Natural braid have been a staple in black hair culture for centuries, offering a beautiful way to protect and style our locks while celebrating our heritage.
From classic cornrows to trendy twist outs, there’s a natural braid style to suit every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a chic and elegant updo for a special event or a low-maintenance hairstyle for everyday wear, natural braids are a versatile and stunning option.
19 Natural Braid Styles to Inspire You (Last One Is My Favorite)
1. Goddess Braids: Elegant and Regal Updo’s for Special Occasions
When it comes to making a statement at special occasions, goddess braids are the ultimate choice. These elegant and regal updo’s are perfect for weddings, proms, and other formal events.
Characterized by intricate braiding patterns and often adorned with beads or other decorative elements, goddess braids exude sophistication and glamour.
Whether you’re looking for a classic, timeless look or a more modern, trendy style, goddess braids are sure to turn heads.
2. Box Braids with a Twist: A Modern Spin on a Classic Style
Box braids are a classic protective style that has been popular for decades. However, by adding a twist (literally!), you can give this timeless look a modern spin.
Box braids with a twist involve braiding the hair in a box-like pattern, but with a twist at the end of each braid. This adds a fun and playful touch to the traditional style, making it perfect for everyday wear or casual events.
3. Senegalese Twists: A Chic and Versatile Protective Style
Senegalese twists are a popular protective style that offers a chic and versatile look. These twists involve twisting the hair in a diagonal direction, creating a rope-like texture.
They can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sweet to long and luscious, making them perfect for anyone looking for a low-maintenance yet stylish hairstyle.
4. Fulani Braids: A Colorful and Cultural Hair Inspiration
Fulani braids are a vibrant and colorful hairstyle that draws inspiration from African culture.
Characterized by long, braided extensions and colorful beads, Fulani braids are a statement-making look that’s perfect for anyone looking to add some cultural flair to their hairstyle.
Whether you’re attending a cultural event or just want to add some personality to your everyday look, Fulani braids are a great choice.
5. Ghana Braids: A Timeless and Elegant Hairstyle for Black Hair
Ghana braids are a timeless and elegant hairstyle that’s perfect for black hair. These braids involve twisting the hair in a circular motion, creating a beautiful, intricate pattern.
Ghana braids can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sleek to long and luscious, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking for a classic, sophisticated look.
6. Marley Twists: A Protective Style with a Boho Chic Vibe
Marley twists are a protective style that’s perfect for anyone looking for a bohemian, laid-back vibe. These twists involve twisting the hair in a diagonal direction, creating a rope-like texture.
Marley twists are easy to maintain and can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sweet to long and luscious.
7. Havana Twists: A Sassy and Sophisticated Hairstyle for Black Women
Havana twists are a sassy and sophisticated hairstyle that’s perfect for black women. These twists involve twisting the hair in a diagonal direction, creating a rope-like texture.
Havana twists can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sleek to long and luscious, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking for a stylish, low-maintenance hairstyle.
8. Dreadlock Braids: A Unique and Edgy Hairstyle for the Fearless
Dreadlock braids are a unique and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for anyone looking to make a statement. These braids involve twisting the hair in a way that creates a dreadlock-like texture.
Dreadlock braids are a bold choice that’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to be different, they can be a truly eye-catching look.
9. Cornrows with Beads: A Fun and Playful Twist on a Classic Style
Cornrows are a classic hairstyle that’s been popular for decades. However, by adding beads to the mix, you can give this timeless look a fun and playful twist.
Cornrows with beads involve braiding the hair close to the scalp, with beads added to the ends of each braid. This adds a fun and whimsical touch to the traditional style, making it perfect for casual events or everyday wear.
10. Bantu Knots: A Chic and Easy Hairstyle for Black Hair
Bantu knots are a chic and easy hairstyle that’s perfect for black hair. These knots involve twisting the hair into small, rounded sections, creating a beautiful, textured look.
Bantu knots are easy to maintain and can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sweet to long and luscious.
11. Two-Strand Twists: A Simple yet Stylish Hairstyle for Everyday Wear
Two-strand twists are a simple yet stylish hairstyle that’s perfect for everyday wear. These twists involve twisting two strands of hair together, creating a beautiful, rope-like texture.
Two-strand twists are easy to maintain and can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sleek to long and luscious.
12. Flat Twists: A Sleek and Modern Hairstyle for Black Women
Flat twists are a sleek and modern hairstyle that’s perfect for black women. These twists involve twisting the hair flat against the head, creating a smooth, sleek look.
Flat twists are easy to maintain and can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sweet to long and luscious.
13. Micro Braids: A Delicate and Intricate Hairstyle for Special Occasions
Micro braids are a delicate and intricate hairstyle that’s perfect for special occasions. These braids involve braiding the hair into small, intricate sections, creating a beautiful, detailed look.
Micro braids are a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish, elegant hairstyle that’s sure to turn heads.
14. Knotless Braids: A Trendy and Low-Manipulation Hairstyle for Black Hair
Knotless braids are a trendy and low-manipulation hairstyle that’s perfect for black hair. These braids involve twisting the hair without creating knots, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a low-maintenance hairstyle.
Knotless braids can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sweet to long and luscious.
15. Twist Outs: A Beautiful and Versatile Hairstyle for Black Women
Twist outs are a beautiful and versatile hairstyle that’s perfect for black women. These twists involve twisting the hair while it’s damp, then letting it dry and taking out the twists to reveal a beautiful, textured look.
Twist outs can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sweet to long and luscious.
16. Faux Locs: A Protective Style with a Bohemian Vibe
Faux locs are a protective style that’s perfect for anyone looking for a bohemian, laid-back vibe. These locs involve twisting the hair into small sections, creating a beautiful, rope-like texture.
Faux locs are easy to maintain and can be worn in a variety of styles, from short and sweet to long and luscious.
17. Crotchet Braids: A Quick and Easy Hairstyle for Black Hair
Crotchet braids are a quick and easy hairstyle that’s perfect for black hair. These braids involve using a crotchet hook to braid the hair, creating a beautiful, intricate look.
Crotchet braids are a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish, low-maintenance hairstyle.
18. Waterfall Braids: A Romantic and Whimsical Hairstyle for Black Women
Waterfall braids are a romantic and whimsical hairstyle that’s perfect for black women. These braids involve braiding the hair in a cascading motion, creating a beautiful, flowing look.
Waterfall braids are a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish, elegant hairstyle that’s sure to turn heads.
19. Double Dutch Braids: A Fun and Playful Hairstyle for Black Hair
Double Dutch braids are a fun and playful hairstyle that’s perfect for black hair. These braids involve braiding the hair in a double Dutch pattern, creating a beautiful, intricate look.
Double Dutch braids are a great choice for anyone looking for a stylish, low-maintenance hairstyle that’s perfect for everyday wear.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of braids and twists is a vast and exciting one, offering a multitude of styles and options for black hair. From classic and elegant to bold and edgy, there’s a braid or twist style out there for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a protective style, a special occasion hairstyle, or just a fun and easy everyday look, this post has provided you with a comprehensive guide to get you started.
Remember, the key to rocking any braid or twist style is to have fun and be creative! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques, products, and styles until you find what works best for you. And most importantly, love and embrace your natural hair in all its beauty and glory.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best way to care for my braids or twists?
A: To keep your braids or twists looking their best, make sure to wash them regularly with a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to gently detangle your hair, and avoid using harsh chemicals or heat styling tools.
Q: How long do braids or twists last?
A: The lifespan of braids or twists depends on several factors, including the type of braid or twist, the quality of your hair, and how well you care for them. On average, braids or twists can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
Q: Can I do braids or twists on my own, or do I need to go to a professional?
A: While it’s possible to do braids or twists on your own, it’s often recommended to go to a professional stylist, especially if you’re new to braiding or twisting. A professional stylist can help you achieve the look you want and provide guidance on how to care for your braids or twists.
Q: Are braids or twists good for my hair?
A: Yes, braids or twists can be a great protective style for your hair, especially if you have fragile or damaged hair. They can help reduce breakage, minimize manipulation, and promote hair growth. However, it’s important to be gentle when braiding or twisting, and to avoid using harsh chemicals or excessive tension.
Q: Can I wear braids or twists with extensions?
A: Yes, you can definitely wear braids or twists with extensions! In fact, extensions can add volume, length, and texture to your braids or twists. Just make sure to choose high-quality extensions that match your natural hair texture and color.
Q: How do I take out my braids or twists without damaging my hair?
A: To take out your braids or twists without damaging your hair, start by gently detangling your hair with a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush. Then, use a conditioner or a hair serum to help lubricate your hair and make it easier to remove the braids or twists. Be patient and gentle when taking out your braids or twists, and avoid using harsh chemicals or heat styling tools.
