Get ready to braid! Braids are about to be everywhere in 2024! After years of box braids, cornrows, fishtails, and gracing red carpets and runways, braided hairstyles are exploding in popularity across cultures. From Beyoncé and Zendaya to Priyanka Chopra and Keke Palmer, celebrities are embracing braids as the ultimate stylish and protective hair choice.
Intricate braiding practices have been perfected over centuries in African-American and Latinx communities. These gorgeous techniques are finally gaining widespread appreciation. In 2024 leading hair stylists predict braids dominating magazines, social media, and celebrity style. According to haircare analysts, braids of all types will be the breakout hairstyle of the year.
So, which braided styles should you be asking your stylist for in 2024?
Here's your Hairvine insider guide to the hottest braids right now and how the stars are wearing them:
Box Braids
Slicked-back box braids are simple yet make a statement. Zendaya looked radiant wearing glossy box braids to the 2019 Emmys, while Ciara rocked them onstage and off. Yara Shahidi often pairs laid-back box braids with casual daywear for an effortlessly cool vibe.
Dutch Braids
Beyoncé frequently relies on pretty Dutch braids to accentuate her gorgeous face. Taylor Swift channels fairy tale princess style with her signature blonde Dutch braids. And Rihanna gives this basic braid an edgy twist by integrating it into her iconic shaved hairstyle.
Fishtail Braids
No braid captures that carefree, beachy look like the fishtail. Kendall Jenner sported playful fishtail braids all over Coachella. Gigi Hadid works them into her model-off-duty style. And Sophie Turner makes fishtails look elegant enough for formal events by smoothing flyaways for a polished finish.
Waterfall Braids
Also known as cascading braids, waterfall braids create gorgeous, mermaid-like tresses. Vanessa Hudgens frequently styles ultra-long, brick-waved waterfall braids. Priyanka Chopra's half-up waterfall braids look amazing with gowns on the red carpet. And Keke Palmer wowed in a braided updo with curly waterfall pieces framing her face.
Fulani Braids AKA Bo Derek Braids
Lupita Nyong'o, Beyoncé, and Jada Pinkett Smith inspire us with their ornately decorated Fulani braids, which honor African culture. Lupita's braids are literal works of art, while Beyonce's beaded golden take channels her roots. Jada rocks gold Fulani-style braids with grace and edge on many red carpets.
Milkmaid Braids
These loose, romantic braids evoke old-world charm. Olivia Wilde's soft milkmaid braids have an ethereal vibe that is perfect for boho girls. Cardi B. modernizes the milkmaid look by braiding only the front pieces to maintain total volume in the back. And Billie Eilish makes this vintage style feel modern with slime-green ends.
Goddess Braids
Goddess braids allow curly textures to get long while protecting hair integrity. Solange elevates the look by accessorizing with African prints and cowrie shells. Taraji P. Henson and Alicia Keys also look beautiful in earthy, free-spirited goddess braids.
Poetic Justice Braids
Named for Janet Jackson's iconic 90s braids in the film, these chunky box braids are back. Rihanna and Zoe Kravitz make the retro style feel cool and modern. And Lisa Bonet still rocks her history-making poetic justice braids beautifully decades later.
Jumbo Box Braids
The bolder, the better! These hugely chunky braids make a statement. Lady Gaga surprises with waist-length neon red jumbo braids. Doja Cat piles on beads and gold cuffs with her 90's inspired jumbo braids. And Eve proves jumbo box braids still look current with the right attitude.
Inside-Out Braids
This advanced technique creates cool braids that look interwoven. Ciara stunned in reversing inside-out braids at the Grammys. Yara Shahidi plays with texture by braiding her natural curls inside out. And Jill Scott shows off beautiful inside-out braids that highlight precise braiding skills.
Cultural Appreciation of Braiding
As we can see, braids hold deep cultural significance and artistry stemming from African and Latinx communities. By honoring these roots while celebrating braids as a universal beauty technique, we allow this ancient art form to be appreciated across cultures in 2024 and beyond.
As mainstream culture finally awakens to braids as an art form, remember to honor the women of color who popularized these protective styles and pioneered techniques over generations. In 2024, join generations of beautiful, creative women and embrace braids as a symbol of culture, power, and beauty.
This is so informative!