Milkmaid Braid Reimagined: Margaret Qualley's Chic Twist at Berlin Film Festival
Recalling the 2014 online beauty sensation, the milkmaid braid has made a triumphant return in 2025. This time, it comes with a modern twist, showcased by actress Margaret Qualley at the Berlin Film Festival. Promoting her new film Blue Moon, alongside co-star Ethan Hawke, Qualley reinterpreted this classic hairstyle with an innovative design that captivated audiences. Her appearance was complemented by an elegant Chanel outfit and minimalist makeup, creating a striking yet sophisticated look. The star has previously experimented with variations of the milkmaid style, further proving her versatility and fashion-forward approach.
During the Berlin Film Festival, Qualley opted for a unique take on the traditional milkmaid braid. Instead of bundling all her dark, luxurious hair into a bohemian updo, she chose to French braid only the right side of her hair. She then looped the remaining length around a low ponytail, resulting in an intricate and concealed hairband effect. This styling choice added an element of surprise and elegance to her overall appearance. Her attire included a shimmering Chanel dress from the spring/summer 2025 collection, paired with a matching midnight manicure. To complete the look, Qualley kept her makeup simple yet radiant, using bronzer, mascara, and a delicate shade of ballet slipper pink lipstick.
This isn't the first instance where Qualley has embraced the milkmaid trend. Earlier this month at the Critics' Choice Awards, she worked with hairstylist Anna Cofone to create a contrasting "rope twist" style. Cofone began by brushing out and straightening Qualley's hair, followed by smoothing it with the Authentic Beauty Concept Glow Mask. The hair was then divided into a half-up, half-down style, with caramel blonde and dark brown rope twist extensions added for contrast. Finally, Cofone used a heated tong to create loose barrel curls, finishing off the look with a touch of glamour.
The resurgence of the milkmaid braid, as seen on Qualley, highlights how timeless styles can be refreshed and adapted for contemporary tastes. By combining elements of the past with modern techniques, Qualley demonstrated her ability to stay ahead of fashion trends while honoring classic beauty traditions. Her bold yet understated choices at high-profile events continue to inspire fans and set new standards in the world of celebrity styling.