25 Cute Exotic Hairstyles Braids

Explore these 25 cute exotic braided hairstyles to transform your look with vibrancy and style. Try box braids with beads for a playful and personalized touch, or go for the fishtail braid crown to achieve an elegant halo effect. Add a dash of color with Fulani braids or embrace a carefree vibe with bohemian goddess braids.

If you want something unique, consider butterfly locs for a touch of whimsy or vibrant Viking braids for fierce flair. From spiral braid designs to micro braids, these styles cater to various occasions and personalities. There’s so much more in store for you.

Box Braids With Beads

Box braids with beads offer a captivating way to showcase your personal style while ensuring hair protection. Experiment with an array of bead colors, sizes, and textures to craft a look that’s distinctively yours. Choose beads that complement your wardrobe or reflect your mood, with endless options ranging from subtle earth tones to vibrant hues.

Consider the pattern once you’ve selected your beads, placing them uniformly along the braids or clustering them at the ends for a playful effect. Secure the beads with a small elastic or thread them directly onto the braid to keep them in place.

Regular moisturizing and gentle handling help maintain your box braids, accompanied by a satin or silk pillowcase for protection during sleep.

Fishtail Braid Crown

A fishtail braid crown is an elegant hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to any look. This style combines the intricate pattern of fishtail braids with the classic appeal of a halo, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.

It involves weaving two fishtail braids around the head, creating the appearance of a beautifully braided crown. To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle and focus on one side at a time.

Begin the fishtail braiding process near the temple, incorporating more hair as you move along the hairline towards the nape. Secure each braid with an elastic band, wrap them around the head, and pin them in place to form the crown.

Add small flowers or delicate hairpins for an extra touch of elegance.

Colorful Fulani Braids

Colorful Fulani braids offer a vibrant and striking hairstyle that blends tradition with modernity, allowing you to express your personality with flair. Inspired by the Fulani people of West Africa, these braids are known for their intricate patterns and signature center parting.

Adding bold colors can elevate this classic look into something truly eye-catching.

When choosing colors for your Fulani braids, consider what suits your skin tone and personal style. Opt for a monochromatic look with different shades of one color, or embrace a rainbow of hues for a bolder statement.

The key is to ensure the colors complement each other and enhance your overall look, making your hairstyle an extension of your creativity.

Bohemian Goddess Braids

Bohemian Goddess Braids effortlessly blend elegance with a carefree spirit, offering a stunning combination of boho-chic vibes and intricate detailing.

With roots in traditional protective styles, these braids provide both beauty and practicality, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to make a stylish statement. The loose, wavy strands interspersed among the neat braids give them a relaxed yet polished look, perfect for any occasion.

Bohemian Goddess Braids allow for creative expression through different textures, lengths, and colors.

Add depth and character by mixing in various textures, or personalize the style with subtle highlights or bold splashes of color.

These low-maintenance braids are ideal for everyday wear, as they save time in your daily routine while elevating your look effortlessly.

Butterfly Locs Braid

Butterfly Locs Braid offers a fresh and playful twist on the traditional locs style, captivating those who seek both flair and function. This hairstyle combines the elegance of locs with a whimsical, textured look that’s perfect for any occasion.

You’ll love how the butterfly locs braid gives you a carefree yet polished appearance, making it ideal for both casual outings and more formal events.

To achieve this style, start by sectioning your hair and braiding it into individual plaits. Wrap each braid with a wavy, curly extension to create the signature butterfly effect. This method not only adds volume but also enhances the visual interest of your locs.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring regular moisturizing to keep your locs looking vibrant and healthy.

Embrace the versatility of butterfly locs by experimenting with different lengths, colors, and accessories. This hairstyle lets you express your unique style effortlessly, providing a captivating and chic look that’s truly your own.

Tribal Braids Design

Tribal braids design is a hairstyle deeply embedded in African culture, celebrated for its cultural importance and eye-catching aesthetics. By choosing tribal braids, individuals connect with African heritage, using the hairstyle as a medium for self-expression.

The braids can be customized with intricate patterns and designs that reflect personal style preferences.

Creating tribal braids involves sectioning the hair into parts and weaving them into cornrows, box braids, or a mix of both. Accessories like beads, rings, or colorful threads can be added to amplify their visual impact and create a distinct look.

Proper maintenance, such as keeping the scalp moisturized and wrapping the hair at night, can extend the lifespan of the braids, offering a low-maintenance yet captivating hairstyle option.

Waterfall Braid Style

The waterfall braid style is renowned for its sophisticated and graceful appearance, characterized by a cascading effect reminiscent of a gentle waterfall.

This hairstyle is ideal for those looking to add elegance to their look, making it suitable for both casual outings and formal events. Its beauty lies in the simplicity of its technique, which can be mastered with a bit of practice.

To create the waterfall braid, start with a section of hair from the front and divide it into three strands. As you braid, drop the bottom section and incorporate a new piece of hair from behind, forming the cascading waterfall effect.

Maintain a loose grip for that soft, romantic finish, and consider adding soft waves to accentuate the braid’s natural elegance.

Cornrow Braids With Curls

Cornrow braids with curls blend the classic sophistication of braiding with the lively bounce of curls for a look that’s both chic and versatile.

This hairstyle merges the tidy appearance of cornrows with the vibrant volume of curls, making it suitable for any event, from casual outings to formal gatherings.

Choose a pattern for your cornrows, such as straight-back for a sleek look or intricate designs for extra flair.

After your cornrows are done, add curls to the ends using a curling iron or flexi rods to create bouncy curls that beautifully frame your face.

This fusion of styles not only provides texture but also enhances volume, giving your hair a more abundant appearance.

Twisted Halo Braid

The Twisted Halo Braid is a stunning blend of elegance and creativity, offering a hairstyle that combines grace with a modern flair.

Perfect for any occasion, it transforms your look, whether you’re heading out for a night on the town or simply want to elevate your everyday appearance. The braid wraps around your head like a crown, adding an ethereal and sophisticated touch.

To create the Twisted Halo Braid, start by parting your hair down the middle and dividing it into two sections.

Begin twisting one section from the front, gradually incorporating more hair as you move along your hairline towards the back, and secure it temporarily.

Repeat on the other side, then twist both sections together at the back, securing them with bobby pins or a small elastic band to maintain the seamless halo effect.

Dutch Braid Pigtails

Dutch Braid Pigtails offer a playful yet chic hairstyle perfect for any occasion. Combining the simplicity of pigtails with the elegance of a Dutch braid, this style adds an eye-catching twist to your look.

It’s an excellent way to keep your hair neat while showcasing your personal flair.

To achieve this style, part your hair down the middle into two equal sections.

Begin a three-strand Dutch braid on one side, crossing each section under the other for a textured appearance, and continue braiding to the nape of your neck.

Secure with hair ties and consider adding colorful ribbons or accessories for a personalized touch.

Braided Space Buns

Braided space buns are a stylish and playful hairstyle that merges the classic appeal of space buns with the intricate design of braids. This versatile look is suitable for various occasions, offering a refreshing twist on traditional styles.

The combination of braids and buns adds both flair and functionality, keeping hair neatly styled and off the face.

To create braided space buns, begin by parting the hair down the middle and securing each section into high ponytails. Braid each ponytail into simple three-strand braids and secure the ends with small bands.

Wrap each braid around the base of its ponytail to form a bun, and secure with bobby pins. Personalize the style with colorful hair ties or small accessories like hair rings or beads for added charm.

Senegalese Twists

Senegalese twists are known for their sleek look and protective benefits, offering a stunning alternative to traditional braiding styles. These twists are both stylish and functional, promoting hair growth while protecting your natural hair from damage.

The rope-like appearance, created by twisting hair with extensions, is elegant and versatile. Their adaptability makes Senegalese twists perfect for any occasion.

Wear them long and flowing for a dramatic effect, or style them into an updo for a polished appearance. With their low-maintenance nature, you’ll spend less time styling and more time enjoying life.

Bantu Knots With Braids

Bantu knots with braids offer a playful yet bold hairstyle that combines intricate braids and coiled knots for a creative and elegant look.

Start by sectioning your hair into even parts, braiding each section tightly and securely. Twist each braid into a knot close to your scalp, using bobby pins or small elastics to keep them in place.

The contrast between smooth braids and voluminous knots adds an exciting dimension to your style, making it suitable for both casual outings and formal events.

This hairstyle not only protects your hair but also allows for easy styling and experimentation with different braid sizes or colorful extensions.

Embrace your individuality with this chic and neat look, and enjoy turning heads wherever you go.

Ghana Braids Patterns

Delve into the intricate world of Ghana braids patterns to elevate your hairstyle game. These braids, also known as cornrows, feature a stunning variety of designs that can transform your look with both creativity and cultural expression.

By experimenting with different thicknesses, parts, and directions, you can craft a style that truly mirrors your personality.

Begin by selecting the size of your braids, as each option offers its own unique charm. Thin braids provide a delicate and detailed appearance, while thicker ones exude boldness and make a strong statement.

Incorporate zig-zag or curve patterns for a dynamic and eye-catching effect.

Rope Twist Braids

Rope twist braids provide a chic and versatile hairstyle option with minimal effort. The technique involves twisting two strands of hair together, creating a sleek and stylish rope-like effect. Suitable for both natural curls and straight hair, these braids add texture and interest to anyone’s look.

Begin by washing and conditioning your hair, ensuring it’s clean and detangled. Divide your hair into sections based on your desired thickness, and apply a leave-in conditioner or styling cream for moisture and hold.

Twist two strands tightly from root to tip, maintaining even tension for a stunning and protective style.

French Braid Updo

The French braid updo elegantly combines sophistication with practicality, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.

Begin by sectioning your hair at the crown and creating a classic French braid down the back of your head, incorporating small sections from each side for a secure hold. This technique ensures the braid remains intact throughout the day.

Upon reaching the nape of your neck, pull the remaining hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a bun, securing it with bobby pins.

Tuck any loose strands around the bun for a polished finish. For added flair, weave in a ribbon or thread, or leave a few tendrils out for a softer, romantic look, then spritz with a light hairspray to maintain the style.

Crochet Braid Styles

Crochet braid styles offer a versatile and protective option for hair enthusiasts. They allow for easy installation and can significantly change your appearance, ranging from voluminous curls to sleek, straight looks.

These styles provide the opportunity to experiment with various textures and colors without causing harm to your natural hair.

Begin by braiding your natural hair into cornrows and then use a crochet needle to attach extensions. This gentle technique promotes hair growth by keeping your natural hair safely tucked away.

Crochet braids are ideal for frequent hairstyle changes and can last up to eight weeks with proper upkeep.

Jumbo Box Braids

Jumbo box braids are a bold and chic hairstyle, perfect for those seeking an eye-catching and low-effort look. These large braids provide a unique twist on traditional styles, adding volume and character while taking less time to install. They offer a long-lasting and low-maintenance option, requiring only regular cleaning and moisturizing for weeks of convenient wear.

This versatile style allows for experimentation with different lengths and colors, from natural tones to vibrant shades that reflect your personality.

Styling options are diverse, ranging from wearing them down to creating buns or accessorizing with beads and cuffs. Jumbo box braids combine beauty and practicality, serving as a protective style that promotes hair growth and expresses creativity effortlessly.

Twisted Side Braid

The twisted side braid exudes an elegant yet casual charm, offering a refreshing change from everyday hairstyles. Suitable for both laid-back outings and sophisticated events, this versatile style starts by parting your hair to one side and twisting a front section toward the back, incorporating additional strands to keep the braid secure.

Once reaching the nape of the neck, all hair is brought to one side and twisted into a loose braid, secured with a hair tie. For added volume, gently tugging at the edges of the twist can give it a fuller look, while decorative pins or small flowers can add an extra touch of elegance.

This style frames the face beautifully, accommodates various hair textures and lengths, and keeps hair neatly tucked away.

Zigzag Braids

Zigzag braids bring together creativity and style, offering a playful twist on traditional braiding techniques. These unique braids create an intricate design by weaving hair in a zigzag pattern, making them an eye-catching addition to any hair routine.

Versatile for any occasion, zigzag braids can exude both a casual vibe and sophisticated elegance based on how they’re styled.

Start by parting your hair where the zigzag will begin, using a tail comb for precision as you section off the hair. Braid each section tightly to maintain the zigzag shape, securing them with rubber bands or hair clips.

Add flair with colorful threads, beads, or small charms, and consider combining zigzag braids with other styles like cornrows or box braids for a stunning look.

Braided Mohawk

The braided Mohawk is a standout hairstyle that merges bold aesthetics with intricate patterns, offering a look that’s both edgy and sophisticated. It allows for personal expression through customization, whether opting for tight, neat braids or a more relaxed, tousled style.

Begin by sectioning the hair into vertical strips along the Mohawk line, braiding each section tightly to maintain the iconic lift. Options like cornrows provide a sleek finish, while box braids add volume and texture.

Enhance the style with accessories such as beads or clips, adding a personal touch and flair.

Spiral Braid Design

A spiral braid design transforms your hairstyle into a captivating swirl of elegance and complexity. This intricate style draws attention with its unique pattern, similar to the delicate coils found in nature.

Achieve this look by weaving your hair into a continuous spiral that cascades gracefully down your back or sits artfully atop your head.

Start by sectioning your hair, deciding on the starting point of the spiral, such as the crown or the nape of your neck.

Begin braiding in a circular motion, adding strands from either side to maintain the spiral shape and ensure it stays secure throughout the day.

Spiral braids are a fantastic way to showcase highlights or color variations, as the twisting pattern highlights different hues.

Micro Braids Elegance

Micro braids provide an elegant and versatile option for hairstyling, perfect for those seeking a chic and low-maintenance look that lasts for weeks.

These intricate braids allow for endless styling possibilities, from simple ponytails to elaborate updos, making them suitable for any occasion, be it a casual outing or a formal event.

Choosing micro braids means opting for a hairstyle that demands patience and precision, as the process can take several hours.

The stunning results draw attention to facial features and highlight the beauty of natural hair.

Maintenance involves keeping the scalp moisturized and avoiding heavy products that might weigh the braids down.

Mermaid Braid Fantasy

Mermaid braid fantasy invites you to transform your hair into a cascading masterpiece of waves and twists, embodying the essence of a sea goddess.

This enchanting style combines the elegance of a French braid with the whimsical charm of a fishtail, resulting in a stunning, voluminous look that mimics the flow of ocean waves.

Begin by parting your hair as you prefer, and start a classic French braid from the top of your head, incorporating small sections as you go.

Transition to a fishtail braid halfway down for a seamless oceanic effect.

Gently tug at the braid’s edges for added volume and texture, and consider weaving in shimmering threads or tiny pearls for a touch of sparkle.

Viking Braids Look

Viking Braids exude a bold and fierce aesthetic, offering a sense of empowerment and strength.

Begin by parting your hair in the center and creating two tight French braids on each side, starting at the hairline and extending towards the back. Keeping the braids snug against the scalp achieves that authentic Viking look.

To add height and drama, gently tease the top section of your hair before braiding.

Leave the ends loose or tie them into a ponytail for a modern twist. Incorporating beads or small rings into the braids adds a warrior touch, making Viking Braids a versatile and striking choice for any occasion, from festivals to everyday adventures.