20 Black Braided Hairstyles That Defy the Trends

Today, braids are more popular than ever, and their versatility gives us more styling options to experiment with. From cornrows and box braids to updos and braided ponytails, celebrities like Zendaya, Rihanna, Gabrielle Union, and Simone Biles have all worn these hairstyles on the red carpet, on-screen, and at home—and it’s easy to see why. These looks are classic and easy to maintain but still pack a punch.

In Black communities, the multi-strand technique often “represents power, journey through hair, and lifestyle,” explains hairstylist Susan Oludele. Braids come in various styles and “are also a good protective style to help your hair grow.” Below, Oludele shares seven of her favorite Black braided hairstyles, along with our top picks. Keep reading to get inspired.

Cornrows

The popularity of the style is mainly because it allows a lot of creativity. Cornrows can be worn in all different shapes and sizes, including zig-zag patterns, swirled up-dos, and pigtails. “I love cornrows because they are simple, clean, and easy to do using extensions or natural hair,” says Oludele.

Braided Bantu Knots

The statement hairstyle adds a cool edge to any look. “Bantu knots are a fun hairstyle to do,” says Oludele. “They can be done with extensions by braiding sections of hair and rolling them, and you can even add baby hairs to the style.”

Braided Updo

The intricate detail of this updo shows how creative you can get with cornrows. Whether you’re looking for a party look or an elegant ‘do, this braided bun is a chic way to add a touch of glamour to your look. Add some accessories, like flowers or embellished combs, to take this hairstyle to a whole new level.

Colorful Braids

Braiding hair can be found in pretty much any color you imagine which means you can have a lot of fun with it. Express yourself, change up your look, or make a statement with colored braids.

Braided Bob

If you’ve always wanted to try a bob but don’t want to go through the trouble of regular straightening and frequent trims, you don’t have to. You can use braids to create a hassle-free bob with a lot less maintenance.

VIDEO: Venus Williams Brought Back Her Signature Beaded Braids

Crochet Braided Ponytail

If you’re looking for a braided style that has texture and length, this look is for you. Add crochet hair to any cornrow style to create a long, flowing ponytail.

Ombré Braids

“Ombré braids are done using one color at the base and a second color towards the bottom or middle of the braids to create a gradient effect,” says Oludele. “You can do two to six ombré levels depending on the length of the hair.”

Red Box Braids

Box braids are a staple hairstyle. Above, Zendaya gives the look a twist by using red braiding hair.

Chic Topknot

The best thing about braids is that they’re so versatile. A top bun with face-framing tendrils? Yup, braids can do that, too.

Leg-Length Braids

The sky (and the length) is the limit when it comes to box braids. When you really want to make a statement, go for leg-grazing braids like Tessa Thompson.

Extra Long Pigtails

Pigtails aren’t only for kids. For a grown-up take on the classic style, opt for giant braids (with the help of some braiding hair). Add in some gold hoops and you’ll be ready to hit the town in style.

Half-Up, Half Down

When your braids start to grow out a smidge, one of the easiest ways to hide the new growth is a half-up, half-down style like Storm Reid. Add some face-framing braids, swoop the baby hairs, and you’re ready to go.

Straight-Back Cornrows

Straight-back cornrows are commonly used as a protective style that’s covered by wigs, weaves, or extensions. Here, Tracee Ellis Ross shows that this classic style looks chic, effortless, and red carpet-ready.

Messy Lime Green Braids

If you’re looking for a style similar to box braids but with a little razzle-dazzle, choose to loosen up your braids. These braids are undone in some sections, making them effortlessly messy. You can even weave in fun colors like lime green, as seen on Lizzo, to really make an impact.

Braided Crown

With her gold headpiece, Danai Gurira’s braided hairstyle is meant for a queen. Her braided crown cascades into thick, majestic braids and is topped with a dainty gold hair accessory. The style can be versatile, too—simply put the extra hair into a ponytail or bun.

Braided Ponytail

Is there anything more chic than a long ponytail? A braided ponytail with butterfly clips like Sanaa Lathan’s is even better.

Purple and Beaded

Adding beads to braids has long been a trend. We especially love Missy Elliott’s beaded ‘do, complete with sparkly beads in the same jewel-toned hue as her shoulder-length braids.

Top Bun with Baby Hairs

Laying down your baby hairs after throwing your hair in a top bun is the equivalent of putting a cherry on the top of an ice cream sundae—just pure perfection.

Blonde Braids with a ‘Fro

If you don’t have time for a full head of braids, go the Amandla Stenberg route. Simply braid the front and let your ‘fro free in the back.

Long Plaits

Sitting to get a full head of braids done might not be something you have time to do, but you can always do long, thick plaits like Ciara.

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