Emily Flores
Braided hairstyles just keep getting better and better, mixing creativity with classic traditional styles. Some of these looks are detailed, yet somehow still look effortless, no matter where you’re going or what you’re doing. This listicle is all about showing off 20 such gorgeous styles that really celebrate what makes each woman beautiful and unique.
Box Braids
Box braids actually originated in Africa and then became huge all over the world. You can tell them apart because of those square sections, and you can rock them however you want—long, short, colored, whatever you’re feeling. Janet Jackson put them on the map here in America back in the 1990s, and they’ve been a go-to ever since.
Halo Braid
This hairstyle has braids that literally go around your head like you’re wearing a crown. It’s perfect when you’ve got a fancy event to go to, and you can do it with either Dutch or French braiding, whichever clicks for you. Honestly, it gives off major goddess vibes and makes you look totally regal.
Goddess Braids
They’re way thicker and more raised than regular braids, so you get this really bold, dramatic vibe. The cool thing is you can keep them tight against your scalp or let them flow out into those gorgeous loose braids—totally up to you. You can also throw on some beads and cuffs to really make them pop!
Butterfly Braids
This style mixes Dutch braids with that pull-through technique, and you end up with a really textured, boho look. The butterfly braids have these super voluminous and fluffy sections that give off a whimsical feel. If you’re someone who gets bored with the same old braids, this is perfect because it adds so much dimension and movement to your hair.
Lemonade Braids
Ever since Beyonce dropped “Lemonade,” these side-swept cornrows have been everywhere. They give you a super sleek, edgy, and empowering look. You can switch up the thickness and play around with different patterns, and if you want to get fancy, throw in some accessories to make them stand out even more.
Micro Braids
Micro braids are super thin, really detailed braids that basically let you do whatever you want with your hair. You can wear them down and loose or put them up in a cute updo. Yeah, they take forever to put in, but once you’ve got them, you get this refined and delicate look that’s unique.
Feed-In Braids
Out of all the styles that are easy on your scalp, Feed-In braids are probably your best bet. They’re super popular if you’re into protective styling, and the way they gradually add in extensions makes everything look so seamless and natural. Plus, you can get creative with some sophisticated designs that’ll have everyone asking where you got your hair done.
Bantu Knot Braids
These braids come from the Zulu people, and they’re basically small sections of hair twisted up into little coiled buns. They’re great because they protect your hair, but here’s the cool part: when you take them out, you get amazing heat-free curls. If you love that fresh-from-the-salon look but don’t want to fry your hair with heat, this is perfect.
Fishtail Braid
Who doesn’t love a good fishtail braid, right? It’s got a meticulous and cool look that literally looks like fish scales. In this hairstyle, you weave two sections of hair together, and boom, you’ve got this textured, elegant style that works whether you’re just hanging out or going somewhere fancy.
Crochet Braids
Crochet braids are pretty genius, as they loop synthetic hair through your cornrows using a crochet hook. The best part is that you can use this style for curls, twists, locs, anything you like, which makes it customizable while still protecting your natural hair. It’s one of those versatile styles where you get all the benefits without the downsides.