Box braids are a versatile and protective hairstyle that can be styled in numerous ways to suit different occasions, whether casual, professional, or formal. This guide will explore various styling options, providing detailed instructions and tips for each look. Whether you’re preparing for a day out, a formal event, or just looking to keep your hair fresh and stylish, you’ll find the perfect style here.
Bow Tie
One of the most charming and playful ways to style your long box braids is by tying them into a bow tie. This look is not only adorable but also versatile enough for both daily wear and special occasions.
Steps to Create a Bow Tie with Box Braids
- Preparation: Start with clean and well-moisturized box braids. You can apply a light leave-in conditioner or hair oil to ensure your braids are sleek and manageable.
- Sectioning: Gather a section of braids from the crown of your head. The size of the section depends on how large you want the bow to be.
- Creating the Bow: Divide the section into two equal parts. Form each part into a loop and cross them to create the bow shape. Secure the middle with a small braid or a hair tie to hold the bow in place.
- Securing the Bow: Use bobby pins to secure the loops of the bow to your scalp. Make sure the bow is even and symmetrical.
- Finishing Touches: Tuck any loose braids or ends neatly into the bow. You can also use a bit of hairspray to keep everything in place and to give it a polished look.
Styling Tips
- For a more elaborate bow, consider using braiding hair to add volume.
- Decorate the bow with small accessories like hair cuffs or beads for added flair.
- Ensure the bow is centered and symmetrical for a neat appearance.
Half-Up
The half-up hairstyle is a classic and chic way to style your long box braids. It’s perfect for keeping hair out of your face while still showcasing the length and beauty of your braids.
Steps to Create a Half-Up Style
- Preparation: Start with clean, well-maintained box braids. Apply a light hair serum to add shine and reduce frizz.
- Sectioning: Divide your hair into two sections, horizontally. The top section should be from your forehead to just above your ears.
- Tying Up: Gather the top section of braids and secure it with a hair tie. You can create a simple ponytail, bun, or a more intricate design like a braid.
- Securing: Use hairspray to fix the style in place and ensure it lasts throughout the day.
Styling Tips
- For a more polished look, wrap a few braids around the hair tie to conceal it.
- Add accessories like hair rings or decorative clips to the top section for a unique touch.
- Experiment with different bun styles (top knot, messy bun, etc.) for variety.
Multi-Colored Braids
If your box braids are multi-colored, you have the perfect canvas for creating eye-catching and unique styles. Combining different colored braids can result in stunning visual effects.
Steps to Style Multi-Colored Braids
- Preparation: Ensure your braids are clean and moisturized. This helps the colors stand out and keeps your hair looking fresh.
- Choosing Colors: Decide which colors you want to highlight and which ones you want to blend together.
- Braiding: Create smaller braids using different colored sections. For example, braid a few pink and blue braids together for a striking look.
- Styling: You can incorporate these smaller, multi-colored braids into larger styles like buns, ponytails, or crowns.
Styling Tips
- Experiment with contrasting colors for a bold look or blend similar shades for a subtler effect.
- Use hair accessories that complement the colors of your braids.
- Highlight different colors for various occasions – bright and bold for casual events, and more subdued blends for formal settings.
Crown Braid
A crown braid is an elegant and regal way to style your long box braids. This look is perfect for formal occasions or when you want to feel like royalty.
Steps to Create a Crown Braid
- Preparation: Start with freshly cleaned and moisturized box braids. Apply a smoothing serum to reduce frizz.
- Sectioning: Divide your hair into two equal sections. You’ll be working with one section at a time.
- Braiding: Start braiding one section of your hair from the nape of your neck, working your way around the head. Secure the end with a hair tie.
- Creating the Crown: Repeat the braiding process on the other section of hair. Once both sections are braided, wrap them around your head to form a crown. Tuck the ends under the braids and secure with bobby pins.
- Securing: Use additional bobby pins to secure the crown braid to your scalp. Make sure the braid is even and sits comfortably on your head.
- Finishing Touches: Apply a bit of hairspray to keep the braids in place and add a subtle shine.
Styling Tips
- For added volume, gently pull on the sides of the braid to pancake it.
- Decorate the crown braid with floral accessories or jeweled pins for a more elaborate look.
- Ensure the braids are tight and secure to prevent them from slipping throughout the day.
See Also: How To Wear Long Braids: A Detailed Analysis
Braided Bun
The braided bun is a practical and fashionable way to style your long box braids. It’s ideal for both casual and formal occasions and keeps your hair neat and out of the way.
Steps to Create a Braided Bun
- Preparation: Start with clean and well-moisturized braids. Apply a bit of hair oil to add shine.
- Creating the Bun: Gather all your braids into a high ponytail and secure with a hair tie. Begin braiding the ponytail into one large braid and secure the end with another hair tie.
- Forming the Bun: Wrap the large braid around the base of the ponytail to form a bun. Tuck the ends under the bun and secure with bobby pins.
- Securing: Use additional bobby pins to keep the bun in place. Apply hairspray or hair wax to ensure the style lasts all day.
Styling Tips
- For a sleeker look, smooth down any flyaways with hair gel or wax.
- Experiment with different bun placements (high, low, or side) for variety.
- Add decorative pins or a headband for an extra touch of elegance.
Conclusion
Styling long box braids offers endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression. Whether you opt for a playful bow tie, a chic half-up style, colorful braids, a regal crown braid, or a practical braided bun, each style can be tailored to suit different occasions and personal preferences. Remember to keep your braids well-maintained with regular moisturizing and cleaning, and don’t be afraid to experiment with accessories and different techniques to find the styles that work best for you. With these detailed steps and tips, you’re ready to turn your long box braids into a versatile fashion statement.