30 Protective Box Braids Styles

Braiding is the simple act of intertwining three or more groups of hair strands in small or large portions; it is an ancient hair tradition that unravels in this ever-evolving beauty world. “Braids” have had a leading role in the history of hairstyles for what seems like forever. However, people worldwide are still trying to unmask and create new hairstyles.

Braided styles are not just woven hair extensions. They are unique in their different kinds starting from traditional African hairstyles, to the classic cornrows, to the simple three strands of braids, to all the different braided styles.

This variety has made its mark in world history and still is, starting from the symbolic styles of ancient traditions to our Instagram era and YouTube tutorials.

It is amazing how this beautiful crowning has developed despite fashion fads, trends, culture, and societal changes for thousands of years and is still blooming.

There is a new style every other day, and it fits perfectly, to every occasion, in every season, no matter the gender or the cultural differences.

I want to say braided hairstyles are a world-renowned innovation that has birthed unity in our diversity, making it an agent of world peace.

“Expressions and styles have changed, but braiding patterns have remained the same,” Sims. Isn’t this fascinating?

Who could have ever imagined that in terms of style and fashion, you would have something in common with an ancestor of yours that lived thousands of years before you?

Did you know that different braided styles can be traced to about 3500 BC? 

Beyond the intertwining of hair strands, braiding is an ancient form of art, a craft that portrays beauty in one of its purest forms. It is taught by the senior female member of the family to her daughters, and close friends, this tradition of bonding has gradually been passed from one generation to another.

It has somehow made its way worldwide and is deeply rooted in different cultures, from Africa to Asia and even the western world.

Women and men of all ages are getting their hair braided daily. It is a perfect fit whether it’s for a special occasion, a regular work week, or just a protective style for the night.

In ancient times braided patterns and hairstyles were inklings of tribe, wealth, marital status, religion, and age.

Pace credits the origination of braided styles to different ancestries, Cornrows to Africa, afro box braids to Egypt, Halo braids to Greece, Pigtail braids to Native Americans, Crown braids to Europe, and Staircase braids to China.

Uniquely patterned braided styles are credited to Africans forced into slavery and are often used braided patterns to relay messages between enslaved people, escape signals, or even keep gold and seeds to help them survive after they ran away.

It is safe to say that the braided hairstyles have maintained made a mark in history that is here to stay. It is one style that seats gracefully on everyone, no matter the individual’s age, gender, or skin color.

We all braid for different reasons, mainly fashion trends, protective styles, and a new look. The good news is you cannot go wrong with braids.

You most likely would never hear anyone asking if braids will look good on them because it always comes out great. It’s like makeup. You are to fix it according to your style.

BOX BRAIDS

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1. Twin Tight Medium Sized Box Braids hairstyle 

Medium-sized braids are a versatile and romantic hairstyle, probably the most popular. Not only are they incredibly stylish they are always in vogue.

They can be styled for any occasion, and the ability to whip them back and forth makes them so much fun.

If you are ever in a position where you have no idea what to do with your hair but want it regular with a slice of bang, then medium-sized braids should be your go-to.

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RELATED: 17 QUEEN WORTHY BEYONCE BRAIDS HAIRSTYLES TO CROWN YOUR NEXT LOOK

2. Standard Egyptian Bob

The Egyptian braids are remarkable; these accessorized bob braids are still in style because they have stood the test of time and emerged strong.

It is amazing how these intricate woven strands are so old yet very fashionable, and it gives off this feeling of royalty.

I especially love how adorned these styles are compared to other ancient braiding techniques and how gracefully it sits on the shoulders and lower back.

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3. Supple Colored Traditional Braids

When we talk of box braids, it comes in diverse shapes, colors, and length. But however they come, they are always outstanding and beautiful.

Often, we are too scared to step out of our standard or familiar colors; we appreciate other colors and even dream of trying them on someday but never get around to gathering the confidence we need to rock them.

Well, I have good news for you, you can start your journey to colored hair with safer options like grey, gold, burgundy, blond, and even brown ombre, and these colors will help you gather the confidence to try brighter colors.

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RELATED: 20+ WAYS TO ENTWINE INTO MEDIUM KNOTLESS BRAIDS

4. Simple and Elaborate Summer Box Braids

Jumbo knotless braids it’s the perfect protective style that uses large portions of braids that are not directly anchored to your scalp, which reduces the tension on the scalp.

It is very easy to make and takes lesser time than all the other box braid styles; it is trendy, it is excellent for hair growth, it gives room for your scalp to breathe, it is comfy and light, and it can be styled and shaped as you see fit, it is your ideal vacation style.

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5. Luxuriant Heavy Crowning Braids

Do you know how they say box braids are beautiful? Full braids are the beauty in that beautiful; you cannot go wrong with this glorious crowning, it is perfect in length and color; it graces every occasion, highlights every outfit, it is bold and statement worthy.

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RELATED: 25 AMAZING POETIC-JUSTICE BRAIDS STYLES TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT LOOK

6. Modest Decorative Braids

Over the years, as hairstyle trends have come and gone, so have hair accessories; they date back to the earliest years of symbolic braids, and you can accessorize with just about anything these days.

Hair ornaments are such a highlight on every look; it shows style and creativity with each accessory added. The style takes on a new personality, allowing you to explore but staying true to what fits you.

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7. Soft and Flowy Bohemian Traditional Braids

Have you ever heard of Bohemian braids? They are curly box braids with loose and wavy ends or simple box braids with curly hair braided to give it a fuller and fluffier look. Interesting right?

If you are a lover of protective braids styles, you will love this. Its sleek curls are intricate and graceful, and it can be styled into any pattern technically. It is your regular box braids with a pinch of salt. It’s what I like to call “EXTRAordinary.”

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8. Braided locks Hairstyle

Are you tired of your locks? Or are you bored with your dreadlocks but not necessarily wanting to cut them off? Well, you are not alone. Most people get here.

When it comes to hairstyles, you cannot always be creative by yourself. It gets pretty tiring carrying dreadlocks for so long. After a while, you run out of styles and might lose the excitement to do something with your hair.

Braiding them is your perfect new look of excitement if this is you, you can weave your dreadlocks and achieve the standard tight braided look with quality hair extensions and a good stylist.

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9. Black Braids with Golden Highlight

The golden highlight with black hair is gorgeous, sexy, alluring, and sophisticated. This blend gives an intriguing natural look that leaves Mother Nature envious.

It’s the perfect hair blend for the simple and classy look, it brightens your eyes and adds depth and elegance to your overall appearance, and you will always have fun with golden hues.

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10. Stunning Medium Sized Box Braids Hairstyle

These protective styles are perfect if you are looking for a style that protects your edges and gives them room to breathe. This way, they are not exposed, nor are they constantly strained by the swaying of edge control bushes.

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11. Blue Ombre Medium Sized Box Braids Hairstyle

Did you know that “Ombre” is borrowed from the French word “Ombre,” which means shaded or shading? The ombre hair trend has taken the hair color world to a whole new level. It has a way of keeping colors subtle by going a few shades lighter. It is an incredible invention.

Now there is “Ombre,” and there is “Blue Ombre” the gradual process of unveiling different shades of blue is so exquisite. It is the perfect luxurious look.

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RELATED: 35  STUNNING BRAIDS WITH WEAVE HAIRSTYLES 

12. Vivid Colored Braids

There is something about colored braids that makes your hair appear more vibrant and exciting. Every once in a while, indulge yourself in a bit of color, it is a fun way of transforming and revitalizing your style, and it could serve as an outlet for your creative self-expression.

This eye-catching beauty stands out, making everyone who passes by you in need of another glance before going their way. It is the perfect outstanding new look. It screams confidence.

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13. Knotless Braids

Knotless braids are a great protective style, they are so impressive, and with this method, there is less pulling; without a knot, there is no friction hence less hair loss.

They are a great hairstyle option if properly installed and cared for. They help improve your hair growth by protecting the hair strands. These braids are craved because they are light, comfy, and easy on the hairline.

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14. Ultra-Cool Protective Male Hairstyle

Braids are an excellent way of styling longer sections of an undercut hairstyle, adding flavor to your look. In addition, they are an excellent low-maintenance new look for men.

Braided hairstyles are a blessing in disguise, it is always in style, and it does wonders for your hair and scalp’s health. It is like a medication that tastes good. Usually, sweet things are not healthy and healthy things are not lovely, but braids are fantastic.

It is important to note that even though braids are great fashionable protective styles, these advantages vary. It depends on hair type, weather conditions, hair extensions, hairstylist, the quality of hair care products you use, how often you use them, how long you keep your hair tied in your braids, etc.

Keep your hair and scalp nourished to prevent fizziness, to avoid breakage. You should never keep your braids for more than eight weeks, I suggest six weeks as the longest period to keep your hair tied up in extensions, and that is if you use quality hair extensions, so you don’t end up straining your hair follicles.

 As much as you can, avoid tight braids. Very tight braids could damage your hair and throw weeks or even months of hair growth in the bin.

It is also important to follow a hair care regime while you have on your braids. It could be once in three days or once a week.

Fashion trends come and go and having healthy hair will always be in style. Luckily, we live in an age where easy do-it-yourself tutorials are available all over the internet.

Medium size braids

FAQ

 How long can you keep your hair in braids?

My recommendation is that you don’t keep your braids longer than eight weeks.

 Can box braids cause hair breakage?

Box braids are called protective styles for a reason they are. Hair loss depends on your braider, the size of your braids, how tightly your braids are installed and how healthy your hair is.

What kind of extensions should I use for my braids?

When it comes to hair extension, always go for popular quality brands. They are easy to identify because they cost more.

Tanya Taylor