Braids are an excellent way to enhance the beauty of curly hair, offering endless versatility while protecting your natural curls. Whether you have loose waves or tight coils, there’s a braided hairstyle that will suit your curly texture. Here are 16 super-flattering braid styles for curly hair that will keep your locks looking fresh and fabulous in 2024.
1. Curly Crochet Braids with Burgundy Highlights
Crochet braids are a fantastic protective style for curly hair, and adding burgundy highlights takes this look to the next level. The rich red tones add warmth and dimension to the curls, giving them a unique pop of color.
Styling Tip:
- Choose pre-curled crochet hair to easily achieve defined curls while protecting your natural hair underneath.
2. Chignon with Curly French Braids
This elegant style combines the classic French braid with a low, curly chignon. It’s perfect for formal occasions where you want to keep your curls in check while still showing off their natural texture.
Styling Tip:
- Use a lightweight mousse or curl cream to define your curls before braiding for a polished look.
3. Long Kinky Twist Braids
Kinky twist braids are a great option for those with coarser hair textures. The tight twists blend seamlessly with curly hair, creating a voluminous and full-bodied look.
Styling Tip:
- For added length, opt for extensions that match your natural curl pattern.
4. Crown Braid with Low Bun for Curly Hair
A crown braid combined with a low bun is a romantic style that keeps your curls neatly tucked away. This look is both regal and relaxed, perfect for weddings or any special event.
Styling Tip:
- Add flowers or delicate hairpins to your crown braid for a soft, whimsical touch.
5. Flower Girl’s Crown French Braids
This sweet and delicate style features two French braids forming a crown around the head. It’s a perfect choice for a flower girl or for those seeking a youthful, playful vibe.
Styling Tip:
- Let a few curly tendrils fall loose around your face to soften the overall look.
6. Lemonade Braids with Geometric Patterns
Lemonade braids are bold and trendy, and adding geometric patterns takes this style to the next level. The braids are typically styled to one side, creating an eye-catching and modern appearance.
Styling Tip:
- Consider incorporating metallic thread or hair rings to enhance the geometric design.
7. Braided Updo with Curly Top
This updo features sleek braids along the sides with a voluminous curly top. The contrast between the smooth braids and the textured curls creates a striking look that’s both polished and playful.
Styling Tip:
- Use a curl-enhancing gel to keep the top curls defined and frizz-free.
8. Long Black Box Braids with Curly Ends
Box braids are always a classic choice, but leaving the ends curly adds a fun and playful twist. The curls bring a soft and feminine touch to the sleek braids.
Styling Tip:
- Dip the ends of your braids in hot water to help the curls maintain their shape.
9. Creative Mohawk Updo with Bobby Pins
This edgy mohawk style features tight braids on the sides and curly volume on top. Bobby pins are used to secure the look, adding structure and a touch of creativity to the style.
Styling Tip:
- Use bobby pins with unique designs, like pearls or metallic finishes, to enhance the mohawk’s chic factor.
10. Braided Chignon with String Wraps
A low braided chignon wrapped with decorative strings creates a beautiful boho-inspired style. The strings add a unique and artistic element to the look, making it perfect for festivals or casual outings.
Styling Tip:
- Choose metallic or colored strings to add a pop of contrast to your chignon.
11. Mohawk Style Cornrows with Bantu Knots
This bold look combines cornrows styled into a mohawk with Bantu knots at the ends. The intricate braiding pattern gives off an edgy vibe, while the Bantu knots add a cultural twist.
Styling Tip:
- Use brightly colored hair elastics for the Bantu knots to add some playful flair.
12. Deconstructed Blonde Fishtail Braid
For a more relaxed and undone look, opt for a deconstructed fishtail braid. The blonde highlights add brightness and texture to the style, making it perfect for a laid-back, beachy vibe.
Styling Tip:
- Gently pull apart sections of the braid for a more voluminous and messy look.
13. Wrap-Around Braid for Natural Hair
This style features a large braid wrapped around the crown of the head, beautifully framing the face and accentuating natural curls. It’s a simple yet elegant style that works for both formal and casual settings.
Styling Tip:
- Use edge control to keep the hairline sleek and smooth, enhancing the overall appearance.
14. Fishtail Side Braids with Loose Bun
Side fishtail braids paired with a loose, low bun create a charming and whimsical look. The fishtail adds intricacy, while the loose bun keeps the style soft and romantic.
Styling Tip:
- Tease the hair at the crown before braiding for extra volume and a more relaxed finish.
15. Box Braids with Curls and Laid Edges
Box braids combined with defined curls and laid edges create a flawless and sleek look. This style merges structure with softness, making it perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Styling Tip:
- Use a soft-bristle brush and edge control gel to create smooth and sleek baby hairs.
16. Small Individual Braids with Metallic Highlights
Small individual braids adorned with metallic highlights are a stunning way to add a touch of sparkle to your curls. These tiny braids give off a delicate and intricate vibe, while the metallic accents add a hint of glamour.
Styling Tip:
- Opt for gold or silver metallic highlights to match your jewelry and accessories.
These 16 super-flattering braids for curly hair are the perfect way to embrace your natural texture while experimenting with a variety of braid styles. Whether you want a casual, everyday look or a bold, statement-making hairstyle, these options will keep you looking fabulous all year long!