Black braided hairstyles are, no doubt, one of the oldest ways to style your hair. They are the go-to hairstyles for women all over the world at any time of the year. Whether you want to style your hair or braid it properly to protect your hair from external wear and tear, black braided hairstyles come to your help.
If you’ve ever tried a black braid hairstyle, the chances are that you know how to put your creative soul into these hairstyles. Many women also believe that braided hairstyles at the same time can hide your damaged hair if braided smartly.
No matter how many styles come and go, black hairstyle braids are something that can never leave fashion. From clips and highlights to texture, shapes, and patterns, there are various techniques you can use to give yourself a unique hairstyle every time.
If you are still intrigued to dive deep into black braided hairstyles, their types, and the different styles, read on further.
Table of Contents
Types of Braided Hairstyles:
As said earlier, black hair braids are very versatile and easy to make hairstyles. If we talk about different types of braid styles for black hair, the list is endless. From fishtail braids, blocky braids, and block braided buns to tree braids, micro braids, and french braids, it’s hard to choose one.
As one of the oldest hairstyles, black braids have been the favorite, from royal queens to fashion enthusiasts and everyone in between. However, not every type of braid suits everyone’s style preferences and looks great.
For thick hair, long and thick braids are for sure the perfect casual hairstyle to go for, which doesn’t look good with thin and low volume hair.
Also, a tucked-away headband look and french braid look very enticing on shoulder-length, no matter the volume. In short, it’s so much easier to make decent braids once you have thicker hair.
Besides, there are countless reasons why black braided hairstyles are considered the most versatile and desirable hairstyles of now.
As a matter of fact, regardless of how many times you style your hair into black braided hairstyles, you can never run out of styling ideas.
To save you time, we’ve listed 4 trending braided hairstyles that you probably have seen on celebrities and fashion influencers flaunting their hair. If you’re in search of an interesting braided hairstyle, take a halt to check what we’ve collected for you while sipping a cup of coffee.
Trendy Braided Hairstyles:
Braids are very popular among black American-African girls for their two-colored hair that stands out in their looks. Although there are many braids that come and go in trend, we’ve listed ones that have been around us for the longest time.
Not only do these braids look good in nearly every face shape and size, but they also suit every hair texture and stay in place.
Read More: Pixie Undercut: 22 Trendiest Hairstyles
1. Twisted Rope Braids
These dimensional braids are perfect for long thick beautiful hair. They are interesting and simple to make yet definitely worth a try.
To do twisted rope braids, follow us through the steps.
- Untangle all your hair to remove any knots before you start
- Make a simple ponytail in the center or the side using a hair tie and make two equal sections of your
- ponytail and take them into each of your hands.
- Start twisting both sections one by one.
- First, take the left section of your ponytail, hover it over the right section, and then hover it over the left section.
- Don’t lose grip, or else the braid will get lost and not stay long.
- Continue twisting both sections of your ponytail until you reach the end.
- Lastly, secure a braided ponytail with another hair tie and stretch the sides of the braid a little.
2. Very Loose Whimsical Braids:
This braid is unhackneyed to look at and an ideal choice if you have long, healthy hair. These braids start from the mid-shaft, look sloppy at the end but are not noticeable at the front.
To make loose, whimsical braids, follow the steps below.
- Take a small section of your hair from either side you want
- Divide the same hair section into three equal parts and make a simple braid.
- First, cross the lower stand over the middle and then the upper one on the middle strand.
- Continue this until you reach the end of the tip of that hair section.
- Once done, tie it with an elastic and take a small section of your hair from the other side.
- Repeat the same thing you did earlier but make a diagonal braid and start from the top of your head.
- Next, combine both the braids and roll them up in the form of a cinnamon flower. Secure the loose hair with hair hairpins depending on your needs.
3. Low Braided Buns:
Braided buns are always an elegant choice that gives you a classy as well as fashionable look. These buns work well for all face types, especially the rounded ones.
- Brush your hair from top to bottom and untangle all the hair
- Divide your hair into two equal sections.
- Keep one section on the backside while taking the other section at the front to make a simple braid.
- Once done, secure the braid with a hair elastic and repeat the same process but make them a bit bigger this time
- Remove the elastic, cross fold the two braids and pin them opposite to each other.
4. Wrap-Around Braids:
Wrap-around braids and twists are an incredible choice for black hair. They are loose, messy and give off boho-chic vibes with any look. You can pair your black hair braids with some beautiful hair accessories.
To make a wrap-around braid, walk us through these steps.
- Bruh your hair well and make sure there are no knots in between
- Choose the best side of your head and take a small section of hair
- Split the same section of hair into three equal parts and start making a simple braid.
- Take the braid to the other side of your head and cross the lower strand to the upper one.
- Continue adding hair one by one and hold the braid tight while crossing the strands.
- After completing the brand to the end of your hair, secure it with a funky hair tie.
Read More: 25 Unique Types Of Hair Perms
12 Gorgeous Different Types of Black Braided Hairstyles
Now, you know what black braided hairstyles are and how you can style them up. Here are some of the gorgeous black braid hairstyles for you to try on!
1. Criss-Cross Goddess Braids:
Goddess Braids, also known as chunky cornrow braids, are perfect for the days when you have to spruce up your look. The best thing about these block braids is that they don’t take up plenty of your time and are really easy to unbraid your hair.
2. Dread-Locks:
Dread-Locks is an incredible looking, the most complicated type of braid for black hair yet.
What makes women feel most impressed about black braided hairstyles is that they don’t require too much maintenance. If styled correctly, the braids can stay intact for as long as you want. However, the only downside of a dreadlocks hairstyle is that you cannot unbraid it. The only way to change your hairstyle is by chopping off your hair from where the braid is styled.
3. Oversized Topknot:
Big top knot braided hairstyles are sure to trend these days. They make you look pretty cool and are perfect for carrying on humid days.If you don’t know what to do with your hair next time- oversized top knot style should be your go-to option.
Read More: Dorothy Hamill Haircut Ideas
4. Long and Thick Braids:
Looking for a hairstyle that will not require care for a few days? Trying out stylish long and thick braids is all you need.
Not only is the hairstyle a super comfortable styling option, but it also makes you look chic everywhere you go. To give this style a more patterned look, you can alternate thin braids or do some colour spray.
5. Box Braid Hairstyle:
In the scorching summer, styling your hair seems like a heck of a hassle, but not with this light box braid hairstyle. It’s as light as a summer breeze and doesn’t ask you for hours of lengthy care and maintenance.
On top of all that, this type of black hair braid gives you a very sultry and sleek look to wave off the summer heat. However, the only condition to make is hairstyle is thick hair as you need high volume to style up your hair in box braids.
6. Crochet Black Braided Hairstyle:
Crochet braid is one-of-the-sought braid styling among salons and hairstylists. With a beautiful and long-lasting effect, the braid can make you stand out from the rest.
Black braided hairstyles are the most suitable choice for women with strong facial features.
The best part of this hairstyle is that the crochets are attached to your hair which means a great finish every time. Besides this, the crochet braids also create a beautiful bounce which will definitely lift up your spirits.
7. Short Bob Box Braids:
Short Bob Box Braids are one of the best braided hairstyles for short hair. They are really easy to maintain and look super gorgeous both indoors and outdoors.
It is definitely the go-to style for women who love having their hair braided. But I do not want to have them hanging down their shoulder or back. With the perfect combination of elegance and lightness, the hairstyle works great on everyone with any hair type.
Read More: Cute Little Girl Haircuts 2021
8. Long Colored Box Braids
Nothing can change your look better than these amazing long-colored braids. Here are some amazing different colors that will make you look incredibly beautiful. Some of the most common colors include Auburn, Dark purple, Dirty Blonde, and how can we forget the classic black charcoal color.
To add more style, you can throw in some brightly colored shade in one or two of your braids.
9. Nubian Twist Hairstyle Braids:
Next on our list of beautiful black braided hairstyles is Nubian Twist braids. Whether you want to add a little volume or have a short-length hairstyle, they’re ideal in every case.
To style this, you intervene two strands of hair into the braid carefully. If the texture of your hair is not even, you also have the option to use an extension for a rich look.
10. Simple Braids in a Ponytail:
Braids and a ponytail sound like a perfect duo when it comes to a stylish hairstyle. It can do wonders in taking your style game to the next level without using any chemical spray or hair extension. Although the simple braid pony style is pretty common to see, it looks fantastic on women with sharp jawlines and arched brows.
To make this design even more glamorous, you can use hair accessories like pretty clips and ribbons. As a good rule of thumb, wrap stranded hair around your ponytail to give it a perfect finish.
Read More:Wedge Haircut Ideas: Trendy Styles
11. Dutch Braid Hairstyle:
A cute and fun hairstyle that does justice to your hair texture is the Dutch braid. However, it resembles a lot of french braids but gives a different look when styled.
Unlike french braids, we use a different hairstyling technique in which the brands are braided inwards.
With this popular braided hairstyle, women love making Dutch braids and decorating them with colorful ribbons or exquisite bead detailing. Also, adding a headband effect with any strand of the braid to finish the design is not a bad idea.
12. Fulani Hairstyle Braids:
These are undoubtedly the most colorful braid styles that you’ve ever seen in hairstyle catalogs.
The most crucial aspect of this braid is to settle on the beads. Select the braids according to the occasion you have on your list and decorate them with beautiful colors and beads.
13. Micro braids
Read More: Haircuts To Pull Off By Women Over 50
Conclusion:
These were some of the best black braided hairstyles that are just absolutely perfect to step out with style. Whether you want a fancy hairstyle or a minimalist one, braided hair black can give the necessary style element to your look.
FAQs
What braids are trending in 2023? ›
Cropped Box Braids
Identified as a bob haircut trend for 2023, the cropped box braid is a shorter version of the go-to style, as the name suggests.
Braided hairstyles are a great way to add some creativity and style to your hair. We expect them to continue to be popular in 2023. From classic braids like the French braid and Dutch braid to more complex styles like the fishtail braid and waterfall braid, there are a variety of braid styles to choose from.
Which braids make you look younger? ›Try a partial braid (like Blake Lively) that frames a side of the face or a loose side-swept braid that diffuses unnecessary attention to your aging features. A braided ponytail wrapped up into a messy bun like that of Jessica Alba is another way to take some years off your look.
Can a 60 year old woman wear braids? ›Braids are worn by women of all ages and races. There are various ways to braid your hair. Braids can be elegant and styled for an event like a wedding or they can be used to keep your hair out of your face while you exercise.
What's new for hair 2023? ›"Think healthy, voluminous, classic looks, with modern twists and layers,” he says. Basically, consider 2023 to be the year of the comeback with the voluminous curls of the '70s, the shaggy mullets of the '80s, the bouncy blowouts of the '90s, and the side parts of the '00s being bigger and better than ever.
What is the trend forecast for 2023 hair? ›From the Rachel 2.0 to butterfly layers, contour cutting and Hailey Bieber-inspired bobs—there are a few themes among 2023's trends: Layers, fringe and framing. The radar is still showing the influence of the '60s, '70s, plus a major influx in '90s cuts with extreme layering at every length.
What styles are out for 2023? ›- Skirt Suits But Make it Fashion. Marine Serre Oriental Towels boxy tailored jacket. ...
- Everyday Preciousness. ...
- Extra Baggage. ...
- Perfectly Imperfect. ...
- Short n Sweet Jackets. ...
- Buttoned Up Shirting. ...
- Modern Boho. ...
- Blazers Become Cinched.
What is the longest-lasting protective style? Ghana braids and cornrows can last for as long as three months.
When should you stop wearing braids? ›Let your scalp breathe
Harris suggests removing your braids at the six-week mark; keeping them in longer can cause matting at the roots. Leave a considerable amount of time between installations to give your tresses the rest they need. You can use this time to pamper your hair and examine its overall condition.
Shoulder-length hair (or longer) with layers
Forget what you thought about long hair past the age of 40—thick hair actually looks more youthful and polished when it falls shoulder-length or longer. Shorter hair has a tendency to expand at the ends, leaving you with an unflattering triangle effect.
What braids to avoid? ›
Avoid tight braids
Tight braids can cause a lot of tension, which is harmful to your scalp and hair's health. It is painful to sleep in, and braids that are too tight can also cause small bumps along your hairline. Not to mention breakage!
Limp and lifeless hair will make your face look drawn, while highlighting laugh lines and crow's feet. And, if you are using a flat iron to achieve this look, you are subjecting your hair to damaging heat, making hair strands themselves look older.
How long should a black woman keep her hair braided? ›I'd recommend 6 to 8 weeks and if you want to go longer, you have to really take good care of it to avoid a lot of breakage. Here are some thoughts that can help you take better care of your hair when it's in braids: We recommend rehydrating your hair daily or every other day and not with water only.
What length of hair is best for over 60? ›A classy mid-length cut with a side part is one of the most desired hairdos among ladies over 60. Its length reaches slightly below shoulders which makes it very versatile in terms of styling. Wear it smooth or wavy, tie it up, or half up half down. The side parting makes the hairstyle look more formal or elegant.
What color hair should an older woman have over 60? ›Silver Fox. Silver, ashy, blond, and platinum are indeed the most popular hair color choices for women over 60.
Is black hair in for 2023? ›The dark hair color of 2023 is natural, healthy-looking, and flattering. It's based in a cool-leaning neutral tone that looks amazing on nearly everyone. Stars like Megan Fox and Ciara have jumped on the trendy dark-haired bandwagon, as seen on Instagram.
What is a butterfly haircut? ›What is a butterfly haircut? The butterfly cut is a very layered, feathery haircut thats longest layers fall just below the shoulder. Shorter layers are cut around the crown of your head to create the illusion of having shorter strands.
Are bangs in or out for 2023? ›"Soft bangs are a hot trend for 2023, with celebs like Anne Hathaway, Lily Collins, and Phoebe Dynevor rocking their own spins on the classic," says Velasquez.
What is the zodiac hair Colour for 2023? ›- Aries: Underlights. ...
- Taurus: Soft Life Ginger. ...
- Gemini: Haute Honey Blond. ...
- Cancer: Strawberry Blond. ...
- Leo: Ashy Brown. ...
- Virgo: Chestnut Brown. ...
- Libra: Dark Blond. ...
- Scorpio: Red Hot Copper.
2023 Fashion Trend: Maxi Skirts
In line with the aforementioned cargo and denim trends, expect lots of low-rise, pocket-adorned silhouettes and floor-grazing jean skirts, as well as styles in various prints and unexpected materials like velvet.
What shapes are popular for 2023? ›
- Boho Abstract Shapes Collage Creator.
- Abstract Shapes Collection – 100 Design Elements.
- Figura – Abstract Shapes and Textures.
- Procreate Matisse Brush Pack.
- Abstract Doodle Stamps.
- Abstract Stamps For Procreate.
- Splinters – Photoshop and Procreate Stamp Brushes.
"For summer 2023, there was a more surrealist interpretation with standout 3D designs and runway looks embellished with floral motifs. Standouts included provocative sculptural flowers on mini and maxi dresses paired with bold leaf shoes," says Page.
What braids make your hair look longer? ›Yarn braids, box braids, micro braids, Havana twists can all help make hair look longer. Of course, you'll need hair extensions to get the best results. However, there are many advantages to such an approach.
What braids don't damage your hair? ›#1: No Hair Loss and Breakage
Unlike standard box braids which place extra tension on your natural hair, knotless box braids offer you this popular style without the worry of hair damage. Since the knotless extensions are being “fed” into your braids, the tension is significantly lower on your natural hair.
Medium box braids will last a little longer than large box braids, small will last longer than jumbo, and so on.
Does hair grow faster in braids? ›But unfortunately, braiding hair does not speed up growth rate. Your hair grows at a rate determined by genetics, while lifestyle factors like your diet and stress levels can cause thinning and breakage. But the way you wear your hair is not a factor in your hair growth rate.
Is long or short hair in for 2023? ›“Short hair cuts in particular will be huge in 2023,” confirms celebrity hairstylist, Dionne Smith. “We'll be seeing a lot of pixie cuts, short bobs, fringes and styles of that variety.
What hair color is best to look younger? ›Caramel, honey, gold, copper, and strawberry give a healthy brightness that makes us look and feel younger. (Framing your face with lighter shades draws the eye away from any complexion concerns, as well.)
What makes a woman look younger? ›“Retinol and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) can rejuvenate the skin and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles,” Dr. Patel says. “Hyaluronic acid helps your skin retain moisture, which gives it a smooth, glowing look.” Opt for serums and night creams with retinol and AHAs, and a daily face moisturizer with hyaluronic acid.
What braids are best before bed? ›"I recommend a loose french braid starting just behind the front layers of your head." Remember, you're going to be sleeping in this style, so the looser and more comfortable it is, the better. Keep the elastics loose, too, to avoid hair dents.
What not to do before getting braids? ›
Here's a good rule of thumb: never braid dirty hair or wet hair. This means that you need to wash your hair really well. To make sure that your hair is clean, you should use a clarifying shampoo to help get rid of all of the dirt and build-up from your scalp and hair.
What are the healthiest braids? ›- Twisted Chignon. ...
- Crochet Locs. ...
- Two-Strand Twists. ...
- Clip-In Extensions. ...
- Braided Ponytails. ...
- Faux High Pony. ...
- Halo Twist. ...
- Knotless Braids.
- Assuming You Need to Go Shorter. ...
- Highlighting Your Hair to Cover Grays. ...
- Making an Extreme Color Change. ...
- Using One Color Formula to Cover Grays. ...
- Forgetting Hydration-Packed Products. ...
- Skimping on Supplements.
Your skin is another obvious indicator of your age. This doesn't just include wrinkles, but things like dry skin and tired eyes, which can both be avoided. Reddit user Redhaired103 posted in /r/AskWomen that dark circles, pale skin, puffy eyes, and heavy makeup can also make you look older.
How do you fix old lady hair? ›- Fix Your Diet. Healthy hair starts with a healthy diet! ...
- Get Regular Trims. Getting your hair trimmed every 6-8 weeks can help promote healthy hair growth and tame frizzy ends. ...
- Be Gentle. ...
- Use Light Hold Products. ...
- Remove Residue. ...
- Wash Less. ...
- Brush With Caution. ...
- Use A T-Shirt Wrap.
Don't Leave Your Braids in for Too Long
You should never keep braids for longer than eight weeks. Any longer than that, your new growth will stretch and damage and eventually break, causing significant damage to your hair. Keeping your braids for longer than eight weeks will likely leave you with hair loss.
Braids need to be washed every two to three weeks. Focus on your scalp during the washing routine, and use a clarifying shampoo to get rid of the dirt and scalp build-up on it. Washing your natural black hair the right way is as important as washing it regularly.
How often should black hair be braided? ›“Braids can last a maximum of 10 weeks if the hairline and nape are redone at the six-week mark,” Hill explains. “If the hairline and neck are not re-done at the six-week mark, eight weeks is the maximum amount of time you can keep your hair in a braided style.”
Should a 65 year old have long hair? ›Can those over 60 still rock long hair, or should they try and stick to shorter styles? Long hair looks great on a wide range of ages — and works particularly well on those with medium or thick locks (just ask for lots of layers, to add volume).
Do bangs make an older woman look younger? ›Adding bangs to the hairstyle will help shape your face and make you appear much younger. The best part about layers and bangs is that they work for any type of hairstyle, from long locks to shorter styles. Either way, with the right cut, they will add personality to your look and highlights your best features.
Should you go lighter or darker with hair as you get older? ›
'As we lose pigment in our hair, we also lose it in our skin' she explains. 'It's a gradual process, so our hair colour should reflect this. ' Basically, as your skin tone lightens with age, so should your hair colour.
Should a 60 year old woman wear bangs? ›The answer to the question is a resounding yes! Bangs are fun and youthful, sure, but they're also sophisticated and look good on everyone, whether your hair is curly, straight, short, long, or in between. The important thing is to find a style of bangs that works for you and your lifestyle.
What color hair makes you look the oldest? ›Generally, these colours will make anyone appear older: black, cool dark brown, fiery red, yellow blonde, mousy blonde and dark grey. There's a common opinion that platinum blonde and silver hair dye age you, but we don't believe so.
Is wavy hair in style 2023? ›It's our time to shine in the natural hair community. Curls, waves, and tight coils are the perfect canvas for asymmetrical cuts, voluminous ponytails, and naturally bold lengths. Protective styles are going to be hot in 2023.
Is long hair in for 2023? ›If you're not looking to go super-short with your hairstyle, don't worry. Longer lengths will be just as hot for 2023—but it's not the mermaid-esque, small-of-the-back grazing tresses that have dominated for the past few years. Instead, Lopez says longer hair is landing somewhere in the middle.
Does curly hair make you look older or younger? ›Women with curly, textured hair tend to look younger than straight-haired counterparts as they age. Because of the natural volume that comes with having curly hair, thinning is less noticeable. Consider your frizz and volume to be a blessing in disguise! Are you looking for a new young, fresh look for fall?
Is dark hair in for 2023? ›The spring hair colors dominating in 2023 are all rich, warm, and deep. We're talking bronze, black onyx, and cinnamon spice as some of the darker colors you'll see everywhere in this transition from winter to warmer weather. But don't worry if you still want to go lighter, though.
What kind of haircut makes you look younger? ›According to Thompson and Wilson, a bob is not only universally flattering but is also one of the hairstyles that make you look younger because “it softens facial features and opens up the face,” which, in turn, reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
What is the most popular hairstyle today? ›By far, the most popular hairstyle in the country is the perm.
What braids make hair look fuller? ›Another trick: Some braids are just thicker looking than others. A French braid won't make your hair look as thick as a Dutch braid (even without pancaking). Similarly, faux braids like the pull-through braid make your hair look really full; like a faux fishtail will be always be bigger than an actual fishtail braid.
Are bobs in for 2023? ›
The Box Bob
Bobs are still very much in vogue, and Syd Hayes predicts that the “box” style will be one of the most popular for 2023.