23 Trendy Braid Hairstyles for Kids 2025: Fun, Protective, and Stylish Braids for Every Occasion
Braids have always been a fun, stylish, and protective way to manage kids’ hair, but in 2025, braid hairstyles are taking things to a whole new level of creativity. From classic three-strand braids to intricate heart-shaped cornrows and colorful butterfly braids, there’s a style for every personality and occasion. But which styles are trending this year? How can you ensure your child’s hair stays healthy while rocking these chic looks? In this article, we’ll explore 23 of the most exciting and practical braid hairstyles for kids in 2025. Whether you’re looking for something simple for everyday wear or a bold look for special occasions, we’ve got you covered with styles that are not only easy to maintain but also fun and trendy! Let’s dive into the braid trends your kids will love this year.
Classic Three-Strand Braids 2025
The classic three-strand braid is a timeless choice, simple yet elegant. Perfect for children with medium to long hair, this braid keeps hair neat and tidy. It suits most face shapes and works well with straight, wavy, or curly hair. It’s ideal for school days or casual outings.
For maintenance, apply Cantu Care for Kids Leave-In Conditioner before styling to detangle the hair, and finish with SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Spray for a polished look.
French Braids with Colorful Beads 2025
French braids with colorful beads bring fun and functionality to kids’ hairstyles. This style works great for kids with medium to long hair and can be done with straight or textured hair. It’s a great option for active kids, as it keeps the hair in place while adding a pop of color.
For this style, apply Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner to moisturize the hair before braiding, and finish with colorful beads at the ends for a playful finish.
Double Dutch Braids 2025
Double Dutch braids provide a sporty and chic look for kids, especially those with an active lifestyle. These braids are tight and secure, ideal for long days of playing or attending school. They work best with medium to long hair, whether it’s straight, wavy, or curly.
To achieve this look, use Cantu Care for Kids Curling Cream for a smooth braid, and finish with Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel to control flyaways and give a glossy shine.
Fishtail Braids with Ribbon Accents 2025
Fishtail braids give a delicate, mermaid-inspired look, and when paired with ribbon accents, they become even more playful. This style is perfect for special occasions like birthday parties or holidays and works best for medium to long hair.
Use Aunt Jackie’s Girls Knot Havin’ It Leave-In Detangling Treatment to prep the hair, and weave a bright ribbon through the braid for a whimsical touch. Finish with a light spritz of Cantu Shea Butter Kids Styling Gel to keep everything in place.
Cornrows with Side Parting 2025
Cornrows with a side parting offer a stylish twist to the traditional cornrow style. This hairstyle suits curly and textured hair and is both functional and fashionable. It’s a great option for keeping hair neat during school days or while playing sports.
For cornrows, use SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Kids Extra-Moisturizing Detangler before braiding, and finish with Blue Magic Originals Castor Oil Hair Grease to add shine and moisture to the scalp.
Box Braids for Kids 2025
Box braids are a protective style that is perfect for kids with thick, textured hair. These braids are created by sectioning the hair into square-shaped parts, giving it a neat and stylish look. This style is long-lasting, making it great for busy families.
Before braiding, use Taliah Waajid Protective Styles Bamboo & Coconut Milk Moisturizer to hydrate the hair, and finish with ORS Olive Oil Girls Flyaway Taming Gel to keep edges smooth and shiny.
Halo Braids with Floral Accessories 2025
Halo braids encircle the head like a crown and are a perfect choice for formal occasions or family gatherings. This ethereal style works well with straight to wavy hair and is often paired with accessories like flowers to enhance the look.
Apply SheaMoisture Kids Curl Butter Cream to the hair before braiding, and add a finishing touch with Floral Clips or Crowns to create a fairytale-like appearance.
Braided Pigtails with Twists 2025
Braided pigtails with twists offer a playful, youthful twist on traditional pigtails. This look combines small twists with classic braids, making it perfect for active kids who want a fun, secure hairstyle for school or playtime.
For styling, apply Mane Choice Kids Softening Lotion to add moisture and shine, and finish with Murray’s Beeswax for extra hold.
Crown Braids for Special Occasions 2025
Crown braids are the perfect formal hairstyle for kids attending weddings, parties, or other special occasions. This intricate style is suitable for kids with medium to long hair and works well with most hair textures.
For this look, use Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Conditioner for soft, manageable hair. Secure the style with floral pins or clips for an elegant finishing touch.
Waterfall Braids with Loose Curls 2025
Waterfall braids add an elegant, flowing style to any special occasion look. This braid weaves sections of hair into loose curls that cascade down. It’s perfect for kids with medium to long hair, especially if they have naturally wavy or curly textures.
Apply Cantu Care for Kids Curling Cream to define the curls and add shine, while finishing with Garnier Fructis Style Curl Shape Defining Spray Gel to maintain the structure of the braid and curls.
Braided Mohawk for Edgy Looks 2025
For kids who love edgy, stand-out styles, the braided Mohawk is a great option. This bold look features tight braids on the sides with the middle section left voluminous. It’s perfect for confident kids who like to make a statement and works well on thick, textured hair.
To create this style, use Mielle Organics Avocado Moisturizing Hair Milk to soften the hair and finish with ECO Styler Gel to maintain the sleek braids.
Zig-Zag Cornrows with Beads 2025
Zig-zag cornrows offer a fun and unique twist on traditional cornrows, adding a bit of flair with zig-zag patterns and colorful beads at the ends. This style works well for textured or curly hair and is perfect for kids who want a more playful look.
Before braiding, apply Taliah Waajid Kids Style & Shine to moisturize the hair, and finish with Colorful Beads at the ends for a fun and personalized touch.
Braided Ponytail with High Shine 2025
A braided ponytail is a sleek and polished look that works well for kids with long hair. It’s ideal for formal events or casual wear, and the high shine adds a sophisticated touch to the classic ponytail.
For this look, use Mizani Butter Blend Moisturizing Hair Cream for a smooth finish and a shine-enhancing spray like Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Shine Mist for the final touch.
Mini Braids with Curly Ends 2025
Mini braids with curly ends combine the elegance of braids with the playful look of bouncy curls at the ends. This style is great for kids with medium to long textured hair. It adds definition and dimension to the hairstyle.
For styling, use Aunt Jackie’s Knot on My Watch Instant Detangling Therapy to detangle before braiding, and finish with Camille Rose Naturals Curl Maker to define the curls.
Heart-Shaped Cornrows 2025
Heart-shaped cornrows are a unique and intricate style that can be personalized with fun patterns and designs. This style works well for kids with thick, textured hair and is great for special events where they want to stand out.
Use Murray’s Beeswax Hair Styling Wax to create precise braids, and finish with Luster’s Pink Oil Moisturizer to give the hair a healthy shine.
Butterfly Braids with Glitter Highlights 2025
Butterfly braids are a whimsical style that adds drama and flair to a child’s look. This style, combined with glitter highlights, is perfect for parties or performances. Butterfly braids work well on long, thick hair and can be accessorized with clips or glitter.
For styling, use Cantu Kids Curling Cream to give definition to the braids, and finish with Glitter Spray for a fun and sparkly effect.
Rope Braids for Everyday Wear 2025
Rope braids are a simple yet chic hairstyle for kids, especially for those with medium to long hair. This style twists two sections of hair together, giving it a rope-like appearance, perfect for school or casual outings.
Apply Cantu Care for Kids Detangler to smooth out the hair before braiding, and finish with OGX Smoothing + Shea Sleek Smooth Style Spray for added shine and hold.
Side Braids with Underbraid 2025
Side braids with an underbraid are a trendy, asymmetrical hairstyle that combines two different braiding techniques for a cool, modern look. This style works well on kids with long, thick hair and is ideal for both casual and semi-formal occasions.
Before braiding, apply Mixed Chicks Kids Leave-In Conditioner to hydrate the hair, and finish with Ampro Shine ‘n Jam Gel to maintain the sleekness of the braids.
Double French Braids with Ribbon 2025
Double French braids are an adorable and functional style that can be easily dressed up with the addition of a ribbon. This style is perfect for kids with medium to long hair and is ideal for school days or family outings.
Use SheaMoisture Kids Extra-Nourishing Conditioner to soften the hair before braiding, and finish by weaving a brightly colored ribbon through each braid for an extra touch of fun.
Braided Headbands 2025
Braided headbands are a stylish way to keep hair out of the face while adding an intricate detail to a child’s look. This style works for kids with medium to long hair, and it’s a great choice for both everyday wear and special occasions.
For styling, use Camille Rose Kids Curl Maker to define curls and provide moisture, and finish with Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Nourishing & Conditioning Styling Butter to smooth the braid and add shine.
Feed-in Braids for Added Volume 2025
Feed-in braids create the illusion of fuller, thicker braids by gradually adding hair as the braid progresses. This style is perfect for kids with thinner hair who want a more voluminous look, and it works well for both casual and formal occasions.
Use Murray’s Edgewax Extreme Hold to create a smooth and sleek braid, and finish with Cantu Shea Butter Grow Strong Strengthening Treatment for added shine and strength.
Twisted Box Braids for Easy Styling 2025
Twisted box braids are a protective and stylish option for kids with textured hair. This style is easy to maintain and works for both everyday wear and special occasions. The twists add dimension and texture to the traditional box braid style.
Use Kinky-Curly Knot Today Detangler to smooth out the hair before twisting, and finish with ORS Olive Oil Smooth-N-Hold Pudding for sleek, long-lasting results.
Bohemian Braids with Loose Waves 2025
Bohemian braids are a mix of braids and loose, wavy hair, creating a relaxed, carefree look. This style is perfect for kids with longer hair who want a more boho, free-spirited vibe. It’s ideal for special occasions or family photoshoots.
Apply SheaMoisture Kids Coconut & Hibiscus Curling Butter Cream to enhance natural waves, and use OGX Moroccan Curling Perfection Defining Cream to finish for long-lasting definition.
Conclusion
As you can see, 2025 brings a variety of fun, trendy, and protective braid styles for kids. From classic three-strand braids to unique designs like butterfly braids and heart-shaped cornrows, there’s something for every child’s personality and hair texture. Each hairstyle not only looks great but also helps protect your child’s hair from damage, all while being fun and stylish. Don’t hesitate to experiment with beads, ribbons, and accessories to personalize each look. Share your thoughts or favorite styles in the comments below!
