Top Black Braided Hairstyles That Grab Attention
Elegant and creative black braided hairstyles are one of the most popular hair trends worldwide. These unique hairstyles not only embellish but also add a special charm and individuality to one’s look.
The incredibly diverse patterns and textures that can be created from braids allow every woman to find a hairstyle that reflects her style and personality. From classic braids to intricate patterns and weaves, braids can be as refined or bold, accentuating the natural beauty and uniqueness of each lady.
In this article, we will explore the best options for black braided hairstyles that will leave no woman indifferent. We will discuss the most popular styles, braiding techniques, as well as provide tips on hair care and maintaining the hairstyle in perfect condition.
So, let’s dive into the amazing world of black braids and discuss how these hairstyles can help you stand out from the crowd and attract admiring glances. Are you ready to try something new and wonderful with your hair? Let’s get started!
Criss-Cross Goddess Braids
Goddess braids, also referred to as chunky cornrow braids, are a great option for days when you want to indulge your hair or are planning a beach day and prefer a low-maintenance hairstyle. The convenience of these braids lies in their ease of application and removal, significantly saving time.
Exciting Side-Swept Cornrows
The African American community embraces braided hairstyles for their protective qualities, safeguarding the hair from heat and styling for extended periods once braided. Not only are these styles incredibly stylish, but they also provide a wide range of design options for showcasing personal expression.
Inventive Goddess Braids with Asymmetry
For a unique twist on braided hairstyles, experiment with various sizes of plaits. Combining thin and chunky braids creates an unexpected and exciting look, adding more depth compared to traditional styles. The varied elements keep the hairstyle fresh and dynamic. For a final touch of customization, consider incorporating gold cuffs or beads.
Easy Braided Cornrow Bun with Hair Cuffs
Cornrow ponytails are a simple yet versatile hairstyle that is both fun and functional. This stylish cornrowed look is suitable for all ages and occasions, whether you choose to wear it down or in an elegant bun as shown above.
Invisible Braids Technique
The technique of invisible braids creates a sleek and flat finish along the hairline, providing cornrow styles with a more natural and less bulky look. This method helps protect the edges and minimize tension. Any African hair braiding salon is capable of executing this braiding style.
Cornrowed Ponytail
While braids are fantastic for crafting distinctive protective styles, hairstyles with individual braids can sometimes feel weighty. For a hassle-free updo that won’t strain your edges, a cornrowed ponytail is an excellent choice.
Chic Braided Bun Updo
Elevate your cornrow ponytail to a higher level of elegance with a layered bun. This unique twist on the traditional bun creates a striking look. While the bun takes center stage, incorporating creative elements can make your hairstyle truly stand out. This sophisticated style is perfect for formal events and is sure to earn you many compliments.
Textured Mohawk with Flat Twisted Sides
Instead of opting for a shaved hairstyle, experiment with different braided styles to achieve a mohawk look. This allows you to showcase your bold side while keeping your hair length intact. Prepare your hair the night before by twisting the ends into two-strand twists to enhance the curls for the morning. Upon unraveling the twists, your hair will cascade into a luxurious mane.
Backward Cornrow Braids
When opting for braids, you can still achieve a stylish and captivating look without compromising on creativity. An effective technique to enhance and distinguish styles is by incorporating alternating larger and smaller cornrows. Another charming feature is the curved sections at the front of the hairstyle. The versatility of this look is evident as it effortlessly transitions from a bun to a ponytail and back within seconds, making it a popular choice.
Enhanced Mohawk with Box Braids and Cornrows
Personalize the mohawk by incorporating additional braids. To create a pompadour effect, interweave the braids at the top. Leave the rest of the hair free-flowing. This hairstyle will elevate your overall look by adding extra height. It offers a sophisticated twist on the classic punk-inspired haircut.
Half-Up Hairstyle with Long Flowing Braids
Long braided Ghana weaving is a popular choice among African American women for summer hairstyles. Keep your look stylish and chic by choosing a half-updo with volume at the crown. This easy style will give you a captivating appearance that can take you effortlessly through the day, no matter where it may take you.
Flawless Black Braided Ponytail
Braids are often the preferred choice for natural hairstyles when aiming to achieve long flowing locks while growing out your own hair. The versatility of box braids allows for a simple updo that keeps the hair off your face, making it ideal for running errands or staying active.
Serpentine Braids
While not identical to traditional cornrows, long, undulating braids share a similar essence. To experiment with a fresh approach to braided hairstyles that are intricately woven near the scalp, consider trying out snake braids. For an extra touch of glamour, incorporate some golden beads!
Bold Mohawk Braids
Achieve the edgy shaved appearance without having to commit to cutting your hair by opting for mohawk braids. The styling possibilities for the longer section of your hair are virtually endless. Whether you choose individual African braids, twists, or cornrows, the choices are extensive.
Bold Mohawk Braid with Cornrows
Opting for chunky braids is a stylish option for black hair. These thicker braids are not only trendy but also easier to unravel once the hairstyle is no longer needed. However, there are plenty of ways to adjust the mohawk style to suit your look. Consider wearing it cascading down your back in a braid or styled atop your head in a retro-inspired bouffant look.
Heart-Shaped Cornrows
This distinctive, captivating, and uplifting cornrow style features a heart pattern at its center. Does it spark your creativity to envision other shapes you could create? So far, we’ve discovered a diamond and a star. Securing the hair into a low bun accentuates the polished appearance and emphasizes the heart shape. It exudes a certain aura.
Heart Cornrows styled in a High Bun
We love the hairstyle’s contrasting “fun at the back, elegant at the front” essence. The back with its heart-shaped design is whimsical and playful, while the high bun radiates sophistication. Could there be symbolism for the dual nature of individuals in this hairstyle? Possibly. Nonetheless, we appreciate its playfulness and overall appeal.
Black Braided High Bun
Elegant and comfortable, updos are the way to go. Opt for a chic black braided hairstyle similar to the one depicted. This effortlessly stylish look will have you ready for work each day without the need for daily styling. It’s a great choice for busy women on the go.
Ghana Braids in a Feed-In Bun
Add a twist to your style by styling your Ghana braids into a bun. These thick braids create a full, attention-grabbing bun that exudes elegance and sophistication, suitable for both a day at work and a night out.
Elegant Twist Updo
Elevate your appearance with an intricate updo that exudes sophistication. This flat-twisted style incorporates texture to add a unique and unexpected touch to the updo. Ideal for women with natural hair seeking a polished and protective hairstyle that stands out.
Waist-Length Braids with Beads
Perfect for the youthful or young-at-heart individuals, this waist-length hairstyle exudes a playful vibe. The S-shaped cornrows on the sides, along with the beads, reflect a sense of fun and vivacity. An exclamation we can certainly get behind!
Swirling Cornrows
The key element of this style lies in the intricate parting. The sections all curve uniformly and maintain consistent sizing, while the cornrows themselves run from front to back. The overall aesthetic harmoniously combines to achieve a perfectly balanced look.
Off-Centered Cornrows
If you appreciate the side-swept style, you should definitely consider trying out these off-centered cornrow braids. With this look, every angle is your good side. It’s fresh and vibrant.
Box Braids Bob
The letter “B” is significant for both bobs and box braids in this stunning combination. Thick, beautiful box braids that fall to the shoulders offer a bold and modern twist to the classic bob haircut. While “B” may be the focus here, this style definitely deserves an “A” rating in our books.
Asymmetrical Feed-In Braids with Varying Thickness
Black hair braids are well-known for their exceptional chicness. Elevate your hairstyle by opting for asymmetrical Ghana braids that alternate between thick and thin sections. This contrasting trend is visually appealing and ensures that the thicker braids do not overpower the overall look, with the thinner braids providing a sense of balance.
Inverted Braids styled in a Bun
For a truly chic and eye-catching look, consider opting for reverse braids. Transition the cornrows into a bun or a ponytail hairstyle. For a more formal occasion, you can style the ends in a bun, while for a more relaxed vibe, leave them down for a casual look.
Jumbo French Braid Hairstyle
As a French braid size increases, it tends to exude more sassiness, and this specific style definitely leans towards that attitude. If you’re planning your next weekend adventure, why not experiment with a jumbo braid – it’s sure to make a statement and spark conversations!
Side-Parted Cornrow Pigtails
This stylish cornrow style featuring a side part is truly stunning. What sets it apart is the unique curvature along the earline, adding a subtle touch of flair. Opting for pigtails created from braided hair instead of conventional ponytail holders is a creative choice that maintains the elegance and finesse of the look. Who says pigtails are just for kids?
Geometric Triangle Box Braids
African-American braided hairstyles offer a canvas for creative expression. Designs need not adhere strictly to traditional square shapes, such as these unique triangular box braids. This geometric pattern brings a fresh and unexpected twist to the classic box braid style, exuding a unique and stylish vibe.
Mixed Half Cornrows and Half Box Braids
The half cornrows, half box braids style has gained immense popularity among braid wearers globally for a good reason. Combining box braids and cornrows offers a wide array of styling options. Additionally, as exemplified by this style, the choice of hair color for braiding can be just as impactful as the style itself. If you typically opt for hues close to your natural hair color, why not consider trying something different next time for a change?
Bun with Braids
Previously, elaborate braided updos were often associated with mature women leading active lifestyles. However, fashion trends have evolved, and today, younger women are embracing this style with confidence. Offering a modern twist on a classic look, the microbraids add a playful element and highlight the large cornrows.
Incorporate Feed-In Cornrows into a Bun
Consider feed-in cornrows. Confirm. Trendy look. Confirm. Fashioned into a bun with braided hair. Confirm. This style ticks all our boxes, and we believe it could do the same for you.
Moderate-Sized Cornrow Braids
Ideal for individuals looking for a stylish hairstyle without spending an entire day on it, the medium-sized cornrows and braids are a perfect choice. They are large enough to be done efficiently, yet not overly big to require excessive time. As for the color, we are absolutely enamored with it.
Curved Straight-Back Braids with Waves
The straight-back style is a classic choice for cornrow hairstyles. With its simple pattern and quick execution, it is often the first style that beginner braiders master. For a softer touch, consider asking for curved sections that create a wavy appearance.
Updo Hairstyle with Braids and Curls for Short Hair
You can create this look without fully committing to a braided hairstyle. Leave the front section for some voluminous spiral curls and braid the back. This style is suitable for short to medium-length hair, as it doesn’t necessitate a lot of length.
Large Side Cornrows with Curly Bun
Why conceal a stunning jumbo bun at the nape of your neck when you can showcase it to both the front and back by wearing it to the side? By leaving the ends of the cornrows free to create lovely curls in the bun, this style is elevated. It is a gorgeous and versatile look suitable for individuals of all ages.
Jumbo Double-Twisted Updo
Ideal for black women with natural hair, this effortless updo is versatile enough to be worn for a special event or to add a touch of glamour to your everyday look. The beauty of this quick and easy black braided hairstyle is that it can be completed in under five minutes.
Extra-Long Jumbo Box Braids
Classic. Conventional. Simple. Stunning. The large, lengthy box braids make a bold statement. However, due to their weight, be prepared for your neck muscles to get a workout.
Feed-In Cornrows with Heart-Shaped Temple Design
You can sport a heart-shaped design in your hair, even if you’re not typically one to show your emotions outwardly. These conventional braids, running from the front to the back, receive an added touch of style with the heart design, creating a bold and impactful statement.
Burgundy Feed-In Braids
Proof that protective styles can be both captivating and enjoyable is right at hand. This hairstyle combines many of our favorite elements: beads, colors, and a unique design. We are enchanted by the playful and vibrant essence of this look.
Elaborate Boxer Braids
A striking way to showcase your uniqueness and style is through a distinctive hairstyle. Braided hairstyles not only exude beauty but also offer protection for your hair. Look for intricate braided styles that accentuate and safeguard your natural hair.
Curvaceous Long Braids
Black women favor braids for their versatility, whether on natural hair, weaves, or extensions, as they form the basis for many protective styles. Opt for wavy braids with curved partings to achieve this stylish asymmetrical appearance. Remember to smooth and style your baby hairs for a polished finish.
Artistic Black Braided Bun Updo
Elaborate Braided Faux Hawk
This faux hawk with inspiration from the Empire era takes braided hairstyles to a new level with intricate detailing, skill in execution, and impressive height. The design incorporates various braiding techniques, featuring natural braids at the back and sides. Customize the style and hair type for extensions to create the desired look for the twisted roll forming the faux hawk, with braided strands flowing out in a cascade that can be tailored to your liking. The braids can vary in thickness, length, and style, ranging from long to short or medium.
Twisted Cornrows
Cornrow hairstyles for black women and men hold significant cultural importance, serving as more than just iconic styles for black hair. The charming geometric designs within the rows highlight the skill and innovation involved in crafting these hairstyles. Whether using extensions or your own natural hair, you can achieve the intricately braided appearance on the crown of the head.
Long, Flowing Braids
The long, braided hairstyle is a distinctive and customary choice for black women and girls. These braids encompass various styles, including locs, twists, and cascading box braids. The options for color, size, and design are diverse. Additionally, accessories can further enhance the individuality of each braid.
Elegant Black Braided Updo
Braided updos offer a mix of flavor, versatility, and sophistication while still retaining a fun element, allowing women to express their unique style. Starting with cornrows, this hairstyle culminates in a thick, braided bun. The high top knot exudes elegance and pairs beautifully with various outfits.
Trendy Braided Bob
Effortless yet fashionable braided bobs are a popular choice. Those who sport this hairstyle always exude charm, sophistication, and professionalism whenever they step outside. The versatility of this style is evident, as medium, thick, or thin braids all complement the look seamlessly.
Inverted Flat Twists
If you’re looking to add some height to your hair or if your hair is on the shorter side, try reversing the typical cornrow style, going from the nape to the forehead instead. The bouncy curls give off a fun and feminine vibe.
Cornrow on Cornrow Crown Braids
This creative hairstyle is a fantastic twist on the classic crown braid and is sure to last for several weeks. The time it takes to install is more than compensated by its longevity. It’s the perfect hairstyle for a summer vacation.
Ana is the founder of Vogue Vibrance, an imaginative hair inspiration blog that covers vibrant colors, textures, updos, and other eye-catching styles. She launched it as a digital space for hair creativity and self-expression to thrive. Through trending looks and conversations, Vogue Vibrance empowers readers to embrace hair as a tool for confidence and self-expression.
