Tip for creating a loose, boho look: Gently pull on the outer edges of the braid once it’s finished to loosen the weave.
10. Braided Bun
A braided bun takes a simple bun and elevates it. You can braid your hair first and then wrap the braid into a bun, or create a bun and then wrap a braid around it. It adds texture and interest.
This is a super practical style for keeping hair off your neck, especially on hot days. You can place the bun high on your head, low at the nape, or to the side. It’s a quick way to make a basic bun look special.
Tip for securing the bun: Use plenty of bobby pins, inserting them around the base of the bun and into the hair underneath.
9. Micro Braids
Micro braids are tiny, individual braids that give the appearance of loose hair from a distance. They take a long time to install because they are so small, but they offer incredible versatility in styling once they’re in.
This style is for someone who wants a long-lasting protective style they can wear in many different ways. It’s a significant time commitment, but the result is beautiful. You can wear them up, down, curled, or straight.
Tip for managing them: Keep them moisturized with a light oil or leave-in conditioner spray to prevent breakage.
8. Braided Bangs
Don’t want to commit to cutting bangs? Or maybe you want to get your existing bangs out of your face? Braiding them is a great solution! You can do a small French or Dutch braid along your hairline.
This is a quick and easy way to change up your look. It works well with side-swept bangs or even a full fringe. You can use a simple three-strand braid or try something more intricate.
Quick styling tip: Use a little gel to help smooth the hair before you start braiding your bangs.
7. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is so romantic and ethereal. It looks like a French braid across the back or side of your head, but instead of incorporating all the hair into the braid, you drop strands down to create a “waterfall” effect.
This style is perfect for weddings, festivals, or any time you want a soft, flowing look. It works best on hair that is medium to long. It’s a beautiful alternative to a regular braid.
Tip for keeping the “waterfall” defined: Curl the ends of the dropped strands for extra bounce and definition.
6. Spiral Braids
Spiral braids are individual braids that are installed in a circular or spiraling pattern, often starting from the crown and winding outwards. They create a really cool visual effect and lay flat against the head.
This style is great for showing off the shape of your head and can be done with your own hair or added extensions. Hair lengths that are at least a few inches long work well for this. It’s a modern and stylish look.
Tip for maintaining the shape: Sleep with a silk or satin bonnet to prevent the braids from getting messy.
5. Crochet Braids
Crochet braids involve looping extensions into your own cornrowed hair using a crochet needle. It’s a faster installation method compared to individual braids and offers a huge variety of textures and styles, from straight to curly to pre-braided.
This method is great for protecting your natural hair and trying out different looks without manipulating your own strands too much. There are so many different hair types you can use with the crochet method. It’s a popular and convenient protective style.
Tip for blending your hair: Leave a small amount of your own hair out around the hairline to blend with the extensions for a more natural look.
4. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are essentially thick, raised cornrows. They are created by adding braiding hair to your natural hair as you braid, resulting in bold, prominent braids. You can have just a few large goddess braids or combine them with smaller cornrows.
