What do Beyoncé, Zoë Kravitz, Zendaya, and Lupita Nyong’o all have in common? They are beautiful black women who have been spotted rocking box braids recently. This braid style has a long history (thousands of years, in fact), but in the last few decades, their popularity has come and gone, and it wasn’t until a couple of years ago that we started seeing more celebrities rocking them everywhere, from music videos (see: “Formation”) to the red carpet.
It’s easy to see why celebrities and non-famous black women have gone back to this classic hairstyle. They look stunning! And not only are they a beautiful hairstyle that celebrates black culture and African heritage, but they also help protect our hair, keeping it covered and detangled.
However, we can’t ignore the fact that box braids come with a series of downsides. For instance, they take forever to do and undo (on braiding day, I usually spend about 8 hours in the salon); they are expensive (taking into account the labor and the hair extensions); and finally, you can’t have them for longer than a month or two, at the most.
So, whether you’re still on the fence about getting braids, or you’ve already made up your mind, but you still don’t exactly how you want them, take a look the pictures below for inspiration.
Short Bob
Most women like to rock long, flowing, waist-length braids, but if you want something that’s a little more modern and unique, you should think about getting a bob. Not only will you look different, but you’ll also have the freedom of hair that doesn’t reach past your shoulders.
Read more: 6 Ways To Get A Pixie Haircut No Matter Your Face Shape
Jumbo
Jumbo are the “chunky” take on box braids, and I have to say I’m a fan. They look fun, young, and modern.
Loose ends
Current “it” girls and fashion icons like Zoë Kravitz and Laura Harrier have been spotted recently rocking braids with loose ends like this. Sure, they look great because they’re beautiful, but the loose ends give a relaxed vibe that contrasts perfectly with the braids’ rigid structure.
Beads at the ends
Some people will say that beads are for little girls, but, as the pictures below prove, that is just not true. There are all kinds of bead styles that will make you look sophisticated and trendy.
Golden or silver accessories
Golden or silver accessories like these bring a touch of boho glamour to your braids. Wearing jewelry in your hair can almost seem too much, but since you’d only be wearing a few of these, it’s not going to look over the top. So, go ahead and don’t be afraid to bring on the bling.
Bun or Fishtail Braid
Sometimes, you get tired of having your braids in your face all the time and having to pull them back with your hand. So, when that happens, take these looks from Beyoncé and Yara Shahidi as inspiration and wear your braids up for a change.
Ombré
The ombré trend died a little while ago, but not for braids. Getting your braids done ombré style is subtle way to switch up your look and incorporate some color.
Colorful
However, if subtle is not your thing, these colorful styles are a better alternative. Braids in bright colors or pastels look amazing on all skin tones, and you should definitely give them a try at least once.
Millennial women and Gen Zers are definitely bringing about a braid renaissance, and we couldn’t be more excited to see it happening and evolving. Here’s to many more years of seeing girls wearing braids everywhere, challenging beauty standards, and giving the world all the Black Girl Magic.
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