Crown Braids (Halo Braids): How to Do Them + 16 Styles

A crown braid, also called a halo braid, wraps around your head like a crown. It looks intricate but is surprisingly simple once you know the trick, and it works for everything from weddings and proms to hot summer days when you want hair off your neck.

Here’s how to do a crown braid two ways, plus 16 crown and halo braid styles to try.

How to Do a Crown Braid (Two-Braid Method)

This is the easiest method and works best on shoulder-length hair or longer.

Part your hair down the middle and clip one side out of the way.
Braid the first side. A Dutch braid (crossing strands under the middle) gives the most raised, crown-like look; a simple three-strand braid works too.
Secure the end with a small clear elastic, then repeat on the other side.
Lift one braid up and over the top of your head, a couple of inches back from your hairline, and pin it in place with bobby pins.
Bring the second braid over the opposite way, tuck its end under the first braid and pin.
Gently pull the edges of the braids to make them wider and hide the pins, then finish with a light mist of hairspray.

How to Do a Halo Braid (One-Braid Method)

For a seamless halo with no visible start or finish, use one continuous Dutch braid:

Start with a small section at one side of your hairline, above your ear.
Dutch braid along your hairline, adding hair from the hairline side as you go, working around the back of your head and up the other side.
When you reach your starting point, finish with a regular braid, secure it and tuck the end under the start of the braid.
Pin and loosen the braid to hide the join.

It takes practice, especially switching hand positions at the back, so don’t worry if your first try is uneven.

Crown and Halo Braid Styles to Try

1. Fishtail Crown Braid

Swap the three-strand braids for fishtail braids for a more delicate, textured crown that’s perfect for festivals.

2. Crown Braid with a Side Braid

Wrap a braid partway around your head and let the end hang over one shoulder. It keeps hair off your neck and gives you waves on day two.

3. Regal Crown Braid

A thick, full braid sitting high on the head looks like a literal crown. Pull the braid wide for extra drama.

4. Milkmaid Updo with Bangs

A milkmaid-style braided updo with a fringe softens the look and frames the face.

5. Half Crown for Mid-Length Hair

On shorter or mid-length hair, braid just across the top and pin it at the back. It’s great for casual nights out.

6. Quadruple Crown Braid

Split your hair into four sections, braid each one and layer them over each other for an intricate, woven crown.

7. Double Fishtail Crown

Two fishtail braids wrapped into a crown

Part down the middle, make two fishtail braids, then wrap them up and over your head and pin them in place. Longer hair makes a fuller crown.

8. Loose Crown Braid with Pins

Loose crown braid decorated with bobby pins

A loose, softly pulled crown braid with decorative pins, clips or a headband adds a little sparkle.

9. Dutch Fishtail Crown

A trickier version: a Dutch-style fishtail braided around the head. It takes more time, but the woven texture is worth it.

10. Lace Crown Braid with Flowers

Weave small flowers into a lace braid, or add a floral headband, for a romantic look that’s perfect for weddings and summer parties.

11. Half Halo Braid

Start from a side part and braid around just one side of your head, then tuck the end in. It’s a quick, subtle take on the full halo.

12. Messy Halo Braid

Tease a few sections before braiding, leave some pieces loose and pull the finished braid apart for a romantic, undone look.

13. Halo Braid with a Ponytail

Braid a halo around your head, leaving the rest of your hair in a full ponytail at the back. Set it high or low.

14. Halo Braid Updo

For formal events, curl your hair first, braid a lower halo and pin the remaining hair into a bun or small tucked braids.

15. Double Dutch Halo

Two stacked halo braids add dimension. Once you’ve mastered one halo, the second is easy.

16. Fishtail and Three-Strand Mix

Crown made from a fishtail and a three-strand braid

Pair a big, loose three-strand braid with a fishtail on the other side for a unique, glam crown that’s perfect for bridesmaids or prom.

Tips for a Better Crown Braid

Braid on second-day hair or add texturizing spray so the braid grips.
Use bobby pins that match your hair color and slide them in along the braid.
Pull the braid edges out gently (“pancaking”) to make it look fuller.
Leave out a few face-framing strands for a softer finish.

FAQs

What is the difference between a crown braid and a halo braid?

The names are often used interchangeably. Some people use “halo braid” for one continuous braid around the head and “crown braid” for two braids pinned over the top, but both create the same wrapped look.

Can you do a crown braid on short hair?

Yes, if your hair is about shoulder length. Try a half crown across the top, or braid along the hairline and pin the ends at the back.

How long does a crown braid last?

Usually a day or two. Sleep with a silk scarf or bonnet to keep it neat for a second day.

Do crown braids damage hair?

Not when they’re done gently. Avoid braiding very tightly, especially around your hairline, and give your hair a break between tight styles.

Final Thoughts

Crown braids are pretty, practical and easier than they look. For more braided looks, try our half-up, half-down braids or French braid guide.