20 Braided Hairstyles That Look Great With Short Hair

Short hair doesn’t mean limited styling options! Braids can add flair, texture, and a fresh twist to your cropped cut.

From edgy micro braids to romantic crown styles, there’s a braided look for every short-haired person. Ready to transform your short locks with some amazing braids?

1. French Braid Pixie

French braids aren’t just for long locks! Starting at the crown and working with the longer top section of a pixie cut creates a stunning contrast against the shorter sides.

Your stylist can add a bit of texturizing spray for better grip when braiding such short strands.

2. Cornrow Bob

Cornrows paired with a bob create a striking look that’s both elegant and edgy. The tight, neat rows add texture while maintaining the clean lines of your bob haircut.

You can go for uniform rows or mix up the pattern for a more personalized style.

3. Braided Bangs

Transform ordinary bangs into a standout feature! A small braid along your fringe adds unexpected detail to your short cut.

Keep the rest of your hair sleek or tousled – either way, the braided bang becomes your style’s focal point.

4. Side-Swept Dutch Braid

A Dutch braid sweeping across one side of your head creates gorgeous dimension for short styles. Unlike French braids, Dutch braids stand out more prominently against short hair.

Start the braid near your part and work diagonally toward the nape for a face-framing effect.

5. Micro Braids with Undercut

Tiny braids woven through the longer top section of an undercut create an eye-catching contrast. The braided top against a clean-shaven undercut offers serious edge!

Add metallic cuffs or colorful threads to the braids for extra personality and visual interest.

6. Braided Mohawk

Rock a braided mohawk for a bold statement! The center section gets braided tightly while the sides remain short and sleek.

This style works with various braid types – try a fishtail or Dutch braid down the center for different textures and visual impact.

7. Crown Braid

Crown braids aren’t just for long hair! Short locks can rock this regal style too. The braid circles your head like a natural headband, creating an elegant frame for your face.

Bobby pins and a strong-hold hairspray are your best friends for securing shorter pieces.

8. Box Braids Bob

Box braids cut to bob length offer versatility and protection while looking absolutely fabulous. The weightiness of the braids creates gorgeous movement and swing.

Choose thinner braids for a more delicate look or thicker ones for bold statement style.

9. Accent Braid Pixie

A single accent braid adds unexpected flair to a classic pixie cut. Place it along the side for subtle detail or right down the center for a bold statement.

This style works beautifully with highlighted or color-contrasting hair to make the braid pop!

10. Braided Headband

Create a natural headband effect by braiding a section from ear to ear across your crown. The rest of your short hair remains free, creating a lovely contrast.

This style keeps hair off your face while adding a touch of bohemian charm to your short cut.

11. Two-Strand Twists

Two-strand twists offer a fantastic protective style for short natural hair. They’re easier to create than complex braids yet deliver similar texture and visual interest.

Leave them in for a few days, then unravel for amazing twist-out curls as a bonus second style!

12. Fishtail Accent

A delicate fishtail braid adds unexpected texture to a bob or lob. The intricate pattern stands out beautifully against the simplicity of a short cut.

Try placing it along your part or tucked behind one ear for a subtle yet striking detail.

13. Braided Top Knot

Short-haired folks can rock a top knot too! Braid the longer top section before wrapping it into a small bun for added texture and stability.

This style works wonderfully for growing out a pixie or undercut, making awkward growth phases look intentionally cool.

14. Zigzag Braided Part

Transform a basic part into a standout feature with a zigzag pattern and tiny braids along it. This unexpected detail elevates even the simplest short cuts.

The contrast between the geometric part and soft hair texture creates visual interest from every angle.

15. Lemonade Braids Bob

Inspired by Beyoncé but adapted for shorter lengths! These side-swept cornrows create a dramatic asymmetrical look when cut to bob length.

The directional braiding draws attention to your face while the bob length keeps the style fresh and modern.

16. Braided Space Buns

Double the fun with twin braided buns! Braid the top sections of your short cut before twisting them into mini buns positioned high on your head.

This playful style works for festivals, casual outings, or anytime you want to add some whimsy to your look.

17. Waterfall Braid Bob

The waterfall braid creates a magical cascading effect even with shorter locks. Strands appear to float horizontally across your bob, creating dimension and movement.

This romantic style works beautifully for special occasions or whenever you want to elevate your everyday bob.

18. Fulani Braids Pixie

Adapt traditional Fulani braids to shorter lengths for a stunning cultural fusion. The center part with decorative braids framing the face works beautifully with pixie-length hair.

Add beads or cuffs to the braids for authentic detail and personal expression.

19. Hidden Undercut Braids

Secret braids hidden beneath the top layer create a peek-a-boo effect when you tuck your hair behind your ear. This subtle style offers versatility – show it off or cover it up.

The contrast between sleek outer layers and textured braids underneath provides delightful visual interest.

20. Braided Pompadour

Combine vintage vibes with modern braiding by creating a braided pompadour. The front section gets volume and height while incorporating a braid for added texture

This style works especially well for those growing out bangs or front layers.