Big box braids hairstyles are a popular protective look in the natural hair community. This style offers up an instant shot of cool while also keeping your real hair manageable and safe from manipulation damage.
How to Create Big Braids with Your Box Braids
Although a full head of box braids, big or small, may take as long as four to eight hours to create, they’re not that complicated and actually just entail a regular three-strand stitch woven into a snug, shiny plait.
1. Decide on your size box braid.
Play with the size and shape of your box braids hairstyle, depending on preference. Some women like the neat, uniform sheath of hair they get from a bunch of medium-sized box braids, while others like them super-skinny (a.k.a. microbraids). Even others like the look of chunky, big box braids done on thicker sections of hair.
2. Add extensions.
To achieve the look. divide hair into bigger sections with the help of Bed Head by TIGI Wax Stick. Once divided, attach thicker strips of extensions to each. Proceed to braid hair as normal, crossing the left over the middle, then the right over the middle to create that pretty, crisp-looking three-strand link. Continue all the way to the ends and secure with either a hair tie or by dipping the end of your plait in searing hot water.
3. Begin French braiding your hair.
Form a bigger stitch with a set of skinnier braids (or, as we here like to call it, braid-ception). Starting with regularly box-braided hair, take the strips nearest your fringe/hairline area and begin to French-braid these sections downwards to your ear.
4. Transition to a three-strand technique.
Then switch to a three-strand technique once you go past the ear, and continue towards the ends. Charming and kind of cheeky, this look gives a literal spin on the trend. It’s also a clever way to switch up your look once you’ve hit the two-week mark and are looking for new ways to wear your hair.
Big Braid Styles You Need to Try
Need some hairstyle inspiration? From bold colors to easy updos, check out our favorite looks below.
1. Three-Strand
Box braids that are styled into a bigger three-strand style give this otherwise run-of-the-mill look more texture and personality. Especially when done off to one side, the hairstyle is one part boho and one part polished and showcases your personality with the added bonus of some control. Keep your style fresh with some Love Beauty and Planet Murumuru Butter & Rose Dry Shampoo.
2. Half-Crown
We love this half-crown style! It’s bold and feminine, and the perfect way to keep hair out of your face throughout the day. This style only takes a few minutes to create and will always make a statement. Try adding some of The Good Stuff Frizz Control Oil to your style.
3. Wrap Hairstyle
Almost painfully cool, this super fashionable hairstyle features a whole head of box braids woven into a regular three-strand braid, then twisted up into a headwrap-inspired updo. You can do this by splitting your hair down the center and by first creating pigtails, then pinning each one up and across the head. Tuck the ends into the seams with bobby pins to secure.
4. Big Box Braids Bun Hairstyle
Twist all of your hair into one big bun! We love how this style instantly looks put together when worn with box braids. This is a super easy updo that can be worn when you need to be dressed up or can be made casual too.
5. Long Jumbo Box Braids
Opt for a classic style like these thick waist-length box braids. You definitely can’t go wrong here. Between wash days, use SheaMoisture Moringa & Avocado Power Greens Hair Tea Rinse. We love this rinse because it lightly cleanses and softens strands.
6. Long Blonde Hairstyle
Can’t decide on the width you want? Opt for both wide and skinnier styles. Mixing both widths is a great way to add variation throughout your look. This is a fun way to try out a new style and various colors too.
7. Blue Half-Updo
When it comes to hair, it never hurts to step outside your comfort zone. Incorporate blue yarn into your style for a vibrant look. This sky blue hue is one of our favorite iterations of colorful box braids.
8. Pink Ombré Style
Can’t decide if you want a natural or bold color? Try out an ombré look! We love the contrast between the dark and bright hues.
9. Side-Parted Look
Many looks with box braids are middle-parted, so why not switch it up and go for a side part? Just the simple switch of your part can make a huge difference with any style.
10. Light Pink Look
Need a color that pops, but isn’t very bold? Light pink is the perfect option! Add in light pink yarn to your style for a fuller and more colorful look.
11. Accessorized Ends
Looking to make your hairstyle a little more special? Accessorize the look by adding beads at the ends of each braid. You can try out a variety of colors, textures, and finishes.
12. Jumbo Pigtails
Jumbo braids call for jumbo pigtails! Sport a trendy updo, like pigtails, while also wearing a protective style.
13. Big Red Braids
If you want to make a statement with your look, opt for a bold red hue. Switching up the color is an exciting way to change your style without needing to change the actual braided look.
14. Butterfly Hairstyle
Why not add a unique twist to your style, literally. Butterfly braids are a perfect style if you want a big braided look, but want to step outside the comfort zone of box braids.
15. Burgundy with Accessories
Playing around with colors and adding accessories are two of our favorite ways to change up a style. This burgundy hue is perfect for the fall time! From trendy updos to sleek accessorized looks, there are so many ways to style jumbo box braids.
