This summer, braids aren’t just a hairstyle—they’re a statement. From Joburg to global runways, braided looks are everywhere, bringing culture, creativity, and confidence to curly-haired queens. Here are the styles getting all the compliments right now.
Glam Cornrows
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Cornrows are a forever favorite, but add loose curls and you get a softer, modern twist. Think red-carpet energy with everyday wearability.
Boho Knotless Braids
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Perfect for beach days and festivals, boho knotless braids weave in curly strands for a laid-back, voluminous vibe. Human hair extensions make this style last even longer.
Cornrows and Curls
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Big cornrows at the front with free-flowing curls at the back? It’s giving vacation chic. Whether you’re heading to Cape Town or Mauritius, this style travels beautifully.
Micro Knotless Braids
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Tiny braids mean extra hours in the chair, but the result is light, versatile, and worth every minute. Solange swears by them—and fans agree.
Half-Up, Half-Down Braids
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A go-to that never misses. Pull half your braids into a bun and let the rest cascade. Casual or glam, it always works.
Classic Cornrows
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Simple, sleek, and adaptable. Whether long, short, or somewhere in between, cornrows are timeless for a reason.
Sideways Cornrows
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Take your cornrows up a notch by braiding sideways. It’s an unexpected twist that feels playful yet chic.
Freestyle Braids
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Trust your stylist to create a unique stitch-braid pattern. Add curly pieces if you want that effortless boho finish.
Large Box Braids
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Big, bold, and unapologetic. Large box braids give instant cool-girl energy, especially in blonde or bright colors.
Colourful Knotless Braids
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Why stick to natural shades when you can play with pinks, purples, or blues? Social media is obsessed with colorful knotless braids right now.
Beaded Cornrows
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Accessorizing changes everything. Crisp cornrows finished with wooden or glass beads instantly stand out, whether on the streets of Soweto or at a rooftop party.
Senegalese Twists
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Senegalese twists are also slightly less tense compared to box braids as they sit more loosely on the scalp. Since only two strands are used, there’s also less friction between the hair and they’re less tight. They’re relatively quick to install as well since they only use 2 strands, so you can even do it yourself.
Boho Braids
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Loose, wavy, and carefree. Boho braids celebrate natural texture and give that “undone but intentional” vibe.
Pick and Drop Braids
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Pick and drop braids are fast becoming a trend on Tik Tok and Instagram. They’re achieved by leaving strands of braiding hair out and are quite verstatile. They’re a popular choice because they combine braids with a sew in style for those who want straight hair but not a wig.
Bora Bora Braids
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Island vibes with a braiding twist. Inspired by the tropics, these combine tiny braids with wavy extensions for a summer-ready style.
Stitch Braids
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Clean partings and geometric precision make stitch braids stand out. They’re striking and structured—perfect for showing off neat rows.
Butterfly Braids
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Soft, puffy, and lightweight, butterfly braids bring volume without heaviness. A fan favorite for their bold but comfortable feel.
Fulani Braids
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Cornrows in the front, braids in the back, often styled with beads or shells. Fulani braids carry deep cultural meaning while staying stylish and versatile.
Jumbo Braids
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Quick, bold, and dramatic. Jumbo braids save time while giving you a sculptural, fashion-forward look.
Koroba Braids
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A traditional Yoruba style, koroba braids start at the crown and spread outward like an upside-down basket—beautiful, cultural, and instantly recognizable.
Triangle Box Braids
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A small twist with big impact—switch square partings for triangle ones and your braids instantly pop with extra detail.
Crochet Braids
If you’re short on time, crochet braids are your friend. They’re quick, versatile, and give you endless styling options. They’re achieved by plaiting your natural hair into corn rows and simply pulling the crochet hair through the corn rows.
French Curl Braids
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Glossy curls blended into braids create a romantic, feminine finish. Perfect for weddings or special nights out.
Crown Braids
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A halo of braids wrapped around your head. Whether at a boho Joburg wedding or a music festival, this style always feels magical.
Braided Bob
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Who says short can’t be chic? A braided bob is lighter, trendy, and works for busy weekdays or weekend hangouts.
High Ponytail Braids
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Gather your braids high into a ponytail for instant drama and bounce. It’s a look that screams confidence.
Bantu Knots
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A cultural staple turned global trend. Mini buns double up as a fun style and a braid-out set once undone.
Short, Medium, and Long Braids
Length matters. Short braids are breezy, medium gives balance, and waist-length brings all the drama. Choose your vibe, choose your length.
Braids by Color
Natural browns, honey blondes, burgundy reds, or neon brights—the color you choose sets the tone. Joburg’s streets are currently glowing with pops of purple and fire-red braids.
A Celebration of Heritage and Style
Braided hairstyles for curly hair aren’t just summer trends. They’re a cultural celebration, a protective practice, and a form of self-expression. Whether you’re rocking beads, bold colors, or timeless cornrows, braids carry a story with every plait.
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