Braids are a fun way to play with your hair and give it an interesting shape and texture. Braids are worn by women of all ages and races. There are various ways to braid your hair.
Braids can be elegant and styled for an event like a wedding or they can be used to keep your hair out of your face while you exercise.
I have long hair, and, on those days when it is unruly or I don’t have time to style it, I reach for the hair ties and create two quick braids and I’m out the door in no time.
That’s me walking the dog on the beach after quickly braiding my hair. I’m not 60 yet (in a few years), but I’m quite positive that I will be braiding my hair well into my 60s and beyond.
Here is my list of braided hairstyles for women over 60:
- Long Box Locks Braids – Great traditional look for black women.
- Side Braid with Bangs – Girly and fun look.
- Bob Box Locks – For a Cleopatra look.
- Long Back Braid – Great if you have long thick hair.
- Single French Braid – French braids can be worn tight or loose.
Keep reading to discover many more braided style ideas.
Long Box Locks Braids
Box braids are typically worn by black women and can be styled in numerous ways. This beautiful woman has chosen long and light colored braids and they look amazing on her.
Side Braid with Bangs
A side braid looks great if you have medium to long hair and bangs. It’s an easy everyday style and can make you look youthful and playful. Try matching the hair ties to your outfits for a unique look.
Bob Box Locks
Another way to have fun with box locks is to bring them to chin level to create a cleopatra-looking bob style. Here she has pulled her locks into a ponytail and let them fall down to her chin.
Long Back Braid
A single back braid is a great idea if you have long thick hair. Place hair clips on the side of your head to keep the style neat and in place minimizing flyaways.
Single French Braid
I love french braids. My mom used to style my hair this way a lot when I was a little girl. They are a little tricky to learn to do alone though. A single french braid can be braided tight with small segments of hair or more loosely with larger segments creating a more carefree look like the woman in this photo.
Double Braids
This look is great if you are lucky and have thick hair. Easy go-to hair styling look that also looks great when wearing a hat.
Tip: Try applying a frizz control product to your hair before braiding it to keep the flyaways at bay.
John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Hair Serum
Side Braid with Flower
This is a great vacation look! Doesn’t she look like she is happy and carefree? Match a fabric styling flower to your outfit and feel and look like a million bucks.
15 Pieces Flower Hair Clips Rose
Reversed Double French Braid
Reversed french braids look great and can even be done as an updo for a special event. You can even style it all around your head for a braided crown look.
Single Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid is basically a french braid on steroids. You use only two strands of hair instead of three and weave across from side to side. You can make it tight by crossing smaller strands or looser by using larger chunks.
Watch the tutorial video below to learn how to make fishtail braids.
Cornrows with Long Braids
Traditional cornrows are a tried and tested way to keep hair well styled. Choose long locks and even different colors to suit your personality.
Half-Up Crown Braid
This romantic style works well with medium to long hair. It keeps hair out of the face while still allowing some length to flow freely. Add decorative pins or soft waves for an evening look.
Braided Low Bun
Twist a classic braid into a low chignon for an elegant updo that works for weddings or dinners out. You can braid just one side or both for a symmetrical finish.
Accent Braids
Perfect for short to medium hair, small braids added to one or both sides of the head. These can be pinned back or incorporated into a half-up style. Ideal for adding a subtle detail without needing a full braid.
Can You Braid Thinning or Fine Hair?
Yes, absolutely, you can still enjoy braids even if your hair isn’t as thick as it once was. The key is choosing the right style and prepping your hair to give it a little extra body and hold.
Start with a volumizing mousse or lightweight texturizing spray before braiding. This will give your strands more grip and prevent the braid from slipping out or looking too flat. If your hair is freshly washed and very soft, a bit of dry shampoo at the roots can add texture and fullness.
Stick to looser, chunkier braids like a side braid, crown braid, or fishtail done with larger sections of hair. These create the illusion of more volume and avoid pulling too tightly on fragile roots. You can also gently pull at the sides of the braid (a technique called pancaking) to make it look thicker and more relaxed.
Don’t shy away from creative solutions either, clip-in hair pieces, braid headbands, or lightweight extensions can add fullness when you want to dress up your look. Just be sure any added hair is soft and not too heavy, especially if your scalp is sensitive.
Braids are not only stylish but also protective. They help reduce daily manipulation and can prevent breakage, especially important for fine or aging hair. The best part? Once you find a braid style that works for your hair type, it can become your go-to look for busy mornings, travel days, or even special events.
Read 15 HAIRSTYLES FOR WOMEN OVER 50.
Also read EXPLORING THE BEST MEDIUM LENGTH HAIRSTYLES FOR OLDER WOMEN (VIDEO).
Let’s Have a Conversation:
Do you like to braid your hair? What style suits you best? Do you have braid styling ideas you want to tell us about? Write your comments below.
