Must-Try Braids: Elevate Your Hair Game (Photos Included)

With an ever-growing range of braid styles, hair lovers can express their creativity through different types of braids like box braids and cornrows. For many women, braids continue to be a favored choice of hairstyle due to their protective qualities and adaptability across different seasons and events.

Key takeaways

• Several popular braiding styles encompass Box braids, Fulani braids, Ghana cornrows, and micro braids .
• Braiding hairstyles are an expression of an individual's creativity and style.
• Braids are the preferred go-to protective style for thousands of women, allowing them to explore various creations and designs.

Various braids titles along with images

Braids have been around for many years and have evolved considerably over time. Although they continue to be used as a protective hairstyle, there are numerous styling options available today. Here are some examples with their names and images showcasing various braid styles you might want to attempt.

1. Fulani braids

Fulani braids are one of the widely favored braid styles for women. Drawing inspiration from the Fulani people of West Africa, this look includes sections of cornrows and can be embellished with beads, shells, or various adornments.

2. Nubian twists

Nubian twists offer a distinct feel compared to standard braids yet remain light. Ideal for those with shorter locks, these styles feature densely curled strands running from the roots all the way to the ends. The design helps keep stray hairs away from your face. Whether you're heading to work or attending a casual gathering, Nubian twists serve as a versatile option.

3. Micro braids

Micro braids, as their name implies, consist of small braids intricately woven throughout the hair. These styles suit various facial structures and last longer compared to standard braids. You can experiment with different looks and embellish them with beads and charms.

4. Faux locs

Temporary faux locs can last between 4 to 6 weeks. After twisting or braiding your hair, these locs are wound around them as a protective measure. This style offers an exquisite appearance that adds distinction to your locks.

5. French braids

One of the simple but elegant types of braided hairstyles is French braids. In this style, the three strands are crossed under, giving a polished appearance that keeps hair off your face. If you want your hair to appear neater, you can hold the French braid in an updo using bobby pins.

6. Jumbo braids

The Jumbo braid hairstyle stands out as one of the distinctive choices within braid styles. It serves as an adaptation of classic box braids but employs approximately 10 to 15 bigger plaits instead. This look particularly suits those who have longer locks due to its rather voluminous nature.

7. Side-part braids

This elegant hairstyle involves parting the front sections of the braids towards one side, allowing them to fall onto your shoulder. The remaining hair can be styled into either a neat bun or a stylish ponytail for an added touch of sophistication. For those who enjoy curly hairstyles, consider adding loose waves to the sideward-swept braids for extra flair.

8. Feed-in braids

Feeder braids stand out as distinctive styles offering both a natural and refined appearance suitable for various occasions, whether formal or casual. This technique involves steadily adding individual hair strands throughout the process of weaving the braid, which makes them progressively bulkier toward their ends. Furthermore, these feeder braids provide extra volume without compromising the health of your own hair since they apply minimal stress during application.

9. Mohawk braids

The mohawk offers a daring, stylish, and fun appearance as your hair extends from the front to the rear of your head. The sides may be closely cropped or even shaven or braided. This hairstyle complements both lengthy and short braids and allows for numerous styling options.

10. Lemonade braids

Lemonade braids gained popularity following Beyoncé's promotion of them. Lemonade The stylish, side-parted hairstyle exudes both comfort and elegance while safeguarding your own hair. This look can incorporate various styles such as feed-in extensions and goddess braids. Accessorizing lemonade braids with extensions and beads adds an extra touch of flair.

11. Jumbo braids

Using large dreadlocks-style braids, the hair is divided into sizable segments designed to safeguard your original tresses while encouraging their inherent development. This easy-care hairstyle serves as both a style trend and an ideal option for either lengthy or shorter braids.

12. Crotchet braids

Crotchet braiding, sometimes referred to as hook braiding, begins with weaving your natural hair into cornrows before incorporating hair extensions using a crotchet hook. This style offers great flexibility for experimenting with various crotchet braid patterns and is favored as a protective choice among many women.

13. Bob braids

Boxer braids are an excellent choice for women who favor shorter hairstyles. These styles provide protection for your natural hair and demand low upkeep. There’s a range of braid variations you can try with the boxer cut, such as half-twisted plaits, relaxed waves, or tiny braids. Should you enjoy adorning your locks with accessories, these complements beautifully enhance the look of box braids.

14. Braided bun

The woven ponytail is both tidy and elegant, suitable for cornrows or standard braids. It’s an excellent choice for ladies looking to keep their hair away from their face. This hairstyle demands little upkeep and suits both lengthy and shorter braids. You have the flexibility to alter this look in numerous ways; for instance, you could secure some of your hair into a bun while allowing the remainder to cascade down at the back.

15. Large seamless box braids

Large knot-free box braids are favored by many African-American women. The hair is sectioned off and intricately woven into a square-like design. This hairstyle safeguards your tresses for some duration while still permitting you to wear it in multiple styles such as a braided updo, side part, or mohawk.

16. Braided ponytail

The braided ponytail is considered one of the stylish braid styles. Regardless of whether you opt for cornrows, feed-in extensions, or box braids, gather your hair at a height on your forehead that suits you best—whether higher or lower. This look tends to be more flattering with longer braids since they naturally cascade down neatly towards the back.

17. Cornrows

This versatile protective style suits both short and long hair. The braids are tightly woven against the scalp, forming multiple designs suitable for different events. Additionally, cornrows serve as a base for additional styles such as lemonade braids, crochet braids, and gentle locks.

18. Braided braids

The intricately woven braided hairstyle offers a fresh perspective on fashion, transforming one’s appearance with its distinctive flair. It provides an opportunity for self-expression via numerous design possibilities. Brightly colored braids stand out even more prominently.

19. Senegalese twists

Inverted twists lend a distinctive and fashionable appearance to your hairstyle while safeguarding your natural locks. These twists are connected to your own hair and divided into two sections that are then coiled down to the end of each strand.

20. Ghanian braids

Ghanaian braids suit curly hair exceptionally well. These braids employ a distinct braiding method where the hair extensions are woven over the braid rather than under it. Their increased thickness makes them particularly popular among women who have denser tresses.

Last thoughts on various braid styles

These various braid styles are both adaptable and classic, enabling you to showcase your personality at any event. Be it short or long braids, they serve as fantastic choices that will make you stand out everywhere you go.

The .co.ke website also featured an article about fashionable Fulani braid styles adorned with beads that you might want to attempt. These braids offer countless styling possibilities for your hair. Adding these accessories allows you to make a statement and appear both stylish and refined. Explore the different looks available to find one that suits you.