Long box braids with curls at the end have become an extremely popular and eye-catching hairstyle in recent years. They combine the elegance and neatness of box braids with the softness and charm of curls, creating a unique and alluring look. Whether for daily wear, special occasions, or just to showcase a personal style, these hairstyles offer a wide range of options. In this article, we will explore 5 of the most stunning variations of long box braids with curls at the end, discussing their features, styling techniques, and the best ways to maintain them.
Classic Long Box Braids with Loose Curls at the End
The first style we’ll look at is the classic long box braids with loose curls at the end. This style features straight and neatly braided sections that run down the length of the hair, usually starting from the scalp and continuing all the way to the tips. The box braids themselves are created by dividing the hair into small, square sections and then tightly braiding them in an underhand or overhand technique, depending on the desired look.
When it comes to the curls at the end, loose and flowing curls are added to give a soft and romantic touch. To achieve these curls, you can use a curling iron with a larger barrel size, such as a 1 1/2 or 2-inch barrel. Gently wrap the ends of the box braids around the heated curling iron for a few seconds, holding it in place to allow the heat to set the curl. It’s important to use a heat protectant spray beforehand to prevent damage to the hair, especially if the box braids are made with natural hair or extensions that might be sensitive to heat.
This style is suitable for a variety of occasions. For a casual day out, it can be paired with a simple sundress or jeans and a cute top, giving an effortless yet stylish appearance. For more formal events, like a wedding or a dinner party, you can adorn the braids with some delicate hair accessories, such as small rhinestone clips or silk ribbons tied around the base of the curls, to enhance the elegance.
In terms of maintenance, it’s advisable to sleep with a silk or satin scarf or pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent the curls from getting frizzy. You can also refresh the curls by using a small amount of curl-defining cream or mousse on the ends when needed, gently scrunching them to bring back their shape.
Long Box Braids with Tight Ringlet Curls at the End
The second stunning style is long box braids with tight ringlet curls at the end. In this variation, the box braids are typically thinner and more numerous compared to the classic style, giving a more intricate and detailed look. The braiding process requires precision to ensure that each section is uniform in size and tension.
The tight ringlet curls at the end are what really make this style stand out. To create these curls, a smaller curling wand, perhaps around 3/8 or 1/2 inch in diameter, is ideal. Wrap the ends of the braids tightly around the wand, starting from the very tip and working your way up a short distance. This will result in small, bouncy ringlets that add a playful and youthful charm to the overall hairstyle.
This style is perfect for those who want to make a bold statement. It can be great for festivals, parties, or any event where you want to show off your unique personality. You can even experiment with different colors for the box braids, like adding some highlights or going for an ombre effect, which will be further enhanced by the curly ends.
To maintain these tight ringlet curls, avoid combing or brushing them vigorously as it can disrupt the curl pattern. Instead, use your fingers to gently separate and fluff the curls when they start to look a bit flattened. You can also apply a light hairspray to hold the curls in place, but be careful not to make them too stiff.
Long Box Braids with Wavy Curls at the End
The third style we’ll explore is long box braids with wavy curls at the end. This style strikes a balance between the looseness of loose curls and the tightness of ringlet curls. The box braids are usually of a moderate thickness and length, creating a clean and polished base for the wavy curls.
To achieve the wavy curls, you can use a variety of methods. One option is to braid the hair when it’s slightly damp and then let it air dry completely. Once dry, carefully unbraid the sections, and you’ll be left with natural-looking waves. Another method is to use a flat iron to create loose waves. Clamp the flat iron at the end of the box braid and gently twist it as you pull it down the length of the braid, repeating this process until you get the desired wave pattern.
The wavy curls at the end give a beachy and laid-back vibe to the long box braids. It’s a great choice for summer outings, vacations, or any time you want to exude a relaxed and casual elegance. You can leave the hair down or pull it back into a half-up, half-down style for a different look.
Maintenance for this style involves using a leave-in conditioner or a light oil to keep the waves smooth and shiny. If the waves start to lose their shape, you can reapply the flat iron or braiding method to refresh them. Also, like with other styles, sleeping on a silk or satin surface will help preserve the waves and prevent frizz.
Long Box Braids with Voluminous Curls at the End
The fourth stunning style is long box braids with voluminous curls at the end. This style focuses on creating a full and luxurious look. The box braids are often braided a bit looser near the scalp to allow for more volume at the roots, and then they gradually tighten as they reach the ends.
To add the voluminous curls, you can use hot rollers. Start by wrapping the ends of the box braids around the hot rollers, rolling them up towards the scalp as much as possible. Leave the rollers in for a sufficient amount of time, usually around 15 to 20 minutes depending on the thickness of the braids and the heat setting of the rollers. Once removed, you’ll be greeted with big, bouncy curls that add a glamorous touch to the hairstyle.
This style is ideal for special occasions like red carpet events, proms, or formal dances. It commands attention and makes a statement with its fullness and elegance. You can further enhance the look by adding some sparkly hair jewels or a decorative headband.
For maintenance, be careful when sleeping with this style as the volume can easily be flattened. You may want to loosely tie the hair up in a bun on top of your head or use a large silk scrunchie to hold it in place while you sleep. If the curls lose some of their volume during the day, you can use your fingers to gently lift and fluff them at the roots to restore the full look.
Long Box Braids with Asymmetrical Curls at the End
The final style we’ll discuss is long box braids with asymmetrical curls at the end. This style offers a unique and modern twist on the traditional long box braids with curls. Instead of having uniform curls at the end of each braid, the curls are created in an asymmetrical pattern, with some braids having larger, looser curls and others having smaller, tighter curls or even straight ends in some cases.
To achieve this look, you’ll need to vary your curling techniques and the sections you choose to curl. For example, you can use a larger curling iron on some braids and a smaller one on others. You can also intentionally leave a few braids uncurled to create that interesting contrast.
The asymmetrical curls give an edgy and artistic feel to the hairstyle. It’s a great option for those who like to experiment with fashion and want to stand out from the crowd. It can be paired with avant-garde clothing styles or for fashion shows and photo shoots where a unique and unconventional look is desired.
When it comes to maintenance, it’s a bit more challenging compared to the more symmetrical styles as you need to pay attention to each individual braid’s curl pattern. However, using a flexible hold hairspray and gently shaping the curls with your fingers when needed can help keep the asymmetrical look intact.
Conclusion
Long box braids with curls at the end offer a plethora of stunning options for anyone looking to change up their hairstyle or make a statement. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of loose curls, the boldness of tight ringlets, the laid-back charm of wavy curls, the glamour of voluminous curls, or the edginess of asymmetrical curls, there’s a style that suits your taste and occasion. By understanding the styling techniques and maintenance tips for each of these five styles, you can enjoy your beautiful long box braids with curls at the end for an extended period and always look your best. Experiment with different looks, colors, and accessories to truly make these hairstyles your own and showcase your unique personality through your hair. Remember that hair is an important part of our overall appearance, and these styles provide a creative and fashionable way to express ourselves.
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