You know those mornings when your hair decides it has a rebellious streak and no amount of brushing, spraying, or silent begging seems to help? Yeah—those are the exact moments when messy braided hairstyles come to the rescue like the cool best friend who shows up with coffee and dry shampoo.
These looks say, “I woke up like this,” but with enough effort that people don’t question your life choices. As someone who juggles SEO strategy by day and untangling hair ties by night, I can confidently say: this is the one trend where messy actually means on point.
So, why are we talking about messy braids today? Because they’re stylish, ridiculously easy to create (even with two left hands), and they somehow manage to look better the more undone they get.
Whether you’re running errands, heading to brunch, or pretending your Zoom call isn’t from bed, there’s a messy braid style that fits the vibe. I’ve tried dozens—some great, some that looked like I got caught in a wind tunnel—and I’m sharing all the ones worth your time.
1. Messy French Braid
This was one of the first messy braided hairstyles I ever tried, mostly because I didn’t mean for it to be messy—it just turned out that way.
But hey, turns out that’s part of the charm! The trick is to braid loosely and pull out a few strands around your face.
It works especially well for medium to long hair and gives off that soft, romantic look without trying too hard.
2. Loose Fishtail Braid
Fishtails always look complicated, but they’re shockingly easy once you get the hang of it.
I love how this style works on both straight and wavy textures it adds instant edge to any outfit.
Keep the braid loose and tug at the edges for a fuller, messier vibe. A little texturizing spray goes a long way here.
3. Messy Dutch Braid Pigtails
These make me feel like a grown-up who still remembers how to have fun.
I go for this look when I want something playful but still put-together.
Dutch braiding adds volume, and a bit of intentional mess makes it trendy rather than too “schoolgirl.”
It’s a great choice if you’re inspired by other braided pigtails styles.
4. Textured Side Braid
This one’s my go-to when my hair is halfway between clean and dry shampoo central.
The side placement gives it some drama, while the messy texture makes it effortlessly cool.
Add waves before braiding for more volume, and don’t worry about flyaways—they add character!
5. Messy Braided Crown
Now this one feels fancy even when it’s not. I wore it to a wedding last summer, and people wouldn’t stop asking how I pulled it off.
The trick is to wrap two loose braids around the head and pin them in place.
For a true messy braided hairstyles look, pull gently on the braids after pinning for that undone finish.
6. Half-Up Messy Braid
Sometimes you just can’t commit to a full braid—and that’s okay. I love this style for keeping hair out of my face while still looking styled.
You can go with a French, Dutch, or rope braid—just keep it loose and imperfect.
Pair it with beachy waves for an effortlessly chic finish.
7. Voluminous Messy Cornrows
If you love texture, this one’s for you. Cornrows with a messy twist give bold structure with a carefree edge.
I add mousse or curl cream for extra grip, then braid without worrying too much about perfect parting.
It’s a great blend of statement and chill.
8. Messy Braid with Loose Strands
You know those “just rolled out of bed but somehow still cute” looks? This is it.
I leave pieces out around my face and curl them slightly to frame it.
It works with pretty much any braid, and the messier the better—it’s the perfect casual weekend hairstyle.
9. Double Messy Braids
Double trouble—in the best way. These are perfect for long hair and lazy days when I still want to look put together.
I like to braid loosely and fluff them up at the end. Bonus: they look adorable under a beanie.
10. Messy Braid with Scrunchie
Sometimes all you need is the right accessory. I wrap a cute scrunchie around the base of a loose braid for a playful, retro vibe.
It’s perfect for days when I’m short on time but still want to join the messy braided hairstyles party. Try velvet or satin for extra flair!
11. Wavy Messy Braid
This one’s for my fellow wave lovers. I curl my hair first, then braid loosely so the waves peek through.
The final look is soft, romantic, and a little bit boho. I’ll spritz with sea salt spray to keep things tousled all day.
12. Messy Braided Ponytail
This style is equal parts cool and practical. I braid the length of my ponytail and then tug on it for volume.
Great for second-day hair or when I’m heading to the gym but still want to feel cute.
Pair it with a high pony and a strong coffee.
13. Loose Waterfall Braid
Okay, this one takes some practice—but it’s worth it. It gives that dreamy “fairy in the forest” look, especially when it’s a bit undone.
I usually leave the ends loose and curl them slightly. It’s ideal for weddings, photoshoots, or when you want your hair to look like it belongs in a fantasy novel.
14. Messy Braid with Floral Pins
Sometimes I get fancy and add flowers. I just tuck a few floral pins into a regular braid and call it a day.
This style is super cute for spring events or outdoor parties.
Keep the braid loose and full for that soft, romantic effect.
15. Undone Box Braids
Box braids don’t always have to be sleek. I like to let a few ends unravel slightly for a more relaxed, lived-in feel.
This version of messy braided hairstyles is low-maintenance but full of personality.
Bonus: you can switch up the parting for different looks.
16. Messy Braid with Headband
Headbands are the unsung heroes of messy styles. I throw one on to hide greasy roots and give my braid a cute, boho twist.
Works with side braids, fishtails, or even a loose crown. Ideal for when I need to look pulled together in five minutes.
17. Curly Messy Braid
Curly hair was made for messy braids. The natural volume makes even the simplest braid look full and dramatic.
I usually let my curls do their thing and braid loosely from the back or side.
A little leave-in conditioner helps with frizz control.
18. Messy Rope Twist Braid
When I’m too lazy for a full braid, I go for a rope twist. It’s quick, it’s stylish, and it always gets compliments.
I twist two sections of hair and secure with a scrunchie or clear elastic.
Pull it apart slightly and boom messy braid magic.
19. Side-Swept Messy Braid
This style feels fancy without the effort. I gather my hair to one side, do a basic three-strand braid, and pull out pieces to make it loose.
It looks best with volume at the crown, so I tease it slightly before braiding. Great for dates or dinner plans.
20. Messy Braid with Ribbon
Ribbons aren’t just for little kids anymore! I weave one into my braid for a pop of color and instant personality.
Whether it’s silk, velvet, or something sparkly, it takes the whole look up a notch.
And yes, the messier the braid, the better it looks.
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