It can be quite frustrating to encounter numerous types of braids without understanding their unique characteristics. Often, photos alone don’t provide enough detail or explanation of the braiding techniques used. To address this issue, we present a comprehensive guide to 24 different types of braids, complete with illustrations and detailed explanations for each style.
RELAXED BOHEMIAN BRAIDS
These braids can be categorized into several types of braiding styles, as they essentially resemble box braids while incorporating elements similar to goddess braids.
GRAPHIC STITCH BRAIDS
What distinguishes this category from other types of cornrow braids is the precise parting and neat lines, which enhance the overall drama of the design.
ACCENT HEADBAND BRAID
As the name suggests, this braid type flows parallel to the hairline, positioned exactly where you would place a headband to enhance your style.
NATURAL-LOOKING KNOTLESS BRAIDS
There are various methods for braiding hair with extensions, and the knotless technique involves incorporating thin strands of hair without tying knots at the base.
GLAMOROUS GODDESS BRAIDS
While there’s no clear consensus on what precisely defines goddess braids—whether it’s their chunkier texture or the loose strands of hair—it’s best to incorporate both elements to achieve the desired look.
AUTHENTIC TRIBAL BRAIDS
All braid types that feature patterns—often created with cornrows and adorned with beads—belong to this culturally rich category.
PARALLEL BOXER BRAIDS
Any style that features two tightly plaited braids on either side of the head can be referred to as such, whether it’s French, Dutch, or cornrow braiding.
SEAMLESS FEED-IN BRAIDS
That’s another term encompassing various types of braided hairstyles created with extensions. Feed-in braids are constructed with extensions added from the base. You essentially “feed” pieces of hair into the main braid, allowing it to increase in size progressively.
EYE-POPPING DRAGON BRAID
To resemble a dragon’s spine, the braid should be positioned along the centerline of the head and feature plenty of bumps to mimic scaled skin.
DIVERSE 6-STRAND BRAID
This type of braid features multiple variations that differ in braiding techniques and final appearances, yet they all share one common element: the hair is divided into six sections.
BOHEMIAN BUTTERFLY BRAIDS
In this style, we use hair extensions to create faux locs with a looped texture that resembles butterfly wings, which is how they get their name. They are also commonly referred to as butterfly locs.
BEGINNER-FRIENDLY TWIST BRAIDS
Also known as a rope braid, this style involves dividing your hair into two sections and twisting them together to form a plait.
INTRICATE 5-STRAND BRAID
One of the most popular techniques for creating a 5-strand braid involves crossing an outer section over and under the two inner sections, then repeating the same movements on the opposite side.
NO-FRILLS 3-STRAND BRAID
A three-strand braid is one of the most common braid styles, where the hair is divided into three sections, and the outer strands are alternately crossed over the middle piece. Essentially, it refers to any braid made with three strands!
NORDIC VIKING BRAIDS
This is one of the unique types of braids for women, inspired by styles typically associated with men. It features dimensional braiding in the center, while the sides are often smoothed with shaved hair, cornrows, or flat plaits.
PROVOCATIVE UPSIDE-DOWN BRAID
Begin French or Dutch braiding from the nape of your neck toward the crown, and style the remaining hair into a top knot or ponytail.
EASY BUBBLE BRAID
In fact, this style requires no plaiting at all; you simply need to tie your ponytail with elastics along its length to achieve the desired look.
FEMININE HALF-UP HALF-DOWN BRAIDS
If the top section of your hair is braided while the bottom is left loose, you’re sporting a half-up style, regardless of the braiding technique used.
FANCY CROWN BRAID WITH HAIR JEWELRY
Started from the side or the nape, this braid incorporates various plaiting techniques and wraps around the head to create a crowned effect.
FUN JUMBO BRAIDS
Size also plays a significant role; by dividing your hair into larger sections and incorporating thicker strands of extension hair, you can reduce the time needed for braiding and achieve a fun jumbo look.
TEXTURED FISHTAIL BRAID
Divide your hair into two sections, then take small strands from the outside of each section and cross them over into the same section to create a fishbone braid.
BOLD MOHAWK BRAID
Mohawk braids resemble Viking braids in their placement on the top of the head, but they tend to be less bold and chunky.
DIMENSIONAL 4-STRAND BRAID
This type is a bit more complex, as it requires you to manipulate four sections while flipping the outer strands over and under the inner strands.
DAINTY SIDE BRAID
Side braids can take many forms, ranging from simple three-strand plaits to double French braids, with the defining feature being their positioning on one side of the head.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, braids are a versatile and stylish way to express your personality and elevate your look. From classic three-strand braids to intricate feed-in styles, there’s a braid for every occasion and hair type. Experimenting with various techniques, sizes, and decorative elements like beads or colorful extensions can help you find the perfect braid that reflects your unique style. Whether you’re going for a chic everyday look or a bold statement for a special event, the trendiest braids are not only fun to create but also a timeless addition to your hairstyle repertoire. So grab some hair ties, get creative, and embrace the beauty of braiding!
