What Braided Hairstyle Should You Try?

BOX BRAIDS

Classic box braids are one of the most iconic styles for Afro-textured hair. To get this look, all your hair will be sectioned into squares and worked into individual plaits. You can use your hair or have extensions braided in to give you long, full locks. There are many different variations of box braids, making them a great option for men and women! They are considered a protective style and can be any length or thickness. If you have naturally thin or fine hair, we recommend opting for smaller box braids so there’s less tension on your scalp. Box braids take a bit of time to put in, but once they’re finished they last for weeks and are very low-maintenance.

CORNROW BRAIDS

This natural hairstyle is another classic that is endlessly adaptable. For this timeless option, hair is braided close to the scalp using the underhand technique to create raised plaits. Each one is formed in parallel rows — which is where the style gets its name. Cornrows can be done in a straight pattern, a wavy style, or other designs. The actual braid is guided by how the hair is parted. You can have thin or chunkier ones depending on how big the sections of hair you’re braiding are, but regardless of size, these tight braids create a super streamlined look. They can also be combined with other braid styles. Cornrows are a protective style and will last several weeks without too much maintenance.

FRENCH BRAIDS

Similar to a cornrow, but instead of the underhand method of braiding, the overhand technique is used. The hair is twisted inward (instead of outward) so it looks inverted. While cornrow hairstyles often feature many braids, the French braid is a traditional three-piece braid. As the hair is plaited together, a section from either side is added on each rotation. It’s one of the most versatile and chicest of all braids.

DUTCH BRAIDS

Dutch braids are similar to a French braid in that it’s a classic three-strand technique. Because both plaits require sections of hair to be added gradually, the Dutch braid is sometimes called the reverse French braid. Instead of winding the hair over itself as it’s plaited like a French braid, it’s winded underneath the other strands. This small change makes a big difference and creates a completely different gorgeous look.

CROCHET BRAIDS

The crochet technique (sometimes referred to as latch hook braiding) is one of the easiest ways to get extra-long braids. While this method of styling is typically used to create length, it is also used to protect one’s natural hair. Similar to a weave, crochet involves first braiding your hair into loose cornrows. This cornrow pattern forms the foundation for your crochet braids. Next, hair extensions are threaded through and secured using a crochet hook before being plaited into your braid style of choice. You can also have ready-made braids secured, such as box braids which dramatically cut the time it takes to put in your braids.

FEED-IN BRAIDS

Feed-in braids (also known as knotless braids) give the illusion of naturally long box braids or cornrows with extensions that are added right at the root of each braid. This is an even better option for protecting your hair than most other styles. With super long box braids or cornrows, for example, hair extensions are secured to your natural hair with a knot; but with this technique, the stylist will gradually ‘feed’ the extensions in — plaiting them together with your real hair for a seamless blend. This results in braids that have less bulk and put less stress on your scalp.

MICRO BRAIDS

As the name suggests, micro braids are tiny and delicate, making them one of the most time-consuming braided styles. They are just like box braids in that they can be created using the same technique, they’re just smaller. One of the best parts of micro braids is that they can be styled up into a number of other styles. While you may think they are the most gentle braiding style because they don’t weigh down the scalp, they can actually cause more breakage than bigger plaits because they have to be braided very tightly and close to the head. They aren’t recommended for those with dry or brittle hair and they can cause hair loss if left in too long. However, when properly maintained, these braids create a cute and cool look.

SENEGALESE TWIST BRAIDS

Senegalese twists are also called rope twists because of the thick, rope-like braids that form using this technique. The same technique used for box braids is at the core of this style, except instead of a traditional three-strand braid, only two strands are used. What you’re left with is a series of twisted braids that look like beautiful spiraling ropes. The twists are a protective style because the process involves wrapping extension hair around your natural hair before the twisting begins. As a result, your hair won’t be exposed to environmental pollution, and there’s no need for heat styling or chemical treatments. Plus, the twists can last up to four months!

OMBRÉ BRAIDS

A fun alternative to classic braids is to use extension hair to get an ombré effect. Braids and ombré hair are a perfect match because the natural weaving pattern makes the transition between colors look soft and seamless. For this style, extension hair that matches your base start the braids, then halfway down, one or multiple new colors are weaved in. Ombré braided hair looks great at all lengths and with any color combination, allowing you to create a totally customized style!

BRAIDED PONYTAIL

A style within a style, the braided ponytail is a classic, chic, and simple look. This look is extremely versatile, working equally well for the office, school, gym, or a date night. To make your braided ponytail look perfectly polished, secure it with a clear snag-free elastic and wrap some of your braids around to cover it.

BRAIDED BUN

This style takes your braided base and builds on it. If you’re wearing box braids, you can easily twist them together into a single braid and create a chignon at the nape of your neck. Another option is to gather your braids at the crown of your head, section them into two halves, and create one two-strand twist. When done, wrap the twist into a braided top knot and secure it with large bobby pins.

HAIR BRAIDING SALON ST. LOUIS

Whether you’re a newbie or a regular when it comes to braids for natural hair, our stylists can help guide you in your next braiding session. Book your consultation appointment today!