A four-strand braid adds one extra section to the familiar plait, giving a flatter, wider band with a woven, almost basket-like pattern. It looks complicated, but once you learn the over-and-under rhythm, it becomes as automatic as a three-strand braid. This gallery shows twenty ways to use it. You’ll see a ribbon-accent side braid with a thin plait woven in as the second strand, headband braids framing a twisted bun, a loose four-strand waterfall, a Dutch version that stands up from the scalp, a crown braid with a lighter accent strand and a sixties beehive edged with a braid.
Start simple. Practising on a ponytail or a small section at the hairline lets you focus on the pattern without worrying about the whole head. Once that feels easy, move on to French or Dutch versions that pick up hair as you go.
Texture helps too. Second-day or lightly textured hair grips better than freshly washed, slippery strands. Medium to long hair gives the pattern room to show.
1. Unique Flat Braid
Four-strand braids often turn out wide and flat, which makes them perfect for this side ponytail. Gather a loose side pony, set aside a piece to wrap the base, and plait a thin accent braid. Then braid four strands, using the small plait as one of them.
Inspiration: @twistmepretty
2. Elegantly Accented Updo
A four-strand headband braid frames a full, twisted bun. Take sections from the hairline and use an over-under, then under-over rhythm: the left strand goes over the second and under the third, while the right strand passes under its neighbour and over the next.
Inspiration: @missysueblog
3. Stunning Side Braid
The secret to the neat accent line running through this long ribbon braid is placement. Plait and secure a tiny regular braid first, then use it as the second strand when you start the main four-strand braid. The effect is striking and elegant.
Inspiration: @laineymariebeauty
4. Creative Four Strand Braids with Twist
Many three-strand favourites, such as waterfalls and headbands, also work with four strands. Here, the top braid drops sections that are picked up again by a second braid and a twist below. It is a lovely choice for medium hair worn down.
Inspiration: @hairs_affairs
5. Four Strand Waterfall Braid
This advanced style combines a wrap-around four-strand waterfall with a fishtail braid. For the waterfall effect, add a new strand from the top on one side and drop a strand below on the other. The two middle strands form the pattern.
Inspiration: @anniesforgetmeknots
6. Headband Accent Braids
Starting small helps if you are still learning. Braid two flat side sections near the face using four strands, then gather everything into a messy low bun. Mistakes are less noticeable, and the style is still very pretty.
Inspiration: @echt_blond
7. Flowing Four Strand Waterfall
This quick waterfall depends on tension. Fan the outer strands out loosely while keeping the two middle strands tight, so they look like fine cords running through the braid. It takes a little practice but looks effortless once mastered.
Inspiration: @missysueblog
8. Four Strand Dutch Braid
In a Dutch four-strand braid, the plait sits up on top of the hair. Cross the outer strand under, over and under the others, and start from the other side with an under move too. It creates a raised, mohawk-style ridge.
Inspiration: @braidsbyjordan
9. Pretty Wrapped Pony Braid
Learning the four-strand technique is easier if you start with a ponytail rather than a French or Dutch braid. There is less to manage, and the result still looks great. Add an accent piece and a pony wrap for extra polish.
Inspiration: @braidsandstyles12
10. Messy Bun Braid Updo
A messy low bun becomes even more special with a four-strand side braid. Work the braid Dutch-style so it stands out and hides the places where new hair is added. It suits proms, nights out or everyday wear.
Inspiration: @anniesforgetmeknots
11. Four Strand Crown Braid
A lighter accent strand runs through this crown braid on crimped hair. Use an existing highlight, or weave in a ribbon or thin silk scarf. Braid the main sections loosely and keep the accent tight for clear contrast.
Inspiration: @braidsbyjordan
12. Wavy Bohemian Braid
Braiding loosely and fanning out each section gives four-strand braids a relaxed, bohemian feel with intricate loops. Curl or wave the rest of the hair for a breezy half-up look. It pairs beautifully with flowing dresses.
Inspiration: @braidsandstyles12
13. Four Stranded Low Pony
It looks complex, but this low pony with a small top braid is quick to make. Separate the hairline section you need and clip or bun the rest of the hair out of the way. The braid flows into a sleek ponytail on long, fine hair.
Inspiration: @annie_blubb
14. Florette and Side Braid
A florette is made by pulling up on a loose braid so it curls into a flower. Work in stages: make the accent braid, then the long four-strand side braid, and finally shape the florette. The result is eye-catching and romantic.
Inspiration: @hair_by_lori
15. Tucked Under Braided Updo
Four-strand updos can be playful or polished. For a formal look, create a four-strand French braid, leaving a few front wisps to curl. Finish the braid, tuck the end under and pin it securely. Spray lightly to hold the curled wisps.
Inspiration: @hairs_affairs
16. Chic Updated Mod
A four-strand headband braid wrapped around the base of a bouffant gives a modern twist to a sixties mod look. Adding a bun at the back is optional. Tease the crown well so the beehive holds its height.
Inspiration: @hair_by_pelerossi
17. Low Headband Braid
Two four-strand braids make an easy low headband style. Part the hair in the middle or slightly to the side. Braid each side from the hairline to the nape, then secure them together at the back.
Inspiration: @caracoistrancados
18. Four Strand Messy Updo
Start at one ear with four large sections and braid across the nape, adding big pieces of hair as you go. Braid tightly so it stays secure, then pull at the loops to fan them out. The result is a soft, loopy updo.
Inspiration: @hairbyaslyn
19. Side Headband Braid and Messy Bun
A messy side bun shows off face-framing highlights with a four-strand braid. Make a regular three-strand plait first and place it as the second strand of the main braid. Keep the other three sections loose as you work.
Inspiration: @hairdelsol
20. Dutch Four Strand Braids
Two four-strand Dutch braids cross over each other at the start for an interesting everyday look. The raised braids show off thick, full hair particularly well. Secure the ends with clear elastics. Finish with a little shine spray for polish.
Inspiration: @taycstyles
The basic four-strand crossing pattern
- Brush the hair smooth and split it into four equal strands. Number them one to four from left to right.
- Pass the far-right strand under the strand next to it.
- Take the far-left strand over its neighbour and then under the next strand along.
- Repeat these two moves, always counting from the outside edges, until you reach the ends. Secure with a small elastic.
Adding an accent strand
For a braid with a contrasting thread through the centre, make a thin three-strand plait, a highlighted section or a ribbon first. Place it as the second strand before you begin. Keep this accent tight while the other three sections stay looser, and it will stand out as a neat line through the braid.
Fixing common four-strand problems
If the braid twists, you have probably mixed up the direction of a crossover. Check that the right side always goes under first. Uneven sections cause lumps, so take a moment to match their thickness. For a fuller, more boho look, gently pull the outer loops apart once the braid is secured.