Apres Ski Braid Hairstyles bring cozy charm to cold-weather styling, keeping hair neat after a day on the slopes. Apres Ski Braid Hairstyles mix warmth and texture, perfect for beanies, helmets, and lodge nights where you want an easy, polished look.
These braid ideas flatter many face shapes and hair lengths, from long waves to shoulder-length layers.
Try an apres ski braid hairstyle to stay warm, avoid flyaways, and carry that relaxed, après-ski glow from the mountain to the bar.
Chunky Dutch Braids With Cozy Beanie
Chunky Dutch braids are warm, practical and endlessly photogenic for après-ski plans. Start with a deep center part and braid tight against the scalp to lock hair in place; the chunky sections give that alpine, lived-in texture that looks great under a knit beanie. This style keeps ears covered and hair secure whether you’re heading back to the lodge or grabbing hot chocolate by the fire. It’s flattering on round and oval faces and gives the illusion of thicker hair.
Styling Tips
- Prep with texturizing spray for grip before braiding.
- Leave a few wisps at the face for softness around the forehead.
- Loosen the braid gently for a relaxed, cozy finish.
Messy Fishtail Braid With Snowy Texture
The messy fishtail braid gives a modern twist to classic ski-side style. Work with slightly dirty or dry shampooed hair to make the fishtail hold better; pull on outer segments to create that soft, undone silhouette that reads perfectly against snowy backgrounds. This braid lengthens the face and looks beautiful with parkas or faux-fur collars. It’s an easy go-to for nights when you want hair that feels effortless but still put together after a long day outdoors.
Styling Tips
- Start low for a relaxed, slouchy finish.
- Use a small elastic and conceal it with a wrapped strand.
- Apply light hairspray to tame flyaways without stiffness.
Low Braided Bun With Scarf Tuck
A low braided bun is elegant and snug under scarves and high collars. Braid hair into a loose three-strand or rope braid, then twist into a low bun and tuck the ends under for warmth. Slip a slim scarf around your neck and thread the bun through for a tucked, streamlined look that won’t catch in jacket zippers. This style transitions well from slope to dinner and keeps a refined silhouette when you want to look pulled together but comfortable.
Styling Tips
- Use a soft elastic to secure the braid before pinning into a bun.
- Add a small amount of smoothing balm to tame frizz.
- Pin strategically so the bun sits comfortably under coat collars.
Braided Crown Wrapped Around Head For Lodge
The braided crown is a cozy, romantic choice for lodge evenings and ski-town strolls. Create two small Dutch or French braids along the hairline and wrap them into a crown across the head, pinning discreetly. This keeps hair off the face and frames features softly while working beautifully with wool headbands. It’s a flattering look for heart-shaped and oval faces and pairs well with statement earrings or a plush collar for après activities.
Styling Tips
- Loosen the crown slightly for a softer, lived-in feel.
- Use bobby pins that match your hair color for an invisible hold.
- Finish with a lightweight shine mist for a healthy sheen.
Double Milkmaid Braids For Ski Lodge Evenings
Double milkmaid braids bring vintage charm to chilly days and après-ski gatherings. Start with two braids around the head and pin them across the crown, creating a secure, snug fit that pairs well with a collared coat or chunky scarf. This style feels playful and polished at once, and it’s surprisingly practical under hats because the braids sit flat against the head. It’s a flattering option for medium to long hair and adds a sweet, feminine touch to winter outfits.
Styling Tips
- Add a bit of mousse for hold before braiding for more control.
- Secure ends with clear elastics then tuck and pin for a seamless look.
- Pull out delicate face-framing pieces for softness.
Rope Braid Peek From Under Winter Hat
Rope braids are sleek and modern, and they peek out beautifully from under a knit hat. Twist two sections tightly, wrap into a low rope braid, and let the ends trail over a coat collar for a chic contrast between tidy braid and soft winter layers. This style is compact enough to wear with helmets if braided close to the head. It suits straight or wavy textures and gives a neat finish while still feeling relaxed and winter-ready.
Styling Tips
- Create the rope braid on slightly damp or texturized hair for grip.
- Tuck ends into the coat or secure with a hidden elastic.
- Use a serum on the ends for smooth shine.
Half-Up Braided Halo With Soft Waves
This half-up braided halo blends laid-back waves with a tidy braid crown for an effortless après-ski vibe. Pull the top section into a loose braid that wraps halfway around the head, leaving waves to tumble at the back. The balance between structure and softness makes it flattering on almost every face shape and perfect for showing off textured layers. It’s light enough to wear under a headband or with a beanie pulled back slightly for style and warmth.
Styling Tips
- Create soft waves with a large-barrel iron before braiding the top section.
- Loosen braid strands for volume and a bohemian feel.
- Secure with discreet pins to keep the halo steady.
Side-Swept Boho Braid With Face-Framing Pieces
The side-swept boho braid is relaxed and effortlessly chic for slope-side socials. Sweep hair to one side and braid loosely, then pull a few face-framing pieces free for a flattering, soft outline. This style pairs beautifully with oversized sunglasses and a faux-fur collar, giving you a glamour-meets-cozy energy. It works well on mid-length and long hair and feels protective enough for breezy afternoons without hiding your personal style.
Styling Tips
- Use dry shampoo near roots to add texture before braiding.
- Gently tug braid sections to widen and soften the plait.
- Secure the tail with a decorative elastic or a small ribbon for flair.
Mini Braids Peeking Under Knit Headband
Mini braids add texture and intrigue when they peek out below a knit headband. Braid small sections along the temples or crown, then leave most hair loose for contrast. This subtle detailing keeps hair tidy and draws attention to the face while staying cozy. Mini braids are a playful, low-commitment way to add an alpine feel to straight or wavy hair, and they look charming with layered scarves and wool coats at après events.
Styling Tips
- Braid small, even sections for a tidy finished look.
- Secure tiny braids with clear elastics and hide ends under the band.
- Pair with a slouchy headband for a relaxed vibe.
Textured French Braid That Fits Helmet Comfortably
A textured French braid works for on-mountain comfort, sitting close to the head so helmets fit easily. Add a bit of salt spray for body and braid tightly from the crown down to keep everything secure during active runs. Let small sections near the face soften for movement and warmth. This practical style keeps hair protected from wind and cold while still feeling feminine and polished at the lodge afterward.
Styling Tips
- Apply texturizing spray to damp hair for long-lasting hold.
- Braid tight for helmet-friendly profile, then loosen slightly for softness off the slopes.
- Tuck ends under a jacket collar or secure with an elastic.
Braided Ponytail Styled With Pom-Pom Hat
A braided ponytail pairs perfectly with a pom-pom hat—fun, functional and flirty. Sweep hair into a mid-height ponytail, braid down the length and pull at the sides to add width and softness. The pony sits comfortably under most hats while keeping hair off the neck. It’s versatile for long hair textures and looks festive with winter accessories, making it a go-to for casual lodge hangs and evening strolls by the lights.
Styling Tips
- Secure the base tightly so the ponytail stays put beneath a hat.
- Pancake the braid gently for a fuller appearance.
- Add a spritz of flexible-hold spray to maintain movement without crunchiness.
Waterfall Braid With Loose Winter Ends
The waterfall braid adds delicate interest while keeping most hair down for a cozy look. Create a cascading braid along one side, letting strands fall through for a soft, romantic effect that pairs beautifully with wool coats and turtlenecks. Loose winter ends catch the light and show off texture, making this style a charming pick for lodge dinners or candlelit gatherings. It flatters layered hair and highlights natural waves with minimal fuss.
Styling Tips
- Build waves with a curling iron to enhance the waterfall effect.
- Keep the braid relaxed for a natural, flowing finish.
- Use a smoothing cream on the ends to avoid winter frizz.
Inverted French Braid For Windy Mountain Runs
An inverted French braid (also called a Dutch Dutch braid) locks hair down for breezy mountain conditions. Braid from the top and keep the plait tight to prevent wind from loosening it during active days. This braiding technique creates a bold, raised braid that holds shape and gives texture under a helmet or hat. It’s ideal for thick hair textures and gives a sporty, confident look that transitions perfectly to après plans.
Styling Tips
- Braid firmly at the scalp for long-lasting control.
- Secure the end with a sturdy elastic to prevent slipping.
- Smooth edges with a tiny dab of wax if needed for flyaways.
Braided Top Knot With Beanie-Friendly Base
The braided top knot sits high while the base remains low and flat for hat comfort. Braid two sections or create a small crown braid before gathering hair into a top knot, then tuck strands neatly for a polished bun. This keeps bulk away from the crown so beanies and hats slip on easily. It’s a stylish compromise between wearing hair up and staying warm, and it adds a modern edge to classic après looks.
Styling Tips
- Create a smooth base with a brush before forming the top knot.
- Wrap the braid around the bun for texture and interest.
- Secure with pins and a medium-hold spray for all-day stay.
Snowflake Accent Braids With Tiny Beads
Delicate snowflake accent braids add a playful, wintry touch to simple styles. Braid small sections and add tiny bead accents or metallic threads to catch the light—melded subtly into loose hair or a ponytail. This detail elevates a cozy outfit and looks lovely at evening gatherings or holiday parties after a day on the slopes. It’s a creative way to make hair feel festive without committing to an elaborate updo.
Styling Tips
- Add beads near the ends of tiny braids for sparkle close to the face.
- Secure embellishments with clear elastics or tiny crimps.
- Keep the rest of the hair soft to let the accents stand out.
Thick Three-Strand Braid With Fleece Lining Look
A thick three-strand braid reads cozy and substantial against cold-weather layers. Build volume by gently tugging on braid segments and finish with a wide ribbon or fleece-wrapped elastic to mirror outerwear textures. This braid suits long, dense hair and looks at home with roomy scarves and shearling details. It’s sturdy for active days while still feeling feminine and soft for après-ski gatherings where style meets comfort.
Styling Tips
- Blow-dry with a round brush for smooth roots before braiding.
- Pancake the braid for bulk and texture.
- Hide the elastic with a wrapped ribbon or fleece strip for a cozy finish.
Braided Faux Hawk For Mountain Nights Out
The braided faux hawk brings an edgy look to winter evenings without sacrificing warmth. Braid tight along the center of the head and pull the plait upward for height and definition, leaving sides softer or pinned back. It makes a chic contrast with soft knits and structured coats, perfect for apres-ski drinks or night scenes. This style highlights cheekbones and elongates the face, creating a bold statement that still fits cozy winter wardrobes.
Styling Tips
- Use texturizing paste at the roots to sculpt the faux hawk shape.
- Pin sides flat for contrast and clean lines.
- Finish with medium-hold spray to preserve height without stiffness.
Twisted Nape Braid Into Low Bun
A twisted nape braid into a low bun is sleek and minimal, ideal for slipping scarves and collars over without bulk. Start with twists from each side meeting at the nape, then braid or twist the gathered hair into a low bun. The style sits flat against the head and keeps hair protected from wind and cold. It reads refined while still feeling warm, making it a go-to for apres plans that call for understated polish.
Styling Tips
- Use smoothing cream along the sides to keep the twists neat.
- Secure the bun with hairpins that match your hair color.
- Finish with a matte spray to prevent flyaways without shine.
Fishtail Pigtails To Keep Ears Warm
Fishtail pigtails are youthful and practical for chilly days when you want hair off the neck and ears kept warm. Part down the middle and fish-tail braid both sides, leaving the ends slightly undone for softness. These pigtails work well under earmuffs or with high collars and pair playfully with ski jackets. They feel casual and cozy, making them a lively pick for daytime mountain activities and easy to refresh before evening plans.
Styling Tips
- Start braiding from slightly below the crown to keep volume near the head.
- Loosen the braid once secured for a fuller, softer look.
- Add a clear elastic and conceal it with a wrapped strand for a clean finish.
Elegant Side Chignon With Soft Braid Accent
An elegant side chignon with a soft braid accent offers a refined après option that still feels warm. Sweep hair to one side, braid a small section and wrap it into a low chignon for texture and interest. This look pairs beautifully with structured coats and statement earrings when heading from slope to supper. It’s polished but comfortable, and the braid detail keeps it visually interesting without needing many pins or products.
Styling Tips
- Create a loose braid for the accent rather than a tight cornrow.
- Pin the chignon low and slightly off-center for balance.
- Use a flexible-hold spray so movement looks natural.
Loose Ladder Braid For Cozy Evenings Indoors
The loose ladder braid is decorative without being fussy—perfect for cozy lodge evenings. Create ladder-like loops along one side, letting the rest of the hair hang soft and natural. This style is romantic and pairs well with knitwear and candlelit scenes, offering a delicate alternative to full updos. It shows off texture and layers, making it a lovely choice when you want hair that feels relaxed but thoughtfully styled.
Styling Tips
- Work with soft waves to accentuate the ladder effect.
- Keep loops loose for a gentle, romantic look.
- Secure with bobby pins hidden under sections for a seamless finish.