Winter is the perfect time to experiment with intricate and cozy braid styles, and who better to draw inspiration from than the trendsetting K-pop group Aespa? Their futuristic and edgy aesthetic combined with classic winter elements can lead to some truly stunning braided looks. This article explores twenty unique winter braid hairstyles inspired by Aespa, incorporating trending colors, designs, and styles from both the US and Europe.
Reverse French Braid with Silver Accents
This classic braid is given a futuristic twist with the incorporation of silver hair extensions or metallic thread woven throughout. The reverse French braid creates a raised, 3D effect, perfect for showcasing the shimmer of the silver. Popular in both the US and EU, this style can be further enhanced with face-framing tendrils styled with a texturizing spray for a more undone, effortless look. Color-wise, consider a base of dark chocolate brown or jet black to make the silver truly pop. This style reflects the current trend of incorporating metallic elements into hair for a touch of edgy glamour, often seen on runways and red carpets.
Double Dutch Braids with Icy Blue Highlights
Channel Aespa’s “Black Mamba” era with this fierce and bold hairstyle. Two Dutch braids, tightly woven against the scalp, create a strong and powerful silhouette. Incorporate icy blue highlights, either through temporary hair color sprays or extensions, for a frosty winter vibe that resonates with current European trends. This style works beautifully with varying hair lengths and textures. Consider adding small snowflake-shaped hair charms for a whimsical touch, reflecting the playful yet chic aesthetic popular in the US. This look pairs well with bold makeup, particularly graphic eyeliner and frosty lip gloss.
Fishtail Crown Braid with Burgundy Ribbons
This romantic and intricate style embodies a softer winter aesthetic. A fishtail braid, known for its textured and detailed appearance, is woven into a crown around the head. Intertwine deep burgundy velvet ribbons throughout the braid for a touch of opulent winter warmth, echoing the rich jewel tones trending in both the US and EU this season. This style is particularly flattering on longer hair and can be adapted for more formal occasions by adding delicate crystal hairpins. For a more bohemian feel, loosen some strands around the face and curl them for a soft, romantic finish.
Side Swept Mermaid Braid with Pearl Embellishments
This whimsical and elegant braid draws inspiration from fairytale aesthetics. A loose, voluminous mermaid braid is swept over one shoulder, creating a dramatic and romantic look. Incorporate small pearl embellishments throughout the braid for a touch of ethereal beauty. Pearls are a timeless classic experiencing a resurgence in popularity, aligning with the current trend of incorporating delicate and feminine details into hairstyles. This style works best with longer hair and can be adapted to suit various hair textures. The soft, flowing lines of this braid complement the current preference for natural and effortless hairstyles seen in both the US and EU.
Half-Up Space Buns with Braided Accents
Embrace Aespa’s futuristic concept with this playful and edgy hairstyle. Create two high space buns, leaving the lower half of the hair down. Incorporate thin braids, either using your own hair or adding extensions, leading into each bun for added dimension and texture. Consider using bright, unconventional colors like electric blue or neon pink for the braids, reflecting Aespa’s bold and vibrant style. This trend of incorporating playful elements into hairstyles is gaining traction in the US, particularly amongst younger generations. Finish the look with a high-shine hairspray for a sleek and polished finish.
Chunky Pull-Through Braid with Emerald Green Streaks
This braid is a statement in itself, characterized by its voluminous and textured appearance. The pull-through technique creates a cascading effect that adds drama and movement to the hair. Incorporate temporary emerald green hair streaks, a color trending in both the US and EU, for a touch of winter magic. This vibrant hue complements darker hair colors beautifully and aligns with the current trend of incorporating bold, jewel-toned accents into hairstyles. This look works well with medium to long hair and can be adapted for both casual and more formal occasions.
Waterfall Braid with Gold Leaf Accents
This ethereal and romantic braid is perfect for winter formal events. The waterfall braid creates a delicate and flowing effect, allowing strands of hair to cascade down like a waterfall. Delicately apply gold leaf accents to some of the cascading strands for a touch of luxurious shimmer. Gold leaf is a trending embellishment in both the US and EU, adding a touch of opulence and glamour to any hairstyle. This style is best suited for longer hair and pairs well with soft, romantic makeup and flowing attire.
Four-Strand Braid with Snowflake Hairpins
This intricate braid adds a unique and textured dimension to any hairstyle. The four-strand technique creates a thicker and more complex braid, perfect for showcasing winter-themed hair accessories. Adorn the braid with delicate snowflake-shaped hairpins for a touch of whimsical winter charm. This style works well with various hair lengths and textures. Adding a touch of glitter hairspray to the braid enhances the festive feel, aligning with the current trend of embracing sparkle and shine during the holiday season in both the US and EU.
Dutch Braid Pigtails with Face-Framing Braids
This playful and youthful hairstyle is inspired by Aespa’s energetic and vibrant image. Two Dutch braids, secured with colorful scrunchies or ribbons, create a fun and dynamic look. Incorporate thin face-framing braids on either side of the head for added detail and dimension. Consider using bright and playful hair accessories, like butterfly clips or colorful beads, to enhance the youthful vibe. This style reflects the current trend of embracing playful and nostalgic hair accessories, popular amongst Gen Z in both the US and EU.
Milkmaid Braids with Velvet Headband
This classic and elegant hairstyle is perfect for a sophisticated winter look. Two braids are woven around the head, creating a crown-like effect. Add a luxurious velvet headband in a rich jewel tone, such as emerald green or sapphire blue, for a touch of regal elegance. Velvet headbands are a trending accessory in both the US and EU, adding a touch of vintage glamour to any hairstyle. This style works well with various hair lengths and can be adapted for both casual and formal occasions.
Halo Braid with Icy Highlights
This angelic and ethereal braid is perfect for winter weddings or formal events. A single braid is woven around the head, creating a halo-like effect. Incorporate subtle icy highlights throughout the braid for a touch of winter magic. This style works best with longer hair and can be enhanced with delicate hair accessories, such as crystal hairpins or floral accents. This romantic and elegant hairstyle aligns with the current trend of embracing soft and feminine looks for special occasions, particularly in the EU.
Rope Twist Braids with Glitter Spray
This simple yet stylish braid is created by twisting two sections of hair together, creating a rope-like effect. Create two rope twist braids and secure them with clear elastics. Generously apply glitter hairspray to the braids for a touch of festive sparkle. Glitter spray is a popular choice for adding a touch of glamour to hairstyles during the holiday season in both the US and EU. This style works well with various hair lengths and can be adapted for both casual and festive occasions.
Ladder Braid with Beaded Accents
This intricate and visually stunning braid is created by weaving sections of hair together in a ladder-like pattern. This unique braid style is perfect for showcasing intricate beadwork. Incorporate small beads in varying colors and sizes throughout the braid for a bohemian and textured effect. This style reflects the current trend of incorporating handcrafted and artisanal details into hairstyles, particularly popular in the EU. This look works best with longer hair and can be adapted for both casual and more formal occasions.
French Braid Ponytail with Colorful Extensions
This classic hairstyle is given a vibrant and playful update with the addition of colorful hair extensions. Create a French braid starting at the crown of the head and continuing down into a ponytail. Incorporate colorful extensions, such as bright pink, electric blue, or neon green, into the braid for a bold and eye-catching effect. This style reflects the current trend of experimenting with bold and unconventional hair colors, popular amongst younger generations in both the US and EU.
Fishbone Braid Bun with Metallic Thread
This intricate and elegant hairstyle combines the textured detail of a fishbone braid with the sophistication of a bun. Create a fishbone braid and then twist it into a low bun at the nape of the neck. Incorporate metallic thread, such as gold or silver, throughout the braid for a touch of subtle shimmer. This style reflects the current trend of incorporating metallic elements into hairstyles for a touch of understated glamour, particularly popular in the EU.
Pull-Through Braid Headband with Crystal Embellishments
This unique and stylish hairstyle creates the illusion of a braided headband. The pull-through technique is used to create a thick and voluminous braid that sits across the forehead like a headband. Embellish the braid with small crystals for a touch of sparkle and elegance. Crystal embellishments are a popular choice for adding a touch of glamour to hairstyles for special occasions in both the US and EU.
Double French Braid Updo with Pearl Hairpins
This elegant and sophisticated updo is perfect for winter weddings or formal events. Create two French braids, one on each side of the head, and then pin them up into an intricate updo. Adorn the updo with pearl hairpins for a touch of classic elegance. This style reflects the timeless appeal of pearls and their resurgence in popularity as a hair accessory, particularly in the EU.
Side Fishtail Braid with Winter Floral Accessories
This romantic and whimsical hairstyle is perfect for winter festivals or holiday parties. Create a loose and textured fishtail braid and sweep it over one shoulder. Adorn the braid with winter-themed floral accessories, such as small faux flowers or berries, for a touch of festive cheer. This style reflects the current trend of incorporating natural elements into hairstyles, particularly popular in the US.
Five-Strand Braid with Ribbon Accents
This intricate and visually stunning braid is created by weaving five sections of hair together. The five-strand technique creates a thicker and more complex braid, perfect for showcasing ribbon accents. Weave velvet or satin ribbons in coordinating colors throughout the braid for a touch of texture and dimension. This style reflects the current trend of incorporating luxurious fabrics and textures into hairstyles, particularly popular in the EU.
