@natural_zvibez
Thick braids twisting and turning around the head is a unique and gorgeous look inspired by Greek mythology. Best of all, this is an updo, so it can be paired with big and bold jewelry for a great fashion statement.
Goddess braids are a feminine and beautiful way for ethnic women to wear their hair. Like many braided styles, some Goddess coifs can remain intact for weeks, while others will only last for a day. Check out all the great variations of this modern hairstyle that take a cue from mythological heroines.
These oversized cornrows need some explanation before we move on to the visuals. They are braided close to the scalp, either on natural hair or with the use of extensions. The designs of hairstyles vary. It can be a crown braid updo, Mohawk braid with a low braided bun, or a half-up hairstyle with a headband braid, to name a few. The following examples highlight just how versatile and expressive these styles can be.
@_jazitup
One of the most beautiful things about these ethnic braids is the artwork that goes into the various styles. Parting your hair into a shapely design will bring a whole new dimension to the style. This one is curved into a “U” shape.
This style requires a thick braid that thins out as it reaches the bottom of the hair. If you have highlights in your hair, it will look especially lovely. Are you new to creating this type of braid? This is a good starting point.
@_jazitup
The laid edges of baby-fine hair are a stylish accent for an asymmetrical braided hairstyle. The angled braids swirl around the head towards one side and front, framing the face. Wrapping just one or two of the thickest braids with some gold or copper wire is an elegant touch that really draws attention to the length.
@erica_letstalkhair
Laid edges set off the winding iridescent braids that offer a look of a regal crown. The circular pattern curves around the scalp, ending full force in shiny, deep-purple braids that are long enough to throw over your shoulder like a scarf!
@erica_letstalkhair
If you are looking for a sizzling way to wear your hair in a ponytail, look no further than curvy cornrows that feed into a wrapped-around ponytail. The red-wine colored extensions braided into black hair and mini-parting braids adorned with golden cuffs give this style a refined appearance.
@shellyafrikhair
Ideal for both a casual day and a formal night, this style wraps into a tall bun for the ultimate in beauty and femininity. Pair it with some bold accessories – especially chunky earrings – or go with something a bit more dainty and delicate for a classic dancer vibe.
@mzpritea
A new twist on an old favorite, these perfectly aligned cornrows race from the forehead all the way to the nape of the neck, where they spring off into uber-shiny, freely-hanging braids. It’s a gorgeous design pattern with tiny parting braids that help to keep the entire head looking neat and fancy.
@phenomenal_braider
The speckled caramel braids that swirl to the side work in unison with tiny braid partings. Gold braid cuffs coordinate nicely with the color of the braided hair. A wrap-around ponytail that sits on the crown of the head is a wonderful way to create some height.
@shellyafrikhair
Who says you can’t braid your hair in two opposite directions? These angular scalp braids twist around the crown of your head in an eye-challenging pattern that is enhanced by bright red and subdued blue highlights. It’s an excellent option if you want a goddess braid style that can be completed relatively quickly.
@studio91naturalhairsalon
Achieved with kanekalon hair, these curly onyx braids are trendy and stylish. Skinny parting braids separate larger cornrows that are all gathered together and fed into a wrap-around ponytail that comes right out of the 1960s.
@erica_letstalkhair
For very thick hair, try this slicked-back, sectioned French Mohawk braid that ends with a coiled low bun. This will also work with a weave or extensions if your natural hair is too short.
@modernsalon
Express the fun and frolicking little girl inside you with two braids that are set up like pigtails parted in the center. Long, chestnut-tinted Dutch braids are decorated with hair cuffs and crisscrossed gold strings for a simple and neat hairstyle that looks great wherever you go.
@braidsby_kdc
Perfectly partitioned braids swept up into a classy twisted top knot are a wonderful choice. Gorgeous angled patterns around the crown section and bright copper hair woven into the extensions contribute to the overall versatile design that can be worn at work or at play.
@hairbyyaya
With a weave, you can modify your hairstyle to your heart’s content. You may vary the length of your hair, play with color and braided designs. The super-long and thick caramel colored extensions taper thinner as they reach down to the waist.
@braidsbykiana
If you are bored with hairstyles that have only two to four braids, check out this hot pink number that features at least eight thick and thin braids directed upwards into a flouncy ponytail. Consider an outside-the-box color like this sophisticated two-tone muted pink.
@vb_retta
Two braids are better than one, and four or five braids are the ideal number if you want to pull your hair up into a bulky braided bun. You can use a shine enhancer or a similar product to keep things slicked down and perfectly in place.
@american_salon
Geometry at its best! If you have fine-textured natural hair, consider an angular pattern with precisely divided sections and part lines. This braided pattern is particularly eye-catching, and it’s made even better with the bronze hair cuffs on each tress.
@val_can_braid
A combination of youthful energy and ageless elegance, these two thick cornrow-style braids to the back that open up into curly long pigtails is a very appealing choice. Neat and easy to maintain, jet black loopy extensions work very well for women who have short to medium-length, thick natural hair.
@sleek_stylz
White-blonde hair extensions have been woven into three goddess braids that flow diagonally across the top of the head. The main braids are separated by two thin parting braids. The racing parting braids are a cute accent that makes this hairstyle stand out.
@shellyafrikhair
The regal and stately updo with a high braided bun is a look that never goes out of style. Thicker cornrows and interspersed mini parting braids go straight up from the hairline to meet on the crown and be crowned with a tall, classy bun.
@braidsbykeee
The truth of the matter is that pretty much anyone out there can rock intricate designs with their hair. Using small braids along with some chunkier plaits means that you choose an urban style fit for a queen. Look at these flared rows, they are just stunning.
@steph_odia
Feed-in braids offer an opportunity to blend two hairstyles in one. If you want to personalize the tried and true pigtails, add an angled braided design between them and feed it into the main braids.
@val_can_braid
For a fancier style, why not create an updo with curls? This type of hairstyle can work with weave or on natural hair, depending on what’s best for you. Each braid leads up to the main event – the burst of curls on top of the head, which is preened to perfection.
@thehairqueen
Being a fan of big braids, you’ll appreciate the idea of these dark-maroon branching braids that are adorned with gold hair cuffs and braid string. Three braids on each side are branching out from the imaginary centre parting, resulting in a unique hairstyle you’ll love to rock for a while.
@qthebraider
Four sculpted braids can make for a beautiful Mohawk. Let them be chunky to contrast with skinny cornrows on the sides. The effect is a sporty Mohawk style that has a slightly tomboyish appearance.
@shaylastyles_
Simple, straight braiding is a relatively easy thing to do, especially if you are working with stretched-out natural hair. Perfectly symmetrical braids in a bun make it even a better decision! It’s a fabulous choice if you are in search of a classic, timeless style that looks good anywhere, anytime. Nice mommy/daughter option too!
@outbarsalon
A series of different-sized braids that all stem out from one point is what makes this style so unique and elegant. They swoop and curve around the head to be finished off with an attractive top-knot bun.
@donebyjenn
Truly one of the most wonderful ways to have a lovely, spontaneous style is to mix up the thickness level of your braids. From thin to downright fat, African braided styles bring hair onto a whole new playing field.
@modernsalon
Bring hair forward to accentuate your beautiful neck and showcase some awesome color. This will also bring out your accessories and outfit that you choose to pair this style with. Finish this look off with a bun in place of bangs – it’s sweet, sassy, and totally modern.
@american_salon
Curly goddess braids styles are stunning with thinner and thicker braids and a curly back section. Your salon stylist will skillfully copy this look for you, but you can also try it at home. Simply start with a braid of medium thickness along the hairline, add a tiny braid across the center of the head, and then finish with a thicker, loose braid closer to the crown. Gather the rest of the hair up and add curls, securing with bobby pins as you go.
@thehairqueen
When it comes to updo hairstyles, you may feel like you want to go big or go home. Pulling off a chunky, bold bun may be particularly tricky, but when it works, it really works.
@art_of_beautification
Long, beautiful, and girly to the max, these braids are a more feminine take on classic cornrows. The braids are thicker, and this style relies upon either very long locks or a high-quality weave. This is a great choice if you want a wearable style that can also have some variations – pull the braids into a ponytail or low bun when you want a change.
@modernsalon
Thick African braids wrapped around as a halo will crown your head, frame your face, and look positively elegant. Add some hair embellishments like jewels or beads to fancy it up further.
@american_salon
Heading out for an evening on the town? Here’s one of those updo hairstyles that few women can resist. Incorporating extensions of some shiny hue that is similar to your natural color but makes a difference is an easy way to add a glamorous touch to your look. You can support it with your makeup colors, too.
@creationsbyshay
Fancy something a little different? Why not try an updo with a curvy part, voluminous braids, and a tight twisted braided knot? Perfect for thick natural hair. The extensions blend seamlessly.
@luscioushairbraiding
A mix of smaller and bigger plaits works perfectly together. This hairstyle looks simple and sophisticated at the same time. You can wear those braids freely hanging or twist and pin them into a low bun when you want to look more put together.
@jlowedabraider
Instead of braiding hair straight down or across, try to angle your braids for a beautiful look. Three or four thick braids will cover the head sufficiently, and with a longer length, you’ll get a big coiled bundle at the back, featuring thinner ends of the braids, which offer texture variety to the style. This is a fun and unique updo for all occasions.
@kersti.pitre
Big diagonal braids always look a bit more interesting than those that run straight backwards. You may end two braids with small buns at the nape of your neck – as you see, it looks utterly fabulous. The golden clips wrapped around the braids give the sense of glamor and glitz, while the sleekness of each braid is ideal.
@marlyshairbraiding
If you’re looking for a way to make a jumbo braid both stylish and modern, you may have just found it. There’s only one large braid at work for this look, which is what’s so incredible. The chunky snake braid creates a striking and feminine silhouette. Finishing it off with a bun is absolutely to the point.
@hairdesignz_bytiffany
Goddess braids styles can be quick and simple, we swear. Have a look! Being similar to double Dutch braids, this hairstyle is still beautifully unique. Uncomplicated to create, you can wear this without spending a fortune at the salon, and it can easily last for quite a while. If your hair is on the shorter side, consider adding in a weave.
@modernsalon
Double plump braids snuggly wrapped around your head will always be a sophisticated night-ready look. Remember to include some smaller twists or braids into the mix so that you shake things up a little.
@samanthapollack
Here’s a picture of a sectioned style that is pulled together with a singular circle braid. It’s basically a braided bun with a big section of hair above, previously braided and twisted around the base of the bun. It’s a durable style to last all day and night.
@tiffanyyyy_j
Your hairstyles don’t have to include mega-long braids to enjoy the beauty of a protective style. Instead, keep your hair sleek, short, and simple with this perfectly coifed hairstyle. Even a sideburn curl is incorporated to keep the whole head glam.
@american_salon
This volumized style is actually inspired by the standard fishtail braid. Braiding from the inside out gives height, while ending it with a ponytail makes it simple and quick to style.
@modernsalon
If you want a look of braided extra-long hair, including some sharp underbraids and tying the entire thing up in a bun, it may be the way forward. Clean lines and subtle volume make this neat updo feel refined.
@tiffanyyyy_j
This space-age hairstyle is unique and fashion-forward – it includes very small braids underneath and an angled French braid that wraps around one side of the head and goes down to the other side. The thicker and longer your hair, the more dramatic a statement this style will make.
@hair_scientist
You may have noticed a real surge in popularity for the corset braid trend. There’s a good reason for that – it’s a diverse style that will make you stand out in a real way. Using contrasting bands to criss-cross over the small goddess braids is a simple way to make them pop.
@phivestarhair
Braids going back and forth, up and down, are lovely and modern. If your hair is a weave, you might have the advantage of an extra shiny mane that will simply gleam with beauty when bundled atop the head.
@american_salon
This style is achieved with a lot of time and patience – each braid is coiled on its own path, contributing to the impressive asymmetrical wrap along the neckline. Use plenty of holding product with this one.
@art_of_beautification
A major perk of dark hair is its ability to hold truly vibrant accent colors in goddess hairstyles. Try out a bright purple, a lovely caramel blonde, or both. Incorporating specks of color in braids is a way to come up with your own unique look. Permanent color will be the most long-lasting and vibrant, but today’s hair chalks and temporary dyes also pack a powerful punch.
@natural_zvibez
Extensions add thickness and dimension to thinner natural hair, giving you a whole new boost of confidence. It’s also incredibly low-maintenance, something that’s a blessing when you’re busy working or chasing after grandchildren.
@millys_gift
Curve, jag, or twist your braids to pull off new styles that are beautifully creative. You will love having hair that isn’t easily matched, plus it will hold everything up and out of the way on those hot summer days.
@tiffanyyyy_j
Adding different hair embellishments can jazz up an otherwise quite ordinary hairdo. Dutch braids are coiled into side buns and decorated with thin golden ribbon in this example. Of course, you may choose a flower instead – it can become your signature look – lovely, vibrant petals for any occasion!
@badmonbraids
Black and white is always in style, and this hairdo interprets this combo wonderfully. The long braids are elegantly swept to the side into a low pony. If you go for curvy braids and braid-in extensions into your plaits, you’ll creatively individualize your style.
@lady_t_akachynablak
Do blondes really have more fun? Find out for yourself by bleaching your locks and styling them into three French braids. Finish this style off with a low bun in the back created out of the three braids combined and coiled.
@modernsalon
Thick braids twisting and turning around the head is a unique and gorgeous look inspired by Greek mythology. Best of all, this is an updo, so it can be paired with big and bold jewelry for a great fashion statement.
@natural_zvibez
Since it’s a rather flat style, these braids will last for days, being comfortable to wear at work, on the beach, or anywhere in between. This hairstyle is pretty quick to get done, so you’ll be in and out of the salon in no time.
@shes_hair_savvy
If you love a goddess look but prefer to keep your hair flowing free, check out this style that features an angled braided headband combined with long, loosely curled locks.
@american_salon
This style with a high fishtail is dramatic and full of personality. The plump, glistening braids run from the hairline and right to the crown, where they end in a tapered braided pony. This is a beautiful style that holds well throughout the day.
@houstonstylistashleyb
Truly worthy of mythical royalty, this gorgeous updo is both feminine and intricate. You won’t see it duplicated very often, and while unfortunately this is a one-day style, it is worth the time and effort for a special occasion.
@modernsalon
Feeling inspired? Save the styles that speak to you and bring them to your next appointment. Whether you’re going low-key, protective, or glam, let your braids reflect your energy.
