Pigtails are one of the cutest and simplest ways to style your hair. Although a lot of people think they are only for little children, I can assure you that there are several ways to make the style suitable for you and your hair.
Pigtails are a hairstyle where your hair is parted on two sides, gathered, and secured with a hair elastic. Pigtail braids are rather similar but instead, each section of hair is split into three and braided together, then secured with an elastic band.
That is the most simple version of the style anyway; we have curated a list of the top 6 best pigtail braids that are suitable for every hair type – and are more than just your average braid.
Classic Pigtail Braid
Of course, we had to begin with the classic pigtail braid. This is the basic hairstyle (and probably easiest) and once you’ve learned how to do this style, you’ll find the rest much easier.
Braiding can be fiddly to start with, but once you are used to it it becomes one of the simplest things to do with your hair. To do this style, first part your hair into two sections, split down the middle or side (whichever is your preference).
Then take one half and split the hair into three pieces. Cross the middle section over the outside sections and repeat until you have a completed braid, then secure with a hair elastic to keep it in place!
Do the same on the other side and you will have yourself two adorable pigtail braids!
French Braids
French braids are more fiddly than regular braids, but again they get easier the more you do it. They also look super cute and sophisticated!
This style is also helpful for those with shorter hair, as the hair is intertwined from the top of the scalp, holding it in place. To do this hairstyle you first need to know how to do a basic braid.
Once you know this, split the hair into three sections as you would with a normal braid, but every time you cross the outside pieces, take a piece from the back of the head and add it to the section.
Keep adding hair to each section until the entire head of hair is in the braid.
Dutch Pigtails
This hairstyle is very similar to a french braid, but instead the braid is on the outside of the head. Essentially to do this style, you need to do a french braid but in the opposite direction.
It is like turning the french braid inside out. It sounds more complicated than it is, but don’t worry you’ll get the hang of it!
Rope Pigtail Braids
Rope pigtail braids are probably the easiest pigtails you could do. You don’t even need to know how to achieve a regular braid to do them! All you need are good twisting skills!
For this super cute and unique hairstyle, split your hair into two sections on either side of your head. Then go to one side and split that section into two pieces. Twist these pieces in the same direction.
Once they are completely twisted, take them both and cross them over, in the opposite direction that you twisted it. You must do this in opposite ways, otherwise, the twist won’t stay put, and the style will fall out.
Then, as always, secure with a hair elastic at the end!
Fishtail Braids
Fishtail braids are gorgeous and unique, and easier to achieve than you might expect! The name comes from the fact that the style imitates the look of a fish’s tail. Separate the hair into two sections for the pigtails, then focus on one of these.
Split this section into two. Take a strand (small section of hair) from each section and pull it behind the rest of the hair. Repeat until you have a completed fishtail braid. Then do the same process on the other half of your hair to create pigtails!
Faux Fishtail
This type of braid will give the same effect as a fishtail braid, except it is a lot easier to achieve. It is a lot simpler because instead of braiding, a technique is used with hair elastics. To do this split the hair into two equal sections, and focus on one side.
Begin the same as you would with a fishtail braid and part the hair into two sections. Gather each and secure them with an elastic creating a ponytail. Make a hole in the ponytail and flip the rest of the hair through.
Create another ponytail lower than the last, make a hole, and flip the rest of the hair through once again. Keep repeating this process until you are finished!
Final Thoughts
There are so many ways to elevate and switch up the average pigtail braid, and hopefully, you can take inspiration from one of the above-mentioned to use with your hair! Who said braids are just for little kids?! Go on, try out some of these styles for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pigtail Braids Unprofessional?
Although typically they are seen as ‘childish’ and maybe unprofessional, it all depends on the type of braid. French, Dutch, and other types of pigtail braids create a sophisticated and professional look.
Are Pigtails Braids Childish?
Although often perceived as a hairstyle for children, maturity doesn’t lie within the style of hair. With that being said, the hairstyle is often connoted with innocence.
Do Pigtail Braids Make You Look Younger?
Pigtails are a hairstyle that is often associated with children and thus will help to create a younger image on any person.
Hi, my name is Miranda Cole, and I’ve been working in the makeup industry for the last 10 years. I began my journey as a beautician, and now I specialize in both makeup and hair.
Over the last 10 years, I have watched as the latest trends change, and have seen the evolution of beauty and makeup in particular. As a result of this, I have a good knowledge of different makeup products, and hairstyles that will suit specific complexions or face shapes.
I want Fabulyst to be an extension of my day job, so that I can help educate others on everything they need to know about fashion and beauty. From the latest style pieces to wear, to the best hairstyles, I will be covering everything there is to know.
