Combing and brushing your natural hair daily, you subject it to much stress. If you want to take a break from constant brushing for about two months and reduce your styling time to a minimum, box braids can be an excellent protective hairstyle to wear. Don’t want to sacrifice the versatility of styling? These small box braids ideas will prove that you don’t have to!
They offer a fantastic feel of movement and gorgeous texture that can be used as a base for numerous updos, half-up styles, and flowing lengths: ponytails, braids on braids, high messy and low buns, twisted styles, and elegant side-swept looks.
Although small braids take longer to put in, with them, you actually do not use too much hair per braid, so they do not feel heavy. If you also ask your stylist not to braid them extremely tightly, you won’t have to deal with headaches or excessive breakage. With box braids, your hair is always in order, you can easily monitor its growth and experiment with effortless and showy hairstyles, like the ones below.
Knotless box braids unlock a wide variety of styling options, such as this high, tiered bun that is both fun and elegant. Buns are one of the easiest and most common ways to style braids, but don’t sleep on them. Except for the neck and sleep discomfort, which are all too common, you run the risk of increased scalp tension and disruption of the braid pattern.
@beautyspaceke
Let your long braids hang free! When done right, long box braids are a great protective style that can help your hair retain length, while also leaving you with more hair to swish. Most braid wearers tend to go waist-length or shorter, so with a thigh-length look, you will definitely break from the expected.
@carrietanner_comicstyles
An easy way to add flair to your braids is to make your parts triangular, instead of using rectangular or square “box” parts, after which the box braid hairstyle is named. Sometimes you want something a little bit fresher or newer, and triangular parts are a great way to achieve that.
@ppowerblack
If you like wearing your braids in a ponytail, use a few of your braids to create a cuff the next time. This is a fresh take on the popular ponytail hairstyle and is sure to identify you as a hair styling diva. The pink ends are also a great contrast to the dark braid.
@zumbahairbeauty
Hair is art. Hair is expression. Express the unique aspects of your personality by incorporating cool shapes and designs in your next feed-in cornrow hairstyle. Add in a touch of your favorite color for added drama, and you have a winning combination.
@beautyspaceke
Channel your inner Beyoncé with this version of lemonade braids. The simple style is great if you want to test drive what shaved sides would look and feel like.
@beautyspaceke
These ombre knotless braids are really giving a sun-kissed vacation vibe. Ombre is always a great option when you want to add color because the work is already done for you, and all you need to do is install your braiding hair and go – no blending or mixing required.
@bethdefinesbeauty
The blending of knotless box braids and curls in this hairstyle is so natural and effortless. The style is soft and feminine with thinner box braids that add to the overall softness of the look.
@tresses_africaine
A ponytail and bangs are always worth considering for styling your braided hairstyle. Adding accessories like these fun bobby pins can help you really own this style.
@tinny_hairdresser
By now, our love of buns should be clear. It’s one of the easiest ways to style your box braids, short of wearing them down. The ash blonde extensions contrast well with the natural black hair color and make the bun that much more of a statement. Stunning!
@fancy_claws
A quick and easy way of jazzing up your small box braids is by accessorizing with beads. Add in the vibrant color, like the copper pictured here, and you have a statement hairstyle that will have you basking in the glow of the spotlight.
@brabodastrancas
Embrace your inner earth goddess with wooden hair accessories, such as the beads. It’s a great way to accessorize simple styles, giving them additional flair.
@thehairhostess_
For us, this style is all about the gold. From the hints of gold in the hair to the golden accessories, you’ll be glowing like this precious metal. Definitely a must-try for gold lovers everywhere.
@tresses_africaine
When braiding black natural hair, even the smallest hints of brown can add flair and drama. These butt-length braids are a statement on their own, but the bits of brown, playing peek-a-boo, make it that much better. Long knotless braids work well for large box braids or jumbo ones as well.
@jadeandjala
The face-framing curls of this high bun are the perfect hairstyle for a date night or any occasion that calls for a girly or feminine look. It’s soft and pretty and a great hairstyle to have in the arsenal for your bohemian or goddess-style braids.
@pearlthestylist_
Style your knotless braids in this fun version of the tried-and-true half-up, half-down hairstyle. Slim, uniform braids are perfect for achieving this look, and the style is easily customizable by changing the type and shape of your bun. If you love a good half-up style, then you should definitely give this one a try.
@danii_didit
Symmetrical cornrows are a fantastic alternative to cornrows that simply go from front to back. The yellow beads offer a great contrast to the black hair, which makes them stand out that much more.
@babaestylessalon
Box braids and buns are both classic and timeless hairstyles, so why not combine the two? Whether you like your buns high, low, or dead center, box braids are totally up for the job. Get them in your favorite color, classic black, or ombre. The possibilities are endless, and this style works just as well with small box braids, medium-sized box braids, or jumbo knotless braids.
@davethestylist_
There’s so much to love about this hairstyle – the vibrant blue mixed with the deeper, almost purple highlights, the length, and the curly ends. Everything about this just works and is absolutely gorgeous to look at. If blue isn’t your color, don’t worry, this style is totally customizable in every way, and you can experiment with your own colors, size, and length of the braids.
@pearlthestylist_
These mini cornrows that meet to create a high ponytail are sleek and fun. The golden ends are a great contrast and really make this look.
@braidsby_veronica
Tiny little braids are super versatile and easy to work with, so why not throw them up in a high pony! Position the pony at the top of your head and wrap it at the base for a sleek, put-together look.
@modernsalon
Need an easy but classy hairstyle? Just create a bun at the crown and pin the style down with bobby pins or secure it with an elastic band. The look is even more amazing with color-infused locks, as it showcases every shade in your hair.
@modernsalon
What’s better than an elegant bun? A braided elegant bun! To get this look, simply throw your hair up in a pony, divide it into sections, and braid. Then, wrap the pony into a bun. And, done!
@modernsalon
Get some hippie flair with your single braids. Take a section at each side of the head and braid them both, securing with an elastic band. Then, pull the braids to the back of your head and tie them together. You’ll be a boho goddess in no time.
@modernsalon
Show off your long, beautiful braids by adding a red ombré touch to them. This will lend even more vitality and dimension to your style.
@modernsalon
Add an unexpected twist to your braided bun by wrapping it at the base. This creates a natural accessory for your updo as well as a super classy touch. Box braids styles have never looked so good.
@veggie_peggy_84
Create a beautiful headband out of your thin braids. Simply French braid the front of your hair until you hit the back of the head, just behind the ear. Pin it or secure it with an elastic, and you’re good!
@dr.danielle.renee
Try the latest hair trend with your own personal spin on it. The cool and edgy half-bun looks great with those small box braids as they create a unique texture and shape!
@modernsalon
Braided ‘dos look great when worn cropped and short! Try it on for size by rocking a plaited bob. Not only is this as easy as it gets when it comes to styling, but it also keeps your look clean and considered.
@modernsalon
Accessories like head scarves look amazing on skinny-plaited hairstyles. Try a printed scarf and don’t be afraid to go bold with color and design!
@modernsalon
If you’re set on getting box braids but unsure how to style them, this guide breaks down small box braid hairstyles and how to customize them to make them genuinely yours.
