Box braids have been a staple in the world of hairstyles for decades, celebrated for their versatility, durability, and protective qualities. When adorned with beads, they offer a unique blend of cultural significance and personal style. This article provides an in-depth look at 12 long box braids with beads, including their styles, application methods, maintenance tips, and cultural relevance. Each section offers detailed analysis and practical suggestions for achieving the perfect look.
1. Classic Long Box Braids with Beads
Classic long box braids adorned with beads are timeless and elegant. This style involves medium-sized braids that fall below the shoulders, embellished with beads at the ends.
Benefits
Versatility: Can be styled in various ways (e.g., buns, ponytails).
Durability: Lasts several weeks with proper care.
Cultural significance: Celebrates African heritage and tradition.
How to Achieve the Look
Section Hair: Divide hair into small, equal sections.
Braid: Braid each section from root to tip.
Add Beads: Thread beads onto the ends of the braids and secure with small rubber bands.
Maintenance Tips
Moisturize Scalp: Use oils or leave-in conditioners to keep the scalp hydrated.
Protect at Night: Wear a silk or satin scarf to reduce frizz and breakage.
Cleanse Gently: Use diluted shampoo to clean the scalp without disrupting the braids.
2. Jumbo Box Braids with Wooden Beads
Jumbo box braids are larger in size and make a bold statement. Adding wooden beads enhances their natural and earthy appeal.
Benefits
Statement Look: Creates a bold and eye-catching appearance.
Faster Installation: Larger braids mean less time spent braiding.
Low Maintenance: Requires less daily upkeep compared to smaller braids.
How to Achieve the Look
Part Hair into Large Sections: Divide hair into larger sections for braiding.
Braid Each Section: Ensure the braids are tight and secure.
Add Wooden Beads: Slide wooden beads onto the braids and secure with rubber bands.
Maintenance Tips
Avoid Heavy Products: Use lightweight oils to avoid buildup.
Protect Edges: Be mindful of tension around the hairline.
Refresh Regularly: Redo the edges and apply mousse to maintain a fresh look.
3. Micro Box Braids with Metallic Beads
Micro box braids are very small and detailed, offering a sleek and sophisticated look. Metallic beads add a touch of glamour and shine.
Benefits
Detailed and Sleek: Provides a polished and intricate appearance.
Versatile Styling: Can be styled in various intricate updos.
Long-lasting: Can last up to three months with proper care.
How to Achieve the Look
Create Tiny Sections: Part hair into very small sections.
Braid Each Section: Braid tightly to ensure longevity.
Add Metallic Beads: Place metallic beads strategically throughout the braids.
Maintenance Tips
Regular Scalp Care: Keep the scalp clean and moisturized.
Gentle Handling: Avoid pulling or tugging to prevent breakage.
Protective Styling: Use protective styles to minimize manipulation.
4. Half-Up Half-Down Box Braids with Beads
This style involves braiding the hair and then styling it half-up, half-down, with beads adorning the ends.
Benefits
Stylish and Fun: Combines the elegance of braids with the playfulness of a half-up, half-down style.
Versatile: Suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
Easy to Manage: Easier to maintain compared to full updos.
How to Achieve the Look
Braid the Hair: Create medium-sized box braids.
Style Half-Up: Gather the top half of the braids into a ponytail or bun.
Add Beads: Place beads on the ends of the braids.
Maintenance Tips
Daily Moisturizing: Use a leave-in conditioner spray to keep the braids hydrated.
Night Protection: Use a silk or satin pillowcase.
Regular Refreshing: Tidy up the edges and re-braid any loose sections.
5. Ombre Box Braids with Colorful Beads
Ombre box braids feature a gradient color effect, transitioning from dark roots to lighter ends. Adding colorful beads enhances this vibrant style.
Benefits
Bold and Vibrant: Makes a fashion statement with the color gradient.
Customizable: Choose colors that suit your personal style.
Trendy: Keeps up with modern hair trends.
How to Achieve the Look
Select Hair Colors: Choose braiding hair in different shades.
Braid in Sections: Start with darker hair at the roots and transition to lighter colors.
Add Colorful Beads: Thread beads onto the braids for added flair.
Maintenance Tips
Color Care: Use color-safe products to maintain the vibrancy.
Protect from Sun: Wear hats or scarves to prevent color fading.
Hydrate: Keep the hair and scalp moisturized.
6. Bohemian Box Braids with Shell Beads
Bohemian box braids have a relaxed and natural look, often incorporating wavy or curly extensions. Shell beads add an earthy, boho-chic touch.
Benefits
Natural and Relaxed: Perfect for a laid-back, effortless look.
Earthy Appeal: Shell beads provide a unique, natural element.
Versatile Styling: Can be worn in various bohemian-inspired styles.
How to Achieve the Look
Braid with Wavy Extensions: Use wavy or curly hair extensions for a bohemian effect.
Add Shell Beads: Thread shell beads onto the braids and secure them.
Loose and Free: Allow some braids to remain loose and wavy.
Maintenance Tips
Moisturize: Use light oils to keep the hair hydrated.
Avoid Frizz: Use anti-frizz products to maintain the wavy texture.
Protect at Night: Use a silk or satin scarf or bonnet.
7. Chunky Box Braids with Large Beads
Chunky box braids are thick and bold, offering a dramatic look. Large beads complement the braids, adding an extra element of style.
Benefits
Bold and Dramatic: Makes a strong fashion statement.
Quick Installation: Larger braids mean faster braiding time.
Low Maintenance: Easier to care for compared to smaller braids.
How to Achieve the Look
Create Large Sections: Part hair into large sections.
Braid Each Section: Ensure the braids are secure and even.
Add Large Beads: Thread large beads onto the braids and secure them.
Maintenance Tips
Moisturize Regularly: Use oils and leave-in conditioners to keep the braids hydrated.
Protect from Damage: Be gentle to avoid breakage.
Refresh Edges: Redo the edges periodically to maintain a neat look.
8. Goddess Box Braids with Gold Beads
Goddess box braids are long and often include curly ends, giving a regal and luxurious appearance. Gold beads add a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Benefits
Regal and Luxurious: Provides a high-fashion, elegant look.
Versatile Styling: Can be styled in various regal updos and downdos.
Long-lasting: Can last several weeks with proper care.
How to Achieve the Look
Braid with Curly Ends: Use braiding hair with curly ends for a goddess effect.
Add Gold Beads: Thread gold beads onto the braids for added elegance.
Style as Desired: Experiment with different updos and downdos.
Maintenance Tips
Moisturize the Scalp: Keep the scalp hydrated with oils.
Protect Curly Ends: Use curl-defining products to maintain the curl pattern.
Protect at Night: Use a silk or satin bonnet.
9. Fulani Box Braids with Tribal Beads
Fulani braids are inspired by the Fulani people of Africa and often feature intricate patterns and beads. Tribal beads enhance the cultural and aesthetic appeal.
Benefits
Cultural Significance: Celebrates African heritage and tradition.
Intricate and Unique: Provides a distinctive and detailed look.
Versatile: Can be styled in various traditional and modern ways.
How to Achieve the Look
Create Intricate Patterns: Part hair in intricate patterns and braid.
Add Tribal Beads: Thread tribal beads onto the braids.
Style as Desired: Experiment with different Fulani-inspired styles.
Maintenance Tips
Regular Moisturizing: Keep the scalp and hair hydrated.
Protect at Night: Use a silk or satin scarf.
Refresh Edges: Redo the edges as needed to maintain the style.
See Also: How Long Are 50 Inch Box Braids
10. Long Box Braids with Beads and Cuffs
Box braids with beads and cuffs offer a stylish and fashionable look. Hair cuffs add a metallic touch, enhancing the overall style.
Benefits
Fashionable and Trendy: Keeps up with modern hair trends.
Versatile: Suitable for various occasions.
Easy to Accessorize: Beads and cuffs are easy to add and remove.
How to Achieve the Look
Braid the Hair: Create long box braids.
Add Beads and Cuffs: Thread beads and place cuffs onto the braids.
Style as Desired: Experiment with different styles.
Maintenance Tips
Protect from Buildup: Use lightweight products to avoid buildup.
Moisturize Regularly: Keep the hair and scalp hydrated.
Protect at Night: Use a silk or satin scarf.
11. Medium Box Braids with Beaded Ends
Medium-sized box braids offer a balanced look, and beaded ends add a playful touch.
Benefits
Balanced Look: Not too large, not too small.
Versatile: Can be styled in various ways.
Easy to Manage: Easier to care for compared to very small or very large braids.
How to Achieve the Look
Create Medium Sections: Part hair into medium-sized sections.
Braid Each Section: Braid tightly to ensure longevity.
Add Beads to Ends: Thread beads onto the ends of the braids.
Maintenance Tips
Moisturize Daily: Use leave-in conditioners to keep the braids hydrated.
Protect Edges: Be gentle to avoid tension and breakage.
Refresh Regularly: Redo the edges as needed to maintain a neat look.
12. Box Braids with Beads and Braided Ponytail
Box braids styled into a high ponytail with beads offer a chic and modern look.
Benefits
Chic and Modern: Provides a stylish and contemporary appearance.
Versatile: Suitable for various occasions.
Easy to Manage: Easier to care for compared to other styles.
How to Achieve the Look
Braid the Hair: Create long box braids.
Style into Ponytail: Gather the braids into a high ponytail.
Add Beads: Thread beads onto the ends of the braids.
Maintenance Tips
Protect from Damage: Be gentle to avoid breakage.
Moisturize Regularly: Keep the hair and scalp hydrated.
Protect at Night: Use a silk or satin scarf.
Conclusion
Box braids with beads offer a multitude of styles, each with its unique benefits and aesthetic appeal. Whether you opt for classic long box braids, bold jumbo braids, or intricate micro braids, adding beads can enhance your look and celebrate cultural heritage. Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your braids looking fresh and stylish. With the right techniques and products, you can enjoy the beauty and versatility of box braids with beads for weeks.