50 Best Box Braids Hairstyles to Try in 2023

 

If you’re after a fresh hairstyle that’s protective and stylish, look no further than box braids. This ’90s favorite has returned once again and it is looking better than ever before. Whether worn long or short, big or small, box braids are seriously chic and on-trend. They’ve been spotted on celebs like Beyonce, Alicia Keys, Solange, Zoe Kravitz, and Rihanna in recent times. So, why not give them a go yourself? All you need is some inspiration, and we can help. Below is our roundup of gorgeous box braids hairstyles to try right now.

 

RELATED: 30 Best Braided Hairstyles for Women

 

1. Big Box Braids

Box braids are a protective style made by sectioning the hair into squares and then creating individual plaits. The appeal is that there are many different ways to style box braids, from small to big, and with various hair textures. If you want a bold look, then big box braids are it. This is a wonderful, low-maintenance option that will leave your hair looking good! The larger braids will highlight the sections of hair and make them appear more defined. They are also easier to install and faster than smaller options because the hair is parted into bigger pieces.

 

 

2. Small Box Braids

One of the reasons women love box braids is because of their versatility. They can be styled in a variety of ways, and this lets you get creative and allows you to express yourself and show off your personality. Box braids have a box-like appearance, although opting for smaller braids will not make this as noticeable as it would on jumbo braids. Small box braids can be chic and feminine and can be done in many lengths. It is also the perfect option for women with thin hair as it is a look that is lighter and will not cause damage to your roots.

 

 

3. Jumbo Box Braids

Jumbo box braids are for the woman who wants to make a statement. Your hair will demand attention with these oversized braids that are big, thick, and styled into boxy shapes. The braids are more than a fashion statement, though, and are a protective style that will lock in moisture, help natural hair growth, and give you a break from heat styling. Jumbo braids are quicker and easier to install and look great when paired with accessories such as beads, rings, or cuffs. Box braids can last up to six weeks, depending on the style you choose and how you care for them, making this a fantastic choice!

 

 

4. Medium Box Braids

If you are looking for a protective style that can not only lock in moisture and aid natural hair growth but is also versatile and feminine, then medium box braids are it. These braids are of medium thickness, offering you the best of both worlds. They are relatively easy and quick to install. They are large but not too big that they make a bold statement, and they can be styled in various ways. This includes stylish updos or leaving them long and loose. They can be adapted to suit different hair textures and lengths, and these braids will reduce styling time every day and complement your facial features.

 

 

5. Micro Box Braids

Micro box braids are an excellent choice for women who want many braids instead of just a few. It can create a chic aesthetic. You can style your hair in various ways, including leaving them down or working them into an interesting updo hairstyle, for example, a top bun. Micro braids are very small, and when installed, only a few strands are done at a time; this makes the installation process very time-consuming and often expensive. Removal will also take a lot of time. The pro is that this protective style is lighter and therefore easier to wear, especially if you have thin hair.

 

 

6. Black and Blonde Box Braids

Box braids are a great protective style that can reduce grooming time every day and leave you with a pretty and feminine appearance. The best thing about these braids is that they are incredibly versatile; this allows you to tailor them to suit your hair texture, length, and style. In addition, you can experiment with different colors, and black and blonde box braids are a look that is going to get you noticed. Adding blonde coloring to your black braids helps achieve an interesting contrast, and this will also highlight your facial features.

 

 

7. Blonde Box Braids

Is the saying blondes have more fun true? Well, you can decide that for yourself by opting for blonde box braids. This can be achieved by braiding in blonde hair extensions, but you can work with your hairstylist to find the option that best suits you. Blonde braids are a great way to lighten your look and draw attention to your face. They can also create a youthful appearance and will highlight the texture and shape of your braids. This is because the hue can make your hairstyle more noticeable. The finished result is gorgeous and golden.

 

 

8. 90s Box Braids Hairstyle

The 90s was a decade that brought us a lot of interesting beauty and hair trends, many of which have made a comeback because of their wearability. Box braid hairstyles from this decade are fun and ultra-feminine. You can create your braids in various lengths and thicknesses, but opting for smaller braids with curly ends is a chic and texturally interesting choice. Wear it in a top knot or a half up half down hairstyle. To give it that 90s vibe, you can add an oversized scrunchie or a few cute butterfly clips.

 

 

9. Bob Box Braids

The bob haircut is one of the most classic styles for women. It has withstood the test of time because it is easy to manage, adaptable, and universally flattering. The bob can be created on various hair textures and colors, but you can also opt to style your braided hair in a bob. This is an approach that gives a fresh twist on a timeless style. Bob box braids also have a youthful appearance but are edgy and cool. Plus, it can highlight your facial features. Wear your hairstyle with confidence and enjoy the attention it is bound to bring you.

 

 

10. Box Braids Updo

The fantastic thing about box braids is that they can be adapted to varying levels of thickness and lengths, allowing you to find a look that best suits you. They can also be left down or worked into an updo, and there are many options to choose from. Some women may want to keep it simple with an elegant updo. Others want to make a statement with a half up half down look. If you’re going to stand out from the crowd, they try out a top bun and leave the rest of your hair loose. You can also try out different colors, including white or grey if you want a style that will turn heads. This look will draw attention to your neck and face and can be incredibly flattering. The lighter color will also illuminate your features.

 

 

11. Box Braids with a Headband

The headband is a favorite accessory for many women because it can add a preppy and feminine touch to their appearance. There are many different headbands to choose from, created in various sizes and thicknesses, and with a multitude of patterns or colors to choose from. Find the one that appeals to you most and wear it over your box braids for a stylish and cute look. You can use it to keep the braids out of your face, thus opening up your face and highlighting your features. Or wear it right behind your ears and let the braids fall loosely around your face for a softer finish.

 

 

12. Box Braids with Beads

Box braids are a protective style that fashion icons and celebrities have favored because they are gorgeous and versatile, but they can be traced back to South Africa. They are highly adaptable but add beads if you wish to opt for a more traditional way to wear them. Beads are much more than an excellent accessory though, they are also a way to honor your tribal heritage and ancestors and should be worn with pride. Traditionally, beads have been worn to indicate marital status, social standing, and much more. There are many different types of beads to choose from, giving your look a unique and symbolic appearance.

 

 

13. Box Braids with Curly Ends

To add a softness to your box braids, why not create them with curly ends? When you unravel your box braids, you will find that they produce a gorgeous, textured appearance, and you can choose to leave the ends undone for a unique finish. This is a beautiful way to change up the protective style and add your twist to it. It is also the perfect option for women with naturally curly hair and will let you show this off. You can add curly ends to box braids of various lengths and thicknesses, but it will work best on medium-length braids, which will fall around your face and gorgeously frame your features.

 

 

14. Box Braids with Hair Design

Box braids will reduce your grooming time every morning and will protect your natural hair. In addition to facilitating hair growth and locking in moisture, this style lets you express yourself and can be adapted to suit your hair texture, length, and personality. For those women looking for a statement look or a way to show the world that they are fun and not afraid to take a risk, then adding a hair design is the choice for you. Hair designs can be simple or complicated, depending on your preference, but they also add an edginess to your appearance. Get your hairstylist to shave intricate patterns into the side of your hair, which contrasts with the braids on top.

 

 

15. Box Braids with Headscarf

A headscarf can be a great way to add some color to your appearance, and it is one of the cutest accessories to try out. There are many colors, patterns, and prints to choose from, allowing you to find something that best suits you. This could be anything from your favorite shade to a print that holds special importance to you. The style can also draw attention away from your forehead and could highlight your eyes depending on how you choose to incorporate it. Leave some hair loose to frame the face. Or pull it all back for a practical option that keeps the hair out of your face. Working your hair into a headscarf will look great but can also provide it with added protection, especially if you choose a silk scarf to prevent friction.

 

 

16. Box Braids with Side Ponytails

Is there any style that cannot be done with box braids? For many, your creativity is your only limit as this protective style is highly adaptable. It can be styled in many ways, allowing you to find the perfect look for your hair length, texture, and thickness and show off your personality. Side ponytails look super cute and girly and can add a youthful touch to your appearance. They are also a great way to frame your face and highlight your features, as the hair falls around the face on either side. It can be done on braids of various thicknesses, but you want to ensure that your side ponytails are big enough to achieve the desired effect.

 

 

17. Box Braids with Space Buns

Space buns are the 90s look we all love because it is edgy yet cute. In recent years, the style has enjoyed a resurgence of popularity because it is associated with the e-girl aesthetic and festival-goers, who have found that the updo is easy to create and adaptable. You can make this look on box braids, and they will work on braids of various thicknesses. The style is great because it allows you to have fun with the buns and show off the texture of your braids. If you want to stand out from the crowd, feel free to add streaks of pastel or rainbow colors into your updo. Or play around with cute accessories.

 

 

18. Box Braids Ponytail

The ponytail is one of the simplest updos to achieve, requiring little effort or skill. Opting to put your box braids into a ponytail hairstyle is a wonderful choice because it can keep the hair off your neck, therefore drawing attention to the neck and face and highlighting your features. It is also an excellent option for those who live in warmer climates as it can keep you cool. You can channel the 90s with a scrunchie or add a clear elastic band to your braids for a more sophisticated finish. Remember not to pull the ponytail too tight, as this can cause tension.

 

 

19. Box Braids Top Bun

The box braids top bun is an attractive option that will lend itself well to various settings. Wear it on a date, wear it to a festival, or keep it chic and sophisticated for work. There is almost nowhere you cannot wear a top bun. For a voluminous top bun, ensure you have many thick braids. You can also choose to keep it smaller and more subtle by using smaller braids. Add highlights to your hair, or opt for bold colors like red or platinum blonde if you want to let it make a statement; the more natural-looking though, the more versatility. Not only will you look and feel great, but, at the same time, your hair is in a protective style that is locking in moisture and aiding hair growth. Box braids help reduce friction and breakage and can be worn in countless ways.

 

 

20. Black Box Braids with Blonde Highlight Braids

You can do this with blonde highlights to add dimension and contrast to your black braids. Highlights can lift your hair; they can also help create movement and dimension and look great when paired with black hair because they produce a multi-dimensional finish. Play around with varying shades of blonde, from caramels to lighter tones like platinum, depending on how dramatic you want the effect to be. You can also choose to add the highlights throughout the hair or opt for them only at the front for a face-framing result.

 

 

21. Box Braids Updo

Box braids lend themselves well to braided updos, and there are many different options to choose from. Some women may want a chunky and voluminous look that will demand attention; others may want something simple and clean, perfect for more formal occasions and creating a chic and sophisticated appearance. If the latter option is what you are after, work your hair into an updo by gathering it away from your face; this draws attention to your features. Updos can have a very feminine feel and are perfect for showing off your neck and face.

 

 

22. Box Braids with Shaved Side

Box braids can be created in various lengths and thicknesses and adapted to suit your hair texture and type. But they can also be done in multiple hairstyles, including ones that allow you to add a unique touch to your look and express your fun side. This can be achieved with hair design, an undercut, or shaved sides. Box braids with a shaved side produce an interesting contrast between the hair on the top of the head and the side. It has a rebellious feel to it but will also better show off the boxy shape of your braids on the rest of your hair. If you want to make it even more daring, choose a bold or bright hair color.

 

 

23. Box Braids with Beads

Braided hairstyles with beads are incredibly interesting to look at, but they also have great importance. Traditionally, they were worn to distinguish between different tribes, show achievement, social standing, even relationship status, and so much more. There are a variety of beads to choose from, from glass and plastic to wooden, each with its appeal and unique finish. No two looks are the same, allowing for personalization and can be a way to honor your heritage and ancestors and provide a way to express yourself. You can work your beads into an updo hairstyle or incorporate them onto the ends of your hair; the choice is yours!

 

 

24. Braided Box Braids

Box braids are an appealing option because they are versatile and can be created on various hair textures and lengths. For those women who want quick and easy installation and braids that make a statement, the bigger, the better. Whereas, for those who want a more subtle and feminine approach, thinner braids are gorgeous. The appeal of braided styles is that they can be adapted to suit your hair and personality. One such way is to style them with a simple plait for a boho appearance. This adds a softness to your braids and can be very feminine.

 

 

25. Brown Box Braids

Braids are a protective style to help your natural hair remain strong, give a break from heat styling, and reduce daily grooming time. Box braids are one of the best styles to choose because they are relatively easy and quick to install, although the smaller your braids are, the more time-consuming they will be. They also lend themselves well to personalization, and this includes opting for different colors. Brown hair is a gorgeous, warm tone that will suit most complexions. It is an excellent choice for someone who wants to try out lighter hair without making a very dramatic change. Brown hair can also give your appearance a lift.

 

 

26. Coral Pink Box Braids

If you enjoy the attention and don’t mind turning heads, look no further than coral pink hair box braids. Choosing bright and bold hair colors is not for the faint of heart as it demands attention, but it is a great way to express yourself. The hue will also highlight your braids and can draw attention to their details. Coral is a positive shade, often associated with femininity and optimism, and this could be the perfect way to add a pop of color to your appearance. Have fun by experimenting with your makeup; this could be with a similar shade of lipstick or eyeshadow.

 

 

27. Cornrows with Box Braids

Cornrows are braided close to the scalp and form neat rows. They are incredibly adaptable and can be created in various sizes and combined with braids. Cornrows and box braids make for a texturally interesting look. There are several ways to try this style, but the most common is to opt for cornrows at the hairline, with the box braids at the back. You can wear them up or half-up to show off the different textures. Both are protective styles that will help reduce daily grooming time and lock in moisture. This can facilitate natural hair growth and is less prone to breakage. To add even more personality to your hairstyle, you could add hair accessories, streaks of bold color, or highlights for dimension.

 

 

28. Crochet Box Braids

One way to install box braids is with crochet; this is done by opting to cornrow your hair first and then using a hook to thread in box braid extensions. These extensions can be braided into the style of your choosing but work well with box braids because of their versatility. This technique is appealing because it is effortless and quick to achieve. This is great for a woman who wants long and luscious braids but doesn’t have the time to sit and wait for them to be installed. You can still put your personal touch on them afterward, whether with beads, cuffs, or other accessories.

 

 

29. Curly Box Braids

Box braids can be created in various lengths and thicknesses, but you can also style them so that they can appear curly. This option is voluminous and gorgeous, making a softer appearance as it falls around your face in a feminine way. Curly box braids are weaved together into large braids. This is a protective style that is still textured and gorgeous, and it is not hard to see why this would be an appealing option for women of all ages.

 

 

30. Green Box Braids Bob

You can work your box braids into a bob for a versatile and cute short hairstyle. The bob is a cut that looks great on women of all ages and tends to be universally flattering. That said, if you want to make it unique, then dye your hair a bright shade such as green. A green box braid bob is for those of us who are adventurous and fun. It is for risk-takers who don’t mind changing up their styles and want a way to express the playful side of their personality. Not only will green hair get you noticed, but it can also make a subtle statement about your feelings. The hue is associated with nature and growth. For added impact, you can wear green eyeshadow or eye-liner.

 

 

31. Grey Box Braids

Grey is a cool color that is surprisingly easy to pull off as it looks great on most women. It can make a statement when added to your box braids. Although grey looks good, it can also be high-maintenance, and if you are not incorporating already dyed extensions into your hair, you will need to bleach them first to get a light base color before dying it grey. This can be time-consuming and expensive, as well as damaging to your hair. However, the finished effect will make a statement. Wear your silver hair with confidence and enjoy the attention that it brings. It is also worth remembering that grey/silver hair tends to fade quickly, so this is likely not a color that you will commit to long-term.

 

 

32. Half Orange Half Pink Box Braids

What look demands attention more than the split-dye trend? The great thing about this hair coloring option is that it lets you try out two colors simultaneously. These colors can be anything, from clashing hues to complementary shades like orange and pink. Half orange and half pink box braids are for someone who wants to have fun and express themselves. The brightness of these two colors will get your hair noticed. They are also associated with happiness and positivity, making them a great way to add a pop of color to your appearance and elevate your mood. The split-dye will draw attention to your face. The downside is that bold colors do fade fast, so keeping up this look requires regular maintenance.

 

 

33. Half Pink Half Aqua Box Braids

Another cool split-dye option is pink and aqua. These colors look great together but offer more of a contrast. The appeal of this coloring is that it will make you stand out from the crowd, but it also takes some serious confidence to pull off. For women who want to be different or prefer an edgier appearance, this is the option for you. The bright colors will also highlight your braids. Pink hair color is associated with femininity, while aqua reminds you of the ocean and often evokes feelings of tranquility and calm. To channel your inner mermaid, you can also opt for aqua eyeshadow and a pretty pink shade of lipstick.

 

 

34. Half Up Half Down Box Braids Lob

The lob is much like the bob hairstyle, only longer. The added length makes this cut even more versatile as it can be worn in different ways, for example, with interesting angles. It is also incredibly flattering on women of all ages and can be adapted to suit various hair textures. You can also work your braided hair into a lob. The lob is not too long that it is difficult to manage, but it does provide enough length for you to experiment with various updos, including the half up half down hairstyle. This is a simple and easy way to keep the hair away from your face. It is also an excellent option for more formal occasions, and, with the right outfit and makeup, it will look sophisticated.

 

 

35. Jumbo Blue Box Braids

Jumbo braids are fun and stylish. They are also much faster to install and remove because the hair is parted into larger sections. This is also the perfect option for showing off bright colors and incorporating different hair accessories into your look. Opting for jumbo blue box braids is a cool and fun way to wear your hair. It will add edginess to your appearance, but it is also a calming color. This is an excellent choice for someone who wants large braids that make a statement and is especially great for women who have naturally thick hair.

 

 

36. Long Box Braids

If you love long hair and want braids that are incredibly versatile because they can be styled in various ways, then look no further than long box braids. Box braids look fantastic in multiple lengths and thicknesses, but leaving them super long has a very feminine feel. They do take more time and effort to achieve, and you may have to sit longer when getting them installed, but the finished look is eye-catching. You can wear them loose or work your braids into the updo of your dreams. Just take care when installing your braids to remember that if you have naturally thin or fine hair, this may not be the best option. This is because the weight of the braids could pull at your scalp and cause tension.

 

 

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37. Messy Top Bun with Box Braids

Top buns with box braids are a great way to have some fun with your hairstyle. You can pull them up and away from your face, making it the perfect option for more formal occasions. This is also a fantastic option for the warmer months or if you live in hot climates as it can be a cooler way to wear box braids, keeping them off your neck. To achieve a more relaxed aesthetic, you can style your top bun to look messy and undone. This has a soft and feminine feel to it. You can also pull your braids on either side of the face to allow it to frame it and highlight your facial features.

 

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38. Ombre Box Braids

Ombre is a popular coloring technique because it is a great way to add dimension to your hair. It is also the perfect way to try out different shades. The way ombre is created is by blending two colors, often one light and the other dark. This can be natural hues like blond and brown or something more dramatic, like light and dark blue. Depending on the look you want to achieve, an ombre hairstyle can give your appearance a lift, or it can make a bold statement. You can try out the coloring on braids of various lengths and thicknesses, including box braids because they are one of the most versatile styles.

 

 

39. Pastel Box Braids

Pastel colors are a firm favorite in the hairstyle world because they are a way to try out a color without it being too bold. The muted shades make them softer and easier to wear and are the perfect option for women who want a change. Pastels are universally flattering and look good with various skin tones. However, there are some downsides; the colors fade fast and often need to be created on a light base color. This can be much easier to do with braids, as you can install light blonde braids instead of having to bleach your natural hair.

 

 

40. Pink and Dark Blue Box Braids

Pink and blue are two colors that often go hand-in-hand because they are complementary shades. This makes this the perfect combination for the split-dye hair trend. This coloring technique is incredibly popular at the moment because of the E-Girl aesthetic, but also because it lets you have fun with your appearance and express yourself. More and more women are being drawn to hair that genuinely reflects who they are. For the woman who is fun and adventurous, this is the choice for you! That said, wearing your braids with these colors can take some serious confidence to pull off and may not be a good choice for all settings. If you work in a more conservative environment or your workplace has strict grooming codes, this is something to consider beforehand.

 

 

41. Pink Box Braids

Pink box braids are a great way to show off your femininity. Styling your braids in the bob is a modern approach to a classic. The color is often associated with love and female energy, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to celebrate these things. Pink hair is also a color that is easier to wear than many other shades because it has a softness. It can also show that you have a playful side. Opting for a pastel or a rose pink will be easier to pull off than the brighter shades.

 

 

42. Platinum Blonde Box Braids

Platinum hair color is one of the most striking choices there is. The bold and bright hue makes it unmissable, drawing attention to your braids but also highlighting your face. It can be a difficult color to maintain, but it adds brightness to your appearance and can highlight your facial features. It is also a color that looks great on hair of various textures and lengths and can be styled in different ways. You can leave your braids long and loose or style them in an undone, messy updo for a more relaxed aesthetic.

 

 

43. Purple Box Braids

Purple is an excellent color for braids because it can make even the most simple look more interesting. There is a wide range of shades to choose from, allowing you to find the one that most appeals to you and best suits your complexion. Darker purple is easier to pull off, but the brighter colors will make more of a statement and draw attention to your braids; this is something to consider when determining which hue you will choose. Purple hair can create a luxurious appearance and is often associated with royalty and power. You can unleash your inner queen with the box braids of your dreams.

 

 

44. Rainbow Festival Box Braids

If you are looking for a cute hairstyle that is unique and fun, then let us introduce you to rainbow festival braids. Rainbow hair contains many different shades and makes a statement. The process can be damaging on natural hair as it requires bleaching to a lighter base before dying the bold hues; however, this look can be much easier to achieve with braids. Work with your hairstylist to choose from a range of brightly colored extensions that will give you an edgy and cool appearance. This is an excellent style for the summer, festivals, or dates, but it may not be workplace-appropriate.

 

 

45. Red Bob Box Braids with Beads

Red box braids could also be a way to draw attention to your braids and their details, which could include unique accessories or beads. There is a wide range of beads to choose from, including wooden or gold-colored; work with your hairstylist to find the beads that mean the most to you and best suit your hairstyle. The appeal of box braids is their versatility, and they can be created on various hair textures, lengths, and thicknesses. If you want a feminine look that is low-maintenance, a bob haircut is a great choice. This timeless classic is sophisticated and universally flattering.

 

 

46. Red Box Braids

Red is such a rich color that it makes any hairstyle noticeable. It is also often associated with passion, courage, and power, and dying your box braids red can make a subtle statement about the qualities that you value. There are also several shades of red hair color to choose from, including more subdued colors like burgundy, to the bright and unmissable cherry reds. For maximum effect, you can wear bright red lipstick to draw even more attention to your face. This will also add a very seductive touch to your appearance.

 

 

47. Short Box Braids

Short box braids are great for women who want to use their natural hair or keep their hair simple and manageable. You do not need to have jumbo braids or super long lengths to rock box braids. The beauty of this protective style is that it looks good on all lengths. Shorter braids will also be lighter and can be a good option for those with thin hair as they will not cause damage to the roots. Box braids can last up to six weeks, depending on how you care for them, making this a fantastic way to change up your hair and reduce daily grooming time.

 

 

48. Triangle Box Braids

Box braids are defined by their box-like appearance and how the hair is sectioned, but for those who want something a little different, then triangle box braids are the perfect alternative. The difference is the way the hair is sectioned into triangular shapes instead of box ones. This is a great way to change up the look and has a unique and interesting finish. If you want to show off the detailing, then thicker braids are best. This protective style is gorgeous, but it is also long-lasting.

 

 

49. Undone Box Braids Hairstyle

If you prefer a more boho aesthetic, then undone box braids are the hairstyle for you. Letting your braids unravel at the end creates a gorgeous, curly appearance that has a softness to it. When the curls fall around your face, it can look stunning. This hairstyle can be worn with braids of all lengths, but for the best effect, longer braids work best. If you opt for shorter braids, there will be less room for curly ends. You can also add your own touches to your look by adding wire, thread, and cuffs, for a unique and modern finish.

 

 

50. Yellow Box Braids

Yellow box braids are the bright and bold choice that will get you noticed. Opting to dye your hair unnatural colors is a great way to express yourself your playful side. It is a way not to conform and can create an edgy or cool appearance. Yellow is one of the most saturated colors, making it unmissable. It is also appealing because the shade is associated with happiness and optimism, so looking in the mirror every day may put a smile on your face. Wear this look in the summertime, to the beach, to festivals, or whenever you feel like elevating your mood.