A milkmaid braid is simply two plaits brought up and over the top of the head and pinned in place, like a headband made of hair. This gallery covers the main variations: neat and messy versions, a Dutch milkmaid braid that holds with fewer pins, fishtail and mixed fishtail-and-classic doubles, a single thick braid wrapped around the head, a full crown braid that circles the back too, and a scarf-woven option for shoulder-length hair.
Length is the deciding factor. Hair that reaches at least the shoulder blades lets each braid cross the crown comfortably; shorter hair can still manage by weaving in a scarf or bandana for extra length, or by using clip-in extensions, as one of the thick braids here does. Fine hair looks fuller if you gently pull the braids apart (pancaking) before pinning.
The style flatters most faces, since it adds a bit of height without bulk. Loose front pieces soften rounder or longer faces, while a fully pulled-back version shows off cheekbones and works for formal events.
1. Bright Milkmaid Braid with Bangs
Fusing a classic braid with the softness of a milkmaid style works especially well for anyone with bangs, so there is no need to wait until a fringe grows out. The bright colour and slightly messy plaits give the updo a fresh, playful finish.
Inspiration: @Instagram
2. Thick Milkmaid Braid
Not everyone has hair this long and thick, but clip-in extensions can create the same effect, as they do here. Chunky auburn highlights woven through the plait make the texture stand out and add depth to the finished braid.
Inspiration: @Instagram
3. Dutch Milkmaid Braid
Part the hair down the middle at the back and work two Dutch braids upward, plaiting underhand so they sit on top. The finished crown holds well with fewer pins and looks great from day to evening.
Inspiration: @Instagram
4. Pastel Purple Milkmaid Braid
Pastel shades have moved from punk subculture to the mainstream, and they look lovely on any length. Purple, pink and blue all work beautifully with a milkmaid braid, which shows off the colour along each plait.
Inspiration: @Instagram
5. Milkmaid Braid with a Scarf
Shoulder-length hair can still wear a milkmaid braid. Weave a thin scarf or bandana into each plait for extra length and hold, and you also gain a fun, retro feel from the fabric. Pin the scarf ends underneath.
Inspiration: @Instagram
6. Messy Fishtail Milkmaid Braid
Two overlapping fishtails replace traditional plaits here, and their messy texture creates a full, dynamic crown. It is a stunning casual updo that looks even better as it loosens slightly through the day. Use texture spray for extra grip.
Inspiration: @Instagram
7. Double Milkmaid Braid
Prefer classic plaits to fishtails? Keep the idea of two main braids and use standard three-strand braiding. Long hair can wear this double milkmaid braid for almost any occasion. Pin each braid every few inches so the crown stays secure.
Inspiration: @Instagram
8. Messy Milkmaid Braid
A messy milkmaid braid channels relaxed bohemian style but stays practical for everyday wear. Let a few locks fall loose at the front and add bobby pins here and there to keep everything under control.
Inspiration: @Instagram
9. Neat Milkmaid Braid
Neat and polished, this milkmaid braid still leaves a couple of loose locks at the front, but everything else is smoothly secured. It is a good choice when you want the softness of a braid with a tidier finish.
Inspiration: @Instagram
10. Fishtail and Milkmaid Braid Twist
Cannot choose between a fishtail and a regular plait? Use one of each, placing them side by side for a double milkmaid look. Pin down any loose strands so the contrast between the two textures stays visible.
Inspiration: @Instagram
11. Thick Fishtail Milkmaid Braid
Leave a few strands around the face, then weave the rest of the long hair into a single large fishtail. Bring it around the head and secure with bobby pins for a thick, textured crown.
Inspiration: @Instagram
12. Basic Milkmaid Braid
A basic milkmaid braid works for casual and formal events. With longer hair, wrap a single braid around the head; if you lack length, make two braids and join them at the top. Use bobby pins to secure the ends.
Inspiration: @Instagram
13. Boho Milkmaid Braid
Exaggerated messy texture makes this brunette milkmaid braid even more charming. Pull out as many loose strands as you like around the face and crown, adding a few pins so the braid does not come apart.
Inspiration: @Instagram
14. Tight Double Milkmaid Braid
Natural texture looks gorgeous in tight double milkmaid braids. Experiment with tension and placement closer to or further from the hairline to find what flatters you most, then smooth the edges for a neat finish.
Inspiration: @kersti.pitre
15. Milkmaid Braid for Long Thin Hair
Long, wavy hair that is on the thinner side looks lovely in a loose milkmaid braid with a few free-flowing locks at the front. You get the charm of the braid while still showing off your length.
Inspiration: @Instagram
16. Full Crown Milkmaid Braid
Milkmaid braids look pretty from the front, but turning the style into a full crown braid makes the back just as impressive. The plait circles the entire head for a polished, complete finish. Pin the braid at intervals for hold.
Inspiration: @Instagram
17. Red Hot Milkmaid Braid
Whether natural or dyed, fire-red hair looks splendid in a milkmaid braid. Because the colour already makes a statement, a simple, slightly messy braid with two loose front strands is all you need. A colour-safe shampoo keeps red bright.
Inspiration: @Instagram
18. Pushed Back Double Milkmaid Braids
For a traditional take, comb all the hair neatly behind the ears and leave no loose pieces at the front. Two milkmaid braids rather than one add an extra touch of elegance. Smooth the hair with a light serum.
Inspiration: @Instagram
19. Messy ‘Do with Highlights
A messy fishtailed milkmaid braid combined with sun-kissed babylights is an easy way to freshen up your styling routine. The fine highlights pick up each twist of the fishtail and add brightness. A texture spray helps the braid grip.
Inspiration: @Instagram
20. Single Milkmaid Braid
This single milkmaid braid can be achieved with relaxed hair or extensions. A version created with natural hair texture would look just as beautiful, with added volume and definition. Moisturise the hair and use small pins to hold the braid securely.
Inspiration: @Instagram
Pinning a milkmaid braid so it stays all day
- Part the hair down the centre at the back and braid each side, starting just behind the ear.
- Secure the ends with small clear elastics; bulky bands show through the finished style.
- Lift the first braid over the top of the head and pin it every couple of inches, then lay the second braid just behind it.
- Tuck each end under the opposite braid and pin it from beneath.
- Insert pins at an angle so they grip both the braid and the hair underneath.
Choosing between messy and neat
A messy milkmaid braid suits casual days, festivals and second-day hair; texture spray and a few pulled-out pieces around the face give it a relaxed feel. A neat version needs smooth, detangled hair, a little anti-frizz serum along the braid and hairspray on the edges. For weddings or dinners, the neat style looks especially elegant with small flowers or pearl pins tucked between the plaits.