Braided vs. Pigtail — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 30, 2024
Braided refers to a style of intertwining three or more strands of hair, while pigtail denotes any hairstyle where the hair is divided into two sections on either side of the head.
Difference Between Braided and Pigtail
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Braided hairstyles involve interlacing three or more strands of hair to create a complex pattern that can vary in size, length, and intricacy. On the other hand, pigtail hairstyles are characterized by splitting the hair into two sections, each tied at the back or sides of the head, and can be styled in braids, twists, or simply left loose.
Braids can be styled in numerous ways, including simple three-strand braids, French braids, Dutch braids, and fishtail braids, each offering a different aesthetic and complexity. Whereas, pigtails are generally simpler, focusing more on the placement of each section rather than the method of styling, though they can also incorporate braided elements.
Braids are often chosen for their versatility and ability to keep hair tidy and compact, making them popular for sports, formal events, and everyday wear. Pigtails, on the other hand, are often associated with a youthful and playful look, commonly worn by children and sometimes styled in whimsical or casual ways.
Culturally, braids can be seen across various societies and historical periods, often carrying significant meanings and traditions. Pigtails too have cultural connotations but are more often connected to images of youth and innocence, particularly in Western cultures.
While both styles can be used by people of any age, braids are generally more universally adopted across different age groups for their elegance and sophistication. Pigtails, while adaptable, tend to be more popular among younger individuals or as part of specific fashion statements.
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Comparison Chart
Number of Strands
Three or more strands interlaced
Typically two sections, may be braided
Style Variations
French, Dutch, fishtail, cornrows, etc.
Can be loose, braided, or twisted
Common Usage
Sports, formal events, daily wear
Casual, playful, often seen in children
Cultural Significance
Widespread, with deep roots in many cultures
More limited, often associated with youth
Age Demographics
All ages, universally appealing
Often associated with younger people
Compare with Definitions
Braided
A hairstyle created by interlacing three or more strands of hair.
She wore a beautifully braided hairstyle for her wedding.
Pigtail
Sometimes used to describe the youthful style in casual settings.
Her pigtails bobbed as she jumped rope.
Braided
Can also refer to any object intertwined in a similar fashion.
The braided rug in the living room adds a cozy feel.
Pigtail
A hairstyle where the hair is split into two sections, typically tied at the back or sides.
She styled her hair in pigtails for the gym class.
Braided
Used metaphorically to signify integration or mixing.
The narrative is braided with themes of love and loss.
Pigtail
Can be used to refer to cables or wires split into branches.
The electrician fixed the issue with a pigtail connector.
Braided
Often signifies a craft or technique in various arts.
Braided wire jewelry is popular for its durability and style.
Pigtail
Also refers to short lengths of fiber or wire.
Pigtails in fiber optics are used to connect to a terminal or splice.
Braided
To create a secure, intertwined pattern.
He braided the ropes together for added strength.
Pigtail
Indicates a simple, playful fashion choice.
She chose pigtails to complete her casual weekend look.
Braided
Braided is a musical group consisting of Casey LeBlanc, Ashley Leitão, and Amber Fleury, who all competed on the third season of Canadian Idol in 2005. They are the third music group to come from an Idol show in the world, after Young Divas from Australia and Feminnem from Croatia.
Pigtail
In the context of hairstyles, the usage of the term pigtail (or twin tail or twintail) shows considerable variation. The term may refer to a single braid, but is more frequently used in the plural ("pigtails") to refer to twin braids on opposite sides of the head.
Braided
Produced by braiding.
Pigtail
A braid or ponytail, especially one of a pair worn one on each side of the head.
Braided
Resembling a braid.
Pigtail
A short length of wire used to connect other wires to each other or to an electrical device.
Braided
Having braids.
Pigtail
A twisted roll of tobacco.
Braided
Decorated with braid.
Pigtail
Tobacco twisted into a string or roll.
Braided
Flowing in shallow channels that divide and reunite in a pattern resembling the strands of a braid
A braided stream.
Pigtail
A braided plait of hair; now especially, either of two braids or "tails" on the side of the head.
Braided
Simple past tense and past participle of braid
Pigtail
(informal) A person who wears a pigtail or queue.
Braided
Plaited, woven, entwined
Pigtail
(electrical engineering) A short length of twisted electrical wire.
Braided
(of a stream) Divided into several channels
Pigtail
The flamingo flower anthurium
Braided
Adorned with braid; as, his braided collar.
Pigtail
The tail of a pig.
Braided
Formed into a braid or braids; as, braided hair.
Pigtail
(medicine) Twisted stent terminal; stent-end, usually but not necessarily a different fastened part.
Braided
Adorned with braid;
His braided collar
Pigtail
The tail of a pig.
Pigtail
A cue, or queue.
Pigtail
A kind of twisted chewing tobacco.
The tobacco he usually cheweth, called pigtail.
Pigtail
A braid of hair on either side of the face
Common Curiosities
Why are pigtails associated with children?
Pigtails are often seen as playful and easy to manage, making them a popular choice
Are braids suitable for formal occasions?
Yes, braids can be very sophisticated and are suitable for both formal occasions and everyday wear.
What are some common cultural significances of braids?
In many cultures, braids can signify marital status, age, wealth, social position, and even tribal affiliation, showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural identity.
How do you create a basic braid?
To create a basic braid, divide the hair into three even sections, alternately cross the right and left sections over the middle one until you reach the end of the hair, and secure with a hair tie.
Can adults wear pigtails without looking childish?
Yes, adults can style pigtails in a way that looks chic and sophisticated, such as low, loose pigtails or braided pigtails, often seen in fashion contexts.
Do pigtails have different names in other cultures?
Yes, pigtails are also known as "twin tails" or "bunches" in different regions and cultures, each possibly having its own styling variations.
What is the main difference between a braid and a pigtail?
A braid involves intertwining multiple strands of hair, while a pigtail is simply dividing the hair into two sections, which may or may not be braided.
Can pigtails be considered a type of braid?
Pigtails can incorporate braiding but are not exclusively braided; they can also be just tied or twisted sections of hair.
What's the best way to maintain braids overnight?
To maintain braids overnight, wrap the hair in a silk or satin scarf, or use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and help prevent frizz and unravelling.
What variations can you make with pigtails?
Pigtails can be varied by braiding them, twisting them, or decorating them with accessories like bows and ribbons. They can be worn high, low, or even asymmetrically for different looks.
What occasions are suitable for wearing braided hairstyles?
Braided hairstyles are versatile enough for almost any occasion, from daily wear at work or school to special events like weddings or sports activities.
Are braids good for hair health?
Braids can protect hair from environmental damage and reduce tangling, but they should not be too tight as this can lead to hair breakage and scalp stress.
How long does hair need to be to style it in pigtails?
Hair should be long enough to be gathered into two sections and secured, typically at least a few inches long. The exact length may depend on whether the pigtails are braided or left loose.
How can one add a modern twist to pigtails?
Modern twists to pigtails include adding elements like braids, curls, or even using temporary color sprays for a vibrant, contemporary look.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
