The 8 Most Popular Types of Box Braids
Finding the perfect hairstyle that is both versatile and goes a long way in protecting your beautiful locks can be challenging and a bit overwhelming if you do not know what you are looking for. Box braids have been one of the most popular hairstyles for many years and even many decades for various reasons.
Some of the most popular box braids have been sported by many celebrities over the years. This is because the style is versatile and beautiful, with the bonus of protecting your hair from harsher methods that some styles cause.
To learn more about the box braids that may be best suited for you will depend on the style you are trying to achieve. Keep reading to discover what box braids are and 8 of the most popular types of this beautiful hairstyle.
What Are Box Braids?
Box Braids are a hairstyle that is achieved through the creation of plaits that start with three strands of hair, much like a standard braid. The difference is that for box braids, the hair is gathered by creating a square or box-type pattern in the hair.
The box braid, with its square pattern at the top, can then be braided down the entire length of strands of hair to create a more flowing and relaxed style. Many stylists add in either synthetic or natural hair extensions to create a thicker and more fuller hairstyle. Box braid would look different in any colored hair, especially with a sun-kissed balayage. Get a Balayage Certification Online here to highlight any of the next type box braids.
Depending on how much hair you have, the process of creating box braids can be a simple or more extensive procedure. Most stylists start with one section of the hair at a time, creating the box shape then braiding it down the entire length.
The process is repeated throughout the entire head of hair which may include extensions for some people. This carefully done hairstyle can last for several weeks or even months, depending on how well it is taken care of. Head over to Box braids 101: How to get the Full Look! to learn how to do your new hairstyle step by step.
Where Did Box Braids Start?
Box braids are said to have originated in South Africa around 3500 B.C. It is not uncommon to see the box braid styles many adorn today back in Namibia and the Nile Valley during that time.
It is believed that many of the women who could afford to spend the money and time to have box braids done were of the more wealthy in the tribes. This is because of the intensive process that box braids entail and the cost of supplies to make them stay intact for long periods.
Additionally, those who had their hair done into box braids often adorned them with various beads, shells, or jewels that would make the style even more beautiful. This is another reason that it is believed that box braids were only worn by the more elite within the communities. Learn the Best Hair Styling Courses Online to have a solid foundation on hairstyles before jumping off to this popular beautiful art of making braided hair.
What Are the Different Types of Box Braids?
Over the years, many hairstylists have created box braids in a wide variety of different styles that make them more diverse and unique. There are many different styles of box braids, from the very simple to the more complex styles.
Here are some of the different types of box braids that exist today:
- Small Box Braids
- Big Box Braids
- Medium Box Braids
- Jumbo Box Braids
- 90s Box Braids
- Colored Box Braids
- Bob Box Braids
- Box Braid Updo
- Crochet Box Braids
- Box Braids with designs, beads, or headscarves
- Curly Box Braids
The list goes on and on for the various box braid types that many people have created over the years. This is because the style is so versatile that almost anything is possible when it comes to creating such a unique hairstyle.
The 8 Most Popular Types of Box Braids
While many types of box braids exist to give those who love the style variety, some are the most popular amongst many people. These styles give the most variety and allow those who sport the style more options daily.
1.
Knotless Box Braids
This style of box braid allows you to have the beautiful style that box braids provide without the bulky knots that many styles create. The result also creates a versatile style that can be left down or created into a simple updo or ponytail easily.
Additionally, this knotless box braids style goes a long way to protect the hair and scalp from excess pulling and tugging that standard box braiding can cause. Since braiding typically requires you to pull the knots tight to ensure they stay longer, they can cause quite a bit of pressure on the head.
2.
Crochet Box Braids
This type of box braid requires the use of the client’s natural hair as well as hair extensions to create a beautiful style that requires less pulling and tugging. In most cases, the Crochet box braid can be done in a lot less time as well.
The style is created by beginning with the box braid at the top and then slowly crocheting in the hair extensions using a tool much like the crochet needle. Because you are weaving in hair extensions, the client has the choice to go with a more natural to them color, or they can play it up with various fun colors for more flair.
3.
Bob Box Braids
For those who love the bob style but also want to complete the look with box braids, the bob box braid hairstyle may be just the right look for you. This is because the style can be easily done either with a client’s natural hair or by adding in extensions depending on the length of the bob they desire.
Whether you choose a short bob or a longer bob, you also have the option of choosing the type of box braids you want. With a shorter style, many people choose to stick with small or medium-sized braids, while those who want a longer bob choose to go with big or even jumbo box braids.
This style can be accentuated with the use of various cuffs and/or various colors of hair extensions depending on the individual style. With the longer bob box braid, you still have some versatility to pull your hair back into a small ponytail or even some simple bun-type styles as well.
4.
Colored Box Braids
Those who are a little more daring in their style enjoy having the option to do colored box braids. This allows them to show their individuality while also fashionable with their box braids.
This style is typically achieved by choosing the type of box braid you wish to sport, which for colored box braids, can be any of the other styles. During the braiding process, after the initial box shape has been created, stylists will braid in hair extensions with the desired color the client has decided on.
The great thing about this style is that it can be completely customized to fit your personality and styling choices. You can choose to go with one color throughout or even mix it up and add in a variety of colors depending on what you want.
5.
Goddess Box Braids
This box braids style has become popular amongst many people, celebrities included, for the beautiful result it gives the individual. This style can also be versatile and can be changed up throughout the time of having the style to create different looks.
The Goddess Box Braids are created by beginning with the standard box braid, and depending on the length of the client’s natural hair, may require adding in hair extensions to reach the desired length. Once the braiding has come down about halfway or about three-fourths of the way, the ends are curled, giving them a beautiful goddess-like look.
Since this style allows for a longer length of hair, the individual has the luxury of changing up the look a little day by day. This means that if they choose to wear it down, they can. Otherwise, they may choose to pull it back in a ponytail if they need it out of their face.
6.
Beaded Box Braids
Some people choose to adorn their box braids with beads or jewels to accentuate their style and add a little more flair to their hairstyle. While many people choose to add beads to their long or short locks, others choose to also have bangs with beads mixed in.
This style is achieved much like the standard box braid style by starting with a square or box at the scalp of the head. Throughout the braiding process, the stylist will add beads in strategic places while continuing the braiding process.
If done right, this can add a beautiful touch to an already gorgeous style of the box braid that many people love. Frequently people with this style will stick to one color of bead throughout, but you have the option to mix it up if you choose
7.
High Ponytail Box Braid
Although with many of the longer box braid styles, you can pull them back into a ponytail, the high ponytail style is a specific look that your stylist can create for you. This style is also very versatile and looks great for casual and professional occasions.
The style is created by doing the standard box braid by creating the box at the scalp and then braiding down the length of the locks. The style is done so that it makes it easy to pull into a high ponytail or any length of ponytail you choose.
Additionally, to add more drama to the look, you can either add colored extensions or even colored scrunchies or scarves to complete the look. This style can go from daytime at the office to a night on the town with the girls or special someone.
8.
Box Braids With Thread
This style gives the standard box braid in various sizes a more personalized look and style with the option of using a variety of colors. Many people who wear box braids enjoy finding new ways to style their hair to look different each time they get their hair done.
The box braids with thread can accentuate the box braid style differently than just adding colored extensions. To create this style, the hairstylist begins the standard box braid and, while continuing the length of the braid, weaves in the desired thread throughout to make an interesting pattern or design.
The thread used in conjunction with a colored hair extension can add depth and dimension to any box braid style. It also adds a contrast that can look beautiful for anyone who wants something a little different.
Final Box Braids Tips
While box braids are very versatile and popular amongst many people, you have to also know how to care for them, so they last a good long time. This is because the process can be very time-consuming and expensive if you go to someone reputable. However, now that you know the different types of box braids that exist you can explore the Benefits of Owning Your Own Hair Salon and open up your new business in a very soon future.
It is important to keep in mind that that the box braid style is extremely low-maintenance and can be worn without having to wash it daily. The more this style is washed, the quicker the braids will loosen, and you will have a messy, unkempt hairstyle instead of a beautiful style that box braids provide.
The best advice is to follow the instructions that your stylist gives you to ensure that you have done everything possible to keep your style intact. Caring for your hair is just as important as taking the time to get it styled the way you want it.
