14 Waterfall Braid Hairstyles

A waterfall braid earns its name honestly, hair cascades out of the braid instead of staying locked in, so it looks intricate while actually being one of the more forgiving braids to attempt. It works as a half-up style on its own or as a starting point for something bigger, like a bun or a crown wrap. Here are fourteen ways to wear it.

Classic Single Waterfall Braid

A single waterfall braid worked along the hairline from one side to the other, left loose at the back, is the most straightforward version of the style. The cascading strands do most of the visual work without any extra elements. A light-hold hairspray keeps the loose sections from unraveling too quickly.

Double Waterfall Braid

Two waterfall braids worked in parallel, one dropping strands into the space just above the other, create a fuller, more layered cascading effect. This version takes more time and a steadier hand than a single braid. It works especially well on hair with enough length to show off both rows clearly.

Waterfall Braid Into A High Ponytail

Starting the waterfall technique at the crown and gathering the remaining hair into a high ponytail combines two go-to styles into one polished look. Wrapping a small section around the elastic hides the base cleanly. This version holds up well through a full day of movement.

Waterfall Braid With Loose Waves

Adding waves to the hair before or after braiding helps the dropped strands blend more naturally into the rest of the style, rather than looking flat against straight hair. A curling wand on a medium barrel works well for this. This pairing suits both casual days and dressier events.

Diagonal Waterfall Braid

Angling the braid diagonally across the head rather than straight across creates a more dynamic, asymmetrical line. This version pairs especially well with a deep side part. It draws the eye across the face in a way a straight horizontal braid doesn't.

Waterfall Braid Crown

Worked all the way around the head rather than stopping at one ear, this version creates a half-crown effect with cascading strands framing the whole face. It takes practice to keep the tension even on both sides. This is a strong pick for weddings or other formal occasions.

Waterfall Braid With Face-Framing Pieces Left Out

Leaving a small section loose on each side of the face before starting the braid softens the overall look without changing the technique itself. This works particularly well for anyone who finds a full waterfall braid too severe near the hairline. A light texturizing spray on the loose pieces adds movement.

Waterfall Braid On Curly Hair

The natural volume and texture of curly hair gives the cascading sections extra body and a fuller, more dramatic look than the same braid on straight hair. Applying a curl cream beforehand helps prevent frizz as you work. This version tends to hold its shape especially well throughout the day.

Waterfall Braid Into A Low Bun

Starting the waterfall technique at the crown and finishing with the remaining hair twisted into a low bun creates an elegant, pulled-together updo. This combination works well for both daytime events and evening occasions. Securing the bun with pins hidden underneath keeps the finish clean.

Boho Waterfall Braid

A looser, slightly undone version of the waterfall braid, pulled gently at the edges after braiding for extra texture, fits a relaxed, festival-ready aesthetic. Pairing it with loose beachy waves throughout the rest of the hair completes the look. This version photographs especially well outdoors.

Waterfall Braid With Hair Jewelry

Threading small hair charms or thin metallic strands through the braid as you work adds a decorative element without changing the core technique. This works especially well for special occasions or festival styling. Keep the jewelry lightweight so it doesn't pull the braid loose throughout the day.

Half-Up Waterfall Braid

Working the waterfall braid across only the top section of hair while leaving the rest down entirely keeps the style casual and easy to recreate. This is one of the quickest versions to master since there's no additional bun or ponytail step. It suits everyday wear as easily as it does dressier occasions.

Waterfall Braid On Layered Hair

Layers add extra movement to the cascading sections as they fall, since the shorter pieces drop out of the braid at slightly different lengths than one-length hair would. This creates a more textured, dimensional effect. It works particularly well on hair with face-framing layers already built into the cut.

Waterfall Braid With Colored Highlights

Braiding hair that has balayage or highlights placed throughout lets the color itself become part of the cascading visual, with lighter pieces catching the eye as they drop from the braid. This works especially well when the highlights are concentrated where the braid will fall. No extra styling technique is needed beyond the braid itself.