When thinking of the most suitable female hairstyles for African-American women, box braids are the first thing that comes to mind. And I am referring here first of all to the big, full and rich box braids, which give you that special effortless look so gorgeous, especially during the summer months.
Can anyone point out that these long thick braids are nothing new or fresh but rather reminiscent of 90s style? We won’t argue, they are, but fashion is cyclical and if they come back, we gladly welcome them back and look for this image as beautiful as Beyonce, Solange and many other beautiful African American celebrities.
Big box braids look fantastic on simple down dos, allowing you to show off the full length of these gorgeous thick braids. One of the most popular styles is when you take a few braids from the front section over your forehead and twist them to pin them behind your ear. Alternatively, you can also go for fancy updos, with voluminous buns or thick braids. A side-swept fishtail, braided with large box braids is another on-trend style to rock this season. Half-up half down styles with large box braids introduce more variety into your braided hairstyles and allow you to avoid excessive volume on top of your head if you find it too eccentric.
Wild Hairstyles for Big Box Braids
Oh yes, box braids look attractive and do not have any kind of low-maintenance execution. Light shampoo for cleansing your scalp and light oil of peppermint for extra care will be the most important items on your care list. Still, finally, you can rest from other styling solutions with chemical ingredients and thermal procedures. Let’s see what is appropriate for you and your hair.
#1: Beaded Box Braids
This simple look adds a fun twist with minimal hassle to the classic big box braids style. Add a few pearls to your braids and you get yourself a whole new look that doesn’t require any additional styling. Let the compliments roll in!
#2: Half Back Box Braids
This classy and adorable look is perfect for showing off your braids and gorgeous face! Simply pull your face side braids back and tie them into a neat miniature ponytail. You are ready for the day!
#3: Shoulder-Length Cut Box Braids
Do you need a new look? Spice things up with some hair accessories to match your braids for a modern African look. Use a few small beads like the ones in this photo for a subtle hint of sparkle.
#4: Kanekalon Braids
Show your color with a Kanekalon braided look. In this photo, the braids near the front of the face are pulled back and intertwined with each other at the crown of the head. A look together with a certain advantage.
#5: Chunky Golden Blonde Braids
All the other girls rock dark brown box braids. But what about accessorizing this look with luscious color? This dark golden blonde is very attractive to the eye. Add some flair to your big box braids by simply incorporating a beaded topper. It is simple, subtle and classy. Who knew looking good could be so easy?
Here’s a comprehensive guide on How to choose best braids color for dark skin.
#6: Two-Tone Chestnut Box Braids
Box braids are a popular hairstyle among African Americans, not only because of their low maintenance, but also because of the cool girly feel. These are great for experimenting with bold colors that you wouldn’t normally choose. But a shade that complements your skin tone is always a safe option.
#7: Half Bun for Thick Braids
While big box braids are a statement on their own, there are easy ways to make them more unique to you. Geometric parts are just one of those shapes. To show off the parts, try a half-up, half-down style, topped off with a big bun.
#8: Ombré Box Braids
Chunky braids are in high demand now because not only do they take much less time to install than micro braids, but their oversized style also looks trendy and self-sufficient. Why not enhance that chic appeal with an equally popular ombre? The best part is that you don’t have to worry about dying your natural locks.
#9: Hip-Length Black Box Braids
If you have always wanted long locks, box braids are definitely the way to go. They protect your natural hair if you are trying to grow your own braids. Add some interest to your hairstyle with metallic wraps.
#10: Chunky Braids With Cuffs
Give your big braids a boho touch with beads or metallic cuffs. Subtle additions bring a bit of shine and a lot of visual interest that keeps your braids from being boring or like everyone else’s.
#11: Jumbo Box Braids with Wraps
With braids, you are free to play with whatever color your heart desires. Burgundy and auburn are especially flattering colors for darker skin tones. The deep red hue works for all seasons.
#12: Half-Up Braids with Colored Wraps
Add some color to black braids with multicolored wraps. They convey a playful and flirty feel to your locks. Wraps will look especially cool when peeked through a top knot or mid-up ponytail.
#13: Candy Box Braids
Big box braids will give you the volume and style you want. They allow your natural hair to grow underneath, so you can feel free and finally lighten, without the bleach.
#14: Oversized Box Braids
They say bigger is better for a reason. Go jumbo to make a statement. Chunky braids are definitely bolder and younger than their thinner counterparts. You don’t need to opt for unexpected colors or additional finishes if you want a nice, clean look.
#15: Braids with Highlights
Mix two different colors within each individual braid for a hairstyle that mimics highlights. Sometimes being uniform is overrated. The mix of shades breaks up the tresses nicely, giving them endless dimension.
#16: Black and Blue Box Braids
Thick box braids look stunning in sophisticated colors. To spruce up the whole look a bit, why not try a dark blue shade to add a bit of depth to the hairstyle without going overboard?
#17: Big Braids with Burgundy Details
For extra flair, try extra-large braids. These jumbo braids can be a bit heavy, but it will be worth it. Mix in different colors to make the look even more fun. Don’t forget to brush your baby’s hairs for a perfect and elegant finish.
#18: Purple and Gray Braids
Box braids are a good choice for trying out the hotter colors of the season, like this lavender and gray hairstyle below. Braids are non-committal and make “it” colors look even fresher, just when you thought that couldn’t be possible.
#19: Half-Up Brown Braids
Before you do your hair, looking at as many box braid photos as you can is a smart way to help you choose the color that you think will be right for you. Honeys and chestnuts are a nice complement on a wide range of African-American skin tones.
#20: Chunky Platinum Braids
Oversized braids are a good canvas to show off the nuances of your chosen color. The tones are amplified and have nowhere to hide. Go platinum blonde without even having to touch bleach. The thick extensions will cover your darker locks, turning you into a pretty blonde.
#21: Braided Bob with Highlights
A neat short bob is another option for braids that should not be overlooked. Easier to maintain than waist length extensions, this ‘do is especially great for women on the go. A bit of color mixing ensures that the shoulder-length cut doesn’t skimp on style.
#22: Multicolored Braided Mohawk
Big braid styles can be very tame, but they’re also in demand for more adventurous looks like fierce mohawks. Showing off some of the scalp, braids are instantly transformed into something bold and edgy. Mix in warm colors to give a unique touch.
#23: Fuchsia Braids With Cuffs
For the girly girls, try a bright fuchsia. The deep shade is striking yet surprisingly understated. You can pair it with a neutral and bright wardrobe. Metallic cuffs are always a nice touch to elevate a braided hairstyle.
#24: Classic African-Inspired Braids
Keep the braids together if you want maximum volume and minimum scalp showing. It also lends itself to a clean and uncluttered appearance. Sure you can go with vibrant colors, but there is something very classy and elegant about jet-black tresses with high-waisted skirts and feathered ends.
#25: Oversized Bun with Highlights
Hairstyles with big braids often feel heavy when let down. Throw your braids into a bun for those days when you don’t have to worry about long tresses flapping against your back. A bun is always the right and polished look for a formal event or meeting at the office.
#26: High Pony of Braids
Whether you’re hitting the club or running errands, tossing your braids into a pony shows the world that you’re ready to rock. Pair the box braids with the bottoms for more edge!
#27: Halo Braid Half Down
Having long, luscious locks can be both a blessing and a curse, but with these great box braids, you can truly embrace the length you’ve always dreamed of. This hairstyle throws half the braids back for a casual yet clean look. You really can’t go wrong with this easy and cute fix!
#28: Braids with a Parting of Blonde.
Add a pop of color to make your big box braids one of a kind. This works perfectly with thick tresses because it allows you to really show off your blonde streak.
#29: Pompadour Made of Braids
This casual take on a classic look creates a new look for your braided hair. It’s actually a basic half-up, half-down look, but with the modern, polished effect of the pompadour. It’s the best of both worlds in one look!
#30: High Space Buns
This look has it all: sass, originality, spunk and cuteness! Simply gather your braids on each side of your head and twist them into buns. Get ready for lots of compliments, and make sure your friends snap a few photos of this fun look. This hairstyle is a surefire way to get people talking!
#31: Twisted Half-Up Bun
Get creative with your big tresses by using this trendy hairstyle. The top knot is a classic style that works for almost any occasion, and can even be used to show off your free-hanging braids by leaving half of your hair down. Photos like this show that this look never gets old!
#32: Tightly Woven Braids
Impress all your Instagram followers with an intricate look like this one. This hairstyle may take a little longer, but the beautiful result is worth it. Tightly weave the braids onto the top of the head, overlapping them to create a sort of bouffant. A look worthy of a queen, how appropriate.
#33: Chunky Braided Pony
Turn heads with this boss look! This is not your regular old ponytail and is sure to get the attention you deserve! Show off your thick braids by piling them up on top of your head and make a row to tie them up. You are a force to be reckoned with, and now the whole world knows it!
#34: Thick Braided Ponytail
Sometimes the best way to “let your hair down” is to put it back into a classic ponytail updo. The good news is that this simple hairstyle looks so much more fun when done with braids. Make modern classic in one step!
With small or large box braids, the possibilities are endless! So go ahead and experiment with this fun and trendy hairstyle until you find the perfect look for you.