Adding color and texture to your hair with Ribbon Braid Hairstyles is a gorgeous way to give your look a feminine twist. For example, weaving a ribbon into a classic three-strand or intricate fishtail braid can instantly elevate even a simple hairstyle.
Moreover, there are many ways to experiment with ribbon braids, including romantic French braids, sophisticated braided crowns, playful pigtails, and elegant side braids. To create different looks, choose a silky satin ribbon for a delicate finish or opt for a velvet ribbon for a richer touch.
Whether you’re getting ready for everyday wear or a special event, these 10 Ribbon Braid Hairstyles for Women will give you plenty of inspiration. From weddings and parties to casual outings, most of these styles can also be adapted to suit different hair lengths and hair types.
For more everyday styling inspiration, explore these 10 Cute Hairstyles With Scrunchies for Every Day.
10 Beautiful Ribbon Braid Hairstyles for Women
1. Classic Three-Strand Braid With Ribbon
One of the easiest ways to add ribbons to your hair is by creating a simple three-strand braid. This simple technique not only looks pretty but also adds a delicate touch to your hairstyle.
To begin, gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with a small hair elastic. Next, wrap a long ribbon around the elastic and divide your ponytail into three sections. Then, incorporate the ribbon into one section and braid your hair as usual. As you braid, the ribbon will weave through your hair, creating a beautiful decorative effect.
Once you’ve finished, secure the braid with a small elastic and tie the remaining ribbon into a delicate bow. For a romantic look, choose a pastel pink, ivory, or cream ribbon. Alternatively, pick a contrasting color to make your braid stand out!
If you’re looking for festive inspiration, these 10 Holiday Party Hairstyles for Medium Hair That Look Elegant will help you create a beautiful look for every celebration.
2. French Braid With a Satin Ribbon
A French braid with a ribbon creates a beautiful and elegant look, making it perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions. As you braid, the ribbon weaves through your hair, adding a delicate and stylish touch.
To begin, take a small section of hair near the crown and divide it into three strands. Next, tie the ribbon near the top and weave it into one of the strands. Then, start creating a French braid with ribbon, gradually adding small sections of hair from both sides as you work your way down.
Once you reach the back of your head, continue with a classic three-strand braid to the ends. Finally, secure it with a clear elastic and tie the remaining ribbon into a pretty bow for an elegant finish.
This works really well with a thin ribbon in a pastel colour such as blush, champagne or soft lavender.
For more beautiful braided hairstyle inspiration, explore our 10 Crown Braid Hairstyles for Everyday Wear to discover elegant and romantic looks that can also be styled for holiday parties.
3. Dutch Braids With Ribbon Weave
If you love textured hairstyles then why not try some ribbon Dutch braids! The difference between a French braid and a Dutch braid is that the strands are crossed over underneath to create that nice lifted effect.
First, part your hair down the middle to create two equal sections. Next, tie a ribbon at the top of each section and divide the hair into three strands. Then, begin creating Dutch braids with ribbon, crossing the outer strands under the middle strand for a beautiful woven look.
Ensure that the ribbon is in one section so that it shows through the braid. Continue braiding on both sides and tie the ends up with tiny elastics.
If you go with pastel coloured ribbons you’ll get a fun look but if you opt for black, burgundy or navy you’ll get a more elegant finish. This is a beautiful choice for festivals, or just an easy hairstyle to wear for casual days out.
For more beautiful everyday hair inspiration, explore our 15 Hairstyles for Medium Hair With Curtain Bangs to discover effortless looks that are both stylish and easy to recreate.
4. Romantic Fishtail Braid With Ribbon
To create a fishtail braid, divide your hair into two sections and weave small strands from each side to form an intricate pattern. Adding a contrasting ribbon makes these Ribbon Braid Hairstyles look even more beautiful. This style also looks especially stunning on long hair because it highlights the detailed fishtail design.
Take all your hair over one shoulder and split into two even sections. Add a ribbon to the bottom of your hair and place it next to one of the sections.
First, take a small section of hair from the outer edge of the left side and cross it over to the right. Next, repeat the same step on the opposite side. Continue alternating between both sides until you create a beautiful fishtail braid. Finally, make sure the ribbon remains visible throughout the braid for a pretty finish.
Secure the braid using an elastic. Take the ribbon and tie into a small bow. Then gently undo a few sections to make it fuller.
A deep red, dusty pink or ivory ribbon looks beautiful on blonde, brunette or dark hair.
For more everyday hair inspiration, explore our 10 Simple Hairstyles for Medium Straight Hair to discover easy, stylish looks that are perfect for any occasion.
5. Braided Crown With Ribbon
This pretty, romantic look features a ribbon woven into a beautiful crown braid. It is one of the most elegant Ribbon Braid Hairstyles for special occasions, whether you’re getting married, attending a garden party, or celebrating a memorable event.
Split your hair into two sections using a centre part. Plait each section into a traditional 3 strand plait and add the ribbon into each plait.
Secure the ends with small elastic bands. Take the first plait over the top of your head and secure with some bobby pins. Repeat with the second plait so that it creates a crown.
Tuck the ends under the other plait and secure. Tweak the ribbon so it looks nice and prominent.
Use a pale ivory or champagne ribbon to create an elegant look or for a more fun look, use a blush pink ribbon.
6. Side Braid With Flowing Ribbon
This is a really easy way to create a simple, relaxed look. The braid can be worn across one shoulder with loose ends on the ribbon.
Start by putting your hair over one shoulder. Then simply braid loosely in three strands. Tie the ribbon to the top using a little elastic or tuck securely under the braid.
Add the ribbon to one of the three strands and continue braiding down to the ends. Keep it fairly loose.
Tie the bottom with a little elastic. Leave the ribbon long enough so that you have soft ends.
This looks great with loose waves and layers around the face. Pick a floral ribbon for a romantic look during the day or a dark velvet ribbon for an evening look.
7. Ribbon Braided Pigtails
One playful option to try is ribbon braided pigtails, which add a fun touch to classic braids with colorful ribbons. These Ribbon Braid Hairstyles are perfect for everyday wear, sunny summer days, festivals, and relaxed weekends.
Split your hair down the middle. Attach a ribbon to the bottom of each piece. Split into 3 strands.
Add the ribbon to 1 strand and braid traditionally. Ensure both sides are even and the ribbon shows through.
Secure the ends using little elastic bands. Add matching bows.
Choose pastel colours such as pink, lavender, baby blue and butter yellow for a soft fun look. Alternatively choose 2 contrasting colours for a more creative look.
8. Half-Up Braided Hairstyle With Ribbon
A half up plait with ribbon will keep your hair loose but add pretty patterns.
Take a small section of hair from each side of your hair just above your ears and plait. Add a narrow ribbon whilst plaiting.
First, braid each section of hair and bring both braids together at the nape of your neck. Next, secure them with a small elastic band. Finally, attach a pretty ribbon bow to cover the elastic and complete this beautiful hairstyle.
Leave your remaining hair loose. Or add some gentle waves.
This works well with medium to long hair. Using a pretty satin ribbon in cream, blushed or lavender adds a very romantic touch.
9. Waterfall Braid With Ribbon Accents
A water fall braid features flowing sections and would look very pretty if you wish to keep most of your hair loose.
Starting with 3 small strands of hair, begin a classic French braid by adding hair as you move towards the opposite side of your head.
As you braid, let the bottom strand fall and then replace this with another section of hair from above. Take a thin ribbon and weave this into 1 of the strands. Secure the ribbon in place using a small pin at the start.
Braid across the back of the head and secure the last section using a clear elastic and bobby pin.
The ribbon will add a subtle detail but will not block the flowing effect. Using soft pink, pearl white and champagne ribbons work really well.
10. Braided Ponytail With a Ribbon Wrap
This easy to recreate ponytail has a braided section and a ribbon!
Brush your hair back and tie up a high/low ponytail. Attach a hair elastic. Add a ribbon underneath the ponytail.
Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and braid. Wrap this around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic. Secure with a bobby pin.
Next, divide the remaining ponytail into three sections. Then, weave the ribbon into one section and continue braiding down to the ends. Finally, secure the braid with a small elastic for a neat finish.
Any extra ribbon can be wrapped around the bottom or tied into a bow.
Use a black satin ribbon to keep the look sleek and elegant. A burgundy or dusty blue will give it a more soft look.
How to Choose the Right Ribbon for Your Braid
The right ribbon can make a big difference in how your finished hairstyle looks. Consider the braid technique, hair texture, and occasion before choosing an accessory.
- Satin ribbon: Smooth and shiny, making it a beautiful choice for French braids, fishtails, and romantic hairstyles.
- Velvet ribbon: Adds a rich, textured finish that works particularly well for fall hairstyles, parties, and formal looks.
- Grosgrain ribbon: Has a ribbed texture and a more structured appearance, making it useful when you want a bow that holds its shape.
- Chiffon ribbon: Lightweight and delicate, ideal for soft, flowing hairstyles and decorative accents.
For most Ribbon Braid Hairstyles, choose a ribbon that is narrow enough to stay visible without covering too much of your natural hair. A width of around ¼ to ½ inch is a good starting point. However, the ideal size depends on your braid thickness and the look you want to achieve.
Choose a length that comfortably covers the braid and leaves enough extra fabric for securing or tying a bow.
Tips for Keeping Ribbon Braids Secure and Neat
A beautifully woven ribbon braid should feel comfortable and stay in place without pulling on your hair.
Here are a few helpful tips:
- Secure the ribbon first: Attach it to a hair elastic or use a discreet bobby pin before beginning your braid.
- Keep the ribbon flat: Avoid twisting the fabric as you cross the hair sections.
- Use gentle tension: Braid firmly enough to hold the style but avoid pulling tightly against your scalp.
- Choose the right fabric: If a very smooth ribbon keeps slipping, try a slightly textured option.
- Use small elastics: Clear or hair-colored elastics help secure the braid without distracting from the ribbon.
- Finish with discreet pins: Bobby pins can help hold crown braids and half-up styles in place.
- Avoid excessive product: A small amount of styling cream or light-hold spray can help manage flyaways without making the hair stiff.
If you are new to ribbon braiding, begin with a simple three-strand braid before trying more detailed French, Dutch, or fishtail techniques.
For more inspiration, explore this easy ribbon braiding tutorial.
Final Thoughts
Adding ribbons to your hair is a lovely way to bring creativity to everyday Ribbon Braid Hairstyles. You can weave them into a traditional three-strand braid or create a romantic braided crown. Moreover, there are plenty of ways to incorporate ribbons into your favorite hairstyles for a fresh and feminine look.
Try experimenting with different types of fabric, colours and braids to see what works best with your hair type and personal style. Using a plain ribbon gives you the perfect way to add a touch of elegance to your hairstyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Secure one end of the ribbon near the beginning of your braid using a hair elastic or bobby pin. Divide your hair into three sections, incorporate the ribbon into one section, and braid as usual. Keep the ribbon flat and visible as you cross the strands.
Satin, velvet, and grosgrain ribbons are popular choices. Satin creates a smooth, elegant appearance, velvet adds texture, and grosgrain offers a more structured finish.
Yes! Attach a ribbon near the starting point of your French braid and incorporate it into one of the three sections. Continue adding hair from both sides while keeping the ribbon visible.
Secure the ribbon with a small elastic or discreet bobby pin before braiding. Incorporate it into several braid crossings and avoid using a ribbon that is too slippery for your hair texture.
Yes. Shorter hair can work with small accent braids, half-up braided styles, and side braids. Choose a narrow ribbon and keep the braid close to the head for easier styling.
Absolutely. Braided crowns, romantic fishtails, and half-up braids with champagne, ivory, or blush ribbons are lovely options for wedding guests and other special occasions.
Choose a ribbon long enough to cover the braided section with additional length for securing the ends or creating a bow. Longer braids generally require longer ribbons.
Yes. Velvet ribbon adds a rich, textured appearance to braided hairstyles. It works particularly well with Dutch braids, braided ponytails, and romantic updos.
