African Hairstyles for Ladies you Should Try in 2023

Here are African Hairstyles for Ladies you Should Try in 2023. When you’re dealing with natural black hair, braided hairstyles will always be your go-to. They are one of the most popular hairstyles for black women, all thanks to the fact they are protective and offer natural haired-women a chance to try different styles. With so many cool variations and techniques of achieving them, it’s hard to narrow down which black braided hairstyles are worth trying, which is why to want to help.

From box braids to cornrows, goddess braids and everything in between, no matter your hair type or length, there’s bound to be a black braided hairstyle, here, you’ll want to try next.

African interlaces are extremely lovely particularly when dealt with by an expert hairdresser. For you to shake your hairstyle with satisfaction and feel the excellence it brings, it is exhorted an expert handles your hair.

 

 

Keep scrolling down to see the top braided hairstyles for black women to try now.

Braided Bantu Knots

If you’re a fan of Bantu knots, this braided take on them is all you need to inspire you to try something different. This is a cute style you can create when you’ve got box braids, cornrows or twists installed.

Side Braid

What’s not to love about side braids? They are perfect for any occasion and super easy to achieve with braiding hair extensions.

Wavy Knotless Braids

Have you heard of knotless braids? If not, let us tell you all about them! They’re a great alternative to box braids and cause less tension to the scalp, as they’re installed differently.

Jumbo Twists

Are you crushing on these big twists too? Then, make sure to save this picture for your next hair appointment.

Long Braided Ponytail

This long ponytail braid is great for anyone looking to achieve that long, Rapunzel-esque look. To take this look to the next level, opt for some cute cornrows at the front, as this beauty has done.

Micro Braided Buns

Though micro braids take the longest to achieve, once you’ve got them done, you’ll be able to try a multitude of styles, like these cute space buns.

Box Braids

This popular protective box braid hairstyle is a fave among celebs who often wear theirs in various styles. Credit: @martiniquaisement

Twist Braids

Looking for an alternative to braided styles? Get all the benefits of a braided protective hairstyle but with twists like this style queen. Credit: @chrissyford

Braided Bun

From loose braids to cornrows, there’s no single way to rock a braided bun. So which style will you pick? Credit: @freshlengths

Double Dutch Braids

Whether you’re hitting the gym or the beach, make these easy double Dutch braids your go-to look. Credit: @sbsb.fr

Beyoncé Braids

Are you obsessed with Beyoncé as much as us? They why not recreate her iconic braided hairstyle for extra style stalker points. Credit: @beyonce

Kinky Braids

With kinky braiding hair, you can get a stylish look that complements your natural hair texture and protects it, too. Credit: @symphanisoto

Two French Braids

Can’t quite get the hang of Dutch braids? Go French instead. Credit: @jasmeannnn

High Bun

Confession time: our love affair with the classic high bun still burns bright! And since Sister, Sister star Tia Mowry styled her braids into a slick high bun for an A-list event (combining it with dramatic lashes and a swipe of red lipstick), she proved just how chic this ‘do can be!

Chunky Braids

The bigger the braid, the better the hairstyle! This middle-parted, chunky plait style is bound to get you noticed. Credit: @the_frohaven

Crochet Braids

Crochet braids are a technique used to attach extensions to your hair to help create a host of braided styles, or like above, let loose. Credit: @mibelle_beauty

Cornrow & Box Braids Combo

This Instagrammer is having plenty of fun with her blonde braids. Teaming her cornrows with box braids is pretty fabulous alone but with her beaded tips, she takes this combination to the next level! Keep slaying, honey. Credit: @leveluphairstylez

Albaso Braids

We’ve fallen head over heels with Jourdan Dunn’s intricate albaso braids. Credit: @jourdandunn

Pigtail Braids

After a style that’s as cute as it is practical? These pigtail braids are utterly adorable and will keep your strands in check. Credit: @izabelag4

Double Dutch Curly Braids

Getting the best of both worlds, this Instagrammer manages to show off her gorgeous curls with double Dutch braids, neatly secured at the nape of her neck. Credit: @braidsgang

Fishtail Braids

Fishtail braids are a beautiful alternative to three strand braids so stash this braided hairstyle away for a special occasion. Credit: @kiitana

Cornrow Braids

From intricately weaved designs to straight back styles, cornrows are a classic braided style for black women and can be worn as is or underneath wigs and weaves. Credit: @sheliselindo

Box Braid Space Buns

Live your life in bright colours and bold outfits? Then you need to try box braids space buns! Credit: @hairrcastleby_cshami

Chunky Twists

If you want a style that’s sure to get all eyes on you, try out the chunky twist look that’s so versatile and oh-so pretty!

Braided Updo

The sky’s the limit when it comes to braided updos. From power ponytails to beautiful buns, which braided updo will you choose? Credit: @stylesbykrystalj

Braids for Short Hair

Are you stuck for inspiration when it comes to braids for short hair? Then try this sophisticated braided bob, we promise you won’t regret it. Credit: @melviee

Dreadlocks

Whether they’re real or faux, dreadlocks never fail to impress. Credit: @naturalbabepro

Crown Braids

Make your hair your best accessory with a crown braid. Wear this hairstyle anywhere from a Christmas party to a summer festival. Credit: @kiitana

’90s Pony

Not only are ponytails pretty much the easiest hairstyle ever, leaving a few pieces of hair hanging loose at the front like this Instagrammer will give you a major ’90s fashion edge. Credit: @samiahamps

Half-Up, Half Down

Get the best of both worlds with a half-up, half-down braided hairstyle. Credit: @kersti.pitre

Two Dutch braid

Why have one Dutch braid when you can have twice the fun with two? Credit: @black.lyst

Editor’s tip: Finish your braided look with the TRESemmé Botanique Air Dry Natural Hold Gel.

Arianna Braided Pony

We like to think Ariana Grande has contributed as much to the hair industry as she has the music scene. While her endless array of fancy hairstyles are a constant source of updo inspiration, we think it’s this braided pony that steals the show. Credit: @the_braid_bar

Halo Braid

A halo braid is all the rage with celebs and real girls alike and it’s the perfect boho look for any occasion. Credit: @reneebigtime

Dookie Braids

Throw it back to the ’90s with these Rihanna-approved dookie braids. Credit: @kyrahsky

Feed-in Braids

Give your hair the illusion of longer fuller braids by using the feed in braids method.

By attaching braiding hair extensions to your natural hair while weaving, you’re left with a more natural seamless finish. Credit: @braidedbytee

Jumbo Braids

Stand out from the crowd with these stunning jumbo braid twists. If you’re looking for a stylish low maintenance hairstyle that protects your strands, you can’t go wrong with jumbo box braids. Credit: @annrdrz_17

Goddess Braid

Be the goddess you know you are with this beautifully braided ponytail. Credit: @braidedbytee

Editor’s tip: Make styling your hair easy with the TONI&GUY Flexible Hold Braid Balm. Whether you’re creating your styles or need a touch-up while on the go, this is the handbag essential you’ve been missing.

Jumbo Box Braids

Go bold or go home with these supersized jumbo box braids. From her platinum blonde braids to hair cuffs, there is nothing we don’t love about this babe’s braided style. Credit: @miriannjoh

Poetic Justice Braids

Channel Janet Jackson vibes circa Poetic Justice with these small, thin braids. Credit: @nymcfly

Passion Twists

When you marry Senegalese twists and goddess locs together, you get passion twists. They’re the perfect summer style! Credit: @braidsgang

Bob Braids

Bob braids are the perfect look for the warmer summer months. Not only can do they look great worn down, but they still offer enough length to be worn in a host of creative updos. Credit: @khatbrim

Crochet Box Braids

Looking for alternative ways to get box braids? Try using the crochet method instead to install your braids. Credit: @msnaturallymary

Crochet Braids Twists

These crochet twists are another example of the crocheting method in action. Credit: @rekaylacurls

Rope Braid

Rope braids are a popular red carpet look but did you know they’re also one of the quickest (and easiest) DIY hairstyles around? Credit: @alysilverio

Rihanna Braids

Thanks to Rihanna, ‘90s-inspired dookie braids are back for good. If you want to channel her vibes, you can’t go wrong with copying this chunky hairstyle. Credit: @rialfenty

Boho Braids

The point of boho braids is for them to look undone and care-free, which is why they’re perfect for festival lovers. Credit: @lipstickncurls

Braided Half Bun

You’ve heard of the hun (AKA the half-up bun), now meet it’s plaited counterpart. This is one of the best braid hairstyles for naturalistas who want the effect of undone hair, yet you don’t want the hassle of maintaining it. Credit: @elainewelteroth

Red Ponytail Braid

A hairstyle that needs no introduction. Credit: @braidmama

Senegalese Twists

Woven with smooth, sleek-looking hair for a glossy look, Senegalese twists are a black girl’s favourite. Credit: @thakoolo

Curly Braids

You can score the curls of your dreams by leaving your box braids undone like this. Credit: @nigerianbraidshair

Micro Braids

Like to wear your braids in lots of different hairstyles? Then you’ll love these micro braids which make styling a dream. Credit: @arnell.armon

Mohawk Braid

Mohawk hairstyles are a popular choice for black women but if the idea of an undercut and quiff combo doesn’t do it for you, opt for this refined twisted style instead. Credit: @returning2natural

Albaso Braids

This elegant braiding style allows you to protect your natural strands and show them off, too. Credit: @braidsgang

Curly Crochet Braids

Your secret weapon for envy-inducing curls? Curly crochet braids! Credit: @chimerenicole

Fulani Braids

Fulani braids are usually accessorised with beads to give a unique and beautiful look. Credit: @gsterl

Single Braids

Single braids (or individual braids) is another term used to describe box braids. Credit: @boxbraidsbr

Two Braids

When you want a hairstyle that’s equal parts stylish and long-lasting, two braids are the way to go. Credit: @_braidsbychristina

Big Box Braids

We love these oversized big box braids for an easy everyday style with a twist. Credit: @eucarinasoares

Kim Kardashian Braids (AKA Cornrows)

Though they’re also known as boxer braids, they’re essentially cornrows and popular with the A-list crowd. Credit: @sarah_bisaro

Lemonade Braids

Ever since Beyonce wore them in her Lemonade album videos, side-swept braids have become more coveted than ever. Credit: @freshlengths

Short Box Braids

Thought you couldn’t rock braids and get in on the short hair trend? Well, you definitely can and this stylish bob is all the proof you need. Credit: @its_jennj

Short Braids

Be the best-tressed in your girl gang with these cute bob-length twists. Credit: @poplaura.b

Tribal Braids

Tribal braids AKA Fulani braids are a popular choice for black women looking for formal hairstyles and more casual festival looks, too. Credit: @justineskye

Coloured Braids

We’ve been seeing blue hair everywhere at the moment so these pastel braids are right on trend. Credit: @omglookkitty

Marley Braids

For those who like a more natural look, Marley braids are made with a particular kind of hair that gives a more textured finish. Credit: @touchedbytrini

Triangle Braids

If you’re loyal to your box braids but want to try something new, triangle braids are a fun way to shake things up and add extra detail. Credit: @slayedbymeliz

Festival Braids

Heading off to a festival and want a killer hairstyle to complete your look? Get inspired by this Instagrammer’s purple ombre braids, which are giving off major Coachella vibes. Credit: @brialleringer

Medium Box Braids

Not sure which braids to go for? Classic medium box braids are a great style for braids newbies that are guaranteed to suit everyone. Credit: @tach.j

Tree Braids

Perhaps the most seamless of braids, tree braids are partially plaited to a certain point (with or without hair extensions) to create the ‘root’, while the rest of the hair is left loose and flowing like this. Credit: @brandiwynae

Yarn Braid

As the name suggests, these braided styles are woven with yarn braiding hair, making them a great alternative for those who aren’t a fan of synthetic or real hair extensions. Credit: @stellas_out

Alicia Keys Braids

From elegant Fulani braids to cool beaded cornrow styles, Alicia Keys never fails to show us how fun and versatile braided looks are.

Braided Topknot

If you love braids and top knots, why not marry the two hairstyles together to get this cute look? Working in some hair jewels will earn you extra style points. Credit: @thechicnatural

Braided Wedding Hair

Get the crowd talking on your big day with this gorgeous, doubled braided halo hairstyle. Credit: @stanlophotography

Ombre Box Braids

Proving that ombre works brilliantly with box braids, this Instagram babe has given her dark hair a fun pink twist with her colour choice. Credit: @fatou_amina

Red Braids

An all-over red is a great option for those who are looking to try something different. Credit: @braidingruby

Stitch Braids

Stitch braids look like traditional cornrows but have a different graphic and linear finish. Unlike regular cornrows, this technique requires a pinky finger and nail to create the lines and a strong-hold gel to keep them in place. Credit: @braidsbyjmarie

Straight Crochet Braids

If you’re after a classic hairstyle that won’t fail to impress, go for this glossy, straight crochet braid hairstyle. Credit: @kiitana

Unicorn Braid

You don’t have to bleach your hair to get in on the unicorn hair trend; just get some coloured braiding extensions and weave them how you like. Credit: @rastafribraid

Fishbone Braid

Gone are the days of boring cornrows! You can give them a fishy update by copying this impressive braiding pattern. Credit: @steph_odia

Long Box Braids

Take a cue from this Instagrammer and embrace the Rapunzel hair trend. Credit: @chanairaskye

Elegant Side Tuck

Prefer to go for a look with a more understated and sophisticated finish? Say no more. Opting for elegant plait hairstyles, like Eva Marcille’s chic side tuck, are the perfect way to take your braids from blah to beautiful in a matter of minutes!

Thick Box Braids

The thicker and bigger the braids, the less time you’ll need to spend waiting for your dream look. Credit: @itsmyrayeraye

Triangle Box Braids

The triangle partings in this braided look take this half-up, half-down hairstyle to a whole new level. Credit: @beautycreationsinsta

Upside Down Braid

Want to make your braided updo hairstyles feel new again? Weave them upside down, just like this beauty has done. Credit: @touchofheavenartistry

Pink Box Braids

Excuse us while we swoon over these pink box braids. Credit: @magavilhas

Delicate Braided Headband

We love this youthful twist (pun intended) on the uber-feminine halo braid. Not only is it perfect for just about any occasion, but it works a treat on almost all hair lengths and textures, too!

Polished Pompadour

Give your mane a dose of the royal treatment by styling your plaits into pompadour bangs!

Halo Bun

If ‘subtle’ isn’t your style, and you’re looking for braid ideas that will really turn heads, take inspiration from Glee star Amber Riley and her heavenly halo bun!

Crown Braid

From Dianna Agron to Jennifer Lawrence, crown braids have been given the A-list seal of approval, so you will be in good company when following suit. Credit: @dr_kami

Ghana Braids

Characterised by their beautifully thick appearance, Ghana braids use extensions to help create a fuller-looking finish and best of all, there are so many stylish options you can try. Credit: @futibraids

Blue Half-Up Bun

Striking the perfect balance between cajzh and put together, the hun is a hair saviour for lazy girls the world over. Credit: @stylebymks

Half-Up With Small Braids

We love the way this model has swept her tiny box braids up off of her face with a half-up hairstyle, flattering her facial features while still making the most of her length. It’s basically the best of both worlds! Credit: @vanessa.padi

Braided Headband

Taking the front section of your small long box braids and plaiting them into a braided headband looks stunning, plus it adds detail to an otherwise simple style. Credit: @naturally_candace

High Ponytail

Strike the perfect balance between sporty and stylish by working your braids into a high ponytail. While it’s true that it’s still one of the most foolproof ways to style your hair in a flash, stars like Teyonah Parris have elevated this style to VIP status by donning the look on the red carpet!

Side braid

In a hurry and need a fashionable hairstyle? Look no further than this cute side braid. Credit: @fontsize4poetry