Forget delicate tendrils and wispy ponytails. Big braids are back, and they’re bolder than ever.
More than just a hairstyle, they’re a cultural tapestry woven from history, tradition, and self-expression.
From box braids that cascade down like regal rivers to chunky cornrows that defy gravity, these intricate plaits aren’t afraid to turn heads.
But their impact goes beyond aesthetics. Big braids are a celebration of Black heritage, a symbol of resilience and strength passed down through generations.
Each knot and twist tells a story, whispering of ancestors and cultural pride.
So, whether you’re rocking goddess braids dripping with gold cuffs or a sleek, braided bun commanding attention, know that you’re not just wearing a hairstyle – you’re making a statement.
Let’s unravel the magic of these magnificent mane masterpieces.
1. Jumbo Box Braids
These are large, square-sectioned braids that offer a bold and versatile look. Perfect for you if you’re seeking a protective style with a classic aesthetic. Each braid is chunky, making a statement while providing ease of maintenance. They can be styled in various lengths and colors, suiting your personal taste. You can wear them down for a casual look or style them in updos for more formal occasions. Remember, they require less time to install due to their size, but it’s crucial to care for your scalp and edges to prevent tension.
2. Big Knotless Braids
These are a modern twist on traditional braids. They start with your natural hair and gradually incorporate braiding hair, creating a seamless, knotless look at the roots. This style is excellent for you if you prefer a more natural and less bulky appearance at the scalp. They are versatile, less painful to install, and put less tension on your scalp, making them a healthier option for your hair. You can experiment with different lengths and colors to match your personality.
3. Big Lemonade Braids
Inspired by Beyoncé, these are side-swept cornrow braids that make a stylish and edgy statement. They’re braided close to the scalp and can be styled in various patterns, with the braids typically sweeping to one side of your head. This style is not only eye-catching but also practical, keeping hair off your face. You can adorn them with beads or rings for an extra pop. Ideal for you if you’re looking for a chic, celebrity-inspired hairstyle.
4. Triangle Jumbo Braids
This unique style features jumbo braids partitioned in triangular sections instead of the usual squares. The triangular parts add an interesting geometric element to your look. These braids are bold and striking, perfect for making a fashion statement. You have the flexibility to choose the size of the triangles, which can vary from small to large, depending on your preference. It’s a fun way to add a twist to traditional box braids.
5. Big Knotless Braids With Beads
These are an embellished version of big knotless braids, where beads are added to the ends for an extra decorative touch. This addition brings a playful and cultural element to your hairstyle. You can choose beads of various colors, sizes, and materials to personalize your look. This style combines the comfort and natural appearance of knotless braids with the decorative flair of beads, making it perfect for you if you want a standout, yet elegant hairstyle.
6. Jumbo Knotless Braids With Curly Ends
These braids blend the sleekness of knotless braids with the whimsy of curly ends. The braids transition into curls, offering a unique and feminine touch to your hairstyle. This style is perfect for you if you want a blend of structured braiding and free-flowing curls. It’s versatile and can be styled in various ways, providing both a protective style and a playful, chic look. The curly ends also add volume and texture, giving a fresh twist to the classic braid.
7. Two Big Ponytail Braids
This hairstyle consists of two large braids styled into ponytails. It’s a simple yet bold style, ideal for when you want a chic but straightforward look. The braids can be either sleek or more loosely braided, depending on your preference. This style works well for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. It’s also a great way to keep your hair neatly away from your face while still making a fashion statement.
8. Big Cornrow Braids
Big cornrow braids are thick, raised braids that are plaited close to the scalp in straight or curved lines. They’re a classic and versatile style, suitable for all occasions. You can wear them in simple, straight-back rows or in intricate designs, depending on your mood. This style is not only stylish but also a great protective option for your hair. It’s a practical choice if you’re looking for a low-maintenance yet fashionable hairstyle.
9. Short Jumbo Box Braids
Short jumbo box braids offer the bold look of jumbo braids in a shorter, more manageable length. Ideal for you if you’re looking for a statement style that’s not too overwhelming. These braids are easier to maintain and lighter on your head compared to longer versions. They give a chic, edgy look and can be accessorized with beads or colored extensions to match your personal style.
10. 4 Jumbo Box Braids
This style features exactly four chunky box braids, offering a minimalist yet striking look. It’s a bold choice, perfect for making a strong fashion statement with minimal effort. These braids are usually worn long and can be accessorized or left plain. This style is not only visually impactful but also practical, as it’s relatively quick to install and easy to maintain. It suits you if you’re looking for a unique, modern twist on traditional box braids.
11. Big Twist braids
These braids involve twisting two sections of hair around each other, creating a rope-like effect. This style is ideal for you if you’re looking for a protective hairstyle that’s less time-consuming to install than traditional braids. Big twist braids are versatile and can be styled in various ways, such as updos, ponytails, or left hanging freely. They’re not only stylish but also a great way to give your hair a break from daily styling routines.
12. Jumbo Braids With Curly Ends
Similar to the jumbo knotless braids with curly ends, these braids combine the boldness of jumbo braids with the softness of curls. The braids transition into curls at the ends, providing a beautiful contrast between the structured braid and the free-flowing curls. This style is perfect for you if you want a combination of elegance and playfulness in your hairstyle. It’s a great choice for both casual and formal settings.
13. Big Braided Ponytail
This style involves pulling your hair back into a single, large braid that forms a ponytail. It’s a sleek and elegant look, suitable for both day and night occasions. The big braided ponytail can be accessorized with hair cuffs or ribbons for an extra touch of sophistication. It’s a great option if you prefer a hairstyle that keeps your hair neatly away from your face while still looking stylish.
14. Jumbo Knotless Braids With Color
These are jumbo knotless braids with added colored extensions. The color can range from subtle highlights to bold, vibrant hues. This style is ideal for expressing your personality and adding an extra pop to your look. The knotless technique ensures a seamless and natural integration of the colored extensions. This style is a fantastic way to experiment with color without committing to a permanent change.
15. Large Goddess Braids
Large goddess braids are an elegant and sophisticated style, characterized by thick, raised braids that are often incorporated with smaller, detailed braids or twists. This style exudes a regal and graceful look, making it perfect for special occasions or when you want to add a touch of elegance to your everyday style. You can adorn these braids with accessories like beads or gold cuffs for an even more luxurious appearance.
16. Big Braids Bun
A big braids bun involves styling your large braids into a bun at the top or back of your head. This elegant and sophisticated hairstyle is perfect for formal events or when you want a chic, pulled-together look. The bun can be as neat or as messy as you like, offering versatility in styling. It’s also a practical choice, keeping your hair off your neck and face, especially on hot days or during physical activities.
17. Jumbo Box Braids Bob
This style takes the classic box braids and styles them into a bob length. It’s a contemporary twist on traditional long braids, offering a fresh and trendy look. The shorter length makes this style lighter and more manageable, perfect if you prefer less weight on your scalp. The bob length can vary from just below the ears to just above the shoulders, giving you flexibility in how you want to wear this chic, edgy hairstyle.
18. Big Braided Updo
A big braided updo involves styling your large braids into an updo, which can range from a high bun to an intricate arrangement of braids on your head. This hairstyle is ideal for special occasions, providing an elegant and classy look. It’s a creative way to style your braids, allowing you to experiment with different updo designs. This style also serves as a protective hairstyle, keeping your ends tucked away.
19. Crochet Big Braids
Crochet big braids are installed using the crochet method, where braids are looped through your cornrowed hair with a crochet needle. This technique is less time-consuming and offers a wide variety of styling options. You can choose from different braid textures and lengths, making it a versatile and convenient option. It’s an excellent choice if you want a braid style that’s easy to install and remove.
20. Two Big Cornrows
This style consists of just two large cornrows braided close to the scalp. It’s a simple yet stylish look, offering a neat and tidy appearance. This hairstyle is perfect for casual days or when you’re on the go and need a quick, easy-to-manage hairstyle. Despite its simplicity, it can be dressed up with accessories like beads or rings for a more embellished look.
21. Big Braid Mohawk
The big braid mohawk is a bold and edgy hairstyle, where braids are styled to create a mohawk effect. This look involves braiding the hair in a way that the braids converge towards the center of your head, often leaving the sides less dense or slicked back. It’s a statement style, perfect if you’re looking to stand out and showcase a unique, fierce look. This style can be achieved with your natural hair or with extensions for added volume and length.
22. Big Yarn Braids
Big yarn braids use yarn instead of traditional braiding hair, offering a unique texture and appearance. This style is not only visually striking but also lightweight, making it a comfortable option. Yarn braids come in a variety of colors, allowing you to get creative and playful with your look. They’re an excellent choice if you’re interested in a distinctive, artistic hairstyle that showcases your individuality and flair for bold fashion choices.
23. Big Zig Zag Braids
This hairstyle features large braids patterned in a zig-zag formation. The braids are intricately styled to create sharp, angular lines across your scalp, resulting in a dynamic and eye-catching look. Big zig-zag braids are perfect for when you want a hairstyle that is both unique and stylish. This design adds an element of fun and creativity to your hairstyle, making it ideal for occasions when you want to make a memorable impression.
24. Big Braids Dread
Big braids dread combines the techniques of braiding and dreading, creating a hybrid style. This look involves braiding your hair into large sections and then allowing them to form into dreadlocks over time. It’s a commitment-heavy style, ideal if you’re looking for a long-term hairstyle that evolves and matures. This style offers a distinctive, bold look and is a symbol of a natural and free-spirited approach to hair care.
25. Jumbo Butterfly Braids
Jumbo butterfly braids are a fanciful and intricate hairstyle, characterized by the way the braids puff out at intervals, resembling the wings of a butterfly. This style involves braiding the hair in a pattern that allows for these ‘wings’ to be created along the length of the braids. It’s a whimsical and stylish choice, perfect for special occasions or when you want a hairstyle that’s both playful and elegant. You can add beads or other accessories to enhance the butterfly effect.