When you’re dealing with natural black hair, braided hairstyles will always be your go-to. They are one of the most popular hairstyles for black women, all thanks to the fact they are protective and offer natural haired-women a chance to try different styles. With so many cool variations and techniques of achieving them, it’s hard to narrow down which black braided hairstyles are worth trying, which is why to want to help.
From box braids to cornrows, goddess braids and everything in between, no matter your hair type or length, there’s bound to be a black braided hairstyle, here, you’ll want to try next.
Keep scrolling down to see the top braided hairstyles for black women to try now.
Braided Bantu Knots
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If you’re a fan of Bantu knots, this braided take on them is all you need to inspire you to try something different. This is a cute style you can create when you’ve got box braids, cornrows or twists installed.
Side Braid
What’s not to love about side braids? They are perfect for any occasion and super easy to achieve with braiding hair extensions.
Wavy Knotless Braids
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Have you heard of knotless braids? If not, let us tell you all about them! They’re a great alternative to box braids and cause less tension to the scalp, as they’re installed differently.
Jumbo Twists
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Are you crushing on these big twists too? Then, make sure to save this picture for your next hair appointment.
Editor’s tip: If you want your edges to look like this, try using the VO5 Firm Hold Styling Gelon your baby hairs to achieve it.
Long Braided Ponytail
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This long ponytail braid is great for anyone looking to achieve that long, Rapunzel-esque look. To take this look to the next level, opt for some cute cornrows at the front, as this beauty has done.
Micro Braided Buns
Though micro braids take the longest to achieve, once you’ve got them done, you’ll be able to try a multitude of styles, like these cute space buns.
Box Braids
This popular protective box braid hairstyle is a fave among celebs who often wear theirs in various styles. Credit:@martiniquaisem*nt
Twist Braids
Looking for an alternative to braided styles? Get all the benefits of a braided protective hairstyle but with twists like this style queen. Credit:@chrissyford
Braided Bun
From loose braids to cornrows, there’s no single way to rock a braided bun. So which style will you pick?Credit: @freshlengths
Double Dutch Braids
Whether you’re hitting the gym or the beach, make these easy double Dutch braids your go-to look.Credit:@sbsb.fr
Beyoncé Braids
Are you obsessed with Beyoncé as much as us? They why not recreate her iconic braided hairstyle for extra style stalker points.Credit:@beyonce
Kinky Braids
With kinky braiding hair, you can get a stylish look that complements your natural hair texture and protects it, too. Credit: @symphanisoto
Two French Braids
Can’t quite get the hang of Dutch braids? Go French instead.Credit:@jasmeannnn
High Bun
Confession time: our love affair with the classic high bun still burns bright! And since Sister, Sister star Tia Mowry styled her braids into a slick high bun for an A-list event (combining it with dramatic lashes and a swipe of red lipstick), she proved just how chic this ‘do can be!
Chunky Braids
The bigger the braid, the better the hairstyle! This middle-parted, chunky plait style is bound to get you noticed. Credit: @the_frohaven
Crochet Braids
Crochet braids are a technique used to attach extensions to your hair to help create a host of braided styles, or like above, let loose. Credit: @mibelle_beauty
Cornrow & Box Braids Combo
This Instagrammer is having plenty of fun with her blonde braids. Teaming hercornrowswith box braids is pretty fabulous alone but with her beaded tips, she takes this combination to the next level! Keep slaying, honey.Credit:@leveluphairstylez
Albaso Braids
We’ve fallen head over heels with Jourdan Dunn’s intricate albaso braids. Credit:@jourdandunn
Pigtail Braids
After a style that’s as cute as it is practical? These pigtail braids are utterly adorable and will keep your strands in check. Credit: @izabelag4
Double Dutch Curly Braids
Getting the best of both worlds, this Instagrammer manages to show off her gorgeous curls with double Dutch braids, neatly secured at the nape of her neck. Credit:@braidsgang
Fishtail Braids
Fishtail braids are a beautiful alternative to three strand braids so stash this braided hairstyle away for a special occasion.Credit:@kiitana
Editor’s tip: Keep your fishtail braid in place with a spritz of the VO5 Invisible Firm Hold Hairspray.
This ultra-fine fast-drying hairspray offers frizz control and humidity protection and had a gorgeous coconut fragrance.
Cornrow Braids
From intricately weaved designs to straight back styles, cornrows are a classic braided style for black women and can be worn as is or underneath wigs and weaves.Credit: @sheliselindo
Box Braid Space Buns
Live your life in bright colours and bold outfits? Then you need to try box braids space buns! Credit:@hairrcastleby_cshami
Chunky Twists
If you want a style that’s sure to get all eyes on you, try out the chunky twist look that’s so versatile and oh-so pretty!
Braided Updo
The sky’s the limit when it comes to braided updos. From power ponytails to beautiful buns, which braided updo will you choose?Credit:@stylesbykrystalj
Braids for Short Hair
Are you stuck for inspiration when it comes to braids for short hair? Then try this sophisticated braided bob, we promise you won’t regret it.Credit: @melviee
Dreadlocks
Whether they’re real or faux, dreadlocks never fail to impress.Credit:@naturalbabepro
Crown Braids
Make your hair your best accessory with a crown braid. Wear this hairstyle anywhere from a Christmas party to a summer festival.Credit:@kiitana
’90s Pony
Not only are ponytails pretty much the easiest hairstyle ever, leaving a few pieces of hair hanging loose at the front like this Instagrammer will give you a major ’90s fashion edge. Credit:@samiahamps
Half-Up, Half Down
Get the best of both worlds with a half-up, half-down braided hairstyle.Credit:@kersti.pitre
Two Dutch braid
Why have one Dutch braid when you can have twice the fun with two? Credit: @black.lyst
Editor’s tip:Finish your braided look with the TRESemmé Botanique Air Dry Natural Hold Gel.
Arianna Braided Pony
We like to thinkAriana Grandehas contributed as much to the hair industry as she has the music scene. While her endless array of fancy hairstyles are a constant source of updo inspiration, we think it’s this braided pony that steals the show.Credit:@the_braid_bar
Halo Braid
A halo braid is all the rage with celebs and real girls alike and it’s the perfect boho look for any occasion. Credit:@reneebigtime
Dookie Braids
Throw it back to the ’90s with these Rihanna-approved dookie braids.Credit: @kyrahsky
Feed-in Braids
Give your hair the illusion of longer fuller braids by using the feed in braids method.
By attaching braiding hair extensions to your natural hair while weaving, you’re left with a more natural seamless finish.Credit: @braidedbytee
Jumbo Braids
Stand out from the crowd with these stunning jumbo braid twists. If you’re looking for a stylish low maintenance hairstyle that protects your strands, you can’t go wrong with jumbo box braids.Credit:@annrdrz_17
Goddess Braid
Be the goddess you know you are with this beautifully braided ponytail.Credit:@braidedbytee
Editor’s tip:Make styling your hair easy with the . Whether you’re creating your styles or need a touch-up while on the go, this is the handbag essential you’ve been missing.
Jumbo Box Braids
Go bold or go home with these supersized jumbo box braids. From her platinum blonde braids to hair cuffs, there is nothing we don’t love about this babe’s braided style.Credit: @miriannjoh
Poetic Justice Braids
Channel Janet Jackson vibes circa Poetic Justice with these small, thin braids.Credit:@nymcfly
Passion Twists
When you marry Senegalese twists and goddess locs together, you get passion twists. They’re the perfect summer style! Credit: @braidsgang
Bob Braids
Bob braids are the perfect look for the warmer summer months. Not only can do they look great worn down, but they still offer enough length to be worn in a host of creative updos. Credit:@khatbrim
Crochet Box Braids
Looking for alternative ways to get box braids? Try using the crochet method instead to install your braids. Credit: @msnaturallymary
Crochet Braids Twists
These crochet twists are another example of the crocheting method in action. Credit: @rekaylacurls
Rope Braid
Rope braids are a popular red carpet look but did you know they’re also one of the quickest (and easiest) DIY hairstyles around? Credit: @alysilverio
Rihanna Braids
Thanks to Rihanna, ‘90s-inspired dookie braids are back for good. If you want to channel her vibes, you can’t go wrong with copying this chunky hairstyle. Credit: @rialfenty
Boho Braids
The point of boho braids is for them to look undone and care-free, which is why they’re perfect for festival lovers. Credit: @lipstickncurls
Braided Half Bun
You’ve heard of thehun(AKA thehalf-up bun), now meet it’s plaited counterpart. This is one of the best braid hairstyles for naturalistas who want the effect of undone hair, yet you don’t want the hassle of maintaining it.Credit:@elainewelteroth
Red Ponytail Braid
A hairstyle that needs no introduction.Credit: @braidmama
Senegalese Twists
Woven with smooth, sleek-looking hair for a glossy look, Senegalese twists are a black girl’s favourite. Credit: @thakoolo
Curly Braids
You can score the curls of your dreams by leaving your box braids undone like this.Credit:@nigerianbraidshair
Micro Braids
Like to wear your braids in lots of different hairstyles? Then you’ll love these micro braids which make styling a dream. Credit: @arnell.armon
Mohawk Braid
Mohawk hairstyles are a popular choice for black women but if the idea of an undercut and quiff combo doesn’t do it for you, opt for this refined twisted style instead.Credit: @returning2natural
Albaso Braids
This elegant braiding style allows you to protect your natural strands and show them off, too.Credit:@braidsgang
Curly Crochet Braids
Your secret weapon for envy-inducing curls? Curly crochet braids! Credit: @chimerenicole
Fulani Braids
Fulani braids are usually accessorised with beads to give a unique and beautiful look. Credit: @gsterl
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Editor’s tip:Start your journey to gorgeous hair in the shower with the and Conditioner duo.
Free from parabens and silicones, the botanical blend of coconut milk, coconut oil and aloe vera will leave your hair feeling nourished.
Single Braids
Single braids (or individual braids) is another term used to describe box braids. Credit: @boxbraidsbr
Two Braids
When you want a hairstyle that’s equal parts stylish and long-lasting, two braids are the way to go. Credit: @_braidsbychristina
Big Box Braids
We love these oversized big box braids for an easy everyday style with a twist. Credit: @eucarinasoares
Kim Kardashian Braids (AKA Cornrows)
Though they’re also known as boxer braids, they’re essentially cornrows and popular with the A-list crowd. Credit: @sarah_bisaro
Lemonade Braids
Ever since Beyonce wore them in her Lemonade album videos, side-swept braids have become more coveted than ever. Credit: @freshlengths
Short Box Braids
Thought you couldn’t rock braids and get in on the short hair trend? Well, you definitely can and this stylish bob is all the proof you need. Credit: @its_jennj
Short Braids
Be the best-tressed in your girl gang with these cute bob-length twists. Credit: @poplaura.b
Tribal Braids
Tribal braids AKA Fulani braids are a popular choice for black women looking for formal hairstyles and more casual festival looks, too. Credit: @justineskye
Coloured Braids
We’ve been seeing blue hair everywhere at the moment so these pastel braids are right on trend. Credit: @omglookkitty
Marley Braids
For those who like a more natural look, Marley braids are made with a particular kind of hair that gives a more textured finish. Credit: @touchedbytrini
Triangle Braids
If you’re loyal to your box braids but want to try something new, triangle braids are a fun way to shake things up and add extra detail. Credit: @slayedbymeliz
Festival Braids
Heading off to a festival and want a killer hairstyle to complete your look? Get inspired by this Instagrammer’s purple ombre braids, which are giving off major Coachella vibes. Credit: @brialleringer
Medium Box Braids
Not sure which braids to go for? Classic medium box braids are a great style for braids newbies that are guaranteed to suit everyone. Credit: @tach.j
Tree Braids
Perhaps the most seamless of braids, tree braids are partially plaited to a certain point (with or without hair extensions) to create the ‘root’, while the rest of the hair is left loose and flowing like this. Credit: @brandiwynae
Yarn Braid
As the name suggests, these braided styles are woven with yarn braiding hair, making them a great alternative for those who aren’t a fan of synthetic or real hair extensions. Credit: @stellas_out
Alicia Keys Braids
From elegant Fulani braids to cool beaded cornrow styles, Alicia Keys never fails to show us how fun and versatile braided looks are.
Braided Topknot
If you love braids and top knots, why not marry the two hairstyles together to get this cute look? Working in some hair jewels will earn you extra style points. Credit: @thechicnatural
Braided Wedding Hair
Get the crowd talking on your big day with this gorgeous, doubled braided halo hairstyle. Credit: @stanlophotography
Ombre Box Braids
Proving that ombre works brilliantly with box braids, this Instagram babe has given her dark hair a fun pink twist with her colour choice. Credit: @fatou_amina
Red Braids
An all-over red is a great option for those who are looking to try something different. Credit: @braidingruby
Stitch Braids
Stitch braids look like traditional cornrows but have a different graphic and linear finish. Unlike regular cornrows, this technique requires a pinky finger and nail to create the lines and a strong-hold gel to keep them in place. Credit: @braidsbyjmarie
Straight Crochet Braids
If you’re after a classic hairstyle that won’t fail to impress, go for this glossy, straight crochet braid hairstyle. Credit: @kiitana
Unicorn Braid
You don’t have to bleach your hair to get in on the unicorn hair trend; just get some coloured braiding extensions and weave them how you like. Credit: @rastafribraid
Fishbone Braid
Gone are the days of boring cornrows! You can give them a fishy update by copying this impressive braiding pattern. Credit: @steph_odia
Long Box Braids
Take a cue from this Instagrammer and embrace the Rapunzel hair trend. Credit: @chanairaskye
Elegant Side Tuck
Prefer to go for a look with a more understated and sophisticated finish? Say no more.Opting for elegant plait hairstyles, like Eva Marcille’s chic side tuck, are the perfect way to take your braids from blah to beautiful in a matter of minutes!
Thick Box Braids
The thicker and bigger the braids, the less time you’ll need to spend waiting for your dream look. Credit: @itsmyrayeraye
Triangle Box Braids
The triangle partings in this braided look take this half-up, half-down hairstyle to a whole new level. Credit: @beautycreationsinsta
Upside Down Braid
Want to make your braided updo hairstyles feel new again? Weave them upside down, just like this beauty has done. Credit: @touchofheavenartistry
Pink Box Braids
Excuse us while we swoon over these pink box braids. Credit: @magavilhas
Delicate Braided Headband
We love this youthfultwist (pun intended) on the uber-femininehalo braid.Notonly is it perfect for just about any occasion, but it works a treat on almost all hair lengthsand textures, too!
Polished Pompadour
Give your mane a dose of the royal treatment by styling your plaits into pompadour bangs!
Halo Bun
If ‘subtle’ isn’t your style, and you’re looking for braidideasthat willreallyturn heads, take inspiration fromGleestar Amber Riley and her heavenly halo bun!
Crown Braid
FromDianna Agron to Jennifer Lawrence, crown braids have been given the A-list seal of approval, so you will be in good company when following suit.Credit:@dr_kami
Ghana Braids
Characterised by their beautifully thick appearance, Ghana braids use extensions to help create a fuller-looking finish and best of all, there are so many stylish options you can try. Credit:@futibraids
Blue Half-Up Bun
Striking the perfect balance between cajzh and put together, the hun is a hair saviour for lazy girls the world over. Credit:@stylebymks
Half-Up With Small Braids
We love the way this model has swept her tiny box braids up off of her face with a half-up hairstyle, flattering her facial features while still making the most of her length. It’s basically the best of both worlds! Credit:@vanessa.padi
Braided Headband
Taking the front section of your small long box braids and plaiting them into a braided headband looks stunning, plus it adds detail to an otherwise simple style. Credit:@naturally_candace
High Ponytail
Strike the perfect balance between sporty and stylish by working your braids into a high ponytail. While it’s true that it’s still one of the most foolproof ways to style your hair in a flash, stars like Teyonah Parris have elevated this style to VIP status by donning the look on the red carpet!
Side braid
In a hurry and need a fashionable hairstyle? Look no further than this cute side braid. Credit: @fontsize4poetry
