{"id":1244330,"date":"2025-12-26T03:46:29","date_gmt":"2025-12-26T00:46:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1244330"},"modified":"2025-12-26T03:46:29","modified_gmt":"2025-12-26T00:46:29","slug":"28-stunning-braided-hairstyles-for-natural-hair","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1244330","title":{"rendered":"28 Stunning Braided Hairstyles for Natural Hair"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\n
\n

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n<\/p>\n

28 Stunning Braided Hairstyles for Natural Hair<\/h1>\n

Yes, please.<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
By<\/span><\/p>\n
Bianca Lambert<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n
\"Bianca's\"Bianca's<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nBianca Lambert\n<\/div>\n
\n
    \n
  • \n
  • <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
    \nBianca is a contributing writer for Byrdie specializing in natural hair and skincare. You can find her work in xoNecole, The Everygirl, POPSUGAR, Travel Noire, and more.\u00a0\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    Published on September 01, 2025 06:15AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \"Doechii\"Doechii<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @doechii\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    \n

    Growing up, I wasn’t allowed to wear my hair braided. My mom wanted to make sure my sister and I weren’t mislabeled when we stepped out into the world. While some might say her feelings about braids were wrong, if we look at how society has viewed Black hair in the workplace, in media, and beyond\u2014her point of view in the ’90s wasn’t too far off.\n<\/p>\n

    Thanks to women like Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Serena Williams, Beyonc\u00e9, and Bozoma Saint John\u2014among many, many <\/em>others\u2014Black women like myself are now unapologetically wearing braided (and twisted) styles in spaces where they have often been labeled “unprofessional” or “ghetto.” This wave of Black women embracing our hair texture and historical styles is allowing us to express ourselves in new ways, even if the white gaze, thanks to social media, is causing our culture to be appropriated daily.\n<\/p>\n

    Whether we’re spending upwards of ten hours in our stylist’s chair getting box braids as a protective style or cornrowing our hair in our home bathrooms, there are many styles we can try when we want to change it up.\n<\/p>\n

    Here are 28 braided hairstyles to think about the next time you’re ready to try a new ‘do.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    01<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Pinned-Up Braids <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Ayo\"Ayo<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Ayo Edebiri proved how versatile box braids actually are when she wore the classic style effortlessly pinned back with a side part, leaving wavy strands to accent her red carpet look.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    02<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Puffs <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Ebonee\"Ebonee<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    When we talk about braided styles for Black women, we usually think of options that require an extended trip to your favorite braider. This style on Ebonee Davis shows that you can switch up your puffs with a smaller set of braids at the roots, leaving much of your curls to do their thing.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    03<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Side Braids <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Alicia\"Alicia<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    At this point, Alicia Keys has well perfected braided hairstyles in all forms over the years, and she’s always finding ways to spruce it up even more. At the 2024 Tony Awards, the singer went for an elaborate topknot bun with micro braids on the side to accent it. She completed her ‘do with sleek, swirly edges.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    04<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Pigtails <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Willow\"Willow<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Contrary to popular belief, pigtails\u00a0can be, and are, just as fun to wear at any age\u2014and Willow Smith proves that they’re even fashion week chic. While in Paris, she managed to make something so simple into a statement by wearing her knotless braids in two pleats and curled at the ends.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    05<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Classic Box Braids <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Zendaya\"Zendaya<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Classic box braids are always a good idea. Here, Zendaya rocks a set in a subtle chocolate ombr\u00e9, proving the sky’s the limit for creativity with this protective style.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    06<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Jumbo Ponytail <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Kelly\"Kelly<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @kellyrowland \/ Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Channel Kelly Rowland’s jumbo-sized ponytail in a few easy steps. You can either use your natural hair or\u2014for a more dramatic and symmetrical finish\u2014a bundle of Kanekalon hair (or any braiding hair of your choice). Grab a little gel to slick back the top and incorporating it throughout while going in with the simple three-strand braid. Complete with a tiny rubber band at the end.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    07<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Lob <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Danai\"Danai<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Danai Gurira is the queen of versatility. Her braided lob is a low-maintenance style that requires little time in your stylist’s chair. You can even take cues from Gurira by going for a blunt cut and leaving the ends to flare out.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    08<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Top Knot <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Tia\"Tia<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    An updo like Tia Mowry’s won’t weigh you down like traditional box braids and will pair well with professional work attire and tops with high necklines.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    09<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Fulani Updo <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Yara\"Yara<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @yarashahidi\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Yara Shahidi shows us that even traditional hairstyles like Fulani braids leave plenty of room for creativity. From the beads to the finishing afro puff, everything about this style feels fresh and absolutely stunning.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    10<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Box Braided Bun <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Justine\"Justine<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Justine Skye took box braids the glam route at the 2024 Billboard Women In Music Awards. At the event, she went for tinier braids and a middle part, “slicking” it back into a low, twisted bun. She also used a bit of gel to style her edges as a final touch.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    11<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Bun <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Lupita\"Lupita<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Lupita Nyong’o is a constant natural hair inspiration, with countless red carpet looks that may be just the thing to try in your everyday life. Her braided bun is a great style to wear on just about any occasion, but you can especially flaunt it to a summer wedding or for your next job interview.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    12<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Twisted Ponytail <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Tyla\"Tyla<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Tyla is always innovative when it comes to hairstyles and her look at the 2024 BET Awards was no different. On the red carpet, the singer opted in for one of her favorite hairstyles\u2014a braided high ponytail\u2014but with a (literal) twist. Instead of traditional braids, she went for feed-in twists, with her natural hair blending into copper brown strands.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    13<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Long Cornrows <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Tracee\"Tracee<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @traceeellisross\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Take a cue from actor, entrepreneur, and hair icon Tracee Ellis Ross and add length to your go-to cornrows. If you’re stuck on what length to choose, just know that the longer it is, the better.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    14<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Locs <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Chloe\"Chloe<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @chloexhalle\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Chloe and Halle Bailey always showcase the versatility of locs. Here, a couple of mini braids and satin headbands help the duo’s beehive styles shine.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    15<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Side-Parted Braids <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Gabrielle\"Gabrielle<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @gabunion\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Gabrielle Union’s side part is a subtle but drastic way to change up your braids. Here, the deep parting frames her face and, overall, make this an excellent protective style for beach weather.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    16<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Side-Swept Twists <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Woman\"Woman<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @mynaturalsistas\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Okay, so these are twists, but we added this cropped, side-swept ‘do because this look can also be achieved with braids. Throw in some hair charms of your choice and you’re good to go!\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    17<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Colorful Shoulder-Length Box Braids <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Amandla\"Amandla<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @amandlastenberg\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    If you’re ready to spice up your natural hair with pastels, use Amandla Stenberg’s colorful pixie-inspired box braids as your guide. Here, Stenberg kept her braids at shoulder length and threw in some iridescent silver strands to stand out against the copper brown.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    18<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Post-Gala Crown <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Tessa\"Tessa<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @tessamaethompson\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    If you missed Tessa Thompson’s whip braid at the2019 Met Gala, head over to Google to catch a glimpse. A whip braid might not work in certain areas of the real world, but this post-gala braided crown never fails on the everyday.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    19<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Sleek Cornrows <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Zo\u00eb\"Zo\u00eb<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Neilson Barnard \/ Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    A simple set of cornrows is always a good look, andZo\u00eb Kravitz’s sleek braids will look great with any beauty you pair it with. My personal favorite is a bright red lip and dewy skin.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    20<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Middle-Parted Fulani Braids <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Beyonc\u00e9\"Beyonc\u00e9<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Beyonc\u00e9’s Formation<\/em> hair era was noteworthy (and made me even more of a stan). One of my favorite looks was her middle-parted Fulani braids with the textured ends she wore at the 2016 BET Awards.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    21<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Updo <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Skai\"Skai<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @skaijackson\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    We enjoy braided looks that can be done in the comfort of our own homes, and Skai Jackson’s braided updo is one of those. You may need the help of a couple of mirrors angled in the right direction or a best friend who’s patient and good with parts.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    22<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Crown Braid <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Ciara\"Ciara<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Crown braids are achievable on any hair texture, but Ciara’s goddess braid is ideal for those with a few days old silk press, relaxed hair, or a sew-in. Don’t be afraid to frame the face with loose pieces of hair to add texture.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    23<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Cornrowed Ponytail <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Serena\"Serena<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @serenawilliams\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Since Serena Williams stepped foot on the world stage, she has rocked braids with pride. You can wear her cornrowed crown with the back of your hair pulled up or down.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    24<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Braided Low Bun <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Kehlani\"Kehlani<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    @kehlani\/Instagram<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    If you’re looking to keep things sleek, it doesn’t get easier than braiding your hair all the way back and securing it into a low bun. We love how Kehlani’s look, for instance, can go from day to night with a simple change of outfit.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    25<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Micro-Mini Braids <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Zo\u00eb\"Zo\u00eb<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Zo\u00eb Kravitz is the queen of rocking micro braids over the years. On most days\u2014whether she’s out and about or on the red carpet\u2014you’ll likely catch her with a middle part and teeny tiny braids flowing down her back.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    26<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Mermaid Braids <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Normani\"Normani<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Call it what you want: Mermaid braids, also referred to as goddess braids at times, have grown to be a fan-favorite hairstyle for being protective, low maintenance, and fun to wear. Celebrities including Normani have worn the look with curly ends, channeling the flowing, ethereal vibes of an actual mermaid.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    27<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Simple Cornrows <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Nathalie\"Nathalie<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    Any of the styles above are great options for natural hair. One that can easily be done at home is cornrows. They are an easy natural braided hairstyle that can be worn for just about any occasion. All you need is a rattail comb, a mirror, hair gel, and a steady hand to create sleek pleats from the scalp down.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    28<\/span>of 28<\/span><\/div>\n
    \n

    Winding Cornrows <\/span><\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Doechii\"Doechii<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Getty Images<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    And if you’re really handy? You can even add some fun winding parts like Doechii did here.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Read more:<\/div>\n
      \n
    • Hair<\/span><\/li>\n
    • Hair Type<\/span><\/li>\n
    • Natural Hair<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n

      Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/braided-hairstyles-for-natural-hair-11799365<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

      If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. 28 Stunning Braided Hairstyles for Natural Hair Yes, please. By Bianca Lambert Bianca Lambert Bianca is a contributing writer for Byrdie specializing in natural hair and skincare. You can find her work in xoNecole, The Everygirl, POPSUGAR, Travel Noire, and more.\u00a0 Byrdie’s Editorial Guidelines […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83],"class_list":["post-1244330","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1244330","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1244330"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1244330\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1244330"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1244330"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1244330"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}