Hair braiding has been a long tradition in the black community as well as a bonding experience between mothers, sisters and cousins. Braiding takes time and it often hurts, but the end result is always worth it. African braiding styles are very unique and creative. African braids can be styled in various ways you can experiment with different colours without commitment of dying your hair. Braids can help your hair from the environment and help you forget about hair styling for months while looking fabulous.
Below are 7 African Braids Styles:
Micro/Mini Braids
Micro/mini braids are tiny, single braids usually braided half-way and leaving the rest of the hair. It can be done with either natural or synthetic hair.
French Braids
French braids are some of the most popular braid types. This braiding styles involves weaving small pieces of hair on top of the main braid, which lay close to the scalp. The final result is alwyas very sophisticated.
Cornrows African Braids
Cornrows are very popular. they are small, tight braids that line up against the scalp. Cornrow braids can be very creative. Releasing cornrows after a day or two results in exceptionally curly hair.
Herringbone / Fish Braids
Herringbone braids are thin, layered braids that use lots of small intertwined pieces of hair. These braids are named “herringbone braids” because the braid resembles the skeleton of a fish.
Dutch Braids
Dutch braids are similar to French braids but this style tends to be looser and more relaxed-looking than a French braid.
Havana Twists
Havana Twists are very unique and stylish African hair braiding styles. This hair is sure to cause heads to turn!
Lace Braids
Lace braids are simple braids that crown the head of the wearer in a half-moon shape, like a tiara.
Finally,Braids can be styled with headbands, barrettes, turbans and so on. Fashion Designers such as Rachel Zoe, Rebecca Minkoff and Kenneth Cole have incorporated African braiding styles to their fashion campaigns. Accept it or not, braids are in and here to stay!
