Keepin’ It Wavy: How to Create Wavy Box Braids + 10 Styles to Try

We're making waves with this look.

Box braids have always been on our list of top hairstyles, but sometimes you can feel stuck in your styling routine. Sometimes, to style your box braids, you need to think outside of the box (pun intended!). That said, one of our favorite box braid looks has always been wavy box braids. This box braid style gives braided hair gorgeous body and fullness while adding extra texture and detail to your locks.

How exactly do you create wavy box braids? No, you don’t need to go to the salon to make them, as you can easily create a wavy box braid look in the comfort of your own home. Check out our tips for creating the stylish look in just a few simple steps:

How to Create Wavy Box Braids

wavy box braids small box braids
Find out how to make these wavy box braids!

Making wavy box braids has never been easier than with these tips.

Before we begin, let’s state the obvious: do not use heated tools if your box braids are made with hair extensions. Instead of taking the risk of frying your hair, try out braiding your box braids into bigger braided sections to create a wavy or curled effect.

Step 1. Separate braids.

Simply separate your braids into sections based on how big you want your curls to be. If you want big, loose waves, then create large sections. If you want ringlet curls, create small sections.

Step 2. Wet braids.

Wet your braided sections with water to allow your hair to take a waved shape. Make sure the water is not too hot, or it may cause damage and frizziness to your box braids.

Step 3. Sleep on it!

Sleep with your braided sections overnight. To keep your hair from frizzing, smooth out your roots with Nexxus Humectress Encapsulate Serum and place a silk or satin scarf over them.

Step 4. Undo your braids.

The next morning, undo your braided sections, and voilà! You have perfectly wavy box braids.

To make sure your waves and curls stay in place, we recommend using a gel to keep them perfectly held all day long. One of our favorite hair gels to use is TRESemmé TRES Two Ultra Firm Control Gel because of it’s mega-firm hold that tames any frizz and unruly hair while keeping them smooth and crunch-free.

Making these wavy box braids has never been easier, so make sure to test this cute style out. Check out these hot box braid and twist styles that we’re officially obsessing over this season!

10 Wavy Box Braids We’re Loving

1. Thin Twists

wavy box braids woman black hair
Small wavy box braids are a classic.

The most common wavy twists are usually thin like the ones above. These twists hold their wavy shape longer and have a strand-like look to them. If you want an extra-tight hold on your waves, then use Dove Style+Care Flexible Hold Hairspray.

2. Loose Ponytail

wavy box braids loose ponytail
Loosen up your look.

Let your wavy box braids breathe in a loose ponytail. This style gives your average messy pony a voluminous and full look.

3. Messy Bun

wavy box braids messy bun
Let a few braids out of your bun to create a messy, effortless banged look.

Messy buns are always our go-to styles for a boho fun look with minimal effort.

4. Side Part

wavy box braids side part
Give your wavy box braids a voluminous look with a side part.

Many people don’t even realize how much of a difference parting your hair can make to your style. Switching up your part to the side will give it an illusion of body and volume. To get an extra boost of volume while taming flyaways and unruly hair, spritz some TRESemmé Volume Thickening Spray to your roots.

5. Half-Up

wavy box braids half up
Nothing beats the classic half-up style. Photo credit: Arianna Sharfman

At All Things Hair, we’re obsessed with the classic half-up look. It’s so simple to create, yet adds height and fullness to your hair in an instant. You can also play it up with a funky mini bun!

6. Pineapple Updo

wavy box braids pineapple updo
If you have loose, unbraided ends, put them up in an extreme pineapple updo.

If your wavy box braids aren’t fully braided, then let your loose ends have some fun with this look.

7. Pinned Back

wavy box braids pinned back
Pin them back!

If you’re in a time pinch, or if your braids are just hitting your face a little too much, then simply pin a few strands back to create a sophisticated look.

8. Braided Roots

wavy box braids statement roots
Make a statement with braided roots and loose, wavy ends! Photo credit: Arianna Sharfman

Not fully convinced to braid your whole head into box braids? Then try out this chic style! Keep your roots braided and let your natural waves flow. Keep your waves in place all day long without any crunch by using Dove Amplified Textures Shine & Moisture Finishing Gel.

9. Tight Curls

wavy box braids tight curls
Give your hair some bounce with tight curls. Photo credit: Arianna Sharfman

Want to give your hair some extreme body? Then go for some extra-tight curls with these loose-ended braids!

10. High Ponytail

wavy box braids high ponytail
A high ponytail with subtle wavy box braids is the perfect any-day hairstyle.

Reach new levels of fabulousness with a high ponytail! A slicked-back ponytail with a wavy box braid mane is always a posh and polished look that we love. To get a slick and sleek look, use Bed Head by TIGI After Party Smoothing Cream.

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