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Ways to have a major Princess Leia hair moment in 2024.

3 Modern Ways To Rock Princess Leia Hair For Star Wars Day 2024

princess leia star wars hair

Calling all Star Wars nerds: After decorating the house with geeky accessories and DIYing our favorite character costume, wehad to address our favorite part of the saga: Princess Leia's hair. It's epic — period. In honor of Star Wars Day (May the Fourth be with you!) and the fact that Carrie Fisher finally got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, here are some of my favorite Princess Leia hair moments — with a modern twist. I updated these three styles into fun, five-minute looks that any level of fan or fashion girl would want to work. They're perfect for dinner plans and Star Wars parties alike.


Princess Leia's Double Braids from "​Episode VI: The Return of the Jedi​" –> Casual Rope Braids

Princess Leia's Double Braids

Images via Lucasfilm Ltd/20th Century Fox/Walt Disney Studio Motion Pictures/Brit + Co

Tight, leather-threaded braids get a casual update with these pigtails, perfect for those days you want an easy, lazy girl style.

Step 1: Section + Twist

twist hair into rope braids

Image via Brit + Co

Take a tiny strand of hair near your temple and separate it into two equal sections. Taking one strand in each hand, twisting each section around your fingers in a counterclockwise direction. Then cross the pieces over one another in a clockwise motion and keep on going.

Step 2: Secure + Repeat

tie the braid off with an elastic

Image via Brit + Co

When you reach the end of the strand, secure the rope braid with a clear elastic.

repeat the braid on the other side

Image via Brit + Co

Then repeat on the other side.

matching rope braids

Image via Brit + Co

You can also curl the ends of your hair if you want to dress this look up a bit!

Princess Leia's Milkmaid Braid from ​"Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back​" –> Messy Fishtail Crown Braid

Princess Leia's Milkmaid Braid

Images via Lucasfilm Ltd/20th Century Fox/Walt Disney Studio Motion Pictures/Brit + Co

milkmaid braids

Image via Brit + Co

We’re putting a more romantic twist on Princess Leia’s chunky milkmaid braid with a messy fishtail-Dutch plaitand loose, long tendrils to frame your face.

Step 1: Section

section off your hair

Image via Brit + Co

Start by sectioning your hair in half. Pin the right section in place so that it will be easier to work with the left one.

Step 2: Fishtail Dutch Braid

make a fishtail dutch braid

Image via Brit + Co

Now take a small strand from the top of your head and start fishtail braiding with two alterations: Braid underneath instead of over the top (this gives the braid a cool 3D effect) and incorporate tiny strands as you go.

Step 3: Secure + Repeat

secure braid and braid the other section

Image via Brit + Co

Once you’ve incorporated all the hair, keep on braiding normally, then tie with an elastic. Then, braid the other section with one twist: Braid this section upwards.

Step 4: Pancake

pull out the edges to thin them out

Image via Brit + Co

Gently separate your plaits — what’s called pancaking — to give your braids a fuller, messier look.

Step 5: Pin + Final Touches

pin up braids

Image via Brit + Co

Lastly, use a couple of bobby pins to secure the braids in place and get the perfect crown result. And don't worry if some tiny pieces are sticking out: It's all part of the look!

finished crown braid

Image via Brit + Co

Date-night ready like that.

Princess Leia Space Buns from "Episode IV: A New Hope" –> Half-Up Half-Down Double Buns

Princess Leia Space Buns

Images via Lucasfilm Ltd/20th Century Fox/Walt Disney Studio Motion Pictures/Brit + Co

While this is hands down Princess Leia's most iconic hair look, it's one of the hardest to wear outside of Halloween. This half-up, half-down update featuring a pair of mini buns makes it feel both more attainable and of the moment.

Step 1: Section

section off your hair

Image via Brit + Co

Use a fine-tooth comb to make a section from the ear to the top of your head.

Step 2: Cheerleader Pigtails

make pigtails

Image via Brit + Co

Then make a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Once you’re done, repeat on the other side.

Step 3: Create the Buns

create the bun

Image via Brit + Co

Finger comb your hair to add a bit of volume, then start twisting your ponytail to create a bun. Bobby pin it in place, then repeat on the left side.

finished space buns

Image via Brit + Co

Polish your next athleisure outfit with this so-cute style.

Which Star Wars are you going to watch tonight? Tag us in your Princess Leia hairstyles on Instagram!

This post has been updated.

Lead image via Brit + Co