15 Ghana Braids Ideas to Inspire Your New Look

We're so obsessed with this popular protective look, and we're sure you'll be too.

Ghana braids, a style of braids that originated in Africa, are one of the most popular protective hairstyles at the moment. Just a while ago, everyone was wearing different iterations of box braid styles, but they have quickly moved onto this cornrow style.

What we love about Ghana braids (and all other braids) is that the style is extremely versatile: It’s one of those protective hairstyles you can wear to the office or for a night out on the town. What’s more, you don’t have to worry about dedicating much time in the morning (or any other time, for that matter) to styling your hair. With these kinds of braids, you just set it and forget it!

Style Your Ghana Braids

Thinking about trying this style out for a change? We’ve rounded up 15 of our top favorite Ghana braid styles.

1. Ghana Braids High Braided Bun

ghana braids: braided bun
Pair your Ghana braids with a thick chunky braided bun.

One way to wear the look is in a chic top knot style. If you don’t want to try a basic top knot, you can opt for this chunky single-braided look. When you’re tired of the bun, loosen the braid and let your hair hang down, ponytail-style. Keep the ends of your hair happy and healthy by applying some Nexxus Clean & Pure Nourishing Detox 5-in-1 Invisible Hair Oil on the reg.

2. Curved Braids

Ghana Braids: Curved Braids
Add visual interest with curved lines.

There are so many ways in which Ghana braids can be braided. A popular style is having your hair braided with curved hair parts. Your stylist will part your hair with some curves, then weave some braids down each part.

3. Sleek Low Bun

Ghana Braids Low Bun
One of the best looks for work or play.

Want something sleek? Try the low bun style. We love how easy and simple this hairdo is.

4. Skinny and Medium-Sized Braids

Ghana Braids: skinny braids
Mix it up with skinny and medium-sized braids.

With this braided style, the more creative your style is, the better! Mix up the style with different braid variations.

5. The Low Ponytail

Ghana Braids: Low Ponytail
Pull your braids into a low ponytail.

If you want to switch up your look from time to time, you can forgo the bun and let your braids hang low in a ponytail.

6. High Ponytail Style

Ghana braids: high ponytail style
Cute high ponytail style.

Want a style with a much more dramatic ponytail effect? Go for this extra-long ponytail style. Make it unique by added colored extensions to your hair to create accent braids. Keep your style and your scalp oil-free with a few spritzes of Love Beauty and Planet Coconut & Water Mimosa Flower Dry Shampoo.

7. Deep Side-Part Effect

Ghana braids: side braids
Ghana braid style with a deep side part.

Need another example of how you can get the Ghana braid low bun style? Take a cue from this look. The braids give the deep side-part effect.

8. Skinny Cornrow Style

ghana braids cornrow
Go for a skinnier cornrow style.

Not all Ghana braid styles have to be medium to chunky in size. If you prefer a smaller braid, try this look.

9. Ghana Twists

Ghana braids: twist style
Want something other than braids? Try Ghana twists.

Everyone these days can wear braids, but naturally, you’d want something slightly different from the rest. We get it; it’s okay to want a look that stands out. Give Ghana twists a shot. Instead of braiding the hair in cornrows, your stylist will flat-twist your strands instead.

10. Curly Updo

Ghana Braids Updo
Fun updo hairstyle.

Looking for a fun and flirty iteration of the style? You can try a curly ponytail. Ask your stylist to leave the ends of your hair out and curl it to achieve this look.

Ed’s note: Keep your braids cleansed and moisturized without drying them out by washing them with a cleansing conditioner regularly. We suggest Love Beauty and Planet Purposeful Hydration Shea Butter & Sandalwood Gentle Cleansing Conditioner keep your scalp feeling fresh and clean.

11. Ghana Braids Ponytail

girl with ghana braids in ponytail
Gather your braids into a high ponytail.

If you’re looking for a way to keep your hair out of your face, but still want to show off your braids, pull them back into a ponytail. This is a simple look, but the braids add so much interest to it.

12. Long Ghana Braids

ghana-braids-long-hair
Wear your braids down to show off the length.

Have long strands? Show them off by sporting Ghana braids. We love this type of braid because it’s also a protective style so you don’t need to worry about damaging your hair.

13. Side Braids

girl with side ghana braids
Opt for a side look.

Side Ghana braids are so elegant. This is a great protective style to choose if you need a look for a fancier occasion or something to go with a one-shoulder dress or top.

14. Pink Braids

girl with short pink ghana braids
Add color to your braids. Photo Credit: @futibraid

Adding color throughout your braids is one of the best ways to make them pop! We love how the light pink color contrasts against the dark color of the hair.

15. Classic Ghana Braids

ghana braids
Try a classic look. Photo Credit: Shaquille Dunbar

Just looking for a simple protective style? Opt for classic Ghana braids. This cornrow look will keep your hair protected and healthy,

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

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