20 Side Braid Hairstyles with Open Hair

Effortless braid-and-loose-hair looks that feel polished in minutes.

Have you ever wanted your hair to look done without actually doing anything to it? A side braid with open hair is exactly that trick. It takes just one small section of hair, weaves in a little texture, and lets the rest fall loose and natural — no updo required, no fuss involved. This look works like a charm whether your hair is thin, thick, grey, or somewhere in between, and it flatters practically every length. Chances are, you already have everything you need to try it right now. Below are 20 side braid hairstyles with open hair that go from a five-minute morning fix to a full evening-out look, so keep scrolling for the one that speaks to you.

Loose Side Fishtail Braid

Sweep your hair to one side, split it into two sections, and cross thin pieces back and forth for a fishtail that looks far more intricate than it actually is. This one has a soft, undone texture that feels romantic rather than fussy. Tip: gently tug at the edges once you’re done to loosen it up and add volume.

Small Side Braid with Hair Down

This is the easiest style on the list, and one of the most wearable, too. Take a slim section near your face, braid it a few inches down, and secure it with a clear elastic while the rest of your hair stays completely loose. It’s a great everyday pick for anyone who wants a little something without changing their whole look.

Twist-and-Braid Side Accent

Twist the front pieces of your hair toward one side, then pull the rest forward over your shoulder and braid it in along with the twist. The combination gives you extra texture and dimension for very little effort. Hint: this style is especially forgiving if your hair is freshly washed and a touch too sleek to hold a plain braid.

Boho Side Braid for Second-Day Hair

Second-day hair is never a problem here — it’s actually the secret ingredient. The natural grip that comes from not-quite-fresh strands helps this loose, beachy plait hold its shape without looking overworked. Simply braid it loosely along one side and let a few pieces fall free around your face.

Side French Braid into Loose Waves

Start a classic French braid at your part and let it travel down into a loose plait that blends right into your natural waves. This look reads as put-together and undone at the same time, which is exactly the balance most of us are after. It’s a good way to dress up a simple wash-and-go without much extra styling time.

Crown Side Braid

Not every side braid needs to be an intricate work of art. Braid a small section from one side of your part across the crown of your head, pin it just past center, and let the rest of your hair hang loose underneath. It works like a soft, accent version of a crown braid.

Side Dutch Braid with Face-Framing Pieces

A Dutch braid sits on top of the hair rather than underneath, so it reads a little bolder and more dimensional than a standard braid. Pull a couple of face-framing pieces loose at the front for softness, and you’ve got a look that’s on-trend without trying too hard. Once you get the hang of Dutch braiding, it becomes just as easy as a French braid.

Pancaked Side Braid for Volume

If your hair runs on the finer side, this one is for you. Braid your side section as usual, then gently pull at the edges of each plait — a technique called pancaking — to widen it and add the illusion of thickness. The result looks noticeably fuller without a single extra product.

Double Side Braids with Open Ends

Instead of one side braid, try two — one on each side, joined at the ends with a clear elastic before you let the rest of your hair fall loose in between. This one has a sweet, slightly playful energy that still feels age-appropriate and polished. It’s an especially good option if you want a bit of symmetry.

Side Braid with Bangs Left Loose

Bored of your bangs doing the same thing every day? A side braid gives them a new job: framing your face while a small plait handles the rest. Simply braid a section starting just behind your bangs, and let the fringe stay loose and swept to the side.

Chunky Side Braid for Thin Hair

Thin hair actually benefits from a looser, chunkier braid rather than a tight, skinny one. Use larger sections when you braid, and add a little texturizing spray or dry shampoo beforehand for extra grip. The bigger sections build the appearance of body that a tighter braid just can’t give you.

Side Braid with Wispy Grey Tendrils

Grey hair has a gorgeous, cool-toned shine that a loose side braid shows off beautifully. Leave a few wispy tendrils out near your temples and hairline to soften the look and keep it from feeling too severe. For more ways to work with your natural grey, check out these short hairstyles for grey hair over 50.

Side Braid Half-Up, Half-Down

Gather just the top section of your hair, braid it loosely to one side, and pin it while the rest stays down. This one gives you the face-framing benefit of an updo with the easy, breezy feel of wearing your hair open. It’s a good way to keep hair off your face on a warm day without fully pulling it back.

Ribbon-Wrapped Side Braid

For a little extra personality, weave a thin ribbon into your side braid alongside your hair, or wrap it around the base once you’re finished. This small addition instantly makes an everyday braid feel a little more special, whether you’re headed to a birthday lunch or a garden party.

Side Braid for Medium-Length Layers

Layers add movement to a side braid instead of getting in the way of it — shorter face-framing pieces will naturally fall loose around your braid for a soft, textured finish. If your hair sits at this length, this is one of the most flattering ways to wear a side braid. Browse more ideas suited to this length in these medium length hairstyles for women over 50.

Side Braid with a Side-Swept Fringe

A side-swept fringe and a side braid were made for each other — both draw the eye in the same direction, creating one long, flattering line. Simply braid on the same side your fringe sweeps toward for the most cohesive look. This pairing works especially well if you’re growing out bangs and want them to look intentional.

Loose Side Braid with a Wide-Brim Hat

This is the ultimate low-effort, high-reward combination for sunny days. A simple, slightly messy side braid holds its shape under a hat all day long, so you never have to worry about your hair going flat. Tip: braid it the night before or first thing in the morning, and it’ll only look better as the day goes on.

Side Braid Tucked Behind One Ear

Braid a small side section, then tuck the tail behind your ear rather than letting it hang loose in front. This creates a clean, face-baring line on one side while the rest of your hair stays soft and open on the other. It’s a simple way to add asymmetry to a look that would otherwise be fairly plain.

Textured Side Braid for Second-Day Waves

If your waves already have some texture, braid a side section overnight and take it out the next morning for soft, undone waves with a built-in accent braid remaining near your part. This two-in-one styling trick saves serious time on busy mornings. It’s a favorite for anyone who prefers to prep their hair the night before.

Elegant Side Braid for Evening Wear

Dress this look up with a sleek, tighter side braid, a touch of shine serum, and a delicate hairpin or two to hold flyaways in place. Pair it with a long gown or your favorite statement earrings for a red-carpet-worthy finish. This version proves a side braid can go from casual to formal with just a few small adjustments. For more layered inspiration that pairs beautifully with an evening braid, take a look at these layered hairstyles for women over 50.