How to Create a Snake Braid in Under 5 Minutes
The zigzagging snake braid is one of those gorgeously intricate hairstyles that looks like it took a full beauty team to accomplish when it's really just a five-step kind of 'do.


The zigzagging snake braid is one of those gorgeously intricate hairstyles that looks like it took a full beauty team to accomplish when it's really just a five-step kind of 'do. Some snake braids S-shape all the way down the length of your hair, but if you're pressed for time, bookmark this handy guide for how to perfect a subtly sophisticated side version.
Begin braiding the way you would with any other style, pulling a section of hair from the side of your head and weaving three strands together.
Step 2.
Once you're almost all the way down the length of the section of hair (about three-quarters of the way down), separate the three strands.
Step 3.
Holding tightly to the middle strand with one hand, push the length of hair all the way up to the top of the braid until your hair is tightly coiled by your roots.
Step 4.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
Here's where you get to adjust the braid for tightness. Slightly tug at the individual sections of the braid until the S-shaped coils are more spread out. The more you lengthen out the braid, the more visible the "snake" shape will appear.
Step 5.
Secure the braid with a bobby pin and sweep the surrounding hair over it to cover the pin.
Voilà
Your side snake braid is ready to go!
Follow along with the full video from start to finish (that you can pause and rewind as much as you need to).
GIFs by Katja Cho.
Follow Marie Claire on Instagram for the latest celeb news, pretty pics, funny stuff, and an insider POV.
-
'The Residence' Is a White House-Set Whodunit, But Where Was It Really Filmed?
The Shondaland-produced Netflix series pulled off the largest-ever recreation of the Executive Mansion.
By Quinci LeGardye Published
-
In 'Opus,' Cult Leaders and Pop Stars Are One in the Same
The A24 film's costume and production designers open up about crafting fictional pop icon Moretti’s style and mysterious estate.
By Sadie Bell Published
-
Prince Louis Could Follow in Prince Andrew’s Footsteps to Receive This Royal Honor When Prince William Becomes King
The 6-year-old prince could one day hold a special title.
By Kristin Contino Published
-
Michelle Obama’s Edgy Braided Mohawk Feels So ‘90s-Coded
She's reviving this quintessential '90s style.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
Selena Gomez’s Curly Lob Could Double as a Bridal Hairstyle
Romantic, flirty, and trendy—what’s not to love?
By Ariel Baker Published
-
Spring 2025’s Best Hair Color Trends Look Natural, Sleek, and Incredibly Luxe
The season's best shades are so luxe.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
Eiza González Confirms Braided Ponytails Are So Back
The actor wore the look to the premiere of her new movie and accessorized the classic hairstyle. See her version here.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
I Scoured Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty Sale for Five Hours—Here's What I'm Shopping
Add to cart, ASAP.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
Gigi Hadid's Espresso Brunette Hair Color Is Growing Out So Beautifully
The model showed off yet another hair change days after being spotted with silver strands.
By Ariel Baker Published
-
Jenna Ortega’s New Burgundy Hair Has Me Ready for Season 2 of 'Wednesday'
Wednesday Addams, is that you?
By Ariel Baker Published
-
Doechii’s Best Paris Fashion Week Beauty Looks Deserve a Standing Ovation
The Grammy winner cemented her place as a beauty and fashion icon.
By Ariel Baker Published