There is something powerful – almost magical – about switching up your hairstyle. The salon chair is known to transform women into new beings with fired-up ambitions. Your gorgeous hair is an extension of your personality, and we’re fortunate to be able to style it in countless ways.
Braided hairstyles are stunning ways to change up your appearance and play with different personas. Not only are they versatile, but they are protective styles for Black women and men to prevent sun damage.
There is no shortage of ways to twist and flip those strands, but sometimes having too many options can be daunting. So that you may choose more easily, we’ve gathered 20 braided hairstyles for you to try at home or bring to your salon.
Comb-Over Braids and Spirals
Don’t miss the chance to play with textures when embracing braids in hairstyles for natural-haired girls.
You can let corkscrew curls bounce on the ends or even throughout the head if you opt to wear the style swept to one side.
Bombshell Top Knot with Romantic Flair
This braided updo is full of drama, but we want to channel your attention to the fancy details.
Like the springy wisps flowing down from the knot, heart-shaped parting on the temples, and neat baby hairs framing the face.
Bob Braids for Natural Hair
Bob braids are a fantastic choice for short hair, and they’re a statement. They offer a look that’s not only chic but also incredibly easy to maintain.
With their effortless style, they are a fun, easy, and comfortable way to rock a braided look on short hair.
Crown Bun
Some funky black and blonde dookie braids are a good braided idea if you prefer individual braids.
With thick braids holding the “crown” you will wear this updo for days!
Cornrows for Long Hair
Adding color is an excellent way to elevate your long plaits, but for an even more stunning effect, try incorporating a scarf.
Wrapping a scarf that matches your outfit or hair color around your braids does wonders for the overall look.
Box Braids with Creative Undercut
The colorful braids allow you to express your personality and a fun, summer vibe.
You can choose a single bright color, a mix of complementary shades, or even a full rainbow. This bold use of color is a celebration of the season’s energy and freedom.
Braided Bun with Curvy Partings
This bun is among fancier ideas of braid styles for women.
Work your way up to the thick bun with thin cornrow braids, repeating the curved partings around your head.
Half-Braided Hairstyle
Adding beads and shells to your braids is a fantastic way to achieve a beach-ready look. The combination of styled braids and free, curly hair creates a beautiful and effortless bohemian vibe.
It’s a perfect blend of structure and freedom, and the shells or beads you choose can add a personal touch that captures the essence of the ocean and sunshine.
Top Knot for Small Braids
This look is the perfect way to get some extra height while maintaining a sweet and chic style.
It starts with small box braids that are meticulously crafted and then are neatly gathered into a chunky, statement-making bun.
Medium Box Braids
Braided hairstyles for black women are a great chance to show your creativity! Alternate box braids with delicate curls.
You can also play with your parting and try different patterns to diversify your braids hairstyles in 2022.
Upside Down Chunky Braids with Buns
Multiplying your favorite braid-to-bun style to create a cute crown updo is an excellent and easy way to elevate your look.
By wrapping the braids around your head, you create a show-stopping “crown” that’s both elegant and fun. This style is not only simple to achieve, but it’s also incredibly showy, making a bold statement without a lot of effort.
Tribal Braids with Gold String
Pay your respect to the African heritage with tribal braids.
These are effortless to wear, and you can spice things up with some statement beads or a gold string.
Cherry Red Braided Bob
Matching braids with a long bob shape is a stunning idea that results in a unique and stylish look.
This hairstyle perfectly illustrates the concept, featuring a vibrant color and beautiful texture that adds to its appeal.
Black Micro Braids with Ringlets
Here’s another Inspo for those who want to turn a usual bob into something special.
Not only are those tiny braids smartly highlighted and intricately styled, but they are also curled into neat ringlets to add bounce and spice.
Asymmetrical Bob Braids with Highlights
Here is a fresh take on black hairstyles for women who would like to brighten up their casual hairdo.
By infusing your braids with soft shades of gold, you get a chic two-tone look that flatters your skin tone.
Braided Bob with Two Types of Braids
Box braids or Goddess braids?
Grab both to recreate this edgy style that has some braids pulled back on one side to shift the length and volume to the other side for an eye-catching mismatch.
Afro-Pony with Braids
Thanks to African-American heritage, today’s black braided hairstyles bring so much creativity to the streets.
Update our all-time favorite by mixing thin and thick cornrows, sleeking the sides, and puffing up your pony.
Two Braids and a Braided Halo
To achieve this truly magnificent and powerful look, start by braiding your hair up from the nape of your neck. Continue braiding to the crown of your head.
Finish the style by forming the remaining hair into a lovely “halo” that sits right at the top. This technique creates a beautiful, elevated style that is both regal and strong.
Black and White Braids
To create a truly cool and unique look, try mixing different elements in your braids.
Combine tight and loose braids for a contrast in texture, or use a classic black and white color scheme for a bold, graphic effect.
For something even more daring, experiment with colorful extensions to add a pop of vibrant personality to your hairstyle.
Cornrow Braids with Twisted Ends
Keep your natural hair protected with this hairstyle! Let your curls stay safe and accumulate strength while looking dashing with these fun braids and thick twists.
These looks show just how simple and enjoyable braided hairstyles can be. Try one out and see for yourself!