Why Dookie Braids is the Playground Style Coming Back in 2024
Dookie braids, a fun throwback braided hairstyle, is here to serve up some old-school charm.
There’s something warm and fuzzy about looking back on how we used to dress or look like while growing up. Trends are nothing if not cyclical, and we definitely get a kick out of showing the world the good ol’ glory days and how much things have changed—or, in a lot of cases these days, how they’ve stayed the same! Whether it’s in the form of a dorky #tbt or bragging about how your personal style has barely strayed since day 1 in the sandlot (pigtails and dookie braids since ’91!), this is undoubtedly the era of the throwback, and we’re all embracing it.
Read on as we highlight the dookie braid throwback style and cool ways to wear the look today:
Dookie Braids: Our Fave Throwback Hairstyle
Yeah, you heard us—we see you, dookie braids, and we’re totally here for the un-ironic nostalgia! What used to be a natural-hair playground staple is now all grown up and making the rounds in the social media circuit. Albeit in a bit more refined, polished version (metallic accessories have now replaced those glorious, snappy candy-colored baubles of yore), today’s dookie braids, however, still retain their trademark thick plait with a bit of a taper towards the ends.
Hair Care and Maintenance
As with any protective hairstyle, dookie braids may be left in for around a few weeks, and doing so requires basic scalp maintenance. A dry shampoo, like Dove Refresh+Care Fresh Coconut Dry Shampoo, lightly sprayed at the root, can help absorb any excess oil and grease, and a hair oil or leave-in conditioner like Suave Professionals Nourish & Strengthen Leave-In Conditioner rubbed onto your braids can help provide moisture, protect against frizz and keep your braids shiny for all of the pictures (and there will be many).
6 Dookie Braid Styles to Love
1. Dookie Yarn Braids
For an added touch of elegance, consider incorporating colorful threads or beads into your yarn braids, creating a playful and personalized look that truly stands out. Experiment with different patterns and combinations to express your unique style and make a bold fashion statement.
2. Long Dookie Braids
To add a touch of flair, consider incorporating hair accessories such as beads or metallic cuffs into your dookie braids. These accessories not only enhance your style but also provide endless opportunities for personalization, allowing you to express your creativity and individuality.
3. Braid Charms
Experiment with different charm designs, from delicate and dainty to bold and bohemian, allowing you to infuse a unique and captivating flair into your braided hairstyle. These braid charms not only add a trendy edge but also showcase your personality, making each hairstyle a personalized work of art.
4. Throwback Pony
Now, this wouldn’t be a throwback style if you couldn’t re-live one of your favorite hairstyle moments. Throw your braids into a side pony, just like the old days. Don’t forget the baby hair action. Sculpt into place with Suave Max Hold Sculpting Gel.
5. Square Parts
Embrace the fearless spirit of self-expression by playing with various geometric patterns in your graphic grid, creating a mesmerizing visual tapestry that sets you apart from the ordinary. Elevate your style further by experimenting with contrasting hues, adding depth and dimension to your bold and unforgettable statement.
6. Blonde Braids
For an added touch of glamour, weave in subtle highlights or experiment with ombre tones when incorporating blonde braiding hair, infusing your hairstyle with a playful yet chic vibe that’s sure to turn heads.
7. Gray Braids
Gray box braids are a stylish and modern twist on dookie braided hairstyles, featuring synthetic or natural gray-colored extensions woven into the hair using the box braiding technique. This chic and versatile look makes a bold fashion statement with its sophisticated and edgy appearance.
8. Oversized Cornrows
Oversized or jumbo braids make a bold, stylish statement with their larger size and thicker strands, providing a striking visual impact. This practical and low-maintenance hairstyle is perfect for diverse occasions, from casual outings to formal events. Whether in a flowing style or a chic updo, it offers a trendy and eye-catching appearance with minimal effort.
