Do you ever wonder why so many curly-haired gals love to sport braided hairstyles? These styles are not only popular but also protective, shielding hair from the harsh environmental elements that can impact curl patterns and definition. During the summer, when humidity is high, natural textures can enjoy extra care by securing the ends and smoothing the edges. Thanks to celebrity hairstylists, natural hair bloggers, vloggers, and influencers, there’s a plethora of options to test this month and all year-long.
Different Natural Braids Hairstyles For You
Explore a variety of stunning natural braids hairstyles that celebrate your unique beauty! From classic cornrows to trendy box braids, these styles offer versatility and flair for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a chic everyday look or a special event style, there’s a perfect braid waiting for you. Ahead we have covered the 26 natural braids hairstyle for you. Let’s dive into them and find the perfect one for you
1. Knotless Box Braids
Knotless Box Braids are a great choice for natural hair. These braids are added in by a braider without using a tight knot at the root. This means there’s less tension on your scalp, which is good news if you’re tender headed. Since there’s no knot, these knotless braids feel lighter, causing less pain and breakage. The installation of these extensions makes your hair look seamless and knot-free. It lies flat against the head, making it not feel heavy. You can wear them in many fun styles like a high bun, low ponytail, or space buns. This year-round style is perfect for school and play.
2. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a classic and neat way to style your hair. First, your hair is divided into braided parts. These parts are then twisted and knotted close to the scalp. This style can be embellished with beads or different hair color to make it look edgy.
Braided hairstyles like Bantu knots are great because they keep your loose hair flat and neat. They can last for two to three weeks without needing a refresh. Also, they put less tension on your scalp, which means less irritation.
3. Triangle Braids
Triangle braids are a fun update to box braids. This style incorporates an edgy pattern of triangle-shaped parts on your hair. You can choose to have your braids flow free from the side or the center. With proper care, your look can last six to eight weeks. These braids mix different textures for a playful, intricate look.
4. Two Sleek Jumbo Braids
If you have natural hair and want a quick style to get up and go, try two sleek jumbo braids. First, make sure your hair is stretched and dry before you start braiding. This style is perfect for busy days. You can watch a video to learn how to do it by yourself. Attaching extensions is optional if you want thicker braids.
5. Flat Twists
Flat Twists are a beautiful style where twists are made flat against the head. They can be worn in two-strands and neatly arranged from the side to straight back. This style can shape your hair into a bun or a high ponytail and looks very elegant.
6. Space Buns
Space buns are a fun and cool way to style your hair. This ’90s-inspired look uses box braids to make two buns on top of your head. It’s a classic style with a cute update! At night, wear a silk scarf or a bonnet to protect your braids from getting frizzy. This helps keep your braids neat and stops your hair from getting exposed and open to air.
7. Fulani Braids
Fulani braids start with cornrow patterns along the scalp. They look like rows in a garden, very flat against your head. This base helps Fulani braids fit under summer hats and winter beanies easily. The overlapping braids form geometric shapes and classic parts. Tiny baby hair around your face makes it pretty.
8. Coi Leray Braids
Coi Leray braids are a new and buzzy addition to natural braided hairstyle options. They are popular because of the New Jersey-based rapper of the same name. These braids are lightweight, easy-to-install, and have neat parts with curled ends. The style includes seamless braids with over-exaggerated edges for extra spice.
9. Faux Locs
Faux locs are a hairstyle that makes you look like the ultimate cool girl. Stars like Gabrielle Union, Zendaya, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Ciara love these braids because they can last for up to three months. They help seal in moisture and protect your hair from too much manipulation.
10. Passion Twists
Passion Twists are a fun style of braiding hair that mixes Senegalese twists and goddess locs. This hybrid method uses two-strand twist and curly pieces to create a unique look. You can experiment with different colours, lengths, and thicknesses to make it your own!
11. Cornrows
Cornrows are a hair style that makes your look neat and easy to manage. You can wear them with outfits or even your quarantine pajamas. They are easy to choose and you can try them with just 4 braids.
12. Goddess Locs
Goddess Locs are a beautiful natural braid hairstyle. They have a bohemian look and feel perfectly undone. You can add beads, shells, and cuffs to make them unique. This style uses thick braids and allows for lots of customization.
13. Senegalese Twists
Senegalese Twists are a beautiful style combining twisting and wrapping two strands of hair continuously around each other. This technique makes the twists look like a rope, giving a neat, spiralling effect along the hair shaft. You can use synthetic or human hair to add volume from the root to the ends. While some create this braid at home, others prefer a professional touch at a salon. This style is different from box braids and the three-strand braid, as it focuses on natural hair with a unique, twisted elegance.
14. Top Knot and Two Mini Braids
Create a fun look with two parts by dividing your hair. Start with the front part of the head and make braids. For the back, gather all the rest of the hair and tie it into a bun at the middle of the head. Use clips and rubber bands to seal the look. Leave some extra pieces of hair out for a playful touch. This style adds thickness and flair to your hair!
15. Braided Frohawk
The Braided Frohawk is a style that stands out without being intimidating. It uses a crochet method, great for beginners at crocheting their hair. You attach crochet hair by looping it around actual hair near the base knot, avoiding tangling. Always wash and condition your hair carefully before starting to keep it healthy. Cornrow your hair upward from the sides, leaving the ends free to leave out or twist out. You can add clip-ins to enhance the look.
16. Jumbo Box Braids
Jumbo Box Braids are a fun way to style your hair. First, use Murray’s Edge Wax and some gel to manage your hairs and keep flyaway hairs in check. Then, section your hair and start styling each braid. This edge control helps keep your hairs together for a perfected look. It might be difficult to do on your own at first, but you’ll get better with practice!
17.Halo Braid
Halo Braid is one of the favourite styles because it is easy to restyle. It keeps your hair away from your face and neck. This style can be worn on days when you want to look stylish and great.
18. Rope Braid
First, dampen your hair so it’s easy to handle. Then, isolate a front section of your hair and tie it into a ponytail. Split the ponytail into two parts. Twist each part neatly. After twisting, cross them over each other sideways to make a braid. Pull it back and secure it with a pin.
19. Criss-cross Flat Twists
Criss-cross Flat Twists are a fun style to create a special look. First, your hair is blow dried to make it fluffy and loose. Then, you twist it into three braids. After a few hours, you took down the braids and tie your hair back into a pony tail. This leaves you with beautiful curls.
20. Chic Natural Mohawk Updo
The Chic Natural Mohawk Updo is a popular and protective hairstyle for black women. It keeps your natural curls safe and looks very classy. To get this style, your hair is piled into buns at the top of your head. This Mohawk works well even with shorter hair and is simple enough to wear to work.
21. Chunky Mohawk Braid for Natural Hair
A chunky Mohawk braid makes a big impact with its plumped, voluminous look. This style features a single, chunky braid down the middle section, giving a cool contrast with the extra thin sides. It’s perfect for natural hair, keeping it protected and comfortable. Plus, it’s easy-to-manage, making it a tip-top choice for an active day.
22. Natural Bun Updo with a Side Twist
Create a fabulous supersized bun to wear to your next big event! Start by gathering your long natural hair into a bun at the crown of your head. Add a thin twist along one side that winds around the bun, framing your face beautifully. For a princess-like appeal, adorn the style with golden cuffs. This easy look can be done at home and is perfect for making anyone feel elegant and feminine. The sideburn curls should be baby-soft and cute, adding a gentle touch to your hairstyle.
23. Short Natural Twist Updo
The Short Natural Twist Updo is perfect for short hair. Try bigger twists for a textured look that feels thick. This updo can be styled into a ponytail or bun. Adding ombre or surface highlights creates fun visual interest and gives dimension. It’s a great option to grab everyone’s attention.
24. Sleek Natural Hair Braid Style
This protective hairstyle is perfect for natural hair. It’s a fusion of different components like a braid and a bun. Make angled hair parts on your scalp. They work together to create a pretty look. The final result is neat and stylish.
25. Neat Twisted Updo for Natural Hair
The Neat Twisted Updo is a simple, no-nonsense style that’s great for short, natural hair. It features two side twists with a diagonal side part, creating clean lines that are both understated and low-key. This protective hairdo is quick and easy to put in and take out, so you don’t have to commit to a complex style.
You can wear it to work or when you’re taking a break from products and processing. Keep your hair neat with this twisted look that requires minimal fuss. It’s perfect for those who want a stylish option without much effort.
26. Pretty Twist Braids for Natural Hair
One of the prettiest hairstyles for natural hair is the chunky twist braids. This feminine look is easy to complete and gives a youthful vibe. Start by parting your hair in the middle, horizontally, or diagonally.
Divide your hair into two sections and begin twisting each one. This style is not only appealing but also a great protective option. It’s perfect for casual wear and keeps your hair safe.
Some Common Questions About The Natural Braids Hairstyles
Which braids are best for natural hair?
Box Braids are a great start for natural hair. They are classic and can be styled in different ways. Cornrows are tight plaits close to the scalp. You can wear them as a Cornrow Pony for fun. The French Braid and Crown Braid are also pretty options.
Try Senegalese Twists if you want something new. Shoulder-Length Braids look nice and are easy to manage. The Braid-on-Braid style is cool and unique.
What is natural braiding?
Natural hair braiding is a beauty practice that has been popular in African and African-American communities. It spread to immigrant communities in the United States through braiding. It is a safe practice when done by skilled braiders. Avoid dangerous chemicals, dyes, and coloring agents that can damage the hair or cause it to cut.
Do normal braids damage hair?
Individuals with fine hair should avoid larger braids as they can exert too much weight on the strands. A stylist explains that medium-size braids are a safe choice, provided they aren’t overly heavy or harmful braids. Using braids that are excessively tight can carry significant weight and damage your hair.
Which hairstyle is best for hair growth?
Choosing the best hairstyles for growth can help keep your hair healthy. Loose braids are a great form because they reduce hair loss and stress on your scalp. To make a braid, part your hair and use your hand to twist it. Use a rubber band to tie it at the bottom. Avoid tying too closely near the bay to prevent breakage. Leaving it loose allows your hair to grow naturally with a simple 3-strand braid.
