We find it difficult to label protective styling a “trend” because black women have literally sworn by it for eons. Braids, extensions, wigs and more aren’t just a way to conceal and protect natural strands, they also provide the opportunity for us to show off our creative flair in the ways we wear certain designs, colors and styles. Box braids are especially versatile in that they can be easily manipulated, regardless of their thickness and length.
MORE: 15 Products That Give Protective Styles Lasting Power
And during the summer, the go-to look tends to be the one that occupies ample space on our social feeds. If you plan on going for three-strand twists anytime soon, here’s a batch of Insta-inspo to bookmark when you want to add a little something to your look.
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Rainbow Knots
Photo:
Instagram/@vernonfrancois
Jumbo Plaits
Photo:
Instagram/@thesouthernbraider
Half-Up, Half-Down
Photo:
Instagram/@braidedbydee
Curly Ends
Photo:
Instagram/@eupreta.s
High-Low Bob
Photo:
Instagram/@ecostinhahair
Salt-and-Pepper Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@aiyanasakari
Rainbow Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@bonniebrooklynn
Jumbo Blonde Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@braid_me_queen
Simple and Pulled Back
Photo:
Instagram/@tahnee_official
Beaded Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@charitytheartist
Space Buns
Photo:
Instagram/@lary_boxbraids
Classic with String
Photo:
Instagram/@lovmyhairbrand
Face-Framing Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@laidsirens
Braided Bob
Photo:
Instagram/@jemiomusic
Jumbo Double Buns
Photo:
Instagram/@ann_rothh
Orange Micro-Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@charitytheartist
Jumbo Orange Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@kinkskurlsandcoils
Ombre Blue Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@caroletobson
Deep Purple Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@loveafrodite
Tied to the Back
Photo:
Instagram/@braidbyvia
Straight Ends
Photo:
Instagram/@anniep23
Shaved Sides
Photo:
Instagram/@armstrongbraids
Curled Ends
Photo:
Instagram/@braidsbyrah
Shaved Side with Ponytail
Photo:
Instagram/@hairunruled
Earth-Toned Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@kaynarapaixao
Classic Style
Photo:
Instagram/@_yaramel
Lavender Braids
Photo:
Instagram/@latchednhooked
Braided to the Back
Photo:
Instagram/@thebeauty_station
High Ponytail
Photo:
Instagram/@ms._p__
Bob with Shaved Side
Photo:
Instagram/@vernonfrancois