To recreate Anna’s hair from Frozen 2, part your hair and braid both sides, keeping the sections snug near your scalp and softer toward the ends. Secure the braids with small elastics, then gently loosen them for a natural, story-ready look.
The exact styling changes between scenes, so there is more than one way to make the character recognizable. This guide focuses on a practical, screen-inspired braided style you can adapt for long, medium, or shorter hair.
You’ll find clear steps, tips for managing flyaways, alternatives for different skill levels, and advice for making the style comfortable enough to wear. A few simple accessories can finish the look without making the braids difficult to manage.
How to do anna’s hair from frozen 2
For a recognizable Frozen 2-inspired Anna look, create a soft part and style the hair into two braids that frame the head. Keep the braids smooth at the roots, then gently loosen their edges so they look relaxed rather than tight and polished. Finish with small elastics and, if you like, understated ribbons or clips.
Anna’s hairstyle changes across the film and between outfits. Instead of treating one braid arrangement as the only correct version, choose the look that suits the scene or costume you are recreating. The instructions below give you a flexible braided base that works for a costume, themed event, or everyday hairstyle.
The technique is easiest on hair that reaches at least the shoulders. Shorter hair can still work with small side braids, pinned sections, or a half-up variation. You do not need a wig, heat tools, or professional braiding experience.
What you’ll need before you start
Gather your tools before sectioning your hair. This helps you keep the braid tension even and avoids having to let go midway through a section.
- A comb or brush for detangling and making a part.
- Two small, snag-free elastics that match your hair color.
- Sectioning clips or claw clips to hold unused hair.
- A little water or light styling cream for flyaways.
- Optional ribbon, decorative clips, or a flexible-hold hairspray.
Use only a small amount of product. Too much cream or spray can make hair slippery, which makes the braid harder to grip. If you plan to add ribbon, cut two equal lengths before you begin and keep them within reach.
Choose the braid style that fits your hair
Several braid types can create a similar character-inspired effect. Pick one based on your comfort and the amount of time you have. A French braid and a Dutch braid use the same basic three-strand method, but the strands cross in different directions.
| Style | How it looks | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Two Dutch braids | Raised braids sit visibly above the surrounding hair. | A bold, defined look and hair that holds a braid well. |
| Two French braids | Braids lie closer to the head with a smoother finish. | A softer profile or a first attempt at scalp braiding. |
| Side braids pinned back | Small braids begin at the temples and join or pin behind the head. | Medium-length hair or a half-up variation. |
| Three-strand braids | Simple braids begin below the ears or shoulders. | Beginners, layered hair, or a quick costume hairstyle. |
For the most defined result, try Dutch braids. For a gentler look, choose French braids or start with a simple braid on each side. A braid does not have to be perfectly symmetrical to look intentional; matching the general size and placement matters more.
Prepare your hair for neat, comfortable braids
- Detangle from the ends upward. Hold each section above the knot and work out tangles gradually. This reduces pulling at the scalp and helps prevent breakage.
- Decide where the part should sit. A center part creates a balanced pair of braids. A soft side part makes the style feel less formal. Use the comb’s tail to make a clean line from the front hairline toward the crown.
- Separate the hair into two sides. Clip one side away while you work on the other. Keep the division visible down the back of your head so stray hairs do not cross into the opposite braid.
- Dampen flyaways lightly. Smooth a little water or styling cream over the hairline and lengths. Avoid soaking the hair; very wet hair can stretch more easily and feel uncomfortable when braided tightly.
If your hair is freshly washed and very silky, a small amount of texture spray can improve grip. If it is curly or coily, work with its natural texture instead of brushing it completely straight. Detangle gently and braid in the direction your hair naturally falls.
Make two Dutch braids step by step
A Dutch braid is sometimes called an inside-out French braid. You add hair as you braid, but cross each outside strand under the middle strand, rather than over it. That crossing direction makes the braid stand out from the head.
- Start at the front of one side. Take a section near the part, above the temple. Divide it into three similar strands and hold one in each hand.
- Begin with two crossings. Move the right strand under the middle, then move the left strand under the new middle. Keep the strands separate and use your fingers to maintain gentle tension.
- Add hair before each crossing. Pick up a small section from beside the braid and combine it with the outside strand on that side. Cross the combined strand under the middle. Repeat on the other side.
- Follow the head’s curve. Keep adding sections as you braid from the hairline toward the back of the head. Smaller additions usually produce a more detailed braid; larger additions create a quicker, broader one.
- Continue past the scalp. Once you have gathered all the hair on that side, braid the remaining lengths as a regular three-strand braid. Cross the outside strands under the middle, keeping the braid secure but not painfully tight.
- Secure the end. Tie the braid with a small elastic. Repeat on the other side, aiming for a similar starting point, braid width, and ending length.
- Check comfort and balance. Make sure the scalp does not feel pulled. Adjust any sections that look uneven before adding accessories.
It is normal for the first braid to look better than the second. If you are practicing, start with the side you find harder. That gives you more time to work on the tricky side while your hands are fresh.
How to make the braid look softer
After both braids are secure, use your fingertips to tug gently at the outer loops. Work gradually from the top downward, pulling each loop only a little. This technique is called pancaking, and it makes a braid appear fuller without changing its structure.
Do not pull at the loops if they feel loose enough to slip apart. Instead, pin a flyaway section with a small bobby pin or leave the braid more compact. A secure style that feels comfortable is better than a very loose braid that comes undone.
Try an easier side-braid variation
If you are new to braiding or your arms tire easily, use smaller braids that begin at the temples and meet behind the head. This gives the hairstyle a braided outline without requiring two full scalp braids.
- Part your hair in the center or slightly off-center, then brush each side back from the face.
- Take a narrow section above one temple and divide it into three strands.
- Braid the section with a regular over-under pattern, following the hairline toward the back.
- Secure it temporarily with a small clip and repeat on the opposite side.
- Join the two braids behind the crown with an elastic or pin them in place.
- Leave the remaining hair down, or braid the loose lengths if your hair is long enough.
This option works well for medium hair, layers, and anyone who wants to keep most of their hair down. You can also make just one side braid for a quick, understated nod to Anna’s look.
Adjust the style for short, layered, or curly hair
Short hair
Shoulder-length hair may not be long enough for full braids that continue down the back. Braid only the front sections and secure them behind the ears or at the crown. Small elastics and discreet pins can help keep short ends in place.
If the back is too short to gather, leave it loose. The paired braids near the face still create a clear, character-inspired shape. Avoid forcing short pieces into a tight braid, since that can pull at the hairline.
Layered hair
Layers tend to escape from braids because shorter pieces cannot reach the end. Use small sections near the scalp, then braid only as far as the length allows. A light styling cream can help, but do not keep tightening the braid to trap every short strand.
Pin escaping ends flat against the braid with bobby pins that match your hair. Place the wavy side of each pin toward the scalp for a more secure hold. If many layers slip out, choose the pinned side-braid version instead.
Curly or coily hair
Work with dry or slightly damp hair that has already been gently detangled. Brushing curls when they are dry can create unwanted frizz, so use your fingers or a suitable detangling tool and keep the sections organized.
Curly texture can make the finished braids look naturally full. Do not pull the hair completely straight unless that is the look you want. Use a satin scrunchie or soft elastic at the ends to reduce friction, and remove pins carefully to avoid catching curls.
Add accessories without making the hairstyle uncomfortable
Small, simple accessories can help connect the hairstyle to a costume. Choose a narrow ribbon, a modest decorative clip, or elastics that blend with your hair. Place decorations where they will not press into your scalp or catch on clothing.
To add ribbon, tie it around the elastic at the end of each braid rather than weaving it through the braid for your first attempt. This is quicker, easier to remove, and less likely to loosen the braid. Trim the ends so they do not hang where they could snag.
For a more polished result, hide the elastics with a small section of hair. Wrap the section around the elastic once, then secure it underneath with a bobby pin. Skip this step if your hair is short or the wrap feels tight.
Common mistakes that make the style harder
- Starting with tangled hair: Knots interrupt the braid and make each addition harder to control. Detangle before parting.
- Taking uneven sections: Large differences in section size can make one braid look much wider. Aim for similar-sized additions, especially near the hairline.
- Pulling too tightly: Excess tension can cause scalp discomfort and may stress the hairline. Keep the braid secure, not painful.
- Mixing up French and Dutch crossings: Crossing strands over creates a French braid; crossing them under creates a Dutch braid. Choose one method and keep the direction consistent.
- Using too much product: Heavy product can make hair slick or stiff. Start with a tiny amount and add more only if needed.
- Over-loosening the finished braids: Pulling too hard can make the braid unravel. Gently widen the loops a little at a time.
- Expecting perfect symmetry: Natural hairlines and growth patterns differ from side to side. Match the overall shape rather than trying to make every strand identical.
One useful detail is that a braid can look fuller without being tighter. Many people respond to a flat-looking braid by pulling harder at the scalp. Instead, secure it comfortably first, then widen the outer loops gently. This improves the visible shape without adding unnecessary tension.
Make the hairstyle last through an event
Before leaving, check the elastic at each braid and press loose pins flat against the head. Use a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray only if you want extra control. Keep the spray away from your eyes and follow its label directions.
Carry a spare elastic and a couple of bobby pins if you will be wearing the style for several hours. If one braid loosens, secure the problem area rather than tightening the whole style. This is more comfortable and usually preserves the shape.
Remove the hairstyle slowly. Take out pins first, then elastics, and unravel the braids from the ends upward. If a knot catches, loosen it with your fingers instead of pulling. A little conditioner or detangling product can help after the style is down.
Questions about Anna-inspired braids
Can you create the look without a Dutch braid?
Yes. French braids, simple side braids, or two small temple braids pinned behind the head can all create a similar effect. The best option is the one you can make securely and comfortably with your hair length.
How long does it take?
The time depends on your braiding experience and hair length. A simple pair of side braids is usually quicker than two full scalp braids. If you are learning, allow extra time to redo sections without rushing or pulling tightly.
Do you need long hair?
No. Long hair gives you more room for full braids, but shorter hair can be styled with small front braids or a half-up arrangement. Pins can secure shorter ends, while loose hair at the back keeps the style balanced.
Should the braids be perfectly neat?
No. Smooth roots help the style look intentional, but slightly softened braids can feel more relaxed and natural. Aim for secure, similar braids rather than identical strands.
For how to do anna’s hair from frozen 2, start with a comfortable part and two secure braids, then soften them gently for a relaxed finish. A Dutch braid gives a more raised look, while French or simple side braids offer easier alternatives.
Choose the version that fits your hair length and skill level, and avoid pulling tightly to make the style look fuller. Try the braids once before your event, then keep a spare elastic and a couple of pins nearby for quick adjustments.