headband Braid
A single braid tracing the hairline, casual yet put-together. Easy everyday elegance.
Mermaid Crown Braid
Waves and braids combine for a beachy, whimsical halo. Perfect for summer vibes. Caramel Highlight Look for Brown Hair
Pros & Cons of Crown Braids
✅ Pros:
Elegant and versatile
Works for all hair lengths (with extensions if needed)
Great for formal and casual events
Keeps hair out of your face
❌ Cons:
It can be tricky for beginners
May require practice for a neat finish
Needs occasional touch-ups
Why Crown Braids Are Great
They suit weddings, festivals, dates, and everyday wear.
They protect hair by minimizing heat styling.
They work on straight, wavy, curly, and thick hair.
Best Events for Crown Braids
✔ Weddings (bridal & bridesmaid styles)
✔ Music Festivals (boho-chic look)
✔ Date Nights (romantic & elegant)
✔ Formal Parties (sophisticated updo)
✔ Everyday Wear (casual yet polished)
The bohemian crown braid is my favorite because it’s easy to do and looks beautiful. My go-to method is a double Dutch braid wrapped around a crown—it stays there all day!
Whether you’re a braiding pro or a beginner, crown braids are a gorgeous way to elevate your hairstyle game. Try different styles and find your favorite!
Crown Braid Tutorial: 3 Pro Styles for Short & Long Hair
Why Should I Trust This Guide?
As a hairstylist with over 5 years of experience, I’ve braided hundreds of crowns, ranging from slick bridal styles to chaotic festival hair. Most tutorials omit the actual struggles:
Slippery hair that doesn’t hold
Uneven parts that appear messy, Pins that stab your scalp by hour two.
This handbook addresses these issues with tried-and-true approaches and cost-effective product substitutions.
Tools You’ll Need
(No pricey extras needed!)
Essential Products: Hairpins
Fine hair: Goody StayPut Pins ($4 on Amazon) provide hold without snagging.
Thick hair: Spin Pins ($12) – the spiral pattern acts like a vise.
Texturizing Spray: Not Your Mother’s Sea Salt Spray ($8)—adds grit for grip.
Clear Elastics (practice): Snag-free Scünci pack ($3).
Cheap Alternatives
No spray? Combine 1 tsp salt and 1 cup water in a spray bottle.
Are there no pins? Bobby pins work in a crisscross manner.
Style 1: Classic Dutch Crown Braid (a 3D “floating” braid for weddings).
Step 1: Prepare your hair.
Wash your hair the day before; slightly filthy hair grips better.
Spray texturizer on the roots and mid-lengths.
Step 2: Section Like a Pro: Part hair down the center.
Clip one side upward. On the opposite side:
Cut a 1-inch slice from your temple back to your ear.
Pro Tip: Smaller parts result in a neater braid.
Step 3: Braid underhand.
Dutch braid (strands crossed under rather than over):
Split into three strands.
Cross the right strand under the middle, followed by the left.
Add hair from your scalp as you proceed.
📌 Watch This: [a 30-second video clip of the underhand method]
Step 4: Secure Invisibly.
When you get to the nape, continue braiding without adding hair.
Begin by pinning the end under the braids with 2-3 pins each.
No bumps: Insert pins at a 45° angle.
Style 2: Bohemian Loose Braid
(Messy-chic for everyday wear)
Key Difference: Pull gently on the braid edges after finishing to loosen.
Product Hack: Spritz dry shampoo at the crown for extra volume.
Style 3: Half-Up Crown for Short Hair
(Uses faux techniques for hair above shoulders)
Braid just the top layer from ear-to-ear.
Pin the ends under opposite sides.
Hide gaps with a ribbon or delicate headband.
