Pose & style reference · Hairstyles
Braids
Also called: plaits, twin braids, side braid, 三つ編み
In short
A braid, or plait, is hair divided into strands that are crossed over each other in a repeating pattern to form one woven rope. The basic version uses three strands; variations change the number of strands, where the weave starts and how many braids are worn.
Reference photos
Photos are shown from mfan8.com with credit to the photographers and models. Tap a photo to open the full set.
What braids bring to a character
Braiding is one of the oldest ways of keeping long hair tidy, and that practical history colours how braids read in design. A single neat plait suggests diligence or a rural, hard-working background; twin braids worn with glasses are a classic shorthand for a studious, quiet student.
A loose side braid over one shoulder softens the face and feels gentle and mature, while a crown braid wrapped over the head borrows from folk costume and feels romantic.
Types of braid
| Braid | How it looks | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Three-strand | Simple chain of alternating bumps | Everyday, schoolgirl, rustic |
| French braid | Starts at the crown and gathers hair as it goes, lying flat | Neat and athletic |
| Dutch braid | Like a French braid but crossed under, so it sits raised | Bold, sporty |
| Fishtail | Two strands, many fine crossings, like a herringbone | Delicate, boho |
| Crown braid | A braid wrapped around the head like a headband | Folk, princess, romantic |
| Twin braids | One braid on each side, low or behind the ears | Studious, innocent, cosy |
| Braided accent | A thin braid at the temple within loose hair | Fantasy and elven designs |
How to draw braids
Start with a centre line for the braid's path, then draw a tapering tube around it. Fill the tube with alternating segments: each one is a rounded teardrop shape leaning left, then right, tucking under the previous one like a stack of overlapping leaves.
Segments get smaller toward the tie as less hair remains, and the braid should narrow overall. Finish with a band and a short loose tuft so it does not look like a rope cut off.
Where the braid leaves the head, draw the hair being pulled into it: strands converge from the scalp into the first crossing. Braids are stiffer than loose hair, so they swing as a single unit and bend in gentle arcs rather than sharp kinks.
Styling braids for cosplay and photos
On a wig, braid while the fibres are slightly damp and secure the ends with clear elastics. Pancaking, or gently pulling the outer loops wider, makes a braid look fuller in photos.
Bring braids forward over the shoulders when shooting from the front so they frame the face, or turn the model three-quarters away to show a French or crown braid from behind.
FAQ
What is the difference between a braid and a plait?
None in meaning. Plait is more common in British English and braid in American English.
How do I draw a braid that looks right?
Draw a tapering guide tube first, then fill it with alternating leaf-shaped segments that overlap in one direction.
What is the difference between French and Dutch braids?
Both add hair as they go. A French braid crosses strands over and lies flat; a Dutch braid crosses them under, so it stands out from the head.