70+ cool braided hairstyles for black women to try in 2024

Many hairstylists specialise in cool braided hairstyles for kids and adults. The best thing about these hairstyles is their versatility. With your cute hairstyle, you can attend a function, go to the office, or anywhere else. Check out some of the cool braided hairstyles for black women to try out. Ugochukwu Uzoka, CEO of Adodeux Studio, gives us the best methods to keep braided hairstyles looking great.

Braid hairstyles range from cornrows to faux locs and Ghanaian styles. They are integral to black culture's past, present, and future. Are braids in style in 2024? Yes, they are and will always be, regardless of the year. Here are cool braided hairstyles for you to try.

How to maintain braided hairstyles

In an interview with Legit.ng, Ugochukwu Uzoka, the CEO of Adodeux Studio, emphasises that every hairstyle has a due date for removal. Uzoka provides the following steps to care for and maintain your braided hairstyle before taking it off.

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• Use of silk scarves and bonnets when sleeping.
• Applying oil on the scalp frequently prevents a dry scalp. This helps to avoid scratching the scalp aggressively, which quickens the untidiness of hair.
• Use shower or swimming caps when bathing to prevent the hair from getting wet and smelling damp.

Routines to keep braided hairstyles looking vibrant

Uzoka also suggested specific routines to maintain the vibrancy of your braid styles, emphasising:

I won’t say it’s necessary to ‘tame’ your edges; however, when a braided hairstyle is getting old, the quickest way to bring it back to life is to gel away loose hair to avoid it looking messy. I would also say it won’t harm to re-trim, mousse, and dip in hot water again for that temporary new look until you can redo your hair.

Cool braided hairstyles for black women

Women from around the world have worn braided hair for various occasions. Some wear them plain, while others prefer more intricate patterns and styling.

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Besides aesthetics, some of these hairstyles can protect your hair from damage and help you grow your hair longer and thicker.

From these trendy braid hairstyles pictures, you can select your favourite and get options when you need to change your look.

1. Big & tint cornrows

Front-to-back cornrow braids for black women are the most common way of styling hair in Africa. Some may consider it traditional, but it never goes out of style. Front-to-back cornrows are one of the best braided hairstyles for kids, especially if made thinner for school. Adults can make them thicker and bigger as they desire a trendy and stylish look.

2. Short box braid style

The best thing about short box braided hairstyles is the ease of styling and maintenance. You do not need a scrunchie to style them. Besides, you can play around with the extension colours for that elegant look. If you are looking for short, classy braided hairstyles, this is a must-try for you.

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3. Plain faux locs

Faux locs are among the top black girl braided hairstyles today. They are unlikely to go out of fashion. You will love how easy it is to maintain your faux locs because the ends are sealed to prevent fraying. This style is also ideal for any workplace or event.

4. Stylish invisible locs

The distinguishing feature of invisible locs is the open and wavy ends. This hairstyle is gorgeous and best for women who love long and bulky hair. The extensions also come in various colours for women who prefer coloured hair.

5. Cornrows & loose braids

If you are looking for simple braided hairstyles for ladies, a combination of cornrows and loose braids is perfect for you. This look can be worn by both kids and adults. You can do it in any colour you like.

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6. Authentic Fulani style with beads

Did you know that Fulani braids are usually plaited flat onto the scalp, have a cornrow that runs down the centre of the head and is often decorated with beads or cowrie shells? Alicia Keys is known for her love for this style.

7. Long Senegalese twists

Gone are the days when natural braid styles had to be made of three strands intertwined in a specific order. Senegalese twist hairstyles are here to stay because they are stylish and fit for the modern and classy woman. You can have your twists done in your favourite hair colour, and they are easy to style.

8. Cornrow bun

The cornrow bun is one of the most common hairstyles because it requires minimal maintenance and styling. It is ideal for the office or any lady who does not like hair falling over her face. The cornrows can be made thick or thin.

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9. Afro updo with braids

Who said you cannot mix two styles in one? With this up-do, you can rock your mane in an afro and still enjoy the cool braided look. This style is ideal for the holidays, and Christmas is around the corner. You have to try this!

10. Thick and wavy Ghanain braids

This is a great variation of the traditional natural cornrow hairstyles that start at the top of the head downwards. The twisted and wavy style makes them look more classy and ideal for the fashionable working-class woman. If you are looking for cute African braided hairstyles for ladies, try this look.

11. Bantu knots

These spiralled knots are exciting and ideal for a vacation in a hot or humid area. The style keeps hair off your face and is a good choice because it is categorised as protective. It can be done on natural hair or with hair extensions.

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12. Feed-in jumbo-mini braided cornrows

Feed-in refers to a knotless style of doing hair that protects your edges from damage. Synthetic extensions are added to the natural hair beyond the start of your hairline to create an illusion of naturally thick braids.

13. Loose ombre braids

The ombre look plays around with the shade of hair extensions, which gradually graduate from the darkest shade to the lightest. It is the in-thing right now, especially among females in their teens and early adulthood.

14. Cornrows with curls

Who said that you cannot combine cornrows with curls? A good stylist can help you combine the two to create a stunning look. This is a versatile style you can adjust to suit the shape of your face. Curled curls can also be made using natural hair or curly extensions. Those searching for short, classy, braided hairstyles should try this look.

15. Zigzag cornrows

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These are a great variation of traditional cornrows. Instead of hair being in straight lines, it is sectioned in a zigzag manner. The result is fantastic. Both men and women can wear these cornrows.

16. Ghanaian stitch braids

This design is achieved using the stitch-in-braiding technique, where hair is divided into thin or thick horizontal lines before the cornrows are done. It creates a beautiful stitch-like pattern that is eye-catching.

17. Chic super-jumbo cornrows

Are you tired of regular thin or medium-size cornrows? Very thick ones are a great and welcome change. Beware! You will require many more extensions to achieve this look, and they may feel a little heavier than usual.

18. The snaky look

This intricate design requires patience and expertise to create. It resembles a meandering snake, hence the name.

19. Chunky and gorgeous

This look is ideal for people who love wearing braids but hate undoing them. Hair is sectioned into several large sections using a larger-than-normal amount of extensions to make each one thick. Although this look is gorgeous, it tends to unravel or become shaggy after a short period.

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20. Cornrow Mohawk

Yes, you can rock your cornrow mohawk anytime you wish! This look never goes out of fashion and is ideal for the bold and daring woman.

21. Rapunzel's jumbo cornrows & braids

This look is gorgeous and can be achieved using long, natural hair or extensions. The long hair gives a Rapunzel-like feeling. It is simply amazing!

22. Loopy Ghanaian cornrows

Getting looped cornrows will make your friends envy you. This look is for the modern, trendy woman unafraid of trying new things.

23. Extra long colourful braids

Extra long and colourful braids create a magnificent look ideal for social gatherings or other events. The ends can either be tied into a bun or left hanging, depending on your preference.

24. Bob braids

This African hairstyle is fantastic. It is important to know the shape of your face before styling your hair. You can use various coloured braids or simply black ones.

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25. Accessorised braids with curls

You can go for this style that is simple and elegant. The curls add more beauty, and the shoulder-length braids are just ideal for any given occasion. The accessories at the end make the look more elegant and prevent fraying.

26. Loose braids with clear beads

For a more subtle look, try braids with clear beads. They provide a stylish and girly appearance, while the clear beads add a touch of sparkle to the style.

27. Thin cornrows

This is a great alternative to the medium and thick cornrows that many African women wear. Thin cornrows are best for women with long natural hair because extensions tend to thicken the braids.

28. The rainbow look

This look will make heads turn wherever you go. It particularly appeals to young girls and teenagers who like trying new things and keeping up with trends.

29. Micro-twisted braids

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This is a Senegalese style, also known as rope style. The hair is divided into small sections, and thin extensions are added to achieve this look. You will spend a few more hours at the salon for this look.

30. Curly twists

Curly twists are similar to micro-twists, only that curly hair extensions are used and done in medium sizes. You can always choose different-coloured hair extensions, depending on your preference. This is one of the short braid styles that can serve you for a while without getting damaged.

31. Jumbo Senegalese twists

Senegalese twists can also be done in jumbo size. You will need more extensions like any other jumbo style, but the result is to die for.

32. Bold black goddess

This is another bold style for a person who loves to command attention. The addition of metal beads makes the style more visible hence worth paying attention to.

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33. Cornrows enclosed by headband braid

This fun protective style tucks away your edges and protects them from breakage. The large headband calls for attention. This look is a must-try before the end of the year.

34. Criss-cross goddess braids

When looking for a fuss-free hairstyle that gives your hair a much-needed break or an ideal style for beach getaways, criss-cross goddess braids fit the bill. They're simple to do, easy to undo, and don't take too much time.

35. Dynamic side-swept cornrows

Africans adore the fashion of dynamic side-swept cornrows as they serve the purpose of shielding their hair. When the braids are installed, they can remain untouched and untamed for multiple weeks.

36. Side-swept with a heart

This is a simple look where the cornrows are done in a side-swept design. It is an easy and simple style to maintain.

37. Asymmetrical goddess braids

Give texture and dimension to your braid hairstyle by mixing different-sized plaits. By combining thicker and thinner braids, your look is anything but predictable - and far more exciting than the typical plait!

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38. Neatly braided straight-back cornrows

Straight-back braided cornrows are an attractive yet practical hairstyle. Whether you go for a down-do or the glamorous design pictured above, this sleek style suits everyone and any situation.

39. Symmetrical feed-in braids

Cornrow braiding can look neater and more natural with the feed-in technique, creating a flattened point along the hairline with less bulk and tension, safeguarding the delicate edges. This styling is easily achieved at any African hair salon.

40. Braided ponytail

Plaiting hair offers many opportunities to create captivating protective styles, yet the heaviness of single braids can sometimes prove tiresome. To avoid placing too much strain on your edges, why not try chic African ponytail braids instead?

41. Elegant braided black up-do braids

Elevate your cornrow up-do with a tiered bun for an attractive, contemporary look. This alternative to the traditional bun will add interest to your hairstyle.

42. Jumbo twisted braids

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Give yourself a more creative and bold look by experimenting with various braid styles instead of opting for the normal look. This way, you can flaunt your edginess without compromising on the length of your hair.

43. Cornrows with twisted ends

Three-stranded braids or cornrows whose loose ends are simply elegant. They are ideal for formal and informal occasions. You can rock this look at any time of the year.

44. Two jumbo braids

Achieve a signature look by adorning your hair with plenty of braids into just two lines. Begin by braiding two small lines on the sides, then combine them into two voluminous braids.

45. Half-up-do with long loose braids

During the warmer months, African-American women typically choose long-braided Ghanaian weaving hairstyles. If you want to spruce up your look, consider a half-up-do style that provides a flattering volume at the crown.

46. Blonde braids with loose ends

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This hairstyle is creative and thought-provoking. The loose curls further refine the overall appearance.

47. Bold-coloured braided pixies

Looking to give your hair a break while maintaining the length? Braids are the perfect style to try. Pixie-inspired braids are easy to take care of and keep your hair off your face, so you do not have to worry about dealing with pesky strands as you go about your day.

48. Chunky black and white

Chunky braids are fashionable for African-American hair due to their thicker structure. Furthermore, there are various ways to switch up the style - from plaiting it down the back to styling it into a classic bun.

49. Curly bob braids

For a simple yet elegant look, try curly braids styled as a bob. It gives a more mature look with a touch of modern flair.

50. Crochet butterfly locs

Crochet butterfly locs provide an easy alternative to the style you want. Plus, you have various styling choices to go for.

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51. Simple heart-styled braids

Instead of having the normal laid-back lines, you can decide to style a section into a heat shape as shown above. You can do it on both sides.

52. Cornrows with a high pony

For those on the go, a high pony provides an effortlessly chic style with little effort for the morning routine. Whether for work or leisure, it offers a comfortable, stylish look with no fuss.

53. Feed-in bun with braid extensions

Revamp your style by transforming your Ghana braids into a stylish bun. With their luxurious thickness, Ghana braids can produce a voluminous, eye-catching bun that is perfect for special occasions and work days.

54. Good ol' up-do

Up-dos are synonymous with an air of sophistication, and this twisted style utilises texture to make the look even more unique and unexpected. Perfect for women with natural hair who desire protection and an elegant aesthetic.

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55. Ultra-long black jumbo box braids

If you don't mind the weight of your hair, then these ultra-long jumbo braids are good for you. They are elegant and classy. You can do an up-do or a ponytail on them.

56. Two-step Ghanaian braiding style

Play around with cornrow patterns to create diverse Ghana weaving two-step styles. For instance, to make these styles, segment the client's hair into two halves from ear to ear. After that, braid twist strands from the neck to the centre of the head.

57. Black and golden jumbo box braids

Mostly, the combination of these two colours is available for ombre braids. While many rock them in normal-size box braids, you can choose to be different. The different colours are also versatile for any skin tone.

58. Intricate braids in a loose pony

You can achieve these beautiful hairstyles using two braiding methods. First, you can braid cornrows from the forehead to the middle, then crotchet curls at the back of your head. The second method is to braid cornrows at the front, back, and ear sides. After that, make a ponytail and fix curly extensions on it.

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59. Purple goddess

If you don't mind the teenage girl look, you can be bold with purple colour on your head. This is a good look for a college student or a teenager. However, it is not limited to young people; anyone can wear them.

60. Braids falling on one ear side

You should try out these cute African hairstyles the next time you visit the salon. Cornrows run from one ear side to the other. You can choose cornrows on the left or right ear side, and the stylist can make unique patterns to give you an outstanding look.

61. Basic knotless braids

Knotless braids with beads are a popular protective hairstyle that has taken the beauty world by storm. They are a perfect option if you are looking to switch up your look or give your hair a break from harsh treatment and styling tools.

62. Fancy Fulani-inspired braids

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63. Long braided pigtails

Such hairstyle will make you a real queen of every occasion. You will look elegant and feminine. Do not be afraid of experimenting with different shades of colour.

64. High bun goddess feed-in braids

For years, double buns were associated with kids. Today, women of all ages can rock this look. It is elegant, especially for casual occasions.

65. Side-swept cornrows with loose braids

Here is another bright decision for ladies not afraid of experimenting with hair. The simple goddess braids with cornrows are suitable for all hair types, including natural, relaxed, and transitioning hair.

66. Elegant goddess feed-in braids

Lovers of buns should definitely try these goddess styles. It is a natural look that you can wear to any formal or informal occasion or setting.

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67. Maroon goddess twists

Nothing can look cuter than the maroon colour on the head. The colour provides a stylish and girly appearance, while the metal beads add a touch of sparkle to the style.

68. Triangle-sectioned braids with curly ends

Braids offer you a variety of options to try out. They are relatively low maintenance style and can last for several weeks with proper care. The curly ends make the look even more beautiful.

69. Multiple hearts

This style is perfect for those who love being simple. The heart provides a playful and energetic appearance. It's an excellent option for those who want to experiment with different patterns.

70. Fancy bun at the nape

You may wear this basic yet stunning style to events such as weddings, birthdays, and cocktail parties, and you will receive numerous praises.

71. Long boho goddess braids

Faux boho braids can be done in various sizes, shapes, and patterns, making them a versatile hairstyle option. They can be worn as a protective style or as a bold fashion statement.

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What is the best African braid style?

The best braid style complements your facial features. It must also be what you like so you can feel good about yourself.

What braid is trending now?

Large curly knotless braids, box braids with colour, Bohemian crown braids, and fish ponytails are among the trending braided styles right now.

Which braids make you look younger?

Cornrows can act as a natural facelift. The tight braiding technique pulls the facial skin slightly, smoothing out tiny lines and reducing the visibility of wrinkles. They give the face a more youthful appearance.

Tips from expert

In wrapping up, when asked about any essential lessons or challenges faced as a hairstylist specialising in these braided styles, Uzoka shared:

I think it’s the acknowledgment of the fact that we all have different curl patterns, even within the 4C community (a hair type that tends to clump more at the ends and experiences significant shrinkage in length); hair types react differently to different products which affect the longevity of the styles as well as even the specific look one is going for.

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With that, I’m always available to advise my clients on the longevity of a hairstyle with their curl pattern. Still, I can also make it work for the client because no braided hairstyle is genuinely impossible with our Afro-textured curl patterns.

African women have worn braided hairstyles for years. These styles are attractive and versatile. You can rock in any of the above styles for any occasion.

Legit.ng recently published a list of awesome black wedding hairstyles for brides and wedding guests. A perfect hairstyle is essential for a wedding, whether you are a bride or a guest.

In African culture, wedding hairstyles not only showcase beauty but also express culture and personality. Interestingly, there are several options of black wedding hairstyles one can choose from to stand out.

Source: Legit.ng