Women have been wearing stunning braided hairstyles for thousands of years worldwide. This style is one of the most versatile, ranging from incredibly intricate styles to simple braids. Braids are also perfect for almost any occasion.
Discover 60 stunning braided hairstyles that will elevate your look. From trendy and elegant to simple and chic, explore the best braids for any occasion. Get inspired by these gorgeous styles and find the perfect braid for you!
Stunning Box Braids
Classic box braids are one of the most popular types of braids for African-textured hair. Your entire hair will be sectioned off into squares and formed into individual braids to achieve this look. You can use your own hair or braid extensions, giving you long, luscious locks.
Braids are a protective style and can be any length or thickness; however, if you have naturally thin or fine hair, opt for smaller box braids so that there’s less stress on your scalp. While box braids take a long time to apply, once done, they last for weeks and are very low maintenance.
Stunning braided hairstyles Ponytail
If you’re looking for a new way to style your braided hair, a simpler option is a high ponytail. This style is popular because it draws the eye upward, making your face appear longer. It’s also versatile and works equally well for the office, school, gym, or date night.
To make your braided ponytail look completely polished, secure it with a clear, tangle-free elastic and twist some of your braids to cover it. Finally, add hair accessories for some extra personality.
Crochet braided hairstyles
Crochet is one of the simplest and easiest ways to achieve very long braid styles. Like weaving, crochet involves first braiding your hair into loose braids. This cornrow braid style forms the foundation for your crochet braids.
The hair extensions are then passed through and secured using a crochet hook before being braided into the braid hairstyle of your choice. You can also install pre-made braids, such as box braids, which greatly reduce the time it takes to style your hair. This makes them a convenient option if you don’t have an extra day to spend in the hairdresser’s chair.
Fishtail braided hairstyles
Fishtail braids are a festival classic, and add a boho touch to any stunning braided hairstyles. They’re one of the simplest braids to create because they don’t involve a complicated pattern. However, you should separate your hair into small sections – about half an inch – and maintain tension throughout the braid to avoid it coming apart.
You can start the fishtail at any point on your head, using a French or Dutch braiding technique, which means it will work on short hair as well as long. A double fishtail is also a great way to wear this look.
Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are a thicker version of cornrows, and they’re just as versatile. The under-braid technique is used to create this style, and the braids are then styled into a ponytail, updo, or left loose.
Whatever you choose, your divine braids will stand out from the crowd. Make sure your hair gets the attention it deserves by accessorizing your stunning braided hairstyles; beads, rings, and wires have been trending lately.
Modern Tribal Braids
Tribal braids are all about combining different braiding techniques and sizes to create unique patterns and styles. These stunning braided hairstyles have their roots in African tribes. Traditionally, hair braiding styles were used as a way to express one’s heritage and status. Today, they can also be used to showcase your style.
Fulani braided hairstyles
Fulani braids are the signature type of stunning braided hairstyles of the Fulani people of West Africa. The style involves braiding thin to medium braids in rows along the sides of the head with a central twist left at the crown.
The central braid is then accessorized—beads and rings are traditional, but hairbands are a chic option. Place your braided hair and accessories strategically to maximize the shape of your face. Fulani braids can also be combined with other stunning braided hairstyles for a unique twist.
Yarn Braids extension
Yarn braids are an extension made of acrylic – a non-wool fabric. They’re a great hairstyle to protect your afro-textured hair, especially during the cooler months like fall and winter. They also make a bold statement because the material comes in a rainbow of colors; pastel pinks, peaches, and vibrant shades like dark green and red are all on trend.
Yarn braids are an extremely versatile styling option, as they work on all hair lengths. They can be as thin or thick as you like, so go for anything from tiny to giant, depending on the strength of your hair. You’ll also have to consider how much patience you have when braiding – the bigger the braid, the longer it will take!
Whether you’re at the office, at school, at the gym, or even at a wedding, these stunning braided hairstyles are perfect for you. Even better, depending on your hair type, braided hair can protect your strands from damage and help you grow your hair longer.