21 Gorgeous Dutch Braid Hairstyles
Dutch braids—also known as reverse French braids or inside-out braids—create stunning texture and dimension by weaving strands under rather than over.
This technique produces a braid that sits on top of your hair, creating beautiful raised patterns that are perfect for showcasing your styling creativity.
Ready to elevate your braiding game?
These 21 gorgeous Dutch braid hairstyles will help you master this versatile technique.
1: Classic Single Dutch Braid
This foundational style features one continuous Dutch braid running from your forehead to nape.
The raised pattern creates a beautiful texture while keeping hair securely contained for all-day wear.
Begin at your hairline, divide your hair into three sections, and consistently cross strands under rather than over.
This versatile style works beautifully for all hair lengths beyond chin length.
After finishing, pull slightly at the edges for a fuller, more dramatic braid that showcases the distinctive raised pattern.
2: Double Dutch Braids
This playful style features two parallel Dutch braids running from your hairline to the ends.
The symmetrical approach creates a balanced, sporty look perfect for workouts or casual outings.
Divide your hair down the middle, then create a Dutch braid on each side by consistently crossing under rather than over.
This practical style keeps hair completely contained while showcasing the beautiful raised pattern.
Secure with clear elastics and pull gently at the edges for maximum fullness and texture.
3: Dutch Braid Crown
This romantic style features a Dutch braid wrapped around your head like a crown.
The halo effect creates an elegant, feminine look perfect for special occasions or bohemian vibes.
Begin a Dutch braid at one temple, continue around your head to the opposite side, and pin it securely.
This face-framing style works particularly well for medium to long hair.
Add fresh flowers or decorative pins throughout the crown for special event enhancement.
4: Half-Up Dutch Braid
This versatile style features a Dutch braid running along your crown while leaving the rest of your hair loose.
The partial updo creates beautiful texture at the top while maintaining length and volume throughout the rest.
Create a Dutch braid with just the top section of your hair, securing with an elastic at the back of your crown.
This balanced style offers the perfect combination of security and flowing hair.
Add curls or waves to the loose portion for beautiful contrast against the sleek braided section.
5: Dutch Braid Pigtails
This youthful style features two Dutch braids starting at your hairline and continuing to your ends in a pigtail formation.
The playful approach creates a casual, everyday look with distinctive texture.
Part your hair down the middle, then create Dutch braids on each side, continuing to the ends.
This practical style works well for all hair lengths beyond shoulders.
Leave a few face-framing pieces loose for a softer, more romantic effect.
6: Dutch Braid into Messy Bun
This effortless-looking style features a Dutch braid that leads into a thoughtfully disheveled bun.
The combination creates texture and security with a fashionably undone finish.
Create a Dutch braid to crown or nape from your hairline, then gather the remaining hair into a messy bun.
This versatile style transitions perfectly from day to evening events.
Loosen strands around your face and from the bun for that perfect “done but not too done” aesthetic.
7: Side Dutch Braid
This asymmetrical style features a single Dutch braid positioned along one side of your head.
The off-center placement creates a modern, fashion-forward appeal with practical hair control.
Begin a Dutch braid at your side part, continuing down along one side of your head to the ends.
This flattering style particularly complements oval and heart-shaped faces.
Secureit with a decorative elastic or wrap a small section of hair around the elastic for a more polished finish.
8: Dutch Braided Bangs
This face-framing style incorporates your bangs into a Dutch braid along your hairline.
The technique keeps hair off your face while creating beautiful texture along the front of your head.
Begin a Dutch braid with just your bangs section, continuing along your hairline and securing behind your ear.
This practical style offers a solution for growing out bangs or keeping hair away from your face.
Continue the rest of your hair in a ponytail or bun, or leave it loose, depending on your preference.
9: Dutch Braid Mohawk
This edgy style features a Dutch braid running from your forehead to nape along the center of your head.
The sides remain sleek while the central braid creates height and drama resembling a mohawk.
Create a section from forehead to nape, then Dutch braid this central portion while keeping the sides smooth.
This bold style creates maximum impact for fashion-forward occasions.
Secure the sides with bobby pins or sleek with gel for the most dramatic mohawk effect.
10: Dutch Braid Headband
This practical style features a Dutch braid running along your hairline like a headband. The technique keeps hair off your face while creating a beautiful braided detail.
Begin a Dutch braid at one temple, continuing along your hairline and securing behind the opposite ear.
This versatile style works for all hair lengths and pairs beautifully with both casual and formal outfits.
Add a decorative pin where you secure the braid for an extra special touch.
11: Dutch Fishtail Combination
This intricate style begins as a Dutch braid and transitions into a fishtail braid.
The combination creates varied texture and visual interest throughout a single braid.
Start with a traditional Dutch braid technique, then switch to a fishtail pattern partway down.
This detailed style showcases your braiding skills and creates stunning dimension.
Pull gently at both sections after finishing to emphasize the different texturing techniques.
12: Stacked Dutch Braids
This dimensional style features multiple Dutch braids stacked vertically on your head.
The layered approach creates exceptional texture and volume, perfect for special events.
Create several parallel Dutch braids, one above the other, securing each individually.
This showstopping style works particularly well for those with thick hair or extensions.
Pull gently at each braid for maximum fullness and to emphasize the beautiful stacked effect.
13: Dutch Braid Updo
This elegant style incorporates Dutch braiding into a sophisticated updo.
The textured braiding creates interest and security within a polished, formal style.
Create one or multiple Dutch braids, then wrap and pin them into an updo formation. This versatile technique creates a beautiful texture while keeping hair completely secured for special events.
Add decorative pins or fresh flowers for wedding or formal occasion enhancement.
14: Dutch Braid Ponytail
This sporty-chic style features a Dutch braid that leads into a ponytail.
The combination creates texture at the crown with the practicality and swing of a ponytail.
Create a Dutch braid from your hairline to crown, then gather all hair, including the braid end, into a ponytail. This practical style is suitable for both athletic activities and casual outings.
Wrap a section of hair around the elastic for a more polished, put-together finish.
15: Five-Strand Dutch Braid
This advanced style incorporates five strands into the Dutch braiding technique. The complex pattern creates exceptional texture and visual interest for special occasions.
Divide your hair into five sections, then Dutch braid by consistently crossing under rather than over. This intricate style creates maximum impact for formal events.
Practice this technique on visible sections like a side braid before attempting it on the back of your head.
16: Dutch Braid with Ribbon
This decorative style incorporates a colorful ribbon into a traditional Dutch braid.
The ribbon adds color and dimension while complementing the raised pattern of the Dutch technique.
Add the ribbon as an additional strand as you create your Dutch braid, weaving it throughout the pattern.
This customizable style allows you to coordinate with your outfit or add seasonal colors.
Choose a ribbon that complements your hair color for subtle enhancement or contrasting colors for bold statements.
17: Zigzag Dutch Braid
This playful style features a Dutch braid that follows a zigzag pattern across your head. The unexpected direction creates visual interest and unique texture.
Create a zigzag part, then Dutch braid following this pattern from one side to the other. This creative approach adds personality to the traditional Dutch braid technique.
Secure it with bobby pins throughout to maintain the distinctive zigzag shape and direction.
18: Dutch Braid Space Buns
This trendy style features Dutch braids that lead into space buns positioned high on your head.
The combination creates texture and security with a playful, fashionable finish.
Create Dutch braids on each side of a center part, continuing to just above your ears, then wrap the ends into buns.
This youthful style works beautifully for festivals or casual outings.
Pull gently at the braided sections for fullness while keeping the buns sleek fora balanced texture.
19: Dutch Braid Accent
This subtle style incorporates a small Dutch braid as an accent within an otherwise simple hairstyle.
The single braid creates visual interest without overwhelming your overall look.
Create one small Dutch braid in a strategic location—along your part, at your temple, or wherever you prefer.
This versatile technique works with virtually any hairstyle, from downdos to updos.
Secure it with bobby pins that match your hair color for a seamless, integrated appearance.
20: Double Dutch Braid Bun
This sophisticated style features two Dutch braids that meet and twist into a bun.
The combination creates a beautiful texture throughout with a polished, secured finish.
Create Dutch braids on each side of your head, bringing them together at the nape and twisting the ends into a bun.
This elegant style works beautifully for professional settings or special events.
Secure it with plenty of bobby pins, and finish with hairspray for all-day hold.
21: Loop Dutch Braid
This distinctive style incorporates loops within a traditional Dutch braid pattern.
The dimensional technique creates exceptional visual interest and unique texture.
Create a Dutch braid, occasionally forming loops with one section before continuing the braid.
This creative technique adds unexpected detail to the traditional Dutch braid.
Secure loops with small, clear elastics or bobby pins to maintain their shape throughout wear.
Conclusion
Dutch braids offer endless possibilities for creating textured, secure, and beautiful hairstyles.
