Top 7 Viking Hairstyles for Women (Step-by-Step Guide)

Top 7 Viking Hairstyles for Women (Step-by-Step Guide)

Viking-inspired hairstyles are bold, practical, and undeniably powerful. Rooted in Norse culture and popularized by modern shows and historical fascination, these styles combine intricate braiding with fierce elegance. Whether you're going for a warrior look, a festival vibe, or something unique for everyday wear, these seven Viking hairstyles are both striking and achievable.

Below, you’ll find simple, step-by-step instructions for each look.

1. Shieldmaiden Side Braids

This iconic Viking look features tight side braids paired with loose or flowing hair.

How to do it:

  1. Start with brushed, tangle-free hair.

  2. Create a deep side part on either side of your head.

  3. On the smaller side, divide a section near your temple into three strands.

  4. Begin a tight French braid, adding small sections of hair as you move downward toward your ear.

  5. Continue braiding until you reach just below the ear, then finish with a regular braid.

  6. Secure with a small elastic band.

  7. Leave the rest of your hair loose or add waves for a softer contrast.

2. The Crown Braid

This regal hairstyle wraps around your head like a crown, combining beauty and function.

How to do it:

  1. Part your hair down the middle into two equal sections.

  2. Take one side and begin a Dutch braid (braiding under instead of over) starting near your forehead.

  3. Continue braiding along your hairline, following the curve of your head.

  4. Once you reach the nape of your neck, finish the braid and secure it.

  5. Repeat on the other side.

  6. Wrap each braid across the top of your head like a headband.

  7. Pin them in place using bobby pins, tucking in the ends neatly.

3. Braided Warrior Ponytail

A fierce and practical style perfect for active days.

How to do it:

  1. Pull your hair into a high ponytail and secure it tightly.

  2. Divide the ponytail into 3–5 smaller sections.

  3. Braid each section individually (simple three-strand braids work well).

  4. Secure each braid with small elastics.

  5. For extra volume, gently pull apart each braid (pancaking).

  6. Wrap a small strand of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic and pin it underneath.

4. Half-up Battle Braids

This style balances structure and flow, combining braids with loose hair.

How to do it:

  1. Section off the top half of your hair from temple to temple.

  2. Divide this section into two or three parts.

  3. Create tight braids (French or Dutch) going straight back.

  4. Secure the braids at the crown with small elastics.

  5. Leave the remaining hair loose.

  6. Optional: Curl or wave the loose hair for added texture.

5. Undercut Warrior Braids

Inspired by shaved-side Viking looks, this style mimics an undercut using tight braids.

How to do it:

  1. Create a deep side part.

  2. On one side, section off a rectangular area above the ear.

  3. Divide this section into 2–4 small rows.

  4. Braid each row into tight cornrows or mini Dutch braids going backward.

  5. Secure each braid with elastics or combine them into one braid at the back.

  6. Leave the rest of your hair loose or tie it into a ponytail.

6. Viking Knot Bun

A strong and simple updo with a warrior edge.

How to do it:

  1. Gather your hair into a high ponytail.

  2. Twist the ponytail tightly from root to ends.

  3. Wrap the twisted hair around the base to form a bun.

  4. Secure with hair ties and bobby pins.

  5. For added Viking flair, braid the ponytail first, then twist it into the bun.

  6. Pull a few small strands loose for a slightly rugged look.

7. Freydis Battle Braids

Inspired by legendary Viking women, this look is intricate and bold.

How to do it:

  1. Start with a center part.

  2. On each side of the part, create a tight Dutch braid starting from the hairline and going straight back.

  3. Add hair as you braid until you reach the crown.

  4. Continue the braids down the back of your head.

  5. Combine both braids into a single ponytail or leave them separate.

  6. Optional: Add smaller accent braids throughout the rest of your hair.

  7. Finish with elastics and adjust the braids for fullness.

Final Thoughts

Viking hairstyles are all about confidence, strength, and individuality. While they may look complex, most of these styles rely on basic braiding techniques and a bit of practice. Start simple, take your time, and don’t worry about perfection—slightly messy braids often enhance the authentic Viking aesthetic.

Whether you’re channeling a shieldmaiden or just looking for a bold new hairstyle, these seven looks offer something for every skill level and occasion.

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