African Braids style appears to be an attractive choice for smart and inexpensive sustenance hair-do. Maybe the reason that several youths gather to choose this braiding style as their preferred style alternative is due to the point that it’s simple to maintain, and it appears in excellent styles.
African braids can have multiple varieties of thickness, size, and color. The prevalence of African American Hair Braiding ways has transcended race. In different words, people other than those of African American origin also seek certain Hair Braiding styles from this.
There are several types of Hair Braiding styles to choose from. Some include Goddess Braids, Pixie Braids, Micro Braids, Pixie Pin Curls, French Inverted Braids, Candy Curls, Fishtail Braids, Bantu Knots, and Undetectable braid and Cornrow Extensions, Flat Twist, Locks, Tree braids, Invisible Braids, Senegalese Twist, Interlock Weaving, Silky Locks, African Twist, Latch Hook Weaving, Kinky Twist, Two-Strand Twist, Cobra Stitch, and Nubian Corkscrew.
Maybe the most challenging piece of braiding is getting to hold the pressure on the strands as fairly stable as feasible. Nevertheless, this only comes with training and proper time.
Few Necessary Details of African Braids:
- They are produced in short uniform braids that are weaved collectively with hair, rendering strength, width, height, and even coloring to twists.
- Depending on your kind of hair and style chosen, braids take almost 5 hrs. On average, to be ready, so a lot of time is taken in this kind of styling.
- Braids can be cleaned with hair wash and conditioner frequently, but in case your hair is too frizzy, wash it twice weekly. You can use dry shampoo instead.
- The braids, once tied, can stay up to two to three weeks if maintained properly.
- To protect your braids wearing a shower cap to bed. This can be a great idea. Also, you can wrap your head with a cotton scarf to avoid friction.
Popular African Braids
Cornrows are possibly one of the most prevalent types of African American Hair Braiding Styles. It is a popular style of hair grooming which demands that the hair is braided very imminently to the scalp tightly, using an underhand, higher movement to create a constant, elevated line.
These Afro braids can be created, in easy, vertical lines; or, in complex geometric or designer patterns. The appeal to this form of braiding is the simple maintenance it gives.
These Afro braids can be left in for weeks at a time just by delicately cleaning the hair applying a shower cap or hair mesh, and then periodically lubricating the scalp and hair with good hair oil. Some use the weaving technique to get the hairdo while some braid their own hair.
Here are the top 41 African Braids hairstyles that look absolutely like a diva. So let’s get started with the style. Also, check out how to do African Braids.
1. Narrow Cornrow With Exotic Beads
This hairstyle has a very exotic look to it. The hairstyle comprises extremely narrow cornrows. The advantage of such cornrows is that the style of the hair remains spaced out.
The front portion of this beautiful hairstyle is adorned with beautiful white beads that add that exotic and oriental charm to the look. To start with the style you will have first to gel your hair and detangle it.
This cornrow has a shaded bottom that adds to the style quotient of this hairstyle. The hairstyle suits a slim face and also on younger women. In the style, hair is pulled backward.
2. Side-Swept Braided Manor
This hairstyle has quite a voluminous approach. Such that the side will look thick. Here one side is in focus. The hair is first gel smoothened and thereafter micro braiding technique is followed to braid the hair to numerous thin strands.
After all the braiding is done consider the braids as just the strands of the hair. Now take a bunch of these braids and place them in a patterned way in a swiping manner and clip it to that side.
The other side will have criss-cross braids and the braids will be taken in front. Pair this volume boosted hairstyle with a dark lipstick shade like red to rock the look.
3. Center African Twist Braid Hairstyle
There is some hairstyle that has a beyond the normal appeal. This hairstyle is one such look. The African twists braid has an over-the-top appeal. Also, this hairstyle caters to the crown area of the head.
The side of the hair is first braided in the cornrow fashion. Thereafter the loose ends are tied as well. The center part should be braided the last. Each braid at the center is overlapped over the other to give a much-heightened look.
It somewhat resembles the Mohawk style but doesn’t entirely copy the style. Being one of the very popular African American styles, this one in the list is a must-try on for it looks not only smart but helps one to portray their bold side as well.
4. Bob Cut Braid Hairstyle
This style suits women who like it keeping short. The hair here is of the length of the bob haircut, and the complete look has a very adorable and cute yet sensuous edge. The vibe of the look is playful. With this style, the braids done are in balance as they are neither too thick nor too small.
Also, the style has the incorporation of the hair color that comes in between the braids beautifully. Overall the style is indeed very pretty and is perfect for a quick vacation or even as daily wear.
5. Mix Bag Braid Hairstyle
This hairstyle is a mixed bag, as the name suggests. The reason for this is that the braids have all types of lengths and braids. Some braids are tied in a narrow way while some are broad. Thus when the styling is done there is a mixture of all.
This way the hairstyle looks pretty and varied. The hairstyle has a top knot kind of vibe. The braids at the top though are broader. The hairstyle adds volume and height to the entire look. Style up the look with big silver hoops that look really great.
6. The Fountain Braid African Braid Style
The hairstyle is pretty dense. This hairstyle suits oval-faced women. In this hairstyle, the braids are done without keeping any gap as such. There can be a number of braids but in this style, the braids should be of the same length. Such that there is a certain uniformity in this kind of hairstyling.
So when you finally gather up all the braid after the knot, it comes to the same length at the backside. Such hairstyles are protective and can be kept for days without much maintenance. Also, the front scalp area has cornrow styling with much space.
7. Pixie Pin Curl Braid
Well, to all the women out there who think that the variety of styling options for short hair is minimum, to them, it’s a clear call. This Pixie pin curl braid is something that is indeed super cute. Also, the braids are short and this is one primary reason why the hairstyle is very easy to style.
The braid is kept at equal length and takes the shape of the hair cut. The cut is stylish as in the front, it is slightly longer than the back portion. You can tie one thread of a monochrome color like white to tie it around one braid to give it a quirky look.
8. Cornrow Extension Braid
This hairstyle is a very common African American braid hairstyle. The hairstyle is simple and elegant and has its own charm. The braids are not that thick neither too flat nor narrowed down. They have a subtle uniformity about the style and that adds to the effect that the style creates.
Also, this hairstyle suits a face that is quite long. The front portion is not that worked on. Here the middle portion of the backside is the part where the style is mainly done. The hair braids are collected to clutch up. The style is a pretty easy one.
9. Golden Shaded Bantu Knot Hairstyle
This hairdo is stylish and for women who indeed love to explore. For being a fashionable individual, one has to take the risk to explore out of the comfort zone and check out various kinds of styles.
Such styles frequently give looks that are definitely out of the box and have a very smart appeal. One such quirky number s this. The color of the hairstyle adds up to the look of the hairstyle.
The golden color adds a lot of glam quotient to the look. With the braid and the knot at the top, taking eyes from you will be quite a challenging task.
10. Patterned African Braid Hairstyle
One of the foremost perks with such braids is that a lot of variations can be incorporated into the patterns of the braid. The braiding style is done such that the front scalp area incorporates a unique pattern-like structure.
Also, the braids can be adorned with beautiful braids. The hairstyle has a somewhat royal undertone to it and the focus areas definitely the scalp portion. This Patterned African braid hairstyle is also definitely a try-on.
11. Corkscrew Hair Curl Braids
With its own aura of a gracious appeal, this hairstyle will definitely be a good bid. Also, this style is something that will help you achieve quite a height. The style has a fluffy appeal. The front lock has a very sensual style adding to the entire look.
Overall this style will take some amount of time but then at the end of it all, it is so totally worth it. The hairstyle looks great for fashion styles or for models who are ready to walk the ramp. This is not an everyday look and will go great with styles, especially for events and parties.
12. Weaved Braids With Beads
The quintessential afro braid has a slightly rustic feel to it. The patterns are intricate and depend upon the individual wearing the style. Also, such styles give a very pretty effect to the overall hairdo.
To make this style, start braiding on either side of the center alignment. The lower ends of the braids can be toed with braid beads. This look can be created while you or on a vacation. The style is a protective one will stay throughout like that.
13. Micro Braided Bun On Top
This hairstyle is very smart. It has a very broad tone. More so because of the big fat top bun. The hairstyle has a playful note to it. Styles like these are casual and have quite an impact on the individual wearing them. Here though, more than the style, the USP of the hair is the color shade.
The shade of the hairstyle is a rich mixture of blonde and brown. Tones like these have a complexion-boosting effect. You can pair up the look with trinkets and dainty jewelry as the hairstyle will be taking more of the attention.
14. Two Braids From A Singular Joint
This is something very different, and maybe that is why it is listed here. So long, the styles mentioned in this list were about singular braids. This has been a beautiful variation.
Also, in this style, the braids are done by taking the joints in keeping quiet space in between. This kind of hairstyle along with a pair of glasses and sun-kissed skin. What else can you ask for! Glamour can be your house name!
15. Alternate Cornrow Back Bun Braid Hairstyle
The pattern of this hairstyle is indeed different. One braid is thought of while the very next, which is weave so close to the scalp is extremely thin. Thus the joint design of the braid makes a great style. The back portion of this hairstyle has a braided bu.
You can wear the style to work and rock your performance with a clean look. You can either pair small stud earrings with such style or else you can also do away with the ornaments. This is a very simple yet elegant style that makes a look pretty attractive.
16. Afro Fat Braid Hairstyle
This hairstyle is good for women who have a round face. The fat braid makes the look very intense and bold. Gather up the hair in section. Start to twist and braid the hair with the individual strands being broad. The fat braid is quite a famous afro braid hairstyle.
With this hairstyle, one can let go of decking up with accessories. The hairstyle itself can be a great accessory. Also, braids like these are very easy to maintain. This braiding hairstyle will take better shape in hair that is either long or at least of medium length.
17. Fat Braid With Loose End Hairstyle
Well, in This hairstyle, the best part is its unkempt look. Though it attains the perfectly tied braiding yet, it has a subtle tone of a bohemian appeal. The casual look of this style is what makes the style really commendable.
If you are sleeping with this braid, then you can omit taking scarves or shower caps. That can really add up to the messy appeal of the style. Pair the lookup with a baggy t-shirt and a pair of rugged jeans. The look is indeed ultra-cool.
18. The Bob Cut Afro Braid Hairstyle
The coffee color hair shade adds to the sensuous appeal of this hairstyle. The braids follow the cut of this hairstyle. The style is short and really easy. Also, because the haircut is short, there will not be much time taken to style up.
This coffee-shaded Bob haircut is indeed a very trendy hairstyle. So all the stylish girls there do gear up to address for a new glamorous style. You can put up the style for an everyday look. Being quite a versatile style this one in the list is a must-try if you have short hair.
19. Oriental Afro Braid Hairstyle
This hairstyle is something extremely ornamental. This is not an everyday hairstyle. It is something very ornamental and looks very royal.
Tracing the path of the quintessential bohemian braiding styles, this hairstyle has quite an old-world charm. The patterns are intricate and detailed attention will be noticed that there is a definite rhythm in this kind of pattern.
The front braids depict a very tight and compact structure while the middle section and the back incorporate the curly weaves that make the hairstyle indeed very balanced and a sheer piece of art. The colorful beads add up to the decked-up appeal of the hairstyle.
20. Shortcut Afro Braid Hairstyle
In this hairstyle, the braids are tied pretty close-knit. The hair is first detangled with some gel or detangling serum. After the detangling and smoothening side, partition your hair. As the hair is already short, it will be a lot easier to tie up the hair.
This is because afro braids are a very time-consuming affair. Also, in this style, the sections of hair taken are kept in close precision to one another so that the appeal is quite full and dense.
Also, the hairstyle incorporates hair ornaments. You can include very pretty golden beads on the end of one braid. It will surely be an interesting addition to the hairstyle.
21. Uneven Edged Afro Braid Hairstyle
Balance soothes the eyes. In styles, especially in the hair, something which even looks very poised and pleasing to the eyes.
However, when you are an adventure-loving individual, you sure want to do something innovative or go through a style change. Well, nothing can be better than trying this new uneven-edged style.
In this style, the edges of the braid are quite uneven, and also the unruly edges increase the style quotient. So what is the next step? Glam up the look with your favorite pair of glasses and you are all set to rock the day.
22. Micro Cornrows Afro Braid Hairstyle
In this hairstyle, the braids are done with the weaving technique. This style is of sheer patience. It will take a lot of time and if a hairstylist does it, it’s better. The weaving of the front portion is done keeping a rhythmic distance to create the circular motion-like pattern.
The braids after that are collected at the crown area and with the help of hair gel or setting serum, they are collected by a narrow setting string to have the elevated bound up style.
You can also use an elastic same color rubber band so that it stays in place and won’t be visible to the naked eye. The style is pretty dense and intense.
23. Braid And Bun Style
With the afro braid, you can do a lot of variations, and probably because of this reason, the style is so popular. Afro hairstyle mainly promotes the braid and in distinct patterns and weaving techniques.
Here in this style, the braids are first done just as any fat braid afro styling is done. Post the braiding, taking some of the braids from the center to enroll them into an uneven bun.
The braid will add a lot of depth to the bun. you can leave one or two braids at the front for an even more effective look. The style is fun and quirky. Being quite a trendy style as well it will surely depict your playful side
24. Afro Braid Hairstyle With Extension
This hairstyle is quite a popular one. Also, it is kind of fun to style this hair up. You can add any kind of color to the style with the help of extensions. In this particular style, the original hair has a burgundy shade.
By taking a color shade lighter than that, you can make a beautiful combo. Take a bright golden shade of extension. Tie it up with your hair first and then just spiral bind to get the effect. The hairstyle is quirky, colorful, and pretty intense
25. Purple Afro Braid Hairstyle
Women have this interesting connection with colors. Colors really add a lot of bling to any style. When you incorporate such a bright color like this into your hair, it surely is a style that is not only vibrant but also shows the peppy side of your personality as well.
A hairstyle that you choose to wear can indeed say a lot about your preferences. Purple now is quite a trendy color and sure adds a lot of glamour to your hairstyle.
A tip – you can pair it up with a purple Kio shade. This can be a fair reason to try the out-of-box makeup as well. Bold is really beautiful and with purple, you surely will look gorgeously bold.
26. Screw Braid Hairstyle
This style is very dense and has quite a natural appeal. The hairstyle though takes a lot of time in the end; it’s all worth it. The hairstyle will make the look very charismatic.
Style this particular hairdo with an off-shoulder dress and you are all ready to rock any event. It can be an everyday style or a special event style.
27. Crown Braid Hairstyle
This hairstyle is for a special occasion. You can style up with beads and other hair accessories like extensions and so on. Also, the style has an old-school African vibe to it.
Such intricate pattern-like structure hairstyles were seen in the tribal African groups where women spotted such detailed hairdos. The beads also added to the bohemian charm of the tribe.
Recreation of such authentic Oriental style in the present fashion trend. You can style however you want. Out a bun and leave some braids on the front.
28. Typical Afro Braid Tie-Up Style
This braid is an easy braid style. All you need to do is just braid the front section in the typical cornrow style leaving quite a distinct pattern.
Quite a lot of celebrities flaunt this style. You can plan up your event attire with this style. Also, the best part of such a protected style is that the hairstyle will be there for weeks.
29. Afro Ponytail Hairstyle
Yet another typical style this braid has a free-flowing appeal. On a college fest, this can be quieter a funky style that can be paired.
With cute little beads and sometimes you can change your boring looks to something very trendy and stylish. Give this hairstyle a try for sure.
30. Colorful Afro Braids
If you are a person who loves colors, then the last one for sure will be your best one so far. This hairstyle has quite a bit of color in it.
The usual burgundy and red and rich brown tones are balanced if with the offbeat shades of pink and purple. Together the color forms a uniform colorful tone. With the top knot style, the look becomes even more fashionable.
31. Neat Braided Ponytail
If you’re looking for style that works for all occasions, then this braided ponytail is perfect. The hair is pulled back into cornrows, and the long hair falls down and over the shoulder.
32. Fishtail Braids
This style is wonderful for younger people, and it’s very fashionable. To achieve this trendy look, the top is pulled back into separate braided sections, and they join together to make two fishtail braids at the back.
33. Thin Braided Topknot Ponytail
This style is created with thin, long braids. The braids are pulled to the back of the head in ponytail shape. The ponytail is secured by wrapping a large section of the braids around the rest of the hair.
34. Simple Slicked Back Brown Braids
In this style the hair is dyed in a beautiful, rich brown color. The braids are simple with one extending down the middle of the scalp and the rest split into evenly-sized braids on the sides. The braids are of medium thickness, and they fall freely down the back.
35. Large Cornrows with Colourful Tips
Here four cornrows are braided back to the nape of the neck and they flow freely down the back. The tips are dyed blue and the rest of the hair is blonde, giving it a modern trendy look.
The baby hairs are gelled and curled along the face. Lots of rappers are doing their hair in this style.
36. Large Wrapped Braids
These braids start on the left side of the head, swoop over to the right, and they’re brought around to fall over the left shoulder. It’s a great side-swept hairstyle that’s edgy as well as trendy, and it’s very interesting, too.
37. Intricately Looped Side Bun
This hairstyle is made of lots of smaller braids that intricately cross over each other to form a large twisted bun on the side of the head. It’s an elegant eye-catching look that can work formal and business-casual occasions.
38. Loose Beaded Side Swept African Braids
These African braids are wonderful for casual or business casual look. There are fewer, thicker braids on the right side of the head and more, thinner ones on the left so they all fall together on one side.
The ends are decorated with beads that you can match to your outfit, making you the most fascinating person in the room.
39. Loose Bleached Braids
If you like trendy looks, then you’ll fall in love with this hairdo. The bleached hair with dark roots is braided loosely and evenly along both sides of the head, coming together in a mixture of very thin braids and thin dreads, pulled over the shoulders side ponytail.
40. Tight Green High Pony
This look can be achieved with a series of tight African braids pulled towards the crown of the head. The braids are secured in a high ponytail. The ends of the hair are a pleasant turquoise color.
41. Loose African Braids with Shells
Do you want a casual look that’s great for summer? These braids are thick and fall freely around the face and the back of the head. Some of them are decorated with shells for a very beach-ready look.
FAQs
Do braids come from Africa?
Braids do come from Africa. Braids in African culture can be traced back over 5000 years to the year 3500 BCE.
Are braids African culture?
Braids, especially on women, are a large part of many African cultures. Braiding started with the Himba people in Namibia. However, not all braids are from African culture. If you want a braid that is specific to African culture, research a stylist that specializes in these types of braids.
Why are African braids so tight?
African braids are so tight because the braiders want the hairstyle to last as long as possible. The tightly braided style has a much cleaner and sharper look as well. If the braid is not very tight, it can come out quicker or look messier than a tightly braided style. Many African hair braiders pride themselves on the cleanliness of their work, so they prefer a tighter braid.
Can I wash African braids?
You can wash your African braids every two to three weeks. Be sure to wash your hair and scalp when you do conduct washing sessions to rid your scalp of dirt, debris, dead skin, and oil buildup. Be sure to fully dry your braids!
Does African braiding damage hair?
Some African braiding techniques can damage hair by being too tight or putting undue weight on the scalp. Consult your hairstylist when you are at your braiding appointment for the best braid style for you, especially if you are worried about long-term damage.
How long can African braids last?
Depending on the type of braid, they can last from 2 to 8 weeks. For instance, box braids shouldn’t be kept in for longer than 6 weeks. Be sure you are aware of the timeline of your braids as well as the right way to care for them to ensure longevity.
How long does African hair braiding take?
There are many variables in how long it will take to braid your hair with African braids. On average, a professional stylist can install the braids in 5 or 6 hours. The longer the hair, the more time it requires.
If you have a bit of time and you are ready to look absolutely gorgeous, then the afro braid hairstyle is for you. One might think that it takes so much of your precious time. Indeed it does.
However, the after-work and the outcome that it serves are worth every minute spent on that hairstyle. The elaborate work along with the styles makes for some real exquisite styles.
These braids can be kept for a long time, so be it a vacation, party, normal event you are sure to catch up the limelights from the braids. So choose your favorite one from the list and get going!
