19 Types of Braids for All Hair Textures, Lengths and Types
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If there’s one hairstyle we can all rely on its braids. The classic pattern can be woven in many different ways and works well for every occasion. Whether you’re searching for a protective style or need a hairstyle to keep cool this summer, I chatted with the top celebrity hairstylists to compile this list of 19 types of braids to try out now.
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1. Box Braids
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The most classic type of braids out there? Box braids. This timeless style is loved for being the most versatile for all hair types. “Box braids are individual braids that are created by separating the hair into small square-shaped sections before braiding. Each braid is very uniform, resulting in a neat and structured appearance,” explains Keith. “Typically, you will need braiding hair for this style, which comes in synthetic or natural hair extensions. Braiding hair can also come in various lengths, thicknesses, textures and even different colors, which allows for fun customizations. They are just very versatile when it comes to styling them, too—you can wear them down, in ponytails, or styled into various updos.”
2. Knotless Braids
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Zendaya has all the fashion cred, and her hairstyles prove that she's a beauty queen, too—just look at these amazing knotless braids she wore to the CFDA Awards. The steps are simple: part your hair into sections before adding a generous amount of gel and start braiding. “[People of all] hair types and densities can wear this hairstyle. However, [you need] at least three inches of hair to properly install this style,” Sands.
3. Cornrows
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Cornrows work for all hair textures. As Keith explains, “Cornrows are typically a three-strand braid that can be woven into various patterns, ranging from simple rows to more complex designs. This braid involves braiding small sections of hair close to the scalp, creating a sleek and uniform appearance. They can be styled as a single braid or grouped into multiple rows, making them very versatile and customizable.” After braiding your hair, Keith suggests laying the braids down with a mousse or styling cream to provide hold and extra control to your cornrows.
4. Bohemian Braids
These are classic box braids with a modern twist. “These braids are done by blending loose braiding hair extensions with the wearer's natural hair, and can either be done with synthetic hair or human hair. Human hair can create a soft, effortless look and extend the longevity of the style (at least for the "boho" free-flowing part of the braids). The tendrils are placed throughout the braids to create the look,” says Johnson. “The style is customizable as far as braid size and circumference go, and the amount of free-flowing hair you want to use.”
5. Fishtail Braid
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This type of braid style is great for all hair types, but is an especially good option for straight, wavy and/or long locks. Whether you’re looking for a summer hairdo or a formal style for a wedding, the fishtail technique should be on your radar. To recreate Lucy Liu’s low ponytail, check out this handy tutorial to get you started.
6. Pipe Braid
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If you like cornrows or the French braid look, the pipe technique gives you the best of both worlds. “Similar to these styles, pipe braids weave sections of the hair close to the scalp to create a sleek look. What sets them apart is incorporating additional twists, loops or patterns to achieve a more eye-catching look,” says Keith. If you want some more definition, the stylist suggests applying wax, which will allow you to sculpt and shape your hair as you braid.
7. Crown Braid
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This chic hairstyle is pretty simple to recreate at home. Just part your hair into two sections before French braiding each side down towards the nape of the neck. Use bobby pins to tuck in the ends, or wrap them into a small bun for a more casual look.
8. Halo Braid
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Similar to a crown braid, except you want to bring one single braid closer to the hairline. Just remember to use bobby pins to tuck in the ends. Not sure how to Dutch braid? This helpful tutorial will have you recreating Regina King’s halo braid in no time.
9. Senegalese Twists
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Also known as rope twists, this protective style mirrors box braids except it relies on wrapping two strands together rather than three. You can try your hand at doing this at home, using a comb to divide each section, gel for twisting and an elastic band to secure the ends.
10. Design Stitch Braids
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According to Sands, this early aughts style is making a big comeback this year. “These braids are created using the stitch-in braiding technique, which involves sectioning the hair into thin or thick horizontal lines and braiding them into cornrows using extensions. The result is a stunning and unique stitched look that sets stitch braids apart from other braided hairstyles,” she says.
11. Dutch Braid
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Also known as a reverse French braid, this style uses the regular three strand technique. However, the outer strands go underneath rather than over the middle strand. Whether you go for a single ponytail like Danai or double pigtails, this technique gives a more fluffed up version than a regular French braid.
12. Bubble Braids
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These types of braids surged in popularity a couple of years ago, which can partly be attributed to how easy it is to recreate them. First, wrap your hair in a ponytail before using elastic bands to create ‘bubbles’ throughout the tail. Finally, use your fingers to tease each bubble for more volume. The bigger, the better.
13. Goddess Braids
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A softer take on box braids, this trendy style blends smaller plaits with looser, wavy pieces throughout. Because of this, you also have less tension at the scalp. As Garcia previously shared with us, “It’s achieved by braiding your natural hair at the scalp and feeding in curly/wavy hair extensions as you braid down the shaft of the individual braid and then leaving out a few loose strands of hair throughout the braid.”
14. Micro Box Braids
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Box braids can be as customizable as you want them. In fact, they can shrink in size and turn into this micro style, as seen fabulously on Solange. The technique creates smaller and thinner plaits that are added closer to the scalp. Note: It can take longer to get these types of braids done, but the results are totally worth it.
15. Koroba Braids
According to O’Connor, Koroba braids are going to be a popular style this year. “It’s a West African hairstyle. Koroba is a Yuroba word meaning Calabash, which is the fruit that inspired the round shape of the braid,” she explains. “Koroba braids are done by doing your traditional on or off scalp braids and rolling the ends up in a circular pattern.”
16. Tousled Braid
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Blake Lively just gave wavy girlies a great option for any occasion. To recreate the look, slick your hair back into a high ponytail and loosely braid it down. The key here is to tease the tail for a casual ‘do.
17. Fulani Braids
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Inspired by the Fulani people in Africa, this classic design stems from the techniques used in box braids and cornrows. “They are braids that are characterized by a distinct cornrow design in the front and transition into thinner to medium-sized individual braids in the back. This style often features beads, shells or other decorative accessories,” says Sims. To keep the braids hydrated and shining bright (like a diamond), Sims suggests applying a lightweight oil to the braids and scalp.
18. Mini Twists
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Mini twists were traditionally a temporary step in a curly or coily hair routine. Once hair was washed, the twists were later unraveled to give curls a more uniform look. But more recently, they've become a style of their own. As Querisma previously shared, “Mini twists are individual, two-strand twists created in small box sections in the hair. Think of it as a play on box braids, but using only your natural hair.” Most notably Lupita N’yongo has spearheaded the trend, showcasing the bountiful benefits of leaving these types of braids in.
19. French Curl Braids
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I predict French curl braids are going to be huge this year and one stylist definitely agrees with me. As Sims shares, “Unlike traditional braids where the length of the hair remains braided, French Curl Braids are braided at the roots and released into curls when the hair is long enough, usually at about shoulder length or longer. For this look, you would typically use French curl synthetic hair, which is designed to mimic natural curls and blend seamlessly with the braided sections.”
