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Braids are one of those timeless hairstyles that never go out of style. Over the centuries, traditional braids have evolved and adapted, giving rise to the many braid styles we see today. If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to different types of braids, this post is for you. From classic box braids to intricate cornrows and modern Bora Bora braids, we’ll explore them all in detail.
Different Types of Braids
Box Braids
Box braids are individual plaits created by sectioning the hair into equal-sized, box-shaped parts. They typically begin with a knot at the root, where braiding hair extensions are added for extra length and volume. Check out our post on 'What are box braids?' to learn more.
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Knotless Braids
Knotless braids are a modern take on box braids. Instead of starting with a knot, they feature a knot-free base for a seamless look and lightweight feel. This method makes them gentler on the scalp. Check out our post on 'What are knotless braids?' to learn more.
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Cornrows
Cornrows are a traditional hairstyle with deep cultural roots. The hair is braided close to the scalp in either straight rows or intricate patterns, creating a neat and striking look. Check out our post on 'What are cornrows?' to learn more.
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Stitch Braids
Stitch braids are a variation of cornrows, created using a braiding technique that produces a distinctive ‘stitched’ appearance. Check out our post on 'What are stitch braids?' to learn more.
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Feed In Braids
Feed-in braids involve gradually adding braiding hair extensions as you plait. This technique creates thicker, more voluminous braids with a natural look. Check out our post on 'What are feed in braids?' to learn more.
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Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are a curly braids style which are created by adding curly strands in the mids or ends of box braids. Check out our post on 'What are goddess braids?' to learn more.
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Boho Braids
Boho braids are another curly style, featuring loose, wavy strands inserted throughout the braids. This gives them a carefree, bohemian vibe. Check out our post on 'What are boho braids?' to learn more.
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Gypsy Braids
Gypsy braids are a curly braid style full of volume and texture. They involve creating knotless braids and adding curls throughout each braid. Check out our post on 'What are gypsy braids?' to learn more.
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Bora Bora Braids
Bora Bora braids are another curly braid style. They are typically created by braiding your natural hair with wavy hair extensions until the length of your natural hair, then letting the extensions flow freely. Check out our post on 'What are bora bora braids?' to learn more.
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Mermaid Braids
Mermaid braids are a braid style which involves braiding the top lengths of your hair and letting the rest of the hair flow down. This can be straight hair or curly hair. Check out our post on 'What are mermaid braids?' to learn more.
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Fulani Braids
Fulani braids originate from West Africa and are traditionally characterised by a single braid down the centre of the head, with others styled on the sides. Today, they’ve evolved to include creative patterns and designs. Check out our post on 'What are Fulani braids?' to learn more.
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Ghana Braids
Ghana braids are created by forming cornrows and adding extensions for added thickness and volume. Check out our post on 'What are Ghana braids?' to learn more.
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Lemonade Braids
Made famous by Beyoncé, lemonade braids are long cornrows braided in a sweeping, side-parted design.
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Pick and Drop
Pick and drop braids involve plaiting the top length of the hair (usually around three inches) and leaving the rest loose in soft waves or curls. Check out our post on 'What are pick and drop braids?' to learn more.
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French Curl Braids
French curl braids are a type of curly end braids. It is created by braiding box braids with loose curls left at the end, giving a elegant and feminine style. Check out our post on 'What are French curl braids?' to learn more.
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Micro Braids
Micro braids are tiny plaits that often resemble strands of hair. They require precision and time to install but offer a delicate and intricate finish. Check out our post on 'What are micro braids?' to learn more.
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Jumbo Braids
Jumbo braids are a larger, more voluminous version of traditional braids. They are created using extensions for added thickness. Check out our post on 'What are jumbo braids?' to learn more.
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Crochet Braids
Crochet braids involve attaching hair extensions to cornrowed hair using a latch hook. This versatile method allows for a variety of finished looks from braids, twists and locs to curly hair and straight hair. Check out our post on 'What are crochet braids?' to learn more.
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Peekaboo Braids
Peekaboo braids refers to any braid style where a section or a few individual braids are braided in a different colour to the rest of the hair. This adds a playful pop of colour to your look. Check out our post on 'What are peekaboo braids?' to learn more.
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For Black hair style inspiration, and how to's on Afro hair care, explore our Afro hair tutorials.