braids styles

braids styles: 20 Game-Changing Protective Braids for Natural Queens

Braids styles Hey there, curlfriend! Ready to give your precious coils a stylish sabbatical while still turning heads? You’re in the right place. We’re about to dive into the wonderful world of protective braiding – where your natural hair thrives and your style game stays undefeated.

In this ultimate guide, we’re serving up 20 soul-stirring protective braid styles that not only shield your strands but also celebrate the boundless beauty of natural hair. From classic cornrows to avant-garde designs, there’s a look here to make every texture sing. So grab your leave-in conditioner, and let’s get this braid party started!

1. Box Braids: The OG of Protection

We’re kicking off with an undisputed champion – box braids. These individual plaits, separated into square-like sections, offer versatility that’s hard to beat.

• Jumbo box braids: Bold and beautiful, these thick braids install quicker and make a major statement.
• Medium box braids: The Goldilocks of braids – not too big, not too small, just right for most.
• Micro box braids: Hundreds of tiny braids that scream detail and dimension.

Remember, a gentle touch is key. Too-tight braids can stress those precious edges!

2. Knotless Box Braids: Easy on the Scalp

Love the box braid look but wary of tension? Knotless braids are your new BFF. By feeding in hair as you go (instead of knotting it all at the root), you get a flatter, more natural-looking result that’s oh-so-comfy.

3. Triangle Box Braids: Geometric Genius

Who says braids have to be square? Triangle parts create visual interest and can even give the illusion of more volume. Plus, they’re a little less common – perfect for the trend-setting naturalista.

4. Goddess Braids: Fit for Royalty

These thick, defined cornrows lie close to the scalp and can be styled in limitless ways. Rock a braided crown, a regal high bun, or cascading goddess locs. Don’t forget to pamper your exposed scalp with light oils!

5. Fulani Braids: Heritage Meets High Fashion

Rooted in West African tradition, Fulani braids feature a straight-back cornrow pattern adorned with hanging braids framing the face. Beads, cuffs, or cowrie shells add personalized flair. These braids are especially flattering on heart-shaped and round faces.

6. Ghana Braids/Cherokee Braids: Sleek and Chic

These feed-in style braids start small at the hairline and gradually thicken. The result? Ultra-smooth cornrows that look like they sprouted right from your scalp. Try them straight back for a face-slimming effect.

7. Tribal Braids: Your Canvas for Creativity

In the mood for something truly unique? Tribal braids incorporate intricate patterns, colors, and sometimes beads to create wearable art inspired by different African cultures. The only limit is your imagination (and your stylist’s skill!).

8. Lemonade Braids: When Life Gives You Lemons…

Popularized by Queen Bey herself, these side-swept cornrows cascade dramatically to one side. They’re particularly striking on oval and long face shapes. Secure those ends with durable hair ties to keep your style locked in.

9. Senegalese Twists: Rope-Like Realness

Craving lightweight braids with major staying power? Senegalese twists use silky, less-textured hair to create smooth, polished twists. Bonus: The take-down process is typically gentler than with traditional braids.

10. Marley Twists: The Fluffy Favorite

Similar to Senegalese twists but with more texture and volume, Marley twists use hair that mimics your natural kinks and curls. The result is gorgeously full, cloud-like twists that can last up to eight weeks.

11. Passion Twists: The New Kid on the Block

Born from a combo of Senegalese twists and goddess locs, passion twists have a perfectly undone, bohemian vibe. Their bouncy, wavy texture is flat-out irresistible – and they’re often easier on the wallet than traditional braids.

12. Feed-In Braids: Braids on Braids on Braids

This technique gradually introduces small amounts of extension hair for braids that are bump-free and natural-looking. Whether you choose straight-backs, zig-zags, or swirls, feed-ins are all about that seamless scalp-to-tip flow. [braids styles]

13. Stitch Braids: Cornrows with a Twist

What sets these apart? The braid’s raised, thread-like appearance thanks to an underhand braiding technique. Stitch braids can create mind-bending optical illusions when arranged in creative patterns. [braids styles]

14. Halo Braids/Crown Braids: 360 Degrees of Gorgeous

This style wraps a Dutch or cornrow braid around the head like a crown or halo. It’s the perfect protective style when you need your hair completely off your face and neck. Dress it up with flowers for special occasions!

15. Braided Bob: Short Hair, Don’t Care

Who says you need Rapunzel length for killer braids? A braided bob (around chin or shoulder-length) is sassy, manageable, and easy to style. It’s a great option when you want the look of braids without the extra weight. [braids styles]

16. Cornrow Ponytail: Elegang-hair

Combine the sleekness of cornrows with the ease of a ponytail, and what do you get? A style that works for the gym, the office, or a night out. Use a satin scrunchie to protect those ends! [braids styles]

17. Braided Bantu Knots: Double the Protection

First, create vertical or horizontal cornrows. Then, wrap the ends into cute little knots all over the head. The result is a funky, afrofuturistic look that’s also super gentle on fragile ends. [braids styles]

18. Snake Braids: Get Charmed

In this hypnotic style, braids curve and “slither” across the scalp in s-shaped patterns. It’s next-level art for your head – and a guaranteed conversation starter.

19. Yarn Braids: Cozy Craft Vibes

Using colorful acrylic yarn instead of conventional hair extensions, these braids are not only warm and fuzzy but also budget-friendly. They’re a go-to for naturalistas looking to play with vibrant hues without bleach or dye. [braids styles]

20. Invisible/Knotless Cornrows: Now You See Me, Now You Don’t

The braiding technique here creates an incredibly natural look – almost like the braids are an optical illusion. It’s all about that seamless grow-out effect, which means less stress on your edges.

No matter which royal road you choose on your protective style journey, remember – a healthy scalp is the crown jewel. Keep these tips in mind for any braided style:

• Prep with a clarifying shampoo and deep conditioning treatment. [braids styles]
• Apply a light, nourishing oil to your scalp regularly. [braids styles]
• At night, wrap those beautiful braids in a silk or satin scarf. [braids styles]
• Listen to your strands! If you feel tugging or tension headaches, it’s time to loosen up. [braids styles]
• Give your natural hair some breathing room between installs. [braids styles]

Beauties, the braid world is your oyster. Whether you’re drawn to time-honored traditions or itching to make a splash with the latest trends, there’s a protective style here with your name on it. So go on – shield those spirals, foster that growth, and step out looking like the royal you are. Your crown is waiting! [braids styles]

A Colorful Guide to Mastering Chic Hairstyles

1. Prepare Your Hair: Start with detangled, smooth hair. If your hair is prone to knots, use a detangler or conditioner to help smooth it out.
2. Divide Your Hair: Split your hair into three equal sections at the nape of your neck. You can use a comb to create clean, even sections.
3. Begin Braiding: Cross the right section over the middle section, then cross the left section over the new middle section. This is the basic pattern of a three-strand braid.
4. Continue Braiding: Keep alternating sides, always crossing the outer section over the middle section. Make sure to maintain even tension as you braid.
5. Secure the Braid: Once you reach the end of your hair, secure the braid with a hair tie. You can leave a little hair unbraided at the end for a relaxed look.
6. Finishing Touches: For a polished look, you can smooth out any flyaways with a bit of hairspray or hair gel.

If you’re interested in more complex braids like the French braid, Dutch braid, or fishtail braid, I found some great DIY tutorials that you might find helpful:

• “10 Basic Braids For Beginners | Easy DIY Tutorial” by Nina Starck
• “EASY SUMMER BOX BRAIDS! (beginner friendly)” by TheChicNatural
• A step-by-step guide for beginners on IPSY

These tutorials cover a range of braid styles and provide clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Happy braiding! 😊 [braids styles]