20 Trendy Braided Hairstyles for Black Women to Try This Year

It feels like every time I open an app online, there’s a brand new hairstyle to try. There are so many trendy braided hairstyles for black women right now that it almost feels impossible to choose just one. The options are endless and honestly, a little overwhelming. One minute I’m convinced I know exactly what style I want next, and the next minute I’m scanning my saved folder, making sure I picked the right one.

As overwhelming as it can be (to have all these new styles), I can’t even complain because I absolutely love the creativity. Black hairstylists are truly being so innovative. I spend way too much time bookmarking styles I want to try, and lately, there have been so many innovative, beautiful braided looks. I feel like everybody needs to see them! If I could switch up my braided protective style every single week, I would. No hesitation.

So of course I had to put together a list of some of the most gorgeous braided protective hairstyles I’ve seen trending lately. These are the styles everyone is loving, saving, and recreating. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next braided hairstyle as a black girlie, keep reading. This post is all about trendy, cute, and absolutely stunning braided protective hairstyles to try this year. I already know you’re going to want to save at least a few of these for later.

1.

This hairstyle has been everywhere lately and for good reason. Tribal braided cornrows done in a freestyle pattern with a gorgeous intertwined bun at the back. It’s clean, creative, and such a statement look.

2.

These freestyle tribal braids are beautifully done. I love the half and half vibe with cornrows in the front that lead into two cute buns, then free braids flowing in the back. Such an interesting and unique style.

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3.

You really can’t go wrong with a half and half hairstyle. Cornrows in the front and curly weave in the back is a combo that looks good on literally everyone.

4.

This style has been trending hard and I totally get why. Braided cornrows in the front with a straight sew-in in the back. It’s giving 90s flipped ends are back, but make it black and beautiful.

5.

This one is simple but so eye-catching. Swirling cornrows that pull you in, plus the knotted ends that add just the right amount of detail. Powerful and clean.

6.

This style is bold and powerful in the best way. It really taps into everything we love about African-inspired braiding. Perfect if you want something that feels strong, proud, and full of meaning.

7.

If you love pigtails and how cute they always turn out, you’ll love this grown version. Freestyle cornrows leading into two braids. It’s playful but still mature, and I’m obsessed.

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8.

Fulani braids that transition into twists with curls at the ends. This is such a good option if you want a classic look with a fun twist. Plus, twists mean less braiding time, which is always a win.

9.

Looking for something fun and different? Save this one. Braids that end straight with the ends curled inward. The effect is so cute and unexpected.

10.

Jumbo twist braids with knots at the ends. It might sound questionable at first, but once you see it, it just works. Cute and creative.

11.

If you love cornrows but want something a little different, this freestyle look is perfect. The braids meet in the middle to form these gorgeous buns. So pretty.

12.

Another beautiful take on cornrows ending in a bun. Clean parts, neat stitch patterns, and an overall look you really can’t stop staring at.

13.

You can never go wrong with classic twists, but these are on a whole different level. They almost look like French twists with how they are structured. So elevated and so cute.

14.

Who says you can’t do the boho look with locs? Usually, we see this with knotless braids, but adding curly hair to faux locs gives it such a fun, beautiful energy.

15.

This is one of those classic styles we used to rock back in the day, and honestly it still hits just as hard. Cute, a little edgy, and timeless.

Related Post: 15 Trendy Protective Hairstyles For Natural Hair

16.

This is “Boho Lemonade” done exactly right. It’s a half-and-half style where the first half is the side-swept lemonade look and the back is free-standing braids. You can bun it up like the photo or let it hang loose and carefree.

17.

Such a unique take on a braided bob. This is one of those fierce styles that really shows how creative braiding can get.

18.

Bald head braids. I hate the name people give this style because it’s way too funny for how stunning the braids are. The swirling freestyle patterns take so much skill and creativity, and the final look is amazing.

19.

If you love Boho knotless braids, this is such a fun alternative. Instead of curly hair, straight hair is added to the knotless braids for a carefree, unique, and honestly stunning effect.

20.

Another beautiful way to do lemonade braids. Similar to the earlier style, but this one ends in twists with a Boho curl added. To give that soft, effortless style we all love about Boho braids.