Have you ever found yourself staring at your hair in the mirror, wondering what new style to try next?
Or maybe you’re looking for a protective hairstyle that also makes a bold statement.
Braided hairstyles are the perfect answer to these hair dilemmas, offering a blend of beauty, practicality, and cultural richness.
In this article, I’ve gathered 18 stunning braided hairstyles for Black women that will inspire your next look.
From goddess braids to Fulani braids, and everything in between, each style is unique and fabulous in its way.
Let’s dive in!
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Braided hairstyles have long been a cornerstone of hair fashion, deeply rooted in various cultures around the world, particularly in African traditions.
They are not just a fashion statement but also a practical and protective style that helps maintain hair health.
Braiding involves interweaving three or more strands of hair in a precise and often intricate pattern.
The beauty of braided hairstyles lies in their versatility, they can be adapted to suit any hair length, texture, and personal style.
In African cultures, braids have historically been a way to express one’s identity, including aspects like tribe, age, social status, and even marital status.
Today, they remain a powerful form of self-expression and creativity. There are countless types of braids, each with its unique technique and aesthetic.
For instance, box braids are popular for their protective qualities and long-lasting nature, allowing for endless styling options without the daily hassle of hair maintenance.
Cornrows, on the other hand, lie flat against the scalp and can be styled in straight lines or intricate patterns, often enhanced with beads or accessories for added flair.
Braided hairstyles are also celebrated for their practicality. They help reduce hair breakage and protect the ends of the hair, which are the oldest and most fragile parts.
This protective quality makes braids a go-to choice for many, especially during harsh weather conditions.
But beyond their practicality and beauty, braids are a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistry that goes into hair styling.
Each braid can tell a story, represent a tradition, or simply serve as a canvas for individual creativity.
Goddess braids are an elegant and timeless choice for any occasion. These large, sleek braids are styled close to the scalp, creating a sophisticated and polished look.
To achieve this style, part your hair down the middle and create thick braids that cascade down your back. You can add a touch of glam by incorporating a few gold hair cuffs.
This style not only looks stunning but also keeps your hair protected and manageable.
Whether you’re attending a formal event or just want to feel fabulous, goddess braids will make you feel like royalty.
Fulani braids are perfect if you want to embrace a traditional yet stylish look.
These intricate braids feature a central cornrow that runs from the front to the back, with additional smaller braids adorned with beads and cowrie shells.
To create this style, start by sectioning your hair and braiding each section meticulously. Adding beads and cowrie shells will give your braids an authentic touch.
Fulani braids not only look beautiful but also tell a story of cultural heritage and style. They’re great for any setting, from casual outings to special occasions.
Box braids are a versatile and classic hairstyle that never goes out of style. These medium-sized braids can be as long or short as you desire.
For a trendy look, you can style them in a high ponytail with a few braids left out to frame your face.
To achieve box braids, part your hair into small, square sections and braid each section from the roots to the ends.
Adding dark brown highlights can give your braids a natural yet vibrant look. Box braids are not only stylish but also low-maintenance, making them perfect for busy lifestyles.
Knotless braids are a modern twist on traditional braids, offering a more natural and lightweight feel.
These braids start with your natural hair and gradually add extensions, creating a seamless look.
To style knotless braids, part your hair in a side part and braid each section, adding hair as you go.
This technique reduces tension on your scalp, making it more comfortable to wear. You can accessorize with silver hair rings for a chic touch.
Knotless braids are perfect for those who want a natural look with added length and volume.
Lemonade braids, popularized by Beyoncé, are a stylish and bold choice. These side-swept cornrows start small near the hairline and gradually get larger towards the back.
To create lemonade braids, section your hair and braid each section in a diagonal pattern, starting from one side and working your way to the other.
Adding gold beads can enhance the look, giving it a touch of glam. Lemonade braids are perfect for making a statement and can be worn for any occasion, from casual days to special events.
Tribal braids are a beautiful blend of different braid sizes and patterns, including cornrows and box braids.
To create this intricate style, start by parting your hair and braiding each section in various patterns.
Adding colorful beads and shells will give your braids a vibrant and traditional touch.
Tribal braids not only look stunning but also showcase your creativity and cultural heritage.
They’re perfect for those who want to stand out and embrace a unique and stylish look.
Senegalese twists are a sleek and stylish option for those who want a sophisticated look.
These long, rope-like twists can be styled in various ways, but a half-up, half-down look is particularly chic.
To achieve Senegalese twists, section your hair and twist each section using hair extensions for added length and volume.
The twists should be smooth and silky, giving a polished finish. Senegalese twists are perfect for both casual and formal occasions, providing a versatile and elegant hairstyle.
A cornrow ponytail is a sleek and stylish way to keep your hair out of your face while looking fabulous.
To create this style, braid your hair into tight cornrows directed towards the back, and gather them into a high ponytail.
The ponytail can be curly or straight, adding volume and movement to the look.
This style is perfect for active days when you need your hair to stay in place, yet still want to look chic and put together.
Ghana braids are a bold and beautiful hairstyle that features thick cornrows styled straight back. To create Ghana braids, part your hair into large sections and braid each section tightly.
Adding a few small braids in between can create a striking contrast. You can accessorize with gold string and beads for a regal touch.
Ghana braids are not only stylish but also protective, making them perfect for any season. They can be worn for both casual and formal occasions, showcasing your confidence and style.
Feed-in braids are a trendy and stylish option that offers a seamless and natural look. These braids start small and gradually get thicker as you add more hair.
To create feed-in braids, part your hair in a zigzag pattern and braid each section, adding extensions as you go. This technique reduces tension on your scalp and creates a more natural appearance.
You can add silver hair cuffs for a stylish touch. Feed-in braids are perfect for those who want a versatile and comfortable hairstyle that looks great for any occasion.
A box braids bob is a modern and chic take on the classic box braids. These medium-sized braids are cut to chin-length, creating a sleek and stylish bob.
To achieve this look, part your hair into small, square sections and braid each section from the roots to the ends. The ends of the braids should be blunt for a clean finish.
Adding a few beads can give your braids a touch of personality. A box braid bob is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet fashionable hairstyle.
Bohemian braids are perfect for those who love a free-spirited and relaxed look. These braids are a mix of regular braids and loose, wavy hair, creating a boho-chic style.
To create bohemian braids, section your hair and braid some sections while leaving others loose and wavy.
You can decorate the braids with small beads and shells for an authentic bohemian touch.
Bohemian braids are perfect for casual days and music festivals, giving you a laid-back yet stylish appearance.
Crochet braids are a versatile and easy-to-maintain hairstyle that offers endless possibilities.
These braids are installed using the crochet method, resulting in voluminous and bouncy curls.
To achieve crochet braids, braid your hair into cornrows and use a crochet hook to attach the extensions.
The extensions can be styled in various textures and lengths, depending on your preference.
Crochet braids are perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet fashionable hairstyle that can be easily changed.
A halo braid is a romantic and ethereal hairstyle that looks stunning for any occasion.
This single, large braid wraps around your head like a crown, creating a halo effect. To create a halo braid, part your hair into a circular section and braid it around your head.
The braid should be thick and smooth, with a few wispy strands left out for a soft and romantic look.
A halo braid is perfect for weddings, parties, or any special event where you want to feel like a goddess.
Micro braids are tiny and intricate braids that create a detailed and stunning look.
To achieve micro braids, part your hair into very small sections and braid each section tightly from the roots to the ends.
You can style the braids in various ways, but a high bun is particularly chic. Leaving a few braids out to frame your face adds a touch of elegance.
Micro braids are perfect for those who want a versatile and long-lasting hairstyle that looks great for any occasion.
A braided updo is an elegant and sophisticated hairstyle that is perfect for formal occasions.
This style features a mix of cornrows and twists, styled into an intricate updo. To create a braided updo, part your hair into sections and braid or twist each section.
Gather the braids or twists into an updo, securing them with pins. This hairstyle is not only beautiful but also keeps your hair out of your face, making it perfect for weddings, parties, or any special event.
Faux locs are a stylish and protective hairstyle that mimics the look of natural dreadlocks.
To achieve faux locs, part your hair into sections and wrap each section with hair extensions, creating a loc-like appearance.
These locs can be styled in various ways, but a half-up, half-down look with a high bun is particularly chic.
Adding a few gold cuffs can enhance the look. Faux locs are perfect for those who want a natural and low-maintenance hairstyle that looks great for any occasion.
Bantu knots with braids are a bold and edgy hairstyle that combines two classic styles. To create this look, section your hair into small parts and braid each section.
Then twist each braid into a Bantu knot, securing it with pins. The knots should be neat and symmetrical, creating a striking and stylish appearance.
This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to make a statement and showcase their creativity and style.
It’s great for casual outings, festivals, or any event where you want to stand out.
