Winter is officially here, and you know what that means: cozy sweaters, endless cups of hot cocoa, and… hair that frizzes up the second you step outside. :/ Yeah, we’ve all been there. That’s why braid hairstyles are basically a lifesaver during winter. They’re cute, practical, and keep your hair in check when the weather is doing its absolute worst.
I’ve personally relied on braids more times than I can count—whether it’s taming static, looking cute under a beanie, or just faking the fact that I haven’t washed my hair in three days (don’t judge, we’ve all done it). And honestly? They’ve never let me down.
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So if you’re hunting for winter hairstyles that bring all the cozy vibes while keeping your look chic, you’re in the right spot. Here are 19 cozy winter braid hairstyles that will keep your style game strong—even when your toes are frozen.
1. The Classic French Braid
The French braid is timeless. It looks elegant, stays put all day, and works perfectly under a chunky scarf.
Keeps hair secure from the wind.
Gives off a polished-but-effortless vibe.
Pairs perfectly with oversized coats and knitted hats.
Ever tried one and felt like you were in a period drama? Yep, same.
2. Side-Swept Fishtail Braid
If you’re going for that romantic, Pinterest-worthy vibe, a side fishtail braid is your girl.
Works especially well with chunky sweaters.
Easy to dress up with accessories like ribbon or velvet scrunchies.
Loose fishtails scream winter fairy tale vibes.
Pro tip: Don’t stress if it’s messy—it actually looks better that way.
3. Dutch Braid Pigtails
Okay, I know what you’re thinking—pigtails sound childish. But trust me, Dutch braid pigtails give off major cool-girl energy.
They sit snug under earmuffs or a beanie.
They hold up during snowball fights (yes, tested).
They’re sporty, cozy, and practical.
Would I wear these to brunch? Absolutely.
4. Crown Braid
Want to feel like winter royalty? Try the crown braid.
Keeps all your hair tucked away—no tangles with scarves.
Works amazingly with long or medium-length hair.
Adds that frosted-queen look without trying too hard.
Honestly, nothing says “I woke up fabulous” like a crown braid.
5. The Messy Braid Bun
If you love the “I didn’t try, but actually I did” aesthetic, this one’s for you.
Braid your hair, twist it into a bun, and you’re done.
Cozy enough for coffee runs.
Fancy enough for a dinner date.
Bonus: hides greasy roots like a champ. 😉
6. Infinity Braid
Sounds dramatic, looks dramatic, but surprisingly easy.
Perfect for holiday parties.
Keeps things unique and eye-catching.
You’ll probably get at least one “Wait, how did you do that?” compliment.
IMO, it’s the braid that makes people assume you spent an hour getting ready (spoiler: you didn’t).
7. The Low Braided Ponytail
Simple, chic, and always flattering.
Ideal when you want your scarf to sit comfortably.
Easy to secure with a scrunchie.
Works for straight or wavy textures.
This is one of my go-tos when I literally have five minutes before leaving.
8. French Rope Twist
Technically not a braid, but twists count, right?
Looks sleek under winter hats.
Quick and beginner-friendly.
Adds texture and dimension to otherwise plain hair.
Perfect for lazy days when braiding feels like too much work.
9. Braided Top Knot
The braid + bun combo you didn’t know you needed.
Keeps hair off your neck (because overheating under scarves is real).
Stays secure even in wind.
Adds some edge to the basic bun.
It’s basically the multitasking braid of winter hairstyles.
10. Milkmaid Braids
Another fairytale classic.
Super warm because your hair frames your face like earmuffs.
Works great with winter makeup looks (rosy blush, anyone?).
Stays cute all day, even after pulling sweaters on and off.
If I could describe this in one word: dreamy.
11. Waterfall Braid
Want to look effortlessly romantic? Try this.
Pairs beautifully with soft waves.
Cute for date nights.
Works well even if your hair is shoulder-length.
Yes, it takes practice, but once you nail it, it’s addictive.
12. Braided Low Bun
This one’s all about sophistication + coziness.
Perfect for work-from-home Zoom calls.
Looks put together without effort.
You can tuck it under a beret for ultimate Parisian vibes.
Honestly, this hairstyle deserves its own latte art.
13. Pull-Through Braid
Not technically a “real braid,” but it fakes it pretty well.
Voluminous and chic.
Stays fluffy and cute, even with static.
Works well for long hair that needs structure.
Think: braid vibes, but with extra drama.
14. French Braid into Ponytail
Why choose between a braid and a ponytail when you can do both?
Perfect for sporty winter days.
Keeps hair sleek under hoods.
Adds detail without being too much.
If I had a dollar for every time I wore this to the gym in winter, I’d be… well, at least $20 richer. 😉
15. Rope Braided Pigtails
Another playful option that surprisingly works for adults.
Quick to do.
Easy to accessorize with scrunchies or clips.
Gives that cozy “après-ski” vibe.
Picture yourself sipping hot cocoa in a cabin—this is the hairstyle.
16. Braided Headband
Yes, you can literally make your hair your accessory.
Functional and stylish.
Keeps flyaways out of your face.
Works great with messy buns or loose hair.
Who needs an actual headband when your braid does the job?
17. Double French Braids into Bun
This one is secure enough to survive literally anything.
Great for snowboarding or skiing.
Keeps your hair tidy under helmets.
Still looks cute once you take your gear off.
Sporty, stylish, and super practical.
18. Boho Side Braid
Loose, flowy, and full of texture.
Perfect for casual winter weekends.
Easy to wear with chunky knits.
Effortlessly chic without being overdone.
Basically, if “cozy cottagecore winter” was a hairstyle, this is it.
19. Braided Space Buns
Yes, space buns. Yes, in winter.
Fun, quirky, and Instagram-ready.
Surprisingly warm because your ears stay covered.
Works with Dutch or French braids.
This one screams personality and confidence.
Tips for Rocking Winter Braids
Okay, so we’ve covered 19 braid styles. But how do you actually keep them looking good when the weather is basically out to ruin your life? A few quick hacks:
Use leave-in conditioner to fight static.
Switch to silk scrunchies so your hair doesn’t break under layers.
Don’t braid wet hair in freezing temps (unless you enjoy ice-hair, which, fair).
Accessorize with scarves, clips, or hats for added coziness.
Because a cute braid + frizz-free finish = ultimate winter win.
Conclusion
So, there you have it: 19 cozy winter braid hairstyles that keep you warm, stylish, and 100% ready for whatever the season throws at you. From the timeless French braid to playful space buns, there’s literally a braid for every mood, outfit, and winter activity.