Box braids have long been a go-to protective style for black women and others with natural hair seeking a blend of versatility, beauty, and low-maintenance appeal. These medium length or long hair styles offer endless opportunities for personalization, from hair length to braid style, allowing anyone to express their individuality while keeping their hair safe and healthy. In this article, we’ll explore stunning box braid ideas that range from classic to contemporary, ideal for various face shapes, skin tones, and occasions.
Goddess Box Braids with Curls
Goddess box braids, intertwined with curls, are a stunning combination that adds softness and dimension to a classic braid style. This look is perfect for those with a round face shape, as the loose curls balance the fullness of the face while adding a playful, feminine touch. Ideal for casual settings or summer events, this style is perfect for both day-to-day wear and more laid-back evenings. The curls also give the hair a bouncy texture that catches the light beautifully, particularly in a medium or shoulder-length style.
To achieve this look, you’ll need to section the hair and braid it with extensions, leaving a few strands out at the ends to create the curls. Use a lightweight mousse to define the curls without weighing them down. Maintenance is easy: apply a curl-defining cream like SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie to keep the curls lively, and wrap your hair at night to prevent frizz.
Shoulder-Length Box Braids with Ombre Color
A stylish choice for those who love experimenting with color, shoulder-length box braids with an ombre effect are a trendy option that can suit almost any occasion. The gradual color change—from darker roots to lighter ends—adds depth and dimension to your look, making it an excellent choice for someone with an oval or heart-shaped face. This style enhances features such as deep brown eyes, drawing attention to the face while keeping the look fresh and modern.
This braid style can be achieved by using two-tone hair extensions, carefully blending the shades as you braid. For upkeep, use a color-protecting shampoo like Joico Color Balance Purple to maintain the vibrancy of your colored braids. Regular moisturizing sprays also help prevent your hair from drying out.
Box Braids with Cornrow Accents
Mixing box braids with cornrows gives a fresh twist to a classic style, adding intricate detailing along the scalp before transitioning into box braids. This hairstyle works beautifully for long, oval faces as the cornrow details provide structure and frame the face. This look is versatile enough to wear to the office yet stylish enough for a night out.
To create this look, you’ll need to start by parting sections for the cornrows, which will be braided closely to the scalp. The rest of the hair is styled into box braids. A leave-in conditioner like Cantu Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream can help keep your natural hair soft and moisturized while preventing frizz.
Jumbo Box Braids for Short Hair
Jumbo box braids are bold, beautiful, and great for those with short hair looking to make a statement. These thick, oversized braids are typically shoulder length or shorter, making them a good option for someone with a square or angular face shape, as the larger braids soften sharper features. This style is especially ideal for casual outings or beach days, giving a chic yet laid-back vibe.
To create this look, section the hair into large parts and braid using thick extensions. Due to the weight of the braids, it’s important to use a lightweight oil like Mielle Organics Mint Almond Oil to keep your scalp nourished without adding excess heaviness. Wrapping your hair at night is crucial to avoid tension on the scalp.
Box Braids with Bantu Knots
A creative way to switch up your box braid look is by combining it with Bantu knots. This hybrid style is playful and bold, perfect for those who love experimenting with their hair. The knots sit atop the head while the braids cascade down, offering a dynamic mix of textures. This hairstyle is best suited for round or oval faces, where the knots add height and dimension.
To get this look, section the hair as you would for traditional box braids, but instead of leaving all the braids loose, twist a few into Bantu knots. A strong edge control, like Creme of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges, will help keep the knots smooth and sleek.
Medium Box Braids with Beads
Beaded box braids give a cultural nod to African heritage while adding a unique flair to your hairstyle. This medium-length style works well for square or rectangular face shapes, as the beads help break up the sharp lines and add movement. It’s an ideal style for a festival or special occasion, where you want your hair to reflect your personal style.
To achieve this look, thread beads onto the ends of your braids after completing the braiding process. Secure the beads with rubber bands to ensure they stay in place. A moisturizing braid spray, such as African Pride Olive Miracle Braid Sheen, will keep your braids hydrated and looking fresh.
Twisted Box Braids
If you love the look of twists but want the longevity of box braids, try twisted box braids. These braids are styled like traditional box braids but with a twist, literally. Twists create a softer, looser braid that feels light and looks elegant. This style is ideal for oval faces and perfect for formal occasions like weddings or upscale dinners.
To create twisted box braids, start with your usual box braid sectioning but twist the extensions instead of braiding them. Use a lightweight gel like Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel to hold the twists in place without causing stiffness. Wrapping your twists at night with a satin scarf will help maintain their integrity.
Box Braids with French Braid Crown
Incorporating a French braid crown into your box braid style adds a regal touch to your look, making it perfect for special events like galas or weddings. This style is ideal for those with heart-shaped or oval faces, as it highlights the cheekbones and elongates the neck, giving an elegant silhouette.
To achieve this look, braid a section of your hair around the crown of your head, then allow the remaining box braids to flow freely. A mousse like Lotta Body Wrap Me Foaming Mousse will help keep the crown braid neat, while also providing shine.
Long Box Braids with Twists
Long box braids combined with twists offer a strikingly versatile look that works well for both casual and formal events. The long hair creates a dramatic effect, especially when styled with twists that give the braids added texture. This style works beautifully for rectangular faces, balancing the length and adding volume where needed.
To create this look, part the hair as you would for box braids but alternate between braiding and twisting. Use a lightweight cream like Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk to keep your twists moisturized and frizz-free.
Box Braids with Dutch Braids
For an edgy yet elegant style, try pairing your box braids with Dutch braids. This double-braided look is perfect for someone with an angular face, as the structure of the Dutch braids helps soften the overall look. This style is ideal for active women who need a hairstyle that can stay in place during exercise while still looking chic for post-gym activities.
To achieve this look, part your hair into two sections, creating Dutch braids along the top and allowing the rest of the hair to be styled into box braids. Use a clarifying shampoo like Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo once a week to prevent product buildup on your scalp.
Box Braids with Triangle Parts
Box braids with triangle parts offer a modern twist on the traditional square sectioning. The unique geometric pattern adds visual interest to your scalp, making it an eye-catching style for both everyday wear and special occasions. This look is especially flattering on oval or round face shapes, as the triangular sections help elongate the face. It’s perfect for someone who enjoys a contemporary edge in their style.
To achieve this look, divide the hair into triangular sections before braiding, ensuring clean and precise parts. Use a rat-tail comb for accuracy and a lightweight gel like Shine ’n Jam to keep the parts neat. Maintenance involves regularly oiling the scalp with a product like Jamaican Black Castor Oil to prevent dryness.
Half-Up, Half-Down Box Braids
The half-up, half-down box braid style is a chic and versatile option, allowing you to keep some hair out of your face while letting the rest flow freely. It works well with medium length braids and is suitable for both formal and casual settings. This style is particularly flattering for heart-shaped faces, as the pulled-back portion adds height and enhances the jawline.
To create this style, simply gather the top half of your braids and secure them with a hair tie, leaving the rest to fall naturally. You can accessorize with decorative clips or rings to add extra flair. Use a conditioning braid spray like African Pride Olive Miracle to keep your braids moisturized and shiny.
Bohemian Box Braids
Bohemian box braids combine traditional braids with free-flowing, curly ends, creating a relaxed and carefree vibe. This style is perfect for beach days, festivals, or any laid-back setting. The loose curls soften the overall look, making it ideal for square or angular face shapes. The braid style enhances natural beauty while adding a touch of whimsy.
To achieve this look, braid the hair about halfway down, leaving the ends free to curl. Use a curling wand or perm rods to define the curls at the ends, and apply a curl cream like TGIN Twist & Define Cream to keep them looking fresh. Regular moisturizing with a leave-in conditioner will ensure the curls remain soft and bouncy.
Box Braids with High Ponytail
A high ponytail with box braids is a bold and powerful look that’s perfect for a workout, night out, or even the office. This style works particularly well for long hair or shoulder-length braids and suits a variety of face shapes. The height of the ponytail creates an instant lift, adding length to round or heart-shaped faces.
To achieve this style, gather all your braids into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure with a strong hair tie. For extra shine and hold, apply a styling mousse like ORS Olive Oil Mousse to keep flyaways at bay. This style is easy to maintain—simply refresh the edges with edge control gel to keep it sleek.
Box Braids with Twists into a Bun
A combination of twists and box braids styled into a bun creates an elegant updo that’s perfect for weddings, formal events, or a sophisticated day at the office. The mixture of textures adds complexity to the style, making it a great choice for oval or heart-shaped faces, as it adds volume and height.
To achieve this look, braid and twist sections of hair, then gather them into a high bun. Use a hair tie to secure the bun in place. For added shine, use a serum like Moroccanoil Treatment, and wrap the style in a satin scarf at night to maintain its sleekness.
Layered Box Braids
Layered box braids provide a cascading effect that adds depth and dimension to your hairstyle. This medium length style is perfect for those who want movement and versatility. It works well for oval and rectangular face shapes, as the layers help frame the face and soften sharp features. This look is ideal for professional settings or a casual day out.
To achieve this look, have the braids cut into layers after installation to create the staggered effect. A lightweight oil like OGX Renewing Argan Oil can help maintain shine and prevent frizz. Make sure to protect the ends by regularly applying a moisturizing cream to avoid dryness.
Box Braids with Spiral Curls
For a playful and eye-catching look, try box braids with spiral curls. This style adds texture and dimension, creating a voluminous effect that’s perfect for parties, festivals, or casual outings. The spiral curls add softness, making it a great option for heart-shaped or square faces. It gives the appearance of fullness and works beautifully with short or medium-length braids.
To achieve this look, braid the hair and use spiral rods to curl the ends. Apply a mousse like Lotta Body Foaming Mousse to keep the curls defined and bouncy. For maintenance, regularly spray a hydrating mist to keep the curls moisturized and frizz-free.
Box Braids with Bold Highlights
Adding bold, contrasting highlights to box braids is an excellent way to showcase personal style while giving your hair a vibrant, dynamic look. This color option is perfect for those with round or oval faces, as the highlights draw attention to the face’s structure and can enhance features like eye color. It’s a great style for anyone who loves to stand out in a crowd.
To achieve this look, incorporate colored hair extensions into the braids, either throughout the entire head or as accent pieces. A color-protecting spray like Paul Mitchell Color Protect Locking Spray will help maintain the vibrancy of the highlights and keep the braids looking fresh.
Box Braids with Side Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs with box braids offer a soft, romantic touch to the traditional box braid look. This style is perfect for someone with a square or rectangular face, as the bangs soften angular features. It works well for formal occasions or everyday wear, adding a touch of elegance and movement to your hairstyle.
To create this look, leave a portion of the hair in the front unbraided and style it into a side-swept bang before braiding the rest. Secure the bangs with light gel to keep them in place. For upkeep, a moisturizing spray like Taliah Waajid Protective Styles Bamboo, Basil & Peppermint Hydrating Growth Oil will keep your scalp and braids nourished.
Box Braids with Scarf Wrap
Accessorizing your box braids with a scarf wrap is a trendy and practical way to elevate your hairstyle. This look works for any hair length and is ideal for those with round or oval faces. The scarf adds color and texture while also providing protection from the sun, making it perfect for summer days or beach outings.
To achieve this look, tie a scarf around the base of your braids, either as a headband or fully wrapped around your head. Choose a silk or satin scarf to prevent friction against the braids. For maintenance, regularly oil your scalp and apply a light mist to your braids to keep them moisturized.
Conclusion
Box braids offer endless creativity, catering to various face shapes, occasions, and personal styles. Whether you prefer classic, sleek designs or bold and colorful styles, there’s a box braid idea for everyone. Feel free to comment below with your favorite box braid styles, or share your own ideas!
Hi! I’m Alena Forushchenko, and I’ve been passionately creating beauty for over 8 years. My journey into the world of beauty started with an unexpected twist—I was studying art and realized my true canvas wasn’t paper or paint, but people. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to help others see the best versions of themselves.
