9. The Waterfall Braid

The Vibe: Dreamy, ethereal, romantic, and one of the most visually striking braid techniques available for long hair.

The waterfall braid is a braiding technique where sections of hair are dropped — allowed to fall freely — rather than incorporated into the braid as you progress. This creates the signature “waterfall” effect where strands of long hair cascade downward through the braid at regular intervals, creating a style that looks like something from a fairy tale. On long hair, the cascading sections fall dramatically and beautifully, catching the light and moving with every step.

What Makes It Work in Summer:

The waterfall braid keeps the front and sides of long hair controlled and away from the face — solving the summer problem of hair sticking to the neck and temples — while leaving the length of the hair free to flow and move. The braided structure is resistant to humidity and stays in place through heat and outdoor activity while the flowing sections below add movement and drama.

How to Create It:

Start at the front hairline on one side of the head. Take a section of hair approximately two inches from the hairline and divide into three strands. Begin a standard braid by crossing the top strand over the middle. On the next pass, instead of incorporating the bottom strand into the braid, drop it and let it fall freely — then pick up a new section of hair from above to replace it as the bottom strand. Continue crossing the top strand over, dropping the bottom strand, and picking up a new section from above as you braid across the back of the head. Secure at the other side with bobby pins or an elastic.

Pro Tips:

  • Practice the drop-and-replace movement slowly before attempting at full speed — once the rhythm is established, waterfall braids come together surprisingly quickly
  • The dropped sections should be relatively even in thickness for the most beautiful, uniform cascading effect
  • This style looks most stunning when the remaining long hair is loosely waved or curled — the waves complement the flowing dropped sections perfectly
  • Pin a tiny flower or crystal clip into the braid where it is secured at the side for a delicate, romantic finishing touch

Best For: Long straight and wavy hair where the dropped sections can fall smoothly and visibly. Long hair with heavy layers shows the waterfall effect most dramatically.

Face Shape: The horizontal movement of the waterfall braid across the head is particularly flattering on oval and long face shapes. The visual width it creates balances longer features beautifully.

How Long It Lasts in Summer: Full day with bobby pins securing the end of the braid.

Occasion: Outdoor weddings, garden events, summer photoshoots, romantic occasions, boho festivals.