Pigtails are a childhood classic, and braiding them makes them neater, longer-lasting and much more fun. This gallery collects twenty braided pigtail styles for girls, ranging from beginner-friendly ribbon-intertwined ponytails and stacked waterfall ponies to ambitious designs like a double heart braid, spider-web French braids, basket-weave buns and chain link rope braids.
Hair length and thickness decide what is possible. The snake braids, double twist buns and chain link styles need long, thick hair, while the four-braid ribbon lacing works on short, medium or long hair. Curly and coily hair suits chunky double buns secured with bobble elastics or loose curly ponytails with a diagonal part, which keep tension low.
Think about comfort, too. Tight braids can pull on young scalps, so keep tension moderate and avoid styles that leave red marks. For special occasions such as weddings, flower girl duties or school photos, ribbons, bows and small flowers dress the braids up instantly. Everyday styles should be quick enough to complete before school without tears.
1. Criss-Crossed Low Ponytails with Ribbons
Two inside-out French braids are criss-crossed at the back and finished as low ponytails, creating an unusual design. A pretty ribbon woven through takes the look up a notch. It suits girls with long hair.
Inspiration: @Instagram
2. Braids, Buns and Bows
A basket-weave braid using four or more strands runs down each side of a centre parting before being twisted into small buns. Hair bows on top finish the look. It takes practice but makes an inspiring style.
Inspiration: @Instagram
3. Double Heart Braid
A double heart braid looks complicated but is surprisingly doable. The outer braid is created first, then the inner one, before both are secured into pigtails. Woven ribbon and purple flowers make it perfect for a flower girl.
Inspiration: @Instagram
4. Asymmetrical Flower Girl Hairstyle
Braids curve around the head in a basket-weave pattern and end in soft ponytails, breaking away from symmetrical pigtails. Bright accessories make the look extra sweet. It is ideal for parties or weddings. Use soft elastics so the ponytails stay secure without pulling.
Inspiration: @Instagram
5. Four Braids with Ribbon Lacing
Four tight braids laced with ribbon create a crisp, symmetrical look. Swap ribbon colours to match any outfit. Girls with short, medium or long hair can wear it, and all you need are elastics and two long ribbons.
Inspiration: @Instagram
6. Braid and Twist Combo
Three diagonal twists on top feed into one of two braided ponytails for a chic combination. Giant neon bows finish it with personality. It looks impressive while staying secure all day. Mist the twists lightly with water before starting so they hold their shape.
Inspiration: @Instagram
7. Double Twists with Double Buns
A twist on top and one below connect to pigtail buns on either side. Long, thick hair is needed for the buns. Colour-coordinated ribbons give a soft finishing touch. Pin the ribbons in after the buns are secured so they stay neatly in place.
Inspiration: @Instagram
8. Braid Split into Pigtails
A single French braid splits into two at the crown, requiring careful sectioning and skill. Ribbons and flowers make it ideal for spring or summer. Accessories can turn a simple braid into something intricate. Use small clear elastics at the split point so the braid stays tidy.
Inspiration: @Instagram
9. Criss-Crossing Pigtails and Lacy Buns
Six mini ponytails woven together climb up the back and end in two fluffy buns on top. Pink bands and ribbons make the twin tails pop. It holds well for active days. Use snag-free bands so taking the style out later is painless.
Inspiration: @brownhairedbliss
10. Braids of the Future
Loose strands are pulled out and braided back in to create a spider-web effect on French braided pigtails. The futuristic look is great for Halloween but needs a confident braider. Practise the basic French braid first.
Inspiration: @Instagram
11. Classy Ribbon-Intertwined Ponies
High ponytails on each side are wrapped with ribbon all the way down. Almost any skill level can achieve it, yet it looks sophisticated. Choose ribbons in colours that match the outfit. Tie the ribbon ends in small bows at the bottom for a sweet finish.
Inspiration: @Instagram
12. Intricate Ribbon Braids
Zig-zag partings, thick braids and red ribbons combine into a chic style. Weaving the ribbon through the braid makes the hair bunch up for a textured effect. It takes time but the result is impressive.
Inspiration: @Instagram
13. Snake Braids
Snake braids travel down and up the back before being secured high on the sides, creating a curved shape. This style needs thick, long hair to work. It shows off length beautifully. Section neatly with a tail comb before braiding so each curve sits evenly on both sides of the head.
Inspiration: @Instagram
14. Pigtails with Chain Link Braids
Chain link braids are made by splitting a ponytail into two rope braids and twisting them together. Repeating this creates mesmerising twintails. Thick hair gives the best result. Secure each rope braid with a small elastic before linking them together, and practise first on a single section.
Inspiration: @Instagram
15. Double Braids with Double Buns
Braids lead into chunky buns secured with colourful bobble elastics. Thicker hair makes fuller buns. The style looks adorable and keeps hair neat for days. Moisturise the hair before braiding and keep the buns loose enough to be comfortable, so the style can stay in for several days.
Inspiration: @Instagram
16. Braided Crown
A braided crown across the top blends into French braid pigtails. The crown keeps the front soft and frames the face nicely. Secure with soft elastics for comfort. Braid slightly damp hair for crisp results that last, then smooth any flyaways at the hairline with a little water.
Inspiration: @Instagram
17. Waterfall Ponytails
Stacked waterfall ponytails with crisp parts and colourful rubber bands make a sweet toddler style. The sections keep fine hair tidy. Use snag-free elastics to protect delicate strands. This style works well on short or fine hair that cannot yet be braided, and it takes only a few minutes to finish.
Inspiration: @Instagram
18. Big Double Bows
Two twin tails climb diagonally up the back and finish in neat hair bows made from the hair itself. The black bows look striking. It is sure to stand out at any event. Use a little gel on the bows so they keep their shape.
Inspiration: @Instagram
19. Soft Fishtails
A deep side part softens fishtail pigtail braids that are kept slightly messy on blonde hair. The relaxed, country feel is easy to recreate. Gently pancake the braids for texture. Finish with a few loose face-framing strands and a light mist of spray to keep the soft, carefree mood.
Inspiration: @Instagram
20. Ravishing Ringlets for Black Girls
Curly ponytails made special by a diagonal parting along the centre line at the back. Leaving the curls unbraided keeps them loose and bouncy. Moisturise with a curl cream to define them. Smooth the parting lines with a little gel for a neat finish.
Inspiration: @Instagram
Braiding tips for wriggly little heads
- Detangle thoroughly with a wide-tooth comb and a spray of leave-in conditioner before you start.
- Section with a rat-tail comb for crisp parts; clip the second side out of the way while you braid the first.
- Braid while hair is slightly damp for neater results, but never pull too tight.
- Let her watch a favourite show or hold a mirror to keep her still and involved.
Making pigtails last more than one day
Use snag-free elastics rather than plain rubber bands, which tear fine hair. At bedtime, cover the braids with a satin bonnet or let her sleep on a satin pillowcase to reduce frizz. Ribbons and bows should come out at night. In the morning, smooth flyaways with a little water or gel and re-tie any loosened ends. Take braids down after a few days to give the scalp a rest.