Hairstyling is an important part of African culture, with numerous styles that have been developed across the continent. Black West African hair braiding is a timeless art that has evolved over time, transforming into a range of unique styles that reflect individual personalities, and cultural heritages. Braiding is more than just a hairstyle, it is a form of self-expression, creativity, and artistry. And the best thing about braiding is that there are unlimited options available for those who want to explore this fashionable trend.
In this blog post, we are going to introduce you to 20+ black West African hairstyle braiding ideas to inspire your next hairstyle. These styles include popular braids like cornrows, box braids, Senegalese twists, and more. Every style on our list is carefully curated to showcase a variety of stunning looks that suit all tastes and preferences. We understand that finding the perfect hairstyle can be a daunting task, especially when you have so many options to choose
1. Long Jumbo Box Braids With Curly Ends
Long jumbo box braids with curly ends have been a popular African hairstyle for centuries. These braids consist of square shaped hair sections, which are weaved to create a three-dimensional box-like pattern. This hairstyle is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a protective and low maintenance style.
Long jumbo box braids with curly ends can be styled in different ways such as updos, ponytails, or even left hanging loose. This style also offers versatility in terms of the length and thickness of the braids, making it a popular choice for women of all ages. Box braids are an ideal option for busy women as it can last for weeks without needing to be restyled, maintaining its beauty and practicality. Overall, this West African hairstyle is a classic choice for those looking for a chic and convenient hairdo that is easy to manage.
2. Female Cornrow Styles With Natural Hair
Female cornrow styles with natural hair are a classic and popular style in West African hair braiding, known for their intricate weaving pattern and striking appearance. This style involves braiding the hair very close to the scalp in rows, often creating geometric designs or patterns.
Female cornrow styles with natural hair are an excellent option for those looking for a low-maintenance yet stylish hairstyle. They are versatile and can be worn in various ways, such as in a half-up, half-down style or in a bun. Furthermore, they are suitable for all hair types and lengths, making them an excellent option for any occasion. With the right care and maintenance, cornrows can last for several weeks, making them a wise investment for anyone who wants a long-lasting and elegant hairstyle.
3. Small Senegalese Twists With Curly Ends
Small Senegalese twist with curly ends are a popular and stylish braiding option for women with Afro-textured hair. These braids are created by twisting sections of hair into a rope-like pattern and can be done either with or without extensions, depending on the desired length and thickness of the braids.
Small Senegalese twist with curly ends can last for up to eight weeks with proper maintenance, making them a low-maintenance option for those with busy schedules. What’s more, they can be manipulated into various styles and shapes, making it easy to switch up your look without having to remove the twists. Additionally, they are a protective style, preventing damage to the hair from everyday wear and tear.
4. Kinky Twists Hairstyles Short
Kinky Twists Hairstyles Short are a popular black West African hairstyle braiding technique that can be achieved with either synthetic or natural hair extensions. This style involves dividing the hair into small sections, then twisting two strands of hair together, creating a tight, coiled effect.
Kinky twists hairstyles short can be done in various lengths, and the extensions can also be styled and shaped to suit the individual’s preferences. They’re a popular choice for protective styling, as they help to prevent hair breakage and promote healthy hair growth. With proper care and maintenance, kinky twists can last for weeks at a time, making them a practical and stylish option for those looking for low-maintenance, long-lasting hairstyles.
5. Short Fulani Braids With Beads
Short Fulani braids with beads are a popular hair braiding style that originated from the Fulani people of West Africa. They are trendy, versatile and can be customized to suit individual preferences. Fulani braids are characterized by their unique pattern of thin braids that start at the hairline and cascade down to the back.
These braids are sometimes accented with beads, cowrie shells or twisted into intricate designs that add some flair to the style. It is a perfect hairstyle for all occasions, from casual outings to formal events. Additionally, Short Fulani braids with beads are low maintenance, ideal for women who have busy lifestyles and want to maintain their hair without much fuss. With the right care, Fulani braids can last for several weeks, making it a practical and stylish option for any Black woman looking for an easy yet chic hairstyle.
6.Ghana Braids Bun Styles
Ghana Braids Bun Styles are a popular West African hairstyle that is known for its intricate braiding technique. These braids are created by weaving a three-strand braid pattern into cornrows that start from the scalp and extend down the length of the hair. The end result is a neat and elegant look that is perfect for any occasion.
Ghana braids bun styles are versatile and can be styled in different ways, including updos, half up half down styles, and even ponytails. They are also low maintenance and can last for up to two months with proper care. Whether you’re looking for a protective style or just want to switch up your look, Ghana braids are a great option for anyone looking for a stylish and culturally significant hairstyle.
7. Colored Shuku With All Back Cornrows
One of the most popular braiding styles among black West African women is Colored Shuku With All Back Cornrows This style is named after the iconic reggae musician Bob Marley, who popularized the look. Marley twists are usually chunky, kinky twists that are created using Marley hair extensions, providing a natural and textured appearance.
These Ghana Braids maintain their shape and are suitable for people with natural or relaxed hair. They also provide a protective style for the hair, making it ideal for people who want to protect their natural hair from damage. The length of Colored Shuku With All Back Cornrows can vary, and they can be styled in different ways, such as a half-up, half-down style or a high ponytail. Colored Shuku With All Back Cornrows can last for several weeks with proper upkeep, making it a low-maintenance style for busy individuals.
8.Yarn Box Braids Styles
Yarn Box braids Styles are a popular and modern variation of traditional African braids. This style utilizes yarn instead of traditional braiding hair, which gives a unique look and texture to the finished product. Yarn Box braids can come in various sizes, and colors, with bold and bright hues lending them a vibrant, eye-catching appearance.
Given their versatility, yarn braids can be worn in a multitude of styles, including box braids, twists, or cornrows. Overall, yarn braids are a striking and trendy way to showcase your individual style and make a bold statement. So, if you are looking for something different and exciting, yarn Box braids are a great option to consider among many beautiful black West African hairstyle braiding ideas.
9. Box Braids With Brazilian Wool
Box Braids With Brazilian Wool are a popular and stylish braiding option for individuals with curly or textured hair. This type of twist hairstyle originated in Havana, Cuba, and has since become a widely popular trend in the hair care industry.
Box Braids With Brazilian Wool are typically created using hair extensions that have been twisted and braided into the natural hair. They offer a versatile and low-maintenance hairstyle that can last up to six weeks with proper care. . Box Braids With Brazilian Wool come in various sizes, lengths, and colors, making it easy to customize the style to fit any personal preference. With the addition of beads or other hair Accessories . Box Braids With Brazilian Wool can add a touch of elegance to any outfit. Overall, the Havana twist hairstyle is a timeless and chic option for those looking to switch up their look.
10.Goddess Braids Extensions Hairstyles
Goddess Braids Extensions Hairstyles in are a popular braiding hairstyle that has its roots in West African culture. These braids are perfect for women who love to experiment with intricate and stylish hairstyles. The Goddess braids are created using a mixture of thick and thin cornrows that are woven together in a unique and creative style.
These braids are great for women with long hair or textured hair, as they can be styled in a variety of ways, including updos or left loose. The Goddess Braids Extensions Hairstyles also offer a great deal of versatility, allowing for various patterns and designs to be created in the hair. This style is perfect for women who desire a fashionable and practical hairstyle that will last for several weeks.
11. Crochet Hair Styles For Oval Faces
Crochet Hair Styles For Oval Faces have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer a low maintenance yet stylish option for black West African hair. This technique involves crocheting hair extensions onto cornrows, resulting in a natural-looking hairstyle that can be styled in a variety of ways.
The installation process is efficient and can take as little as two hours, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules. Additionally, Crochet Hair Styles For Oval Faces are a protective style that can help prevent damage to natural hair caused by daily manipulation and styling. When done correctly by a professional stylist, crochet braids can last up to two months with proper care, making them an affordable and practical choice for many individuals.
12. Stylish Unique Tree Braids
Tree braids are one of the most versatile black West African hairstyles that have gained popularity in recent years. This hairstyle is essentially a type of crochet hair extension that is weaved onto a person’s hair by starting with small cornrows. The extensions are then added row by row to form a natural-looking braid. Tree braids are a low-maintenance hairstyle that can last up to eight weeks with proper care.
They are also perfect for protective styling, especially for those with natural hair looking to minimize manipulation and styling. The style can be worn straight or wavy, thin or thick, and can be styled in various ways, including updos or swept to one side. Tree braids are a great alternative hairstyle that can blend seamlessly with a person’s natural hair, giving them a chic and stylish look.
13. Asymmetrical Feed In Braids
Asymmetrical feed in braids are a popular hairstyle in black West African communities. This versatile hairstyle is created by twisting hair into small sections and allowing them to dry. Once the hair is dry, the twists are unraveled to create defined, bouncy curls.
Asymmetrical feed in braids are a great option for those with natural hair who want to add volume and texture to their locks. This style can be achieved with a variety of hair textures and lengths, making it a versatile choice for many. By using the right products and techniques, twist outs can last for several days, making it a convenient option for individuals who want a low-maintenance yet stylish hairstyle.
14.Bantu Knots Styles With Braids
Bantu knots are a popular hairstyle choice among Black West African women that are both fashionable and functional. The knots are created by sectioning the hair and tightly twisting each section into a small, coiled knot. Bantu knots can be worn for several days and offer versatility as they can be unraveled into a variety of different curl patterns or left in their coiled form for a unique style.
Bantu knots are a low-maintenance style that allows for flexibility and can be paired with bold makeup or statement accessories for a standout look. This hairstyle is a classic Black West African braiding technique that continues to be a favorite among women of all ages and is a must-try for those looking to add some cultural flair to their hair routine.
15. Trendy Unique Shuku Hairstyle With Attachment
Shuku hairstyle with attachment are a versatile West African hairstyle that can be worn by anyone seeking a natural and protective style. This hairstyle is ideal for those who are transitioning from chemical relaxers to natural hair or for those looking for a low-maintenance style.
Shuku hairstyle with attachment require less extension hair and less time to install compared to other braiding styles. To achieve flat twists, the hair is sectioned into two parts and twisted under each other instead of over. This style is perfect for work or any formal occasion as it can be styled into an updo or left down for a casual look. Furthermore, Shuku hairstyle with attachment are a great foundation style for creating more intricate styles, such as twist outs or bantu knots. Flat twists are a classic and enduring hairstyle option that should be added to your hairstyling repertoire.
16. Ghanian Lines With Beads
Ghanian Lines With Beads are a popular black West African hairstyle braiding technique that uses extensions to create the look of real locs. They can be styled in many ways, from long and flowing to short and choppy. To achieve this look, hair extensions are wrapped around a small section of the client’s natural hair and then twisted to create the locs.
The hair is then sealed with a special bonding agent to secure it in place.Ghanian Lines With Beads are a low-maintenance option for individuals who want the look of locs without committing to the long-term process of creating real locs. They offer a wide range of styling options and are perfect for those who want to experiment with this popular hairstyle.
17. Latest Ghana Weaving Styles 2023
Ghana weaving styles are a stunning hairstyle that has become increasingly popular in recent years. This style features a Cornrows of braids that encircle the head, like a halo. Halo braids offer a unique and intricate look that works well for both casual and formal events. One of the advantages of this hairstyle is its versatility.
You can add beads, rings, or other decorations to the braids to create a more personalized and creative look. Additionally, halo braids are great for protecting natural hair and keeping it away from harsh weather elements. While they may require a skilled hairstylist to achieve excellent results, the final look is certainly worth the effort. Black West African women have been rocking this style for centuries, as it is not only beautiful but also a practical way of maintaining their hair.
18. Packing Thread Hairstyles With Wool
One of the most popular and timeless black West African hairstyle braiding options is the Packing thread hairstyles with wool. This elegant and intricate style involves three sections of hair braided together from the top of the head down to the nape of the neck.
Packing thread hairstyles with wool are not only aesthetically pleasing, but they are also practical, allowing for a secure hold and keeping hair out of your face. They can be worn in various ways, including in a single braid down the back, multiple braids, or even styled into a bun or updo. Packing thread hairstyles with wool are perfect for any occasion, from casual everyday wear to formal events. With a bit of practice, anyone can master this classic braiding technique for a stunning and long-lasting hairstyle.
19. Ghana Thread Hairstyles
Ghana thread hairstyles , also known as inverted Yarn braids, are a popular hairstyle that involves weaving three strands of hair together to create a simple yet stylish look. This technique is particularly popular in black West African hairstyles, as it allows for intricate designs and patterns to be created with a range of different braiding styles.
Ghana thread hairstyles can be worn in a variety of ways, such as two braids down the side of the head or a single braid down the back, and can be adorned with accessories such as beads or hair jewelry. Whether for everyday wear or a special occasion, Dutch braids are a versatile and timeless hairstyle choice that can be adapted to suit any individual’s style and personality.
20.African Threading Hairstyles
African Threading Hairstyles are among the most beautiful and versatile hairstyles that have remained popular among black West African women for decades. This intricate braiding technique involves a series of braids intertwined to create a cascading effect, resembling a waterfall.
The result is a stunning and unique hairstyle that can be styled in various ways, including updos, half-up/half-down styles, and more. With the right skills and techniques, anyone can create beautiful African Thread, making them a popular choice for special events, weddings, and everyday looks. Whether you prefer a classic, elegant look or a bold, edgy style, waterfall braids offer endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression.
In conclusion, black West African braided hairstyles are rich in cultural history and have been practiced for centuries. Today, they continue to be popular and versatile, offering a variety of styling options in different lengths, textures, and patterns. Whether you prefer traditional styles or modern twists, there is a braided hairstyle that can suit your individual personality and fashion sense. With so many beautiful options to choose from, it’s no wonder that black West African braided hairstyles are so highly revered and celebrated around the world.
