Fishtails, crown braids and extra-long plaits are finding their way back into the beauty conversation. Only this time, they feel less like a polished fairytale and more like something out of a romantic fantasy. The texture is softer, the braids are wider, and the finish is intentionally a little undone.

Think loose strands framing the face, visible texture through the lengths and the occasional ribbon woven in. Nothing too perfect, nothing too carefully constructed. The flower crown, however, can stay in the archive.

THE ROMANTASY EFFECT

Fantasy-inspired beauty is having its moment, and the internet's growing fascination with romantasy has brought a renewed appreciation for hair that feels a little otherworldly. With Zendaya's mythic styling for The Odyssey adding to the conversation, the appeal of intricate, almost medieval-inspired hairstyles is becoming difficult to ignore.

The aesthetic sits somewhere between a period drama and a modern beauty editorial. It is whimsical without feeling costume-like, romantic without being overly precious, and just dramatic enough to make an otherwise simple hairstyle feel considered.

LESS PERFECT, MORE INTERESTING

The new approach to braiding is less about precision and more about texture. Fishtails feel fuller, crown braids are softer around the hairline, and extra-long plaits are worn with movement rather than pulled into place. Flyaways are part of the look, not something to smooth away.

Ribbons, delicate ties and understated accessories add to the effect, but the braid itself remains the focus. The intention is not to recreate a fairytale character. It is to borrow a little of the fantasy and make it your own.

A LITTLE MEDIEVAL, A LITTLE MODERN

What makes this trend particularly interesting is how easily it moves beyond its historical references. Paired with a flowing dress, a loose braid feels ethereal. Styled against a sharp blazer, a minimal top or an otherwise pared-back outfit, it becomes something more unexpected.

That contrast is what keeps the look contemporary. There is a sense of romance, but it is balanced by a certain nonchalance. The hair looks as though it belongs to someone with a story to tell, rather than someone who spent hours trying to make every strand behave.

THE ART OF THE UNDONE

There is also something refreshing about a beauty trend that does not demand absolute polish. After seasons of slicked-back buns, precise partings and carefully sculpted finishes, these softer styles make room for movement, volume and a little imperfection.

The appeal lies in the details: a braid that loosens as the day goes on, a few strands falling around the face, or a ribbon that feels like an afterthought. The result is romantic, but never overly styled.

THE TBS TAKE

Perhaps the appeal of fantasy hair is not really about wanting to look like a character from another time. It is about making everyday beauty feel a little more imaginative. The modern braid is softer, more expressive and far less concerned with perfection.

A little medieval, a little magical, and entirely wearable. Consider this your cue to bring the braid back.