Pigtail braids have grown well beyond their school-days reputation, and the 2027 versions prove it: sleek Dutch plaits, soft fishtails, bouncy bubbles, and festival-ready mixes that suit every hair type and length. Whether the goal is a tidy everyday style, a workout-proof finish, or something playful for a weekend away, two braids offer more variety than almost any other hairstyle. Here are 25 pigtail braid ideas to try in 2027, from timeless classics to bold, colourful twists. For more ideas in the same lane, see our Fulani Braids 2027.
1. Classic Long Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: stylishbelles.com
The classic version is still the benchmark for a reason: two even braids, a clean centre part, and lengths that fall neatly over the shoulders. It suits long hair best, since the extra length lets the plait pattern show clearly from root to tip. For a different spin on the same theme, browse Box Braids 2027.
Keep the parting straight and the tension even on both sides, and the whole style reads polished rather than playful. A light smoothing cream tames flyaways without making the braids look stiff. We covered this territory more deeply in Braids To The Back 2027.
2. French Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: stylishbelles.com
French pigtails start at the hairline and gather hair as they travel down, so shorter layers stay tucked in instead of escaping. That close-to-the-head start is what makes them such a reliable everyday and workout choice.
They also frame the face beautifully, because the braid line follows the shape of the head. Finish with small clear elastics so the ends stay neat all day.
3. Dutch Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: stylishbelles.com
Dutch braids cross the strands underneath instead of over, which pushes the plait out from the head for a raised, three-dimensional finish. The result looks bolder than a French braid, even on the same length of hair.
Pancake the edges gently — pulling each loop slightly wider — for extra fullness. This is a good pick when fine hair needs to look thicker.
4. Twisted Rope Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: stylishbelles.com
A rope twist is the quickest route to pigtails when braiding feels fiddly: two sections twisted around each other hold a clean spiral shape with far less technique. The twist also shows off colour and highlights well, since the strands wrap rather than weave.
It works best on hair with some grip, so a little texture spray before twisting helps the style last. Secure the ends tightly, as twists unwind faster than plaits. This pairs naturally with the ideas in Color Braids 2027.
5. Fishtail Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: stylishbelles.com
Fishtail braids look far more intricate than they are. By crossing thin sections from side to side, the braid builds a fine herringbone pattern that catches the light with every movement.
The key is patience with small sections: the thinner the pieces, the more detailed the finish. This version suits medium to long hair and dresses up easily for evenings out.
6. Loose Double Faux Fishtail Pigtails
Photo credit by: stylishbelles.com
Loose fishtails trade precision for softness, with a relaxed weave and wispy pieces left around the face. The effect is romantic rather than sporty, and it suits wavy or textured hair especially well.
Do not pull the braid too tight at the start; a little slack lets the pattern sit wider and softer. A flexible-hold spray keeps the wisps in place without freezing them.
7. Cute Pigtail Braids for Long Hair
Photo credit by: stylishbelles.com
Long hair gives pigtail braids their full drama, with two plaits that fall well past the shoulders. The length also makes the style versatile: wear the braids forward over the shoulders, or swept back for a neater silhouette.
Because long braids are heavier, use snag-free elastics and avoid pulling the roots too tight. That keeps the style comfortable for a full day. A companion piece, Parts Braids 2027, explores the same palette.
8. Simple Everyday Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: stylishbelles.com
The simplest pigtail braid is often the most wearable: a centre part, two straightforward plaits, and no fuss. It is the version to reach for on busy mornings, school runs, or casual weekends.
Its simplicity is also its strength — it pairs with anything from denim to dresses. Add a ribbon or scrunchie at the ends if a plain finish feels too plain.
9. Bubble Braids Pigtails for Curly Short Hair
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Bubble pigtails are made with elastics rather than weaving, so they suit anyone who struggles with traditional braiding. Each section is puffed out gently to form a rounded bubble, giving short curly hair instant volume and shape.
Leave a few curls loose at the front to soften the look. Matching the elastic colour to the hair keeps the focus on the bubbles themselves.
10. Half-Up French Braid Pigtails
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Half-up pigtails keep the top braided and controlled while the rest of the hair falls loose underneath. It is a smart compromise for anyone who likes braids but does not want all their hair tied away.
The braided top adds structure, while the loose lengths keep the style soft and feminine. Curls through the loose hair add movement and finish the look. For the fuller picture, Side Part Braids 2027 is worth your time.
11. French Braid Pigtails with Bows
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Bows turn French pigtail braids from everyday to occasion-ready in seconds. The tight, even braids provide a tidy base, and the bows at the ends add a pretty, vintage-inspired accent.
Choose bows that match the outfit for a coordinated finish, or keep them neutral for a softer effect. This is a lovely choice for parties, festivals, and celebrations.
12. Festival Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Festival pigtails mix several braid types — Dutch braids on top, smaller plaits and bubbles below — for a look with plenty to discover from every angle. The layered construction also holds up well through long days outdoors.
Because the style is busy by design, keep accessories light: a few small rings or a touch of glitter is enough. Secure each section well so nothing unravels mid-event.
13. Messy Relaxed Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Messy pigtails embrace texture instead of fighting it, with loose braids, soft flyaways, and a deliberately undone finish. The relaxed shape suits wavy hair and second-day texture particularly well.
The trick is controlled messiness: braid loosely, then pull a few pieces free around the face. Too much pulling unravels the braid, so stop while the shape still holds.
14. Low Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Low pigtails start just below the ears and sit close to the nape, giving a calm, understated version of the style. They suit formal settings and work well under hats, hoods, and caps. For readers who want more, Natural Hair Braids 2027 keeps the ideas coming.
Keep the braids tight and even for a polished finish, and wrap a small section of hair around each elastic to hide it. The result looks neat without feeling severe.
15. Sleek Tight Braided Pigtails
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Sleek braided pigtails are pulled back tightly from a glossy, smooth base, with no loose pieces to soften the line. The sharp finish gives the style a sporty, confident edge that works for workouts and nights out alike.
A smoothing gel along the hairline keeps the base flat and tidy. Because the style is tight, give the scalp a break the next day and avoid repeating it daily.
16. Pigtail Braids with a Zigzag Part
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
A zigzag part adds instant personality before a single braid is made. The angled parting breaks up the symmetry of classic pigtails and draws the eye to the braid pattern itself.
Use the end of a tail comb to trace the zigzag cleanly, then braid each side as usual. The detail is subtle from the front but striking from behind.
17. Two Feed-In Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Feed-in braids start small at the hairline and gradually add hair, creating a smooth, tapered braid that lies flat against the head. The technique gives a neat, salon-finished look that lasts well. The concept gets a fuller treatment in Natural Braids 2027.
This version suits thick hair and protective styling, since the braids stay close and tidy. Keep the scalp moisturised and avoid over-tightening at the edges.
18. Rainbow Dutch Braid Pigtails
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Rainbow colour takes Dutch pigtails into statement territory, with vivid shades woven through the raised plaits so every colour shows. The Dutch technique is ideal here, because the braid sits proud of the head and displays the colour clearly.
Vivid colour needs maintenance: colour-safe shampoo and cooler washes help the shades last longer. If full rainbow feels bold, try the same braids with two or three shades instead.
19. Extra-Long Pigtail Braids
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
Extra-long pigtails, often helped along with extensions, give braids maximum length and swing. The added length also means the braid pattern has more room to show, making even a simple plait look dramatic.
Long braids need sturdy elastics and a little extra care at the ends to prevent tangling. Braiding the hair before bed keeps long pigtails neat overnight.
20. Classic Fishtail Pigtails
Photo credit by: hairmotive.com
A classic fishtail pigtail pairs the fine herringbone weave with the symmetry of two braids, giving a style that looks detailed without feeling fussy. It suits straight and wavy hair alike, and the pattern reads clearly even from a distance. The same idea, styled another way, appears in Butterfly Braids 2026 You Need To See Now.
Work with small, even sections for the neatest result, and finish with a light oil over the lengths for shine. The style holds well, making it a good choice for long days.
21. Bubble Braids Pigtails
Photo credit by: braidhairstyles.com
Bubble braid pigtails are the easiest way to get the pigtail look without braiding at all: ponytails divided by elastics and puffed into bubbles. The graphic, rounded shape photographs beautifully and suits long hair best.
Space the elastics evenly on both sides for symmetry, checking the levels as you go. A little backcombing inside each bubble adds fullness to fine hair.
22. Two Bubble Braids
Photo credit by: braidhairstyles.com
Two simple bubble braids, one on each side, give a clean and youthful finish with minimal effort. The style is quick to create and easy to adjust — add more elastics for smaller bubbles, or fewer for larger ones.
It is a great festival or holiday style, since it stays put and needs no touch-ups. Colourful elastics can turn the same braids into a playful accent.
23. Bubble French Braids
Photo credit by: braidhairstyles.com
Bubble French braids combine the best of both techniques: a French braid at the scalp that flows into bubbles at the lengths. The braided top keeps the style secure, while the bubbles add volume and fun below. The same theme, explored from another angle, is in Braid Hairstyles You Need For 2026.
This hybrid suits medium to long hair and works well for active days, since the French section holds the front firmly. Pull the bubbles out evenly so both sides match.
24. Two Bubble Ponytail Pigtails
Photo credit by: braidhairstyles.com
Two bubble ponytails sit high on the head for a bouncy, energetic silhouette. The height lifts the whole look, making it a favourite for workouts, dance, and festival days.
Start the ponytails at the same height on both sides, using the ears as a guide. Fluff each bubble from the bottom up so the volume builds gradually.
25. Bubble Dutch Braids
Photo credit by: braidhairstyles.com
Bubble Dutch braids start with raised Dutch plaits at the crown and finish with bubbles at the ends, blending structure with playfulness. The combination gives the style more detail than either technique alone.
Keep the Dutch section neat and the bubbles soft for contrast. This is a strong choice for anyone who wants a pigtail style that looks considered rather than casual.
From a simple pair of classic plaits to rainbow Dutch braids and bouncy bubbles, pigtail braids are as versatile as they are easy to love. Pick the version that fits the day — sleek for a polished finish, loose for a relaxed one, or bold and colourful for a festival — and let two braids do all the talking.
Hi, I’m Zoey Mitchell, the creator of ChicStyle Blog.
I share simple, wearable outfit ideas, hairstyles, nail trends, and beauty tips that feel natural and easy to recreate.
This blog is where I explore everything that makes a woman feel put together and confident every day. I’m not an expert — just a woman who genuinely loves style, mixing looks, and discovering what works.
If you love effortless fashion with a personal touch, you’ll feel at home here.