When it comes to curly hair, the styling possibilities are endless. One of the most popular and versatile options is braided hairstyles.
Whether you’re looking to protect your hair, elevate your natural curls, or just try something new, braids offer countless options that can fit any occasion. This guide will cover 33 braided hairstyles for curly hair that are not only fresh and elegant but also help you embrace your hair’s natural texture.
1. Feed-in braids for Curly Hair
Feed-in braids are a popular protective style that adds length and volume without the bulk of traditional extensions. These braids start small and gradually thicken as more hair is added, giving a more natural look. For curly hair, feed-in braids blend beautifully with natural curls, creating a polished yet voluminous hairstyle.
- Tip: Adding small accessories like beads or gold thread enhances this look.
- Maintenance: Use a satin scarf at night to prevent frizz.
Why Feed-In Braids are Ideal for Curly Hair:
- Protects the ends from breakage.
- Allows natural curls to shine at the tips.
- Versatile enough for both casual and formal settings.
2. Cornrows with Curly Ends
Cornrows are a classic style for curly and afro-textured hair. Combining cornrows with loose, curly ends gives you the best of both worlds. The sleekness of cornrows contrasts beautifully with the defined curls left free at the bottom.
- Styling Tip: Apply perm rods on the ends for extra definition.
- Perfect for: A day-to-night look with minimal maintenance.
Benefits of Cornrows for Curly Hair:
- Long-lasting and low-maintenance.
- Can be styled into buns, ponytails, or left loose.
- Protects the scalp while showing off natural curls.
3. Chunky Cornrows and Curls
If you’re a fan of bold, statement-making hairstyles, chunky cornrows combined with curly hair are a perfect choice. This style involves creating large cornrows that are thicker than traditional ones, paired with curly ends for a striking contrast.
- Styling Tip: Use a curl-defining cream on the loose ends to keep them hydrated and shiny.
- Maintenance: Refresh the curls with a spray leave-in conditioner between washes.
Why Choose Chunky Cornrows:
- Perfect for achieving voluminous hair.
- Less time-consuming compared to smaller cornrows.
- Bold and easy to accessorize with beads or rings.
4. Cornrow High Ponytail with Curls
This style features cornrows braided upwards into a high ponytail with curly ends. The high ponytail gives you a sleek, pulled-back look while the curls add volume and movement.
- Styling Tip: Use a strong-hold gel to slick down the edges for a polished look.
- Perfect for: Active days when you want a stylish yet practical look.
Why This Style Works:
- Great for voluminous hair: It keeps the curls bouncy and full.
- Low maintenance: Just reapply edge control and moisturizer for the curls.
5. Trio Cornrow Braids
For a chic and minimalist style, try trio cornrow braids. This involves three neatly braided cornrows with the rest of the hair left curly. It’s a simple yet sophisticated look that works for any occasion.
- Styling Tip: Add face-framing braids for a softer look.
- Perfect for: A quick style that can be done in under an hour.
Benefits:
- Works for both medium and long curly hair.
- Easy to maintain and lasts up to two weeks.
6. Center-Braid Curly Ponytail
A center-braid ponytail is a sleek and stylish option for curly hair. This hairstyle features a braid running down the center of the head, leading into a curly ponytail. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to blend braids with natural curls seamlessly.
- Styling Tip: Add gold thread in braids for a trendy touch.
- Perfect for: Work, date nights, or casual outings.
Why It Works for Curly Hair:
- Keeps hair off your face while highlighting your natural curls.
- Adds an elegant touch to a basic ponytail.
7. Decorative Braided Ponytail
Elevate a simple braided ponytail by adding decorative accessories like beads, cuffs, or colorful threads. This style allows you to be creative while keeping your natural curls intact.
- Styling Tip: Use contrasting colors for the beads or accessories to make the look pop.
- Perfect for: Special occasions like weddings or parties.
8. Multi-braid ponytail with Curls
A multi-braid ponytail involves creating several braids that lead into a curly ponytail. This style adds texture and volume, making it perfect for those who want a more complex look.
- Styling Tip: Use defined curls to enhance the overall effect.
- Perfect for: Anyone who wants to make a bold statement.
9. Essential Tools and Products for Braided Hairstyles on Curly Hair
| Product | Purpose | Recommended Brand |
| Curl-Defining Cream | Enhances curls in braided styles | DevaCurl |
| Edge Control Gel | Tame edges for sleek braids | Eco Styler |
| Satin Scarf or Bonnet | Protects braids during sleep | Grace Eleyae |
| Beads and Hair Accessories | Adds style and flair to braids | Amazon, Hair Beads Co. |
| Moisturizing Leave-In Spray | Hydrates curls and braids | SheaMoisture |
10. Braided Curly Bun
Combining braids with a curly bun gives you a polished, elegant style. The braids add texture, while the curly bun offers volume.
- Styling Tip: Pull a few curls loose around the face for a more relaxed look.
- Perfect for: Formal events like weddings or dinner parties.
Why It Works:
- Adds an element of sophistication while still showing off your curls.
- Chic braided ponytail look when pulled higher.
11. Braided Messy Bun for Curly Hair
The messy bun is a go-to casual style for curly hair, and adding braids can give it a more refined touch. A braided messy bun blends the effortless charm of loose curls with the structure of braids.
- Styling Tip: Braid one or two sections of your hair before gathering it into a loose bun.
- Perfect for: Casual outings, beach days, or when you want an easy, undone look.
12. Elegant Crown Braid
A crown braid gives a regal, elegant look perfect for formal occasions. It involves braiding your hair around the crown of your head, with loose curly ends adding softness to the style.
- Styling Tip: Finish with hair spray to keep the braid intact throughout the day.
- Perfect for: Weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want to feel like royalty.
13. Tousled Crown Braid with Loose Curls
For a more casual, boho-chic vibe, try a tousled crown braid with loose curls. This style is perfect for those who love a carefree yet polished look.
- Styling Tip: Use a texturizing spray to add volume to your curls.
- Perfect for: Music festivals, summer outings, or weekend brunches.
14. Mini Crown Braids
Mini crown braids involve creating two small braids that wrap around the top of your head, with the rest of your curly hair flowing freely. This look is youthful and fresh, offering a playful alternative to the traditional crown braid.
- Styling Tip: Add small beads or flower accessories for extra flair.
- Perfect for: A laid-back day or casual gathering.
15. Crown Braid Bun
Combining the elegance of a crown braid with the structure of a bun, this hairstyle is perfect for those who want a more refined updo.
- Styling Tip: Wrap the braid around the bun for an intricate look.
- Perfect for: Formal events or special occasions.
16. Regal Double Crown Braid
For an ultra-elegant look, try a double crown braid. This style features two braids wrapping around the crown of your head, giving you a layered, regal effect.
- Styling Tip: Pair with beads and braids for a royal finish.
- Perfect for: Black-tie events, galas, or any occasion where you want to stand out.
17. Half-Up, Half-Down Braided Bun
A half-up, half-down braided bun blends the best of both worlds. The top half of your hair is braided into a bun, while the bottom half showcases your natural curls.
- Styling Tip: Add face-framing braids for a softer look.
- Perfect for: Everyday wear, casual events, or even work settings.
18. Braided Faux Hawk
For those who love edgy styles, the braided faux hawk is an excellent choice. This hairstyle involves braiding the sides of your hair while leaving the top full of voluminous curls.
- Styling Tip: Use a curl-enhancing product to keep the curls at the top bouncy and full.
- Perfect for: Music festivals or when you want a bold, statement-making look.
19. Essential Tools and Products for Braided Hairstyles on Curly Hair
| Product | Purpose | Recommended Brand |
| Curl-Defining Cream | Enhances curls in braided styles | DevaCurl |
| Edge Control Gel | Tame edges for sleek braids | Eco Styler |
| Satin Scarf or Bonnet | Protects braids during sleep | Grace Eleyae |
| Beads and Hair Accessories | Adds style and flair to braids | Amazon, Hair Beads Co. |
| Moisturizing Leave-In Spray | Hydrates curls and braids | SheaMoisture |
20. Beaded Half-Up, Half-Down Braids
Add a bit of flair to your half-up, and half-down braids by incorporating beads. This style is perfect for anyone who loves adding a personal touch to their hairstyle.
- Styling Tip: Opt for wooden or metallic beads for a unique finish.
- Perfect for: Casual days or weekend outings.
21. Face-Framing Braids with Loose Curls
For a soft, romantic look, try face-framing braids with your natural curls left loose. This style is easy to achieve and adds a delicate touch to your look.
- Styling Tip: Add beads and braids for a more intricate design.
- Perfect for: Casual or semi-formal events.
22. Braided Half-Up Crown
For a relaxed yet elegant look, the braided half-up crown is a beautiful choice. Braiding just the top section of your hair into a crown braid, while leaving the rest curly, gives a polished yet effortless style.
- Styling Tip: Add gold thread in braids for a luxurious touch.
- Perfect for: Both everyday wear and special occasions.
23. Braided Faux Hawk with Curly Edges
The braided faux hawk with curly edges is a bold and trendy style for those who want something daring. This hairstyle combines the sleekness of a faux hawk with the softness of curly edges, making it both edgy and feminine.
- Styling Tip: Use a curling mousse to define the edges for a crisp finish.
- Perfect for: Concerts, festivals, or just standing out.
24. Braided Afro with Curly Accents
For those with afro-textured hair, the braided afro is an excellent way to mix up your style while still showcasing your natural texture. Braids can be incorporated within the afro to add a unique dimension to the hairstyle.
- Styling Tip: Add decorative braids with beads for extra personality.
- Perfect for: Special events where you want to showcase your natural curls and braids.
25. Two-tone braids with Curls
Incorporating two different colors into your braids can create a stunning contrast, making two-tone braids a striking choice for curly hair. Whether you choose bold colors or subtle highlights, this style is sure to stand out.
- Styling Tip: Combine lighter and darker shades to create a multi-dimensional look.
- Perfect for: Fashion-forward individuals who love experimenting with colors.
26. Benefits of Braided Hairstyles for Curly Hair
| Benefit | Description | Hairstyles |
| Protection from Breakage | Shields hair from environmental damage | Feed-In Braids, Cornrows |
| Versatile Styling | Allows creative expression | Crown Braid, Multi-Braid Ponytail |
| Low Maintenance | Can last weeks with proper care | Braided Bun, Chunky Cornrows |
| Length Retention | Keeps ends protected, reducing split ends | Braided Afro, Beaded Braids |
| Emphasizes Natural Curls | Combines braids with curly ends for contrast | Braided Faux Hawk, Tousled Curls |
27. Feed-In Braids with Highlights
Adding highlights to feed-in braids brings extra dimension and depth to your curly hairstyle. This technique allows you to blend two colors while showcasing your natural curls.
- Styling Tip: Opt for subtle highlights that complement your natural hair color.
- Perfect for: Those who want a fresh, modern twist on classic braids.
28. Braids with Shaved Sides
For a fierce, modern look, try combining braids with shaved sides. This style is perfect for curly hair, allowing the curls on top to be the focus while the sides are closely cropped or shaved.
- Styling Tip: Consider adding a design or pattern to the shaved sides for a unique touch.
- Perfect for: Those who want an edgy, bold style.
29. Beaded Braids with Curly Ends
Beaded braids are a timeless and fun way to style your hair, especially when combined with curly ends. This style adds both texture and personality, making it a great choice for festivals, vacations, or casual outings.
- Styling Tip: Use small, colorful beads to add a playful touch to your hairstyle.
- Perfect for: Casual events, festivals, or beach days.
30. Braids with Hair Rings and Cuffs
Hair rings and cuffs are trendy accessories that add a modern touch to any braided hairstyle. They can be placed at various points along your braids, enhancing the overall look.
- Styling Tip: Mix and match different sizes and styles of rings for a customized look.
- Perfect for: Anyone looking to upgrade their braids with a fashionable twist.
31. Curly Ends with Braided Beadwork
For a creative and intricate style, try curly ends with braided beadwork. This involves weaving beads into your braids, leaving the ends curly for a stunning contrast.
- Styling Tip: Choose beads that match your outfit or occasion.
- Perfect for: Festivals, vacation spots, or any event where you want to showcase a creative look.
32. Braided Scarf Look
Incorporating a scarf into your braids is a stylish way to add color and texture to your hairstyle. The braided scarf look is perfect for anyone who loves accessorizing their curls.
- Styling Tip: Use a bright, patterned scarf for a bold statement.
- Perfect for: Summer outings, vacations, or casual days.
33. Curly Braid with Flower Accessories
Adding flower accessories to your braids is a beautiful way to create a soft, romantic look. Whether you use fresh or faux flowers, this style is perfect for weddings, garden parties, or any event where you want to feel ethereal.
- Styling Tip: Use smaller flowers for a subtle effect, or larger blooms for a bolder look.
- Perfect for: Romantic events, outdoor parties, or photo shoots.
Conclusion
Braided hairstyles are a fantastic way to enhance and protect curly hair while maintaining style and versatility. From the timeless elegance of a crown braid to the boldness of a braided faux hawk, these styles can suit any occasion, whether casual or formal. With the right techniques and care, braids not only highlight your natural curls but also help retain moisture, reduce breakage, and promote hair growth.
Incorporating accessories like beads, scarves, or flowers can take your look to the next level, allowing you to express your creativity. So, whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance protective style or an intricate and bold statement, there’s a braided hairstyle perfect for you.
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Discover 33 fresh and elegant braided hairstyles for curly hair. From feed-in braids to crown braids, find versatile styles to protect and enhance your natural curls
