10 Traditional African Braids Styles to Try Now

Get inspired by these traditional styles.

When it comes to African braids, the styles that many of us adore and wear today have a much deeper significance. The African braids that we are inspired by having many ritualistic meanings. However, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to try the many beautiful braided hairstyles from this culture.

10 African Braids Looks That Are Always Trending

If you are looking to wear an African braided style as a protective style or just for fashion, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular looks of the moment.

1. Cornrows

african braids: one-layer cornrows
Braids are closely braided together to follow the shape of your head.

There are many different variations of cornrow braids. This look in particular is called one-layer cornrows. To create this look, the cornrows are installed mimicking the shape of the head. They are braided close together to hide the parts.

2. Goddess Braids

goddess african braids
Photo credit: @braidedbytee

This is an example of goddess braids, which are usually chunky and super stylish. These African braids start from the hairline and extend all the way down to the ends. Use Emerge Style Goals Gel to style your edges.

3. Ghana Braids

african braids: ghana braids
Ghana braids style.

This look has been taking the internet by storm as of late. Ghana braids are also known as one-layer crazy cornrows. The name describes the different sizes of the cornrows used to create the style. To replicate the look, your braider will space the hair loosely to create a variation of braid sizes.

4. Boxed Braids with Burned Ends

african braids: burnt ends
Braids with burnt ends.

There are many ways in which you can style the ends of your box braids. If you’re looking to get this style and wear it for a long time, you may decide on having the ends burned. If this is the look you want, be sure to consult your stylist so you can buy the appropriate type of braiding hair. Not all braiding hair can be used with fire.

5. Box Braids

african braids: box braids
Long box braid style.

Box braids are one of the hottest types of African hair braiding. They are versatile, low-maintenance and also encourage your natural hair growth. If you love experimenting with updos and different hairstyles, box braids are for you.

6. Micro Braids

african braids: micro braids
Teeny-tiny micro braids.

These braids are also individuals. To create the look, the hair is divided into tiny sections to create the micro braid effect. One caveat about this style is that it can take hours to install and hours to remove. Nevertheless, it’s a beautiful braid hairstyle.

7. Colorful Braids

african braids: colorful braids
Chunky box braids with a burst of color.

If you’re looking for a fun braided style, try colorful box braids. To create this look all you have to do is buy the color of hair you want, and your braider will install it for you.

8. Tree Braids

african braids: tree braids
Long tree braids.

Instead of opting for a traditional weave style, a lot of women like to get tree braids instead. The braids at the roots are what hold the braiding hair to your own hair, and the ends are left undone. You can style this hair as you would any straight hair.

Keep your strands and scalp healthy and hydrated with SheaMoisture Wig & Weave Tea Tree & Borage Seed Oil Residue Remover Shampoo and Conditioner.

9. Cornrows with Designs

african braids: zigzag cornrows
Zigzag cornrow style.

This cornrow style is designed with a mix of zigzag and straight braids. There are many different ways in which you can style cornrows. Opt for straight braids, or make the look fun with variations of designs.

10. Yarn Braids

african braids: yarn braids
Chunky yarn braids style.

If you’re looking for braids with a thicker texture, you can opt for the yarn braid style. We love the mix of colors used to create this chunky box braided look.

 

Are you thinking about trying out one of these styles? Be sure to snap a picture and tag us @AllThingsHairUS!

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