11+ Beautiful First Date Night Braided Hairstyle Ideas and Tips You’ll Love
First dates are always exciting, but they can also be a bit nerve-wracking. You want to look your best, feel confident, and leave a lasting impression. One of the best ways to do this is with a beautiful hairstyle. Braids are a perfect option for a first date because they’re elegant, stylish, and practical, giving you a fresh, put-together look while allowing you to show off your personality. From my own personal experience, braided hairstyles are one of the easiest ways to look effortlessly chic.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into chic braided hairstyles that are perfect for your first date. Each style is unique, and I’ll share tips on how to make them work for you. Let me show you how to rock these styles with confidence and elegance.
I’ve chosen these braided styles because they give off a beautiful, relaxed vibe that’s perfect for a first date. No matter what what you do even if you’re going to a coffee shop, dinner, or a fun outdoor activity, these braids will keep you looking flawless all night long. The best part? These styles are easy to do and customizable, so you can adjust them to suit your personal style and the vibe of the date.
1. The Classic Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a timeless look that’s perfect for a first date. It’s simple, yet sophisticated, and will definitely help you stand out. What I love about this braid is that it’s versatile, you can wear it loose for a more casual look or tight for a more polished vibe. Whether you have long hair or medium-length hair, this braid can work for almost any hair type.
Styling Tips:
To create the fishtail braid, start by dividing your hair into two equal sections. Take a small piece of hair from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other side. Repeat this step, alternating between the two sections, until you reach the end of your hair. Secure the braid with an elastic band.
One of the best things about a fishtail braid is that you can loosen it up a bit to give it a relaxed, soft look. If you want a more elegant style, keep the braid tight and sleek. To add some extra flair, pull out a few wisps of hair around your face to create a more romantic, soft vibe.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
A fishtail braid is a delicate yet bold hairstyle that gives off a cool and effortless vibe. It’s not overly complicated, but it shows you put in the effort to look put-together. Whether you’re wearing a casual outfit or something a bit more formal, the fishtail braid will elevate your entire look. Plus, it keeps your hair out of your face, which is a huge plus when you’re out having fun and chatting with your date.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a small section of hair at the front of your braid to create a little twist. You can also experiment with different textures—add waves to your hair for a beachy look, or straighten it for a sleek, chic vibe. The fishtail braid is super customizable, so don’t be afraid to get creative.
2. The Dutch Braid Crown
If you want a more romantic, princess-like vibe for your first date, the Dutch braid crown is a fantastic choice. This style involves two Dutch braids that meet at the top of your head, creating a crown-like effect. It’s one of those styles that will leave your date in awe of how effortlessly beautiful you look.
Styling Tips:
To achieve the Dutch braid crown, start by parting your hair down the middle. Then, take a section of hair near your hairline and create a Dutch braid by crossing the strands under each other (instead of over, like a traditional braid). Continue braiding until you reach the back of your head, and then repeat the process on the other side.
Once both braids meet at the back, secure them together with bobby pins. You can leave some strands loose around your face for a more relaxed look or pull everything tightly for a polished finish. If you want extra volume, gently pull apart the braids to make them appear fuller.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
The Dutch braid crown is an elegant and graceful hairstyle that will definitely turn heads on your first date. It has a timeless feel, but it’s also modern enough to look fresh and chic. The best part? It keeps your hair secure, so you don’t have to worry about constantly adjusting it throughout the night. Plus, it’s an excellent choice if you’re wearing a dress or any outfit that calls for a more sophisticated hairstyle.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
For a more relaxed, bohemian feel, try incorporating small accessories like a hair clip or a few flowers along the braids. You can also mix in a few soft waves before braiding for a more textured look. The Dutch braid crown is versatile, so feel free to adjust it to match your personal style.
3. The Loose Side Braid
If you’re going for a more relaxed, casual vibe for your first date, the loose side braid is the perfect option. It’s soft, effortless, and looks like you didn’t try too hard, but still shows you took the time to do something cute with your hair. This style is perfect if you’re keeping things low-key, like going to a movie or grabbing coffee.
Styling Tips:
To create a loose side braid, start by sweeping your hair to one side. Begin braiding loosely from the front, incorporating small sections of hair as you go. Keep the braid loose and relaxed, don’t pull it too tightly. As you reach the end, secure the braid with an elastic band, and then gently pull at the braid to loosen it even more. The goal is for it to look soft and carefree.
For added volume, gently pull a few pieces of hair from the crown of your head to make it appear fuller. If you have bangs or shorter pieces of hair, let them hang loose for a messy, cute look.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
The loose side braid is relaxed and approachable, which is ideal for a first date. It’s perfect for casual outings or any setting where you want to feel comfortable but still look put-together. The best part? It’s quick and easy to do—perfect for when you don’t have a ton of time to style your hair.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
For a more bohemian touch, add a small braid along the side of your face or in the front section of your hair before doing the main braid. You can also add some beachy waves for a more laid-back, summery feel. The loose side braid is one of those styles that looks even better the messier it gets, so don’t worry about perfection—just have fun with it!
4. The Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a gorgeous, flowing style that looks like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. It’s a bit more intricate than some of the other braids, but don’t worry, it’s totally doable and will add a lot of charm to your look. The beauty of the waterfall braid lies in the way the hair flows down like a cascading waterfall, which makes it perfect for a romantic first date. It’s feminine, elegant, and adds a touch of magic to your hair.
Styling Tips:
Start by creating a simple three-strand braid, but instead of continuing the braid all the way down, let one section of the hair fall freely as you move along. Grab another piece of hair from above and incorporate it into the braid, allowing the section that fell to be dropped and left loose. Repeat this process as you continue down the side of your head.
Once you reach the end of your hair, secure the braid with a clear elastic band. You can also pull out a few pieces of hair around your face for a softer, more romantic look. The trick is to make the waterfall braid look effortless and flowing, not overly structured.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
The waterfall braid is the perfect mix of sweet and stylish. It’s beautiful and romantic without being too formal, so it works perfectly for a dinner date or a walk in the park. It gives off a relaxed, whimsical vibe, which is ideal for making a great first impression. Plus, it keeps your hair out of your face while still allowing you to show off your locks in all their glory.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
You can customize this braid by mixing in some waves or curls for a soft, beachy feel. Add some flowers or cute hair accessories to make the braid feel even more unique. The waterfall braid is all about embracing your creativity, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
5. The French Braid Ponytail
The French braid ponytail is a great option if you want something that’s both practical and stylish. It combines the beauty of a traditional French braid with the convenience of a ponytail, making it perfect for a first date where you want your hair to look neat but still flowy and fun. This style is a perfect choice for an active date, like hiking or roller skating, but it can also work for a more relaxed date night.
Styling Tips:
Start by sectioning off the front of your hair for the braid, leaving the back free to create a ponytail. Begin a French braid at the crown of your head, incorporating small sections of hair as you move downward. Once you reach the nape of your neck, gather the remaining hair into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic band.
The key to making this look polished yet effortless is to slightly pull the braid apart to add texture and volume. You can leave some hair loose in front to frame your face for a more relaxed look, or you can go for a cleaner style if that’s what you prefer.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
The French braid ponytail is a versatile look that can be adapted for any first date. Whether you’re going for an active adventure or a low-key dinner, this hairstyle will keep your hair in place while adding an element of chic. It’s perfect if you’re worried about your hair getting messy but still want it to look cute and put-together. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your hair off your face while you enjoy your date without constantly readjusting.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
You can make the French braid ponytail even more fun by adding some texture to the ponytail, like curling the ends or adding a little volume with a backcomb. Try adding a ribbon or a decorative elastic band to finish the look for an extra touch of flair. The beauty of this style is that it’s so easy to personalize!
6. The Braided Bun
If you’re going for a more sophisticated, polished look for your first date, the braided bun is an excellent option. It’s a chic, elegant style that works for a variety of date ideas, from a night out at a fancy restaurant to a more relaxed evening in. The braided bun combines the simplicity of a bun with the intricate detail of braids, creating a hairstyle that’s both stylish and practical.
Styling Tips:
Start by braiding your hair into a simple braid (either a traditional three-strand or a Dutch braid). Once you have your braid, twist it around itself to form a bun. Secure the bun with bobby pins, making sure it’s tight enough to stay in place all night long.
If you want a more relaxed look, pull out a few wisps of hair around your face. You can also loosen up the braid a bit before forming the bun to give it a more textured and voluminous feel. The braided bun works especially well on medium to long hair, but it can be adjusted for different hair lengths by using smaller sections of hair.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
The braided bun is a sophisticated hairstyle that’s perfect for a more formal first date. Whether you’re heading to a nice restaurant or attending a more elegant event, this style will keep you looking polished and refined. Plus, it holds up really well throughout the evening, so you don’t have to worry about your hair getting out of place during your date. It’s the perfect balance of elegance and ease.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
If you want to add some personality to your braided bun, try adding a hair accessory, like a sparkly pin or a delicate headband. You could also wrap a small section of your braid around the base of the bun for an added twist. This style is versatile enough to customize for any date, whether you want something simple or something a little more glam.
7. The Half-Up Braid
The half-up braid is a perfect option if you love braids but want a more casual look for your first date. This style allows you to show off your braids without going all-in, and it keeps your hair out of your face without looking overly structured. It’s relaxed, fun, and perfect for a variety of first-date situations, whether you’re grabbing coffee, going for a walk, or having a chill dinner.
Styling Tips:
Start by taking a small section of hair from the top of your head, creating a loose braid. Once the braid is complete, secure it with an elastic band or a cute hair clip. Leave the rest of your hair down, or add a few soft curls to the ends for a more textured look.
This style is all about keeping it simple and easygoing. Don’t overthink the braid—let it have some texture, and let the hair around it naturally frame your face.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
The half-up braid is a relaxed yet cute style that works perfectly for a casual first date. It’s easy to do and comfortable to wear, yet it still gives you that “I’ve put some thought into my look” vibe. It’s great for keeping your hair out of your face while still showing off some braids, making it the perfect style for an active or casual date.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
You can make this style even more playful by adding tiny braids around your hairline or incorporating accessories like clips or headbands. It’s a laid-back style that’s easy to adapt and personalize, so feel free to get creative!
8. The Rope Twist Braid
If you’re looking for a chic and effortless braid that stands out without being overly complicated, the rope twist braid is the way to go. It’s sleek, stylish, and has a unique, polished appearance that works beautifully for any occasion. Whether you’re heading out for a first date or just want to try something new, this braid adds a touch of elegance without requiring expert-level skills.
The rope twist braid is all about simplicity. Unlike traditional braids that use three sections, this style only requires two, making it one of the easiest yet most stunning braided hairstyles to master. It creates a coiled, rope-like effect that looks intricate but is surprisingly quick to do.
Styling Tips:
- Start with smooth hair: If you want a sleek look, straighten your hair first. For a more relaxed vibe, add a bit of texture with a curling wand or a texturizing spray.
- Divide your hair into two sections: Instead of three like a regular braid, you only need two sections for this style.
- Twist each section in the same direction: This is the key to achieving the rope-like effect. If you’re twisting both sections clockwise, make sure to maintain that direction.
- Cross the sections over each other in the opposite direction: If you twisted both sections clockwise, wrap them around each other counterclockwise. This technique keeps the twist from unraveling.
- Secure with an elastic: Once you reach the end, tie it off with a small elastic and gently pull on the sections for a fuller, more voluminous effect.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
The rope twist braid gives off an effortless, put-together look that works for both casual and formal settings. It’s a great alternative if you want something sleek but not overly done. From my own personal experience, this braid holds up beautifully throughout the day, making it perfect for long dates where you want your hair to stay flawless from start to finish.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
One of the best things about this braid is its versatility. You can wear it as a single side braid, create a half-up look with two smaller twists, or even transform it into a bun for a more elegant touch. If you want to add some extra flair, weave in a ribbon or accessorize with pearl pins for a soft, romantic vibe.
9. The Halo Braid
If you want a braid that feels effortlessly romantic and elegant, the halo braid is the perfect choice. This style creates a beautiful, crown-like effect that gives you a soft, angelic look. It’s a great option for special occasions, whether it’s a dreamy date night, a formal event, or even just when you want to feel a little extra glamorous.
The halo braid works best for medium to long hair, as it wraps around the head seamlessly to create a continuous braid. From my own personal experience, this style is not only eye-catching but also keeps your hair secure, making it a practical yet stunning option.
Styling Tips:
- Prep with texture: Slightly wavy or textured hair helps the braid hold better. Use a light mousse or texturizing spray before styling.
- Start with a deep side part: Begin braiding near one ear and work around the head, keeping the braid close to the scalp. Use a Dutch or regular three-strand braid, adding hair as you go.
- Complete the circle: Once you reach the starting point, tuck the braid’s end under and secure it with bobby pins.
- Loosen for a softer look: Gently pull on the braid to create volume and a more effortless, romantic effect. A few loose tendrils around the face can enhance the softness.
The halo braid is a versatile style that can be worn sleek and polished or with a more bohemian touch. It’s perfect for creating an elegant yet relaxed vibe that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you pair it with a flowy dress or something more structured, this braid will make you feel effortlessly beautiful.
10. The Reverse Braid Bun
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that’s a little different but still polished and chic, the reverse braid bun is a unique twist on the classic braid-and-bun combo. It’s the perfect look if you want something elegant but with a bit of a playful edge, making it great for a first date that’s a little more on the adventurous side. This style adds texture and depth, which is ideal for standing out and making a great impression.
Styling Tips:
Start by creating a French or Dutch braid along the back of your head, working from the nape of your neck up to the crown. Once you’ve finished braiding, secure the end of the braid with an elastic band. Then, twist the braid into a bun and pin it in place using bobby pins. For added volume, gently tug at the braid to loosen it and create a more textured look.
You can also leave a few strands loose around your face for a more relaxed, romantic feel. The key to this hairstyle is keeping it structured yet carefree at the same time, so don’t be afraid to add some volume and texture.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
The reverse braid bun is a sophisticated yet fun look that’s perfect for first dates. It combines the elegance of a bun with the intricate detail of braids, making it an excellent choice for a variety of date activities. Whether you’re going to a trendy restaurant, hitting up a movie night, or strolling through a park, this hairstyle will keep your hair in place while looking effortlessly beautiful.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
You can easily add a little personality to the reverse braid bun by using colorful hairpins or experimenting with different braid styles. Try a fishtail braid for the reverse braid, or add some loose curls around the bun for extra texture. The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its versatility, so don’t hesitate to make it your own!
11. The Boxer Braids
Boxer braids, also known as double Dutch braids, are a bold and sporty style that’s perfect if you’re looking to make a statement on your first date. This hairstyle is often seen on athletes, but it’s also a stylish and practical option for girls who want something modern and sleek. It’s a great choice for an active or adventurous first date, like hiking, biking, or going to a sporting event.
Styling Tips:
Start by creating a middle part and section your hair into two even sections. Then, begin Dutch braiding each side of your hair, working from the front of your hairline to the back of your neck. Make sure the braids are tight and close to the scalp for that signature, clean look. Once you reach the nape of your neck, secure the ends with elastics.
To give your boxer braids a polished look, smooth down any flyaways with hairspray or a styling cream. You can also leave the ends of the braids loose for a more casual vibe, or you can tie them off in a bun for a sleek, sporty look.
Why It’s Great for a First Date:
Boxer braids are a practical and stylish option for a first date, especially if you’re going for something active. They’ll keep your hair neat and out of the way, while also giving you a bold, edgy look. Whether you’re doing something active or just want to try something a little different, boxer braids will help you stand out and feel confident.
Experiment and Have Fun with It:
Add some personality to your boxer braids by incorporating beads, colored elastics, or even ribbon into the braids. If you want to soften the look, try adding a few loose curls to the ends of the braids. The beauty of boxer braids is that they’re versatile enough to work for any occasion, so feel free to experiment with your own twist on the style.
Which One Stole Your Spotlight?
Now that we’ve covered amazing first date braided hairstyles, I’d love to know which one you’re excited to try! Do you prefer the classic fishtail braid, the elegant Dutch braid crown, or the relaxed loose side braid? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and feel free to share your name and location! If you’ve already rocked any of these styles, I’d love to hear all about your experience and how you made it your own.
Remember, the key to rocking any hairstyle is confidence. So, don’t worry if things don’t go perfectly at first—just have fun, and let your natural beauty shine through! You’ve got this.
Final Thoughts:
Braids are such a great option for a first date because they’re elegant, effortless, and versatile. From my own personal experience, I can tell you that having the right hairstyle can make you feel more confident and ready to take on anything. Whether you choose a classic fishtail braid, a romantic Dutch braid crown, or a relaxed loose side braid, these styles are guaranteed to make you look and feel amazing. So go ahead, try something new, and let me know which one becomes your go-to look!
Remember, first dates are about having fun, being yourself, and making memories. Your hairstyle is just one way to express who you are, so don’t be afraid to experiment and show off your unique style.
