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Updated on March 15, 2023
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Box braids hairstyle offers an excellent opportunity to extend your hair, add color to it, and wear versatile hairstyles which look exquisite yet are very simple to do. This is also a protective hairstyle for natural hair that requires just a little maintenance.

Box braids can be styled in a number of awesome ways! Whether you are trying a box braids style for the first time, want it braided a different way, or look for a pretty individual braids updo idea, this guide is sure to serve you with lots of beautiful options.

What Box Braids Hairstyles Are There?

If you contemplate getting box braids, it is vital to know all the box braids styles and the maintenance routine. First of all, you will need to decide on the length and diameter of your braids. However, there are other questions to answer too. Will you have all individual braids or cornrows transitioning into braids too? Will you try out any beads or triangle box braids? Will you weave in any color and what color will suit your complexion best?

All of these styles look great, so don’t hesitate to try out new looks from time to time. Once you have your hair braided, go on to experiment with different ways to style box braids: statement-making buns, high ponytails, twists, and braids on braids.

See how impressive all variations of box braids hairstyles are in the following photos!

1. Stunning Box Braids Updo

Curly Box Braids Bun

Instagram / @pearlthestylist_

We can’t get our eyes away from this high bun with some curls and braids falling loose. It frames the face beautifully and softens the bold high bun style.

2. Chocolate to Honey Brown Box Braids

Forget about natural hair color for a second and incorporate color to brighten up your look without compromising the health of your hair. Lowlights and highlights in golden blonde and brown are braided into individual strands for a big dose of personality.

Warm Brown to Blonde Box Braids

Instagram / @ateliebadu

3. Creative Box Braids with Beads

Beautiful box braids hairstyles aren’t reliant on length. Want something exquisite? Choose an all-one-length bob and let the stylist pull the strands for added oomph. It’s a fresh and unexpected way to wear braids that adds a lot of city chic. Putting the beads in is just saying, yes I meant to look this fabulous.

4. Platinum Blonde Box Braids

Experimenting with color is incredibly simple when it comes to long braids. No need to worry about dye and bleach – if you’ve always wanted to try bold colors like platinum blonde, now is a perfect time.

Platinum Blonde Braided Hairstyle for Black Women

Instagram / @narahairbraiding

5. Big Box Braids

Big braids are interesting and bear a retro touch, but it is important to remember that large plaits can be heavy and may pull around the edges. If you want to wear a high bun or updo, this size is not for you. It’s best to rock them long and loose.

Big Box Braids Hairstyle

Instagram / @pearlthestylist_

6. Box Braids into Bantu Knots

When styling medium box braids, you get to be an artist, so whatever you do, don’t limit yourself. You sat hours getting those things, so now you can use their styling potential to the fullest. Traditional Bantu knots with box braids to start with? Yes, go for it.

Bantu Knots with Multi Colored Box Braids

Instagram / @reioftheson

7. Box Braids Ponytail and Bangs

Medium box braids can be worn in many different ways to create unique and fun box braid hairstyles. For a more youthful hairstyle, a half-up bun and a high ponytail are great alternatives to a ballerina bun or long layers. For a fun twist, use several front box braids to style side bangs – this will instantly help you rock the 90s hair trend.

8. Block Braids Half Down Style

The thinner braids can be manipulated into many different box braids updos and half-up hairstyles, making this the perfect option for women who love experiments. The neat blocks contribute to the polished style, while the dark blue hue makes hair look quite mystical.

Half Space Buns with Blue Box Braids

Instagram / @rosesbraids1

9. Triangle Box Braids

Triangle braids is an excellent way to step up your box braids game. It’s like trying a braided hairstyle and a hair design at the same time, and the result can be truly stunning.

Triangle Box Braids Style

Instagram / @braidbarldn

10. Black, Blonde and Brown Box Braids

Small box braids never get old. You can run your fingers through them and enjoy the playfulness of thinner strands. For added fun, complement black strands with brown and blonde hues. Have your stylist expertly weave them in.

Black Brown and Blonde Small Box Braids

Instagram / @voila_braids

11. Fishtail Braid on Box Braids

Feeling like a Greek goddess today? Of course, you are. Pull those shiny, well-cared-for tresses back and separate them into two chunks to create one thick fishtail braid. The French or fishtail braid style gets the hair off your face without adding the weight on top of your head.

Fishtail Braid with Box Braids

Instagram / @bluehairguru

12. Small Box Braids into a Huge Bun

For a look that’s all yes-I’m-going-somewhere, swirl braids into a super high bun. You can tuck the pieces under to keep the style sleek. The healthier and more nourished your natural hair is before you get box braids, the better it will look while you have them in.

Top Knot with Box Braids

Instagram / @pearlthestylist_

13. Medium Box Braids

We’re absolutely swooning over these braids accented with cool brown color that flatters deep skin very well and adds a chic and personal finish to your hair. It’s really just another way to show off your style and get creative.

Medium Sized Light Brown Box Braids

Instagram / @ghana.braids

14. Burgundy Braids

Individual braids are the perfect style for any woman regardless of age, because there are so many opportunities to put your own personal touch on them to make them your own. From colored to curly box braids, you can’t go wrong with this protective hairdo .

Red Box Braids Hairstyle

Instagram / @lionessd_beauty

15. Brown Braids with E-Girl Framing Streaks

Ever wondered how to style natural hair to fit the e-girl hair ascetic? It’s easy peasy with box braids, as you can just weave in a different color into two face-framing braids. These long box braids look stunning in a rich dark brown hue!

Money Piece with Box Braids

Instagram / @belmirobelezaafro

16. One Side Box Braids

This one-side box braids style with a creative braided heart and carefully styled baby hairs is worth all braid awards! Go on and style a “braided braid” or a low bun on one side an ultimate keeling-me-softly look.

Box Braids to One Size with a Heart Shaped Design

Instagram / @d.ninelleparis

17. Purple Box Braids

The purple braiding hair makes these medium-sized long box braids simply divine! A side twit or a high ponytail – what ‘do will you choose to show off such beauty?

Black and Purple Box Braids

Instagram / @thay_nago

18. Middle Part Bob Braids

If you wear a bob hairstyle with relaxed or straightened hair, it can be easily replicated with your favorite braided look. The protective style will help you easily rock the middle part bob trend, too.

19. Chunky Box Braids with Curly Ends

One thing to remember about a basic look is that it’s all about the styling and what you pair it with. Step up the braids with the curled ends and a flawless makeup look. Flirty lashes and glowing skin are sure to take you from classy to sassy.

Long Box Braids with Curly Ends

Instagram / @yasbeautynl

20. Medium Length Box Braids

Want to get close to the bob style, but still need enough length to put braids up into a sassy updo? Let the length reach below your shoulders. One of the best ways to elevate the classic protective style is to infuse your box braids with color or golden hair accessories. It creates a sassy yet functional hairdo for any occasion.

Medium Length Box Braids

Instagram / @_toridoesmyhair

21. Large Waist-Length Box Braids

Long box braids take a cue from Janet Jackson in the popular 90’s film Poetic Justice. Because the decade is experiencing a resurgence in fashion and beauty, it’s no surprise that one of the most nostalgic box braid styles is making a comeback. Style thicker to small braids and add highlights for a twist.

Thick to Small Box Braids Hairstyle

Instagram / @criouloshair

22. Long Box Braids

These long box braids accented with bright colored elastics are super cute and reminiscent of bubble braids. The best thing is you can swap up the ‘do easily.

New Way to Style Long Box Braids

Instagram / @neyhairs_

23. Two Box Braids in the Front

Cornrows make an excellent hairstyle for black women, but why not get a few loose box braids to the style too? A good proof you don’t need varying shades to turn heads!

Cornrows into a Braided Bun

Instagram / @laviniatrancista

24. Chunky Blue Highlights

While most women lean towards longer styles for old-school flair, a braided bob hairstyle deserves much credit too. A larger braid size and bright blue color will quickly take the vibe of the classic style from chic to crazy cool.

Short Box Braids with Bold Blue Streaks

Instagram / @max_braidss

25. Bright Side Part Box Braid Hairstyle

If you rock a swoop regularly, you will appreciate deep part long box braids hairstyles. It frames the face and also slims round faces at the expense of asymmetry. Ask your stylist to braid half an inch cornrow away from the parting to make it stay in place at all times. Isn’t this red box braids style gorgeous?

26. Long Thin Box Braids

Not quite micro, these tiny braids are super cute. With that beautiful layered length, we are all about a side part that allows gorgeous hair to fall on one side while showing off beautiful cheek bones on the other.

Side Swept Box Braids Hairstyle

Instagram / @modernsalon

27. With Gold String

The trick to upgrading a simple style is with accessories. Beads and golden strings can be strategically placed throughout your hair for a dazzling hint of sparkle.

Side Part Box Braids Bob with Hair Accessories 

Instagram / @queenmercyhair

28. Neon Yellow Box Braids

If you want to have fun with your look, try vivid colors and messy buns with box braids. Perfect for an easy-going girl who loves to get in touch with her inner child and unleash her feelings.

Yellow Braiding Hair Style

Instagram / @braids_by_nancy

29. Box Braids Mohawk

The benefit of braided hair length is that it can be manipulated into many different updos, including an edgy braided mohawk style. Ready to rock it longer? Opt for cornrows on the sides and style the box braids on top to the back or to the front.

Black woman with White Box Braids

Instagram / @studiodias_

30. White Box Braids

Larger braids may look scarce if brought to both sides, so why not braid some cornrows to bring them to one side only? The white hue in these braids is another winning point to steal to your Pinterest hair inspiration board.

Mohawk Box Braids Hairstyle

Instagram / @karmsyndia

31. Head Wrap Box Braid Hairstyle

In any season, dressing your box braid hairstyles up with a scarf is always a good option. Wrapping your scarf around your head like a turban is one chic idea, and another is playing with a scarf like with a headband. Check out these headwrap tutorials and ideas for how to and inspiration.

Head Wrap Box Braids Style

Instagram / @wrappedbysarah

32. Box Braids with Shaved Design

Hairdos with shaved sides and razored design are not just for hipsters and punk rockers — just look at the stunning picture here! By incorporating an undercut into box braid hairstyles, you can take regular hairstyles like a bun and high ponytail to the new style heights.

Thin Box Braids and Undercut Design

Instagram / @erica_m_kennedy

33. Large Twisted Box Braids Bun

Box braids styles really are endless. This twisted bun allows for full use of the gorgeous volume provided by bigger braids. You’re sure to give off a royal vibe when you master this level of sculptural styling.

Box Braids Bun with a Twist

Instagram / @beautybylexy_

34. Simple Braided Style with Thin Braids

Simply divide your braids into 2 sections and braid one thick braid on one side, so that it rims your face. This is a wonderful hairstyle for you to make within minutes!

An Exquisite Braid in 4 Simple Steps

Instagram / @modernsalon

35. Pastel Pink Box Braids

Colorful box braids hairstyles are not relegated to be worn solely to music festivals. Oh no. Pick your favorite color and bring it out on the street!

Medium Pastel Color Box Braids

Instagram / @belmirobelezaafro

36. Medium Long Box Braids

It’s great to know how to do funky styles with boxed braids, but it’s just as awesome to wake up and not have to do anything to your hair at all (except maybe a little water-based moisture spray). Adding gold beads is a no brainer.

Long Brown Box Braids

Instagram / @bella_hairpage

37. Ombre-ed Black and Red Box Braids

Box braids hairstyles can incorporate just about any other trend, one of those being ombre. Next to black hair, red or fuchsia is an easy favorite. Single braids get woven with bright strands for a knock-out style that modernizes awesome 90s duds. Get it girl.

Black to Red Ombre Box Braids

Instagram / @modernsalon

38. Rainbow Colored Braids

Are you feeling in the mood for some rainbow hues? With box braids, you can easily get all of them at once and safely experiment with split hair colors. With a rainbow in your hair, the sky is the limit.

Rainbow Hairstyle with Box Braids

Instagram / @setefios

39. Braided Bun with Small Box Braids

A tight braided bun from box braids, sitting high on your crown is a simple hairstyle from box braids you will do in a matter of minutes. It’s performed on the basis of high pony, braided and wrapped around.

Cute Box Braids Hairstyles

Instagram / @modernsalon

40. Dark Side Part Box Braids

With long braids as smooth as these, all you need to do is whip hair to one side for a sexy style. If you’re wondering how to style box braids, one possible answer is definitely: don’t do any styling. When done right, they’re like a cocoon that allows hair to grow, giving you a break from hardcore maintenance.

Box Braids Hairstyle for One Shoulder Dress

Instagram / @ironyofashi

41. Chunky Braids in Half-Up Pigtails

Hello, 90s! We’re happy to see you. 80s, we were over you pretty quick, but 90s, we simply never fell out of love. Insert the name of your favorite childhood pop star here, and channel that diva as you twist adorable half buns into spunky little cat’s ears. Can you tell we’re all about it? Yeah, we’re all about it.

Two Half Buns for Box Braids

Instagram / @modernsalon

42. Thick Jumbo Box Braids

It’s true no matter what size you get, but with thicker braids, you need to communicate with your stylist about the tension level. If she puts your braids in way too tight, that’s going to compound the weight factor and could lead to breakage. That said, don’t be afraid to go jumbo.

Half Updo with Thick Box Braids

Instagram / @modernsalon

43. Goddess Box Braids

Large box braids can be styled in so many beautiful designs, one of the best being a crown braid. Start at the left ear, bringing hair across the back of your head and then working along the hairline.

Thick Long Box Braids in a Half Up Crown

Instagram / @kersti.pitre

44. Box Braids Pigtails

A box braid in itself is a 90s throwback, but don’t stop there. Princess Leia buns show off gorgeous features and add a whole lot of spunk to any outfit. Easy to achieve, this style will look amazing with tube dresses or tank tops and jeans.

Pigtail Bun from Box Braids

Instagram / @modernsalon

45. Silver Gray Box Braids

Silver or white hair is totally on point right now. With red lips and a cute finger wave, this long ombre style has metamorphosed into something very romantic. The single braids incorporate the palest of shades for a look that’s very unique.

Black to Silver Ombre Box Braids

Instagram / @modernsalon

46. High Half-Up Bun with Box Braids

Individual braids should be perfectly smooth to keep the overall style fierce. Now that you know perfect box braids are possible, you’re going to want to be even more cautious about vetting the stylist your best friend recommends.

Box Braids in a Half Bun

Instagram / @anthonycuts

47. Ponytail Box Braids with Color and Cuffs

Big braids add plenty of sass on their own, but why not go full out and add a high half ponytail? In general, high-up styles work great with box braids because there’s already so much volume to work with. A few silver strands add personality without having to commit to the trend.

Black Box Braids with Beads

Instagram / @modernsalon

48. Box Braids in a Twisted Side Downdo

If you simply sweep your box braids to one shoulder, they are not going to keep in place, but with simple twists, you’ll get your braided mane more compliant and organized. Twists are good for added texture.

How to Style Braided Hair

Instagram / @modernsalon

49. Large Jumbo Braids in a Spiral Half-Up Bun

Here we see thicker extensions creating a statement look. This spiral bun is daring and dramatic, perfect for a gal with a hipster vibe and passion for living on the fashion-forward edge.

Fancy Bun Hairstyle

Instagram / @makeilaimstrong

50. Box Braids Hair in a Low French Roll

Any classic hairstyle performed on box braids looks authentic and original. French roll is not an exception. Aisha’s fancy updo features a bulky French knot that is sitting quite low at her nape and creates a wonderful side look.

Hairstyles for Box Braids

Instagram / @modernsalon

Box braids give plenty of variations of hairstyles and most of them, if not all, can be made fast and easily. Try one of these awesome hairstyles already today, and you’ll collect a bunch of compliments by the end of the day.

Curly Box Braids Bun Warm Brown to Blonde Box Braids Box Braids Bob with Cuffs Platinum Blonde Braided Hairstyle for Black Women Big Box Braids Hairstyle Bantu Knots with Multi Colored Box Braids Box Braids High Ponytail Hairstyle Half Space Buns with Blue Box Braids Triangle Box Braids Style Black Brown and Blonde Small Box Braids Fishtail Braid with Box Braids Top Knot with Box Braids Medium Sized Light Brown Box Braids Red Box Braids Hairstyle Money Piece with Box Braids Box Braids to One Size with a Heart Shaped Design Black and Purple Box Braids Rounded Bob on Box Braids Long Box Braids with Curly Ends Medium Length Box Braids Thick to Small Box Braids Hairstyle New Way to Style Long Box Braids Cornrows into a Braided Bun Short Box Braids with Bold Blue Streaks Long Copper Box Braids Side Swept Box Braids Hairstyle Side Part Box Braids Bob with Hair Accessories  Yellow Braiding Hair Style Black woman with White Box Braids Mohawk Box Braids Hairstyle Head Wrap Box Braids Style Thin Box Braids and Undercut Design Box Braids Bun with a Twist An Exquisite Braid in 4 Simple Steps Medium Pastel Color Box Braids Long Brown Box Braids Black to Red Ombre Box Braids Rainbow Hairstyle with Box Braids Cute Box Braids Hairstyles Box Braids Hairstyle for One Shoulder Dress Two Half Buns for Box Braids Half Updo with Thick Box Braids Thick Long Box Braids in a Half Up Crown Pigtail Bun from Box Braids Black to Silver Ombre Box Braids Box Braids in a Half Bun Black Box Braids with Beads How to Style Braided Hair Fancy Bun Hairstyle Hairstyles for Box Braids
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