27 Stunning Box Braids for Natural Hair Styles to Try

Box braids are a popular hairstyle for natural hair. They provide a stylish and practical way to protect your hair.
This hairstyle involves sectioning hair into small squares. Each square is then tightly braided from root to tip.
Box braids are versatile and can be worn in various lengths. They require little daily maintenance while looking chic and trendy.
Many choose box braids for their protective benefits. They minimize hair breakage and allow for hair growth.
Whether for fashion or function, box braids are a great choice. They celebrate the beauty of natural hair effortlessly.
25 Box Braids for Natural Hair
Classic Box Braids
Classic box braids are a timeless protective hairstyle, characterized by neatly segmented square-shaped sections. This style is not only appealing but also offers various styling options and ease of maintenance.
Ideal for natural hair, classic box braids can vary in thickness and length according to personal preference. They help to minimize hair breakage and promote growth while allowing for versatility in styling.
Jumbo Box Braids
Jumbo box braids are larger versions of the traditional style, providing a bold and statement-making look. This technique involves using thicker sections of hair, which can also save time during the installation process.
Perfect for individuals who desire a chic yet low-maintenance style, jumbo box braids can be accessorized with beads or colorful strings. They are particularly popular during warmer months as they keep hair off the face and neck.
Senegalese Twists
Senegalese twists are similar to box braids but incorporate a twisting technique instead of braiding. This creates a sleek and smooth appearance, ideal for those looking for a sophisticated alternative.
These twists can be installed using natural hair or synthetic hair for added length and volume. Senegalese twists provide the same protection as box braids while allowing for a unique twist on the traditional style.
Box Braids with Color
Adding color to box braids can elevate this classic hairstyle, allowing for creativity and personal expression. Popular choices include vibrant hues or soft pastels that can complement one’s skin tone and fashion sense.
Colored box braids can be achieved by choosing pre-colored hair extensions or dyeing natural hair beforehand. This playful approach to box braids can serve as a fun way to showcase individuality and style.
Stitch Braids with Box Braids
Stitch braids involve adding intricate designs along the scalp before attaching box braids, creating a visually striking effect. This technique enhances the overall style, making it more fashionable and unique.
Stitch braids offer a creative way to personalize box braids, allowing for different patterns and designs. They bring an artistic flair to the hairstyle, setting it apart from conventional box braids.
Bohemian Box Braids
Bohemian box braids are a relaxed version of the traditional style, often incorporating loose curls or waves at the ends. This airy look keeps the style light and carefree, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more laid-back aesthetic.
Ideal for summer or festival vibes, bohemian box braids can be styled in various ways, such as half-up or with fun accessories. They offer a youthful charm and add personality to the overall look.
Long Box Braids
Long box braids can add drama and elegance to your hairstyle, reaching down to the waist or even longer. This variation allows for many styling opportunities, such as high ponies, buns, or loose braids.
However, it’s important to ensure proper care for the scalp and hair when working with longer lengths. Regular maintenance and gentle handling are essential to enjoy this stunning style without compromising hair health.
Box Braids Updo
A box braids updo is a stylish way to showcase your braids while keeping hair neatly off your face. This versatile style works well for special occasions or casual outings alike.
You can create a high bun, chignon, or even twist your braids into elegant shapes. The updo not only highlights the length and texture of the braids but elevates the entire look.
Box Braids with Accessories
Accessories can take box braids from simple to spectacular, allowing for customization and flair. Options like beads, cuffs, and colorful threads can add personality to your hairstyle.
Incorporating accessories not only enhances the aesthetic but can also embody cultural significance in various styles. Such additions can provide a fresh look even for longer-worn braids.
Short Box Braids
Short box braids are a great choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance and manageable style. This variant is stylish yet practical, making it suitable for various lifestyles and settings.
They are perfect for showcasing facial features and can be styled in many ways, such as with headbands or clips. Short box braids provide a chic look while still protecting natural hair from damage.
Knotless Box Braids
Knotless box braids are a newer technique that minimizes tension on the scalp by starting with your natural hair. This approach promotes healthier growth and reduces discomfort usually associated with traditional box braids.
As a result, knotless box braids tend to create a more natural look and feel, seamlessly blending in with your hair. They can be styled in various ways while still offering the benefits of protective styling.
Twisted Box Braids
Twisted box braids are a stunning alternative to traditional braids, combining the benefits of both twists and braids. This style offers a distinctive texture and can create a more voluminous appearance.
The twisting technique allows for easy manipulation and styling, making it suitable for both relaxed and active lifestyles. Twisted box braids can also be adorned with accessories for an added touch of flair.
Side-Swept Box Braids
Side-swept box braids offer an effortlessly chic look that highlights your facial features. This style is stylish for both formal events and casual outings.
By draping the braids over one shoulder, you can showcase the intricacy of the braids while keeping them out of your face. This playful twist on the classic style maintains elegance with a touch of flair.
Box Braids with Natural Hair Curly Ends
Box braids with natural hair curly ends offer a beautiful contrast between the smooth braids and soft, curly ends. This combination creates a dynamic, textured look that celebrates your natural hair.
This design is especially suitable for those who want to maintain their natural curl pattern while enjoying a protective style. The curly ends add a playful touch and can be styled in various ways.
Half-Up Half-Down Box Braids
Half-up half-down box braids are a versatile style that balances a polished look with a relaxed feel. This option allows for a chic top section while letting the rest fall beautifully around your shoulders.
This style is perfect for showcasing length and texture while maintaining ease of maintenance. It can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for any occasion.
Box Braids with Bangs
Box braids with bangs introduce an exciting element to the traditional look, highlighting your face while framing it beautifully. This playful style allows for a fun yet stylish accent that can suit a variety of face shapes.
Bangs can be straight, wavy, or textured, adding an extra layer of dimension to your hairstyle. This trendy approach ensures a fresh feel to box braids and allows for easy styling.
Cornrowed Box Braids
Cornrowed box braids combine elements of both styles, providing a unique and artistic look. Incorporating cornrows at the scalp can add intricate designs while transitioning into box braids.
This creative hairstyle is both functional and fashionable, allowing you to express your individuality. It can also lead to a more seamless look while adding additional texture and volume.
Goddess Box Braids
Goddess box braids are a playful and effortless style that combines the classic elements of box braids with romantic curls or waves. These braids typically feature loose curls at the ends, creating an ethereal look.
This style offers both protection and beauty, appealing to those seeking a whimsical yet polished vibe. Goddess box braids can be adorned with accessories to enhance the overall aesthetic.
Box Braids with Undercut
Box braids with an undercut offer a modern and edgy twist on the traditional style. This combination juxtaposes the fullness of braids with the sleekness of a shaved section underneath.
This striking contrast allows for creativity in styling and can be easily personalized. It’s a trend that appeals to those wanting to embrace a bolder look while still enjoying the benefits of braids.
Box Braids and Hair Ties
Utilizing hair ties with box braids creates effortless and chic hairstyles that can transition from casual to formal easily. Simple ponytails or messy buns look great with the added texture of the braids.
They can be styled high or low, allowing flexibility based on the occasion. Hair ties can also act as a stylish accessory, offering color and design enhancements.
Box Braids with Curly Hair with Edges
Box braids styled with curls and defined edges create a polished look while celebrating natural texture. This combination brings forth a fresh appearance, keeping the style looking lively and radiant.
The curly elements soften the overall style, adding femininity and charm. This approach allows for personal expression and makes styling more enjoyable.