Does your little girl love Elsa, Rapunzel, or maybe both?
I was originally looking for an easy Elsa hairstyle for those who struggle with braiding, only to realize that this technique works perfectly for a Rapunzel inspired look too! That’s why in this video, I’m showing you how to recreate both iconic princess styles.
These hairstyles aren’t just beautiful—they are incredibly durable. Even if your little princess is running around all day, the hair stays neat and secure. It’s the perfect hairstyle for active toddler girls.
Whenever I do my daughter’s hair like this for preschool, I lose count of how many times the teachers and other moms have complimented her. They often say, "Wow, what a beautiful French braid! I wish I knew how to do that..."
When I tell them, "Actually, it’s not a braid at all," they are always shocked! "Wait, how is that possible? It looks exactly like one!" This hairstyle is so magical that it never fails to surprise and impress everyone who sees it.
✂️ Material List
- Hair ties (elastics)
- Hairbrush
- Snowflake hair accessories (for Elsa)
- Flower hair accessories (for Rapunzel)
❄️ Elsa Hair Styling Points
Section & Tie
Section off a portion of hair from the crown and tie it. Once secured, hold the elastic and gently slide it down toward the nape of the neck. Be careful not to include hair from the sides yet, as you will need those for the next step. Also, ensure you slide the elastic straight down; do not pull it outwards toward yourself.
Thread & Cross
Gather a section of hair from the side of the face and thread it through the center of the section you tied in Step 1.
Repeat the same process on the other side. Crossing the hair from both sides like this will create a beautiful interwoven look that resembles a professional French braid.
Secure the Foundation
To lock the previous sections in place, gather another small section of hair from the side and tie it together with the rest. Tighten it firmly so that the elastic is hidden underneath the hair from Step 1.
Tighten the elastic firmly and slide it underneath the hair from Step 1. This ensures the mechanics of the style remain invisible for a "magical" finish.
Repeat on the opposite side: gather a small section from the side, tie it, and tighten firmly to keep the foundation secure.
Combine All Hair
Remove the initial elastic from Step 1. Combine all the remaining hair (the sections not included in Steps 4 and 5) with the rest of the hair and tie them all together.
Loosen for Volume
Gently loosen and fluff the section you just tied. This adds volume and makes the transition look like a natural, thick braid.
The Royal Braid
Braid the rest of the hair down to the ends. Since the hair is already divided into three secured sections at the base, even those who find it hard to start a braid can do this easily and neatly. While the side elastics are already hidden, the central one might be visible—make sure to lay the hair over it as you braid to cover it up.
Optional: Adjust Volume
If you want even more volume, gently pull at the edges of the braid to loosen it. This step is optional and can be adjusted to your preference.
Add Snowflake Accessories
Add snowflake-themed hair accessories to complete the Elsa look!
🌸 Rapunzel Hair Styling Points
Prepare Side Sections
Leave sections of hair loose on both sides of the face and temporarily tie the rest of the hair out of the way.
Braid the Sides
Create a simple three-strand braid with each of the side sections.
Tie the Crown
Gather hair from the crown and tie it. Hold the elastic and gently slide it down toward the nape of the neck. Be sure to slide it straight down and avoid pulling it toward yourself.
Thread the Left Braid
Separate the crown section from Step 3 into two parts and thread the left side braid through the opening.
The Braid Cross
Create a small gap in the left braid with your fingers, then thread the right braid through that gap to cross them. After crossing, thread the right braid through the crown section as well. If the center looks off after threading, adjust the position of the gap.
Cross the braids first to find the exact center before threading to ensure a symmetrical look.
Secure & Hidden
Gather a small section of hair from the side and tie it together with the braid. Tighten it firmly so the elastic is hidden under the crown section, then remove the elastic that was at the end of the side braid.
Repeat the same process for the other side to keep everything balanced.
Combine All Hair
Remove the elastic from the crown section and combine it with all the remaining hair (the loose hair not included in the braids) and tie them together.
Add Volume
Gently loosen the newly tied section to add volume and create a natural braided appearance.
The Final Braid
Braid the remaining hair all the way to the ends. Since the base is already secured into three strands, starting the braid is easy and will result in a clean finish. Make sure to cover the central elastic with hair as you braid.
Floral Decoration
Decorate with colorful flower hair accessories to finish your Rapunzel transformation!
🎬 Watch the styling video here!
While both styles look adorable on their own, if you want the full princess experience, you can’t forget the snowflake and flower hair accessories! Simply adding these clips transforms the look, and I guarantee your kids will be overjoyed to finally "become" their favorite princess.