Braided hairstyles make space for
creativity. There are many interesting braiding techniques to make every
head unique. Besides, you can experiment with highlights, natural or
curly texture, clips, patterns, shapes, etc.
Natural perm and hair thickness is your big
plus and a unique bonus that you simply can’t leave unused. Your hair,
that you might have been complaining of before, is created for braids.
So why not to use this idea to your advantage?
African hair braiding is very versatile: microbraids, cornrows, fishtail braids, blocky braids, black braided buns, twist braids, tree braids,
hair bands, French braids and more are at your disposal. Once you pick a
desired braiding style, thickness and have your hair braided, you may
shape your braids into gorgeous hairstyles both for every day and
special events.
Researchers say that braids were “in
fashion” even 2000 years b.c. If they have survived till our time, there
definitely must be something special in them, don’t you think? No
wonder, every year world-famous designers experiment with braids at
fashion shows. Fancy to know what’s new they offer!
Popular Trends in Black Braided Hairstyles
Fashion shows are always inspiring, yet
when it comes to clothes, we need to wait at least till March to begin
to bring some new fresh ideas into life. As for hairstyles, things are
much easier here: get inspired and try on new images already now. What’s
new was there in braided hairstyles? These are some trends for
inspiration:
– Tight and edgy cornrow styles, cornrowed
buns. Cornrows have been always considered as a rather casual hairstyle,
but now when they are in Couture collections, it’s high time to rock
them for a while in the new season.
– Wrap-around braids and twists for black hair with fresh flowers. These are loose, messy and inspired by Boho chic.
– Very loose whimsical braids for long
hair. The braid that starts from mid-shaft is not noticeable in the
front and looks sloppy in the back.
– Low braided buns. Braided bun updos are always an extra charge of elegance to ennoble even the simplest outfit.
– Twisted rope braids. These long 3
dimensional braids, ideal for long thick hair, look very interesting,
unhackneyed and worth a try.
The Most Gorgeous Black Braided Hairstyles
Check out the ideas in pictures below to get inspired.
#1: Criss-Cross Goddess Braids
Chunky cornrow braids, referred to as
goddess braids, are perfect for days when you want to give your hair a
break or when you are going on a beach vacation and would rather not
worry about styling your strands every morning. The great thing about
the braids of this size is that they don’t take too long to do and are
easy to take out.
#2: Dynamic Side-Swept Cornrows
Braided looks are so popular amongst African Americans because of how they protect the hair.
Once the hair is in the braid, it is free of heat and manipulation for
weeks on end. Plus, it’s really cute and there are endless designs to
express yourself.
#3: Asymmetrical Goddess Braids
Mix plaits of different sizes into braid hairstyles to create texture and dimension. Combining chunky and thin braids
is unexpected. It’s also a lot more exciting than regular plaits. The
unique parts keep the hairdo fresh and fun. Add beads or gold cuffs for
the final touch of personalization.
#4: Long Chunky Black Braids
Chunky box braids are totally in style. With alternating thin braids, the hairdo feels very hot. What makes extensions
so priceless is how you can experiment with volume and length. You can
style your hair in ways your natural locks wouldn’t allow.
#5: Feed-in Braids
The benefit of the feed-in method is that
it makes cornrow hairstyles look more natural and less bulky by creating
a narrow and flat point at the hairline. This also creates less tension
and protects the edges. This method of braiding can be done at any
African hair braiding salon.
#6: Braided Ponytail
As wonderful as braids can be to create
interesting protective styles, braiding hair can sometimes feel heavy
when it comes to hairstyles with individual plaits. A cornrow ponytail
is great for a casual updo that won’t pull on your edges.
#7: Cornrows Enclosed by Headband Braid
Have fun with your protective styles like this halo braid.
All of your ends will be tucked away, so you won’t have to worry about
breakage. To make a hairstyle like this last, make sure to wrap your
hair with a satin scarf every night or use a bonnet.
#8: Curly Mohawk with Flat Twisted Sides
Instead of shaving your tresses for a
mohawk, experiment with different braid styles. You get to keep your
length, and still show off your edgy side. To refresh the curls in the
AM, go to bed the night before with your ends in two-strand twists. When
you take them out, your hair will fall into that luscious mane.
#9: Thin Black Box Braids with Burgundy Highlights
Not everyone likes dying their hair because the bleach can be very damaging to African-American tresses. That’s why box braids
are so awesome. Pick colored extensions for a bright pop, just like
highlights mixed into your real hair. It adds an extra element of fun,
as you can see in the picture.
#10: Box Braids and Cornrows Mohawk
Make the mohawk yours with braids, braids
and more braids. Braid the top of the style together so it creates a
pompadour. Then, let the rest hang loose. You will get some major height
out of this coif. This is a refined take on the classic punk-inspired
hairstyle.
#11: Half-Updo with Long Freely-Hanging Braids
Long braided Ghana weaving hairstyles
are a staple for African American women during the summer months. Keep
your look fresh with a half-updo that features a nice height on top.
This style can be completed in a time crunch for a sexy look that lasts
throughout wherever the day may take you.
#12: Perfect Black Braided Ponytail
Natural hairstyle’s braids are a go-to if
you’re looking to grow out your own tresses while still sporting
back-skimming locks. Box braids are low-maintenance, and this updo will
stay out of your face when you’re on-the-go.
#13: Snake Braids
Long and curvy braids are not your typical
cornrows, but the idea is pretty much the same. Try the snake braids if
you want a fresh take on the hair braided closely to the scalp. Add
golden beads for extra bling!
#14: Chunky Mohawk Braids
Mohawk braids
are an easy way to try the shaved style without committing to actually
cutting your hair. Also the possibilities are endless when it comes to
styling the long section of your hair — you can cornrow it as shown,
wear individual African braids, twists, or more.
#15: Chunky Mohawk Braid with Cornrows
Chunky braids are a stylish pick for black
hair. Thicker braids are also easier to undo once your hairstyle has run
its course. But while you are rocking it, there are many ways to change
up the mohawk. Wear it braided down the back or try styling it into a
retro-inspired bouffant up top.
#16: Curly Hairstyle with Crochet Braids
Crochet braids
are handy when you don’t want to commit to a weave. You can wear the
hair down or up in a ponytail. You really have as many styling options
as the imagination allows. Mix highlights into your crochet braids with
colored kanekalon hair for a bleach-free splash of color.
#17: Ghana Braids Bun
Braids all over your head might be fun, but
sometimes you want something simpler and classier, like this low
braided bun with two plaits and a curved part. The braids are made of
added hair, so, you don’t need to worry about the length of your hair.
#18: Cornrows with High Twisted Bun
Updos
are comfortable and cute. So why not opt for a classy black braided
hairstyle like the one pictured? You will have an effortlessly chic look
ready to go for work everyday. You also won’t have to worry about
styling it every morning. It’s a great choice for women with busy
lifestyles.
#19: Feed-In Bun with Ghana Braids
Wrap your Ghana braids into a bun to change
things up. Ghana braids are beautifully thick, which will give you a
full, statement-making bun. It is sleek and sophisticated; perfect for a
night out and a day at the office, alike.
#20: Fancy Twisted Updo
Something about wearing your hair up lends itself to a refined look and feel. This flat-twisted style
uses texture to make the updo more unique and unexpected. The style is
good for women with natural hair that want something protective and
polished.
#21: Half Cornrows Half Individual Braids
Braided hairstyles for black women are very
creative and versatile. Mixing cornrows and loose box braids is just
one way to show this. The different types of braids are complemented
with wooden beads at the ends for a boho touch.
#22: Curvy Ghana Braids with Crown Bun
Add some whimsy to your locks with curvy
Ghana braids. The subtle swirling of the plaits is mesmerizing and makes
this so much more than your average bun. It is a gorgeous hairstyle for
those looking for something bold.
#23: Updo with Thin Wavy Feed-Ins
If chunky braids
are too overwhelming for you, there is nothing wrong in sticking to
thinner plaits. Twist the ends together if you feel like you are missing
out on volume. Have fun with it though and ask your stylist make a
unique design with your parts.
#24: Braids with Curves
One of the best things about wearing braids
is the ability to create designs without shaving them into your hair or
using color. This can be done with just the parts or by manipulating
the actual braid. Pick something that matches your personal style; it
can be something simple and beautiful like the slightly curved braids
shown or you can go all out with a more intricate look.
#25: Thick and Thin Asymmetrical Feed-in Braids
Black hair braids are known for their high
cool-factor. Alternating thick and thin asymmetrical Ghana braids will
only make your hairstyle even cooler. This trend is eye-catching and
keeps the thicker braids from being too overpowering. The thinner plaits
bring balance to the style.
#26: Upside Down Braids to Bun
For something super sleek and bold, go with
upright braids. Have the cornrows lead into either a ponytail or a bun.
You can wear the ends down for a casual look or up in a bun when you
need something a little dressier.
#27: Braided Hairstyle with Jumbo French Braid
A French braid goes from being sweet to
sassy the larger it gets — and this style brings a heavy dose of the
latter. Try a jumbo braid for an upcoming weekend out; this is a
surefire conversation starter!
#28: Twisted Black and Magenta Mohawk
Protect your natural hair and wear something ultra-stylish while you’re doing it. A gorgeous magenta hue
is an exciting way to bring an extra touch of femininity to your
hairstyle. Play around with different braid sizes and voluminous twists
for irresistible texture.
#29: Triangle Box Braids
African-American braided hairstyles are a
chance to be creative. Parts don’t have to be routine squares. Take this
geometric, triangular design for instance. It’s unexpected, cool and
gives the classic box braid a totally fresh feel.
#30: Bold Triangle Parted Box Braids
Braided hairstyles are quite common among
modern women, especially traditional looks like box braids. One of the
easiest ways to make a standard style seem fresh and new is by changing
the size of the braids and experimenting with parting. Large braids will
go well with the 90’s revival and athleisure/streetwear fashion trends
that are popular at the moment.
#31: Braided Bun
For a long time, large braided updos were
reserved for older women on the go. But everything old is new again, and
now younger women are embracing the style with flair. The micro braids accent the jumbo cornrows for a fun twist on the classic.
#32: Long Braids for Black Hair
Even if you are adding hair for length,
chunky black braids are not ideal for those with short natural hair
because they can slip out or cause too much tension. A good way to
combat this is to feed small tight cornrows into larger ones for a
similar, but more secure, effect.
#33: Purple Highlights in Black Braids
Outside of the extra length and thickness,
adding hair also gives the ability to experiment with color. Weaving in a
few pieces of hair for a pop of color like the purple shown here will
give you cute braids with a highlighted effect.
#34: Wavy Straight-Back Braids
One of the most classic cornrow styles is
the straight – back look. It’s typically the first hairdo that new
braiders master because the pattern is simple and it does not take a lot
of time to complete. To add a softer twist, ask for curvy parts to
create a wavy appearance.
#35: Braided Updo Hairstyle with Curls for Short Hair
No need to rock a fully braided style to
get the effect. Braid the back, leaving room in the front for bouncy
spiral curls. This style works well with short to medium hair length, as
it does not require much length to complete.
#36: Updo with Forward Braided Bun
Don’t get stuck in a rut with the same
black braid hairstyles. Try a voluminous loosely braided bun updo for an
eclectic twist that would work well for black women with medium-to-long
hair lengths.
#37: Jumbo Double-Twisted Updo
Here is a simple updo for black women
with natural hair that can work for a dressy event or just when one
craves a more glamorous moment in day to day life. The best part is that
this look can be completed in less than five minutes for a quick and
easy black braided hairstyle.
#38: Large High Bun with a Headband
Although this is not what you would
typically think of when you picture braids, this style overlaps three
separate sections in a bun to add visual interest. Take it to the next
level with dyed ends and a bright headband.
#39: Poetic Justice Braids
One of the most popular hair braids style
at the moment is the Poetic Justice look. This is named after the long
braided look that Janet Jackson wore in the hit 90’s film. Pair with bantu knots on top and flirty makeup for an eye catching look.
#40: Double Bun Mohawk with Undercuts
Show off your shaved sides with two larger
than life spunky braided buns; the perfect hairstyle to complement your
look for an enjoyable night out.
#41: Intricate Boxer Braids
A signature hairstyle is one show-stopping
way to showcase your personality as well as your personal taste. Braided
‘dos are both protective and, clearly, gorgeous. Look for intricate
braided hairstyles that both protect your natural hair and show it off
to its best effect.
#42: Long Curvy Braids
One of the reasons black women turn to
braids is because they’re so versatile. In addition to forming the basis
for many protective styles, braids work as stunning hairstyles with
natural hair and weaves
or extensions. For this fresh asymmetrical style, try curvy plaits with
curvy partings – and don’t forget to keep those baby hairs slick and
tamed.
#43: Black Braided Bun Updo
Swirls, loops, and swoops; thick plaits,
thin snaking cornrows, and perfectly curled baby hairs – there are
several hair braiding patterns on display here, and all of them reveal
just why the braid can be a work of art!
#44: Long Braided Faux Hawk
This Empire-inspired faux hawk
takes braided hair to the next level in its execution, intricacy, and
literal height. It features several braiding styles, with natural
braided hair along the sides and back. The twisted roll that forms the
faux hawk and the cascade of braids spilling out of it are adaptable
depending on personal preference — thick, thin, long, short, or medium
length, just pick a style and type of hair you want to use for
extensions.
#45: Cornrows with a Twist
Cornrow hairstyles are not just signature
styles for black hair, they’re deeply cultural hairstyles for black
women and men. The rows are cute in geometric patterns, which highlight
the skill and artistry that go into crafting these hairstyles. The
thickly woven braiding on top can be achieved with natural hair or
extensions.
#46: Long, Braided, and Flowing
Long, braided hair is a signature look for
black girls and women. There are several types of braids, ranging from
twists and locs to free-flowing box braids. Color, size, and design all
come in a dazzling variety, and don’t forget accessories for individual
braids!
#47: Black Braided Bun
Braided updos are elegant and sophisticated
but still fun, and they’re versatile and full of flavor, so every woman
can choose her own style. This look begins with cornrows that lead to a
thick, braided bun. High top knots such as this one are classy and
compatible with any outfit.
#48: Chic Braided Bob
Braided bobs
are simple but so chic. This is a run-out-the-door hairstyle that never
fails – the wearer always looks pretty, polished, and put-together. The
best part is that this ‘do is a winner with thin, thick, or medium
braids.
#49: Reverse Flat Twists
Traditional cornrows go from forehead to
nape, but if you have shorter hair and/or want to have some volume on
the top of your head, reverse them. The highlighted bunch of curls looks
very sweet – girly and playful.
#50: Thick Halo Braid
African braids can take on a variety of different forms. It can be a full head of tiny braids or one chunky halo braid that gracefully wraps around and frames your face.
#51: Gorgeous Pocahontas Braids
This show-stopping double-plait is updated
by color and complemented with side cornrow braids for a look you’ll be
proud to wear casually or for an up-coming event.
#52: Cute Jumbo Twist Braids
Call them jumbo twists or crochet braids,
the result is equally impressive. The style is unfailingly edgy,
elegant, and eye-catching. Add some scattered golden beads to break the
gorgeous mass of hair you’ve got.
#53: Flat Twists into Twist Out Curls
Today’s twist braid styles often use flat
twists with freely hanging ends you can style in curls or braids for a
more sophisticated look. These flat twists are done on shorter hair with
extensions, yet the style is very natural-looking. Love it!
#54: Black Crown Braid
The crown braid updo
is simple but very chic and time tested. You can lift your braid closer
to the crown of your head or let it run along the hairline – choose the
variety that flatters your face shape and facial features the most.
#55: Black Braided Mohawk
There’s no end to a variety of designs one
can try with braiding. This mohawk with braids blends curvy cornrows
with one point burst rows for a jazzy Mohawk to suit a woman who shies
away from wearing boring hair.
#56: Two Cornrow Boxer Braids
Two braids can sometimes be better than
numerous individual braids. These absolutely look like your own hair,
especially if you choose braiding hair that matches in hue. Braid
hairstyles for black women give you freedom to try a new exciting style
each time you need a change.
#57: Crossed Twists and Afro Puff Pony
Sometimes a few simple elements combined in
one ‘do make a gorgeous hairstyle – here is an example! Who doesn’t
like an afro puff when your hair is of the right length? Add a fun
detail in the front and flaunt your customized afro puff. Nothing is
better than updated classics!
#58: Mohawk with Criss-Crossed Braids
The way the braids criss-cross is nothing
less than jaw-dropping. The curls on top add some fun, volume, and
bounce to the overall look. If you like to blend styles, this is a great
new updo to try!
#59: Braid and Side Bang
If you have a long bob
or a medium tapered cut, you can still rock braids as shown here. Use
the longest portion of your cut in the middle to create a braid or add
hair to the section where you will be able to get the most grip. With a
sleek bang in the front—this look gives new meaning to the phrase
“business in the front, party in the back”.
#60: Half-Up and Braided
Wearing black braids half-up, half-down is
an effortless way to look on-point every day. This ‘do can look
professional, it’s sporty, sexy and it’s casual enough to wear it daily.
#61: Double Braids Updo
Black braided hairstyles aren’t just
beautiful, they are creative and practical. Two braids updos ride new
wave of popularity, so don’t miss the trend and get something quite
simple yet classy braided for your trip somewhere or just for a change
to brighten up your casual life.
#62: Mixed Braid Updo for Black Hair
Looking for a fun style to wear at a formal
event? Mixing in a few braids of different sizes will result in a
fashion forward updo for black women. To help the look last for a couple
of days, make sure to sleep with a silk scarf at night.
#63: The Most Sophisticated Braided Updo Ever!
Unbelievable… look at that! Those elegant
spirals, skillfully rolled into the most sophisticated updo, are worth
to grace your head for a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, like wedding, to
say the least.
#64: Criss-Crossed Braids with Feed-in Cornrows
Today nobody is impressed by just plain
braids. To upgrade your braided hairstyle, criss-cross braids, vary
their thickness, try new angles, experiment with different variations of
parts, and you’ll invent something unique, something that’s worth a
double take.
#65: Dutch Braid Crown for Black Hair
If you have long natural hair, or want to
add length to your strands with extensions, braiding hairstyles can
promise you a fabulous new look. This is perfect for nights when you
want to go out and don’t feel like straightening your hair or twisting
it out.
#66: Revamped Braided Ponytail
Take a ponytail
to the next level with braids. Because the style is not very versatile,
you want to introduce something quirky or fun into the look so that it
doesn’t feel boring after a couple of days. Incorporating smaller
braids, or wrapping hair around your ponytail holder are those simple
touches that will keep it exciting.
#67: Braids and Waves for Any Occasion
Braids, ending in waves, will provide you
with good options for a choice of hairstyles. Wear them loose, cascading
your shoulders for every day or pile everything up for a superlative
updo that is never out of fashion.
#68: Bulky Braided Crown Bun
One of the fastest and most pulled together
protective styles is a braided bun. This style can be achieved by most
textures and lengths. Unless your locks are extremely long and full, it
is easy to add hair to create a bulky crown-like bun.
#69: Twisted Updo with Blonde Highlights
Showcase your highlights in the elegant
twisted updo with honey blonde accents. Pump up the volume of the style
with a beautiful bouffant in the front.
#70: Twist from Box Braids
Keri Hilson also occasionally adopts the box
braids trend, and she wears her braids in a modern way – without “baby
hair” at front. Well, hers is sleeked cutely into a couple of tiny
tendrils.
As you see, there are tons of exciting
ideas of how to change your image with different types of braids. Take
advantage of your naturally thick wavy hair and show the world just how
breathtaking you can be!
No comments:
Post a Comment