Braid hairstyles are an ancient tradition, that has been practiced since the earliest recorded history. Today, braided hairstyles are gaining a lot of popularity. While for some, it is just an occasional exotic hairstyle, for others it is a cultural statement. Braided hairstyles are unisex, universal and individually unique. Though they are naturally suited for curly texture of black hair, anyone can carry off braided hairstyles. And, since no two people are alike, neither is their hair! Therefore, the variety of braid hairstyles for black women are limited only by imagination!
To get the perfect look one needs to know how to braid hair. Once you're done with braiding your hair, it can last several weeks to months depending on the style and maintenance. Also, the time required for making braids can run from a couple of hours to six-seven hours. However, in the long run it can be a good investment, as the maintenance required for most braid hairstyles is minimum. There are numerous braid hairstyles to choose from like cornrow braids, dreadlocks, French braids, basket braids etc.
Braided Hairstyles for Black Women
Cornrow Braids Style
One of the most popular braided hairstyles for black women, is cornrow braid styles. Cornrows are braids attached to the scalp creating a pattern. Cornrow designs are small, thin and braided close to the nape of the neck. These are ideal for a corporate look. And the best part is that it is not difficult to learn how to braid cornrows. Cornrow braids are very versatile and can be used to make different hairstyles. For example: the ends of the hair can be braided down the center in a single braid to create a French braid. Another very popular way of wearing a cornrow braid is to wear large cornrows that extend down to the back of the head with zigzag partings.
Box Braid Styles
Box braids are similar to micro braids except for the fact that in order to make box braids, synthetic hair is used instead of real hair. Box braids are also known as individual braids. These kinds of braids are not attached to the scalp, and hence, offer movement, and can last longer than cornrow braids. For making these braids, at least two people are required, as it is a long and tedious hair braiding technique. Box braids consist of three strand braids which are made by crossing opposite strands. The time required for these braids is anywhere from six to twelve hours.
French Braids Styles
One of the most classic, elegant and evergreen black braid hairstyles for long hairstyles is the French braid. The great thing about this hairstyle is that it can be done for any occasion, whether a party, a Sunday brunch or a professional meeting, and yet it will always make you stand out. Unlike regular black hairstyles, French braids are made using the entire length of the hair, and not just the ends. It is an artistic version of regular braids and though may look laborious, becomes easy to do with a little practice.
Micro Braid Styles
Micro braid hairstyles are one of the most popular braid hairstyles for black women. They are smaller and thinner than normal braids, and are made by taking a minute piece of hair, and adding it with hair braiding weave and then braiding it. Though other kinds of braids can be made at home, it's best that for micro braids, you should consult a professional as it is a complicated hairstyle. Some of the celebrities who are well-known for their micro braids are Serena Williams and Alicia Keys. However, if you have thin hair, it is not advisable to make micro braids. And keep in mind, that of all black braided hairstyles, micro braids require the most maintenance.
Rasta Braids
Rasta braids are multitude strands of fine braids. This braid hairstyle for black women is almost always made with synthetic hair. Usually, synthetic hair is woven into the natural hairline up till at least 1 to 2 cm from the scalp. These braids are often decorated with colored beads. They last for about three to five months. If you want the style to last longer, make the braids thinner. An average rasta hairstyle contains about 100 to 150 braids! The time required for making these braids depends upon the length of your hair, but on an average, it can be anywhere between four to fourteen hours.
Fishtail Braids
This is one of the popular braided hairstyles for black women which is also called the Herringbone braid. It is a stunning look that can be created on a ponytails or as a full braid starting at the front of the hairline. These braid hairstyles look very intricate, but they are easy to make. They are trendy, and look great for any occasion and require only a couple of hours to make.
African-American hair braiding styles is an art, and for best results, you should get your hair braided by a professional. It's also important to remember that after getting your braids done, you have to maintain them. Make sure you do not shampoo too often. But it is necessary to apply a leave in conditioner to ensure that your locks look and smell great! Braid hairstyles make you stand out wherever you go. Besides looking beautiful and elegant, they are also a great way to maintain your flowing locks without the hassle of styling them everyday. So if you are looking to make a statement without making efforts, then braiding is a great choice!
