26 Hot Box Braid Looks that Will Demand Attention this Summer (2023)

Box braids are always a fun, hip hairstyle. But, they may look a little too complicated for some hair minimalists out there to D.I.Y. Many people opt for extensions to create a box braid look, but if you want to keep your natural locks intact, we have news for you: you can easily create box braids on natural hair, too!

Want to learn how? Then check out our steps and tips below, and make sure also to take a look at the amazing styles we hand-picked just for you to try out with your new hairstyle.

How to Create Box Braids On Natural Hair

Step 1. Start with clean hair.

First off, you’re going to want to start with clean hair. Wash your hair with any shampoo and conditioner of your choosing. We recommend and Conditioner to keep frizz and flyaways tamed.

Step 2. Section your hair.

Once your hair is dry, section it into four separate parts. Make sure that your sections are four equal and straight squares. Have clips on hand to hold your separate sections in.

Step 3. Create your parts.

Take a small part of the first section, and part your section with it. The parted piece should be no thicker than a pinch, and make sure your parts are of equal size.

Step 4. Braid each parted section.

Braid each parted section from root to tip. Make sure to secure each braid with a small elastic hair tie. When you run out of hair from your section, braid the pinched part and create a new one from the unbraided hair. Ensure all your sections are perfectly parted, looking like little squares or “boxes.”

Step 5. Braid every other section.

Braid the rest of your sections, and your head should be filled with a bunch of tiny box braids!

Now that you know how to create box braids with natural hair, check out these hot styles we’re completely obsessed with.

26 Styles To Try With Box Braids On Natural Hair

1. Low Bun

Let your buns hang low with these box braids on natural hair. Give your braids a glossy look by using Emerge Glow Off Oil Serumwhen styling.

2. Messy Crown Braid

Take the average crown braid to another level with a messy look created by natural box braids.

3. Fishtail Braid

This classic braid style is getting a major twist with these tiny box braids.

4. Braided Side Swept Bangs

Your braided hair is already the main character, but sweeping your braids to one side will command even more attention. Create some side-swept bangs for a sultry look.

5. Top Knot Bun

This big bun looks so funky and playful with the box braid details. Make sure to control any fly-aways and loose hair withDove Style+Care Flexible Hold Hairspray. Add some fun color to your hair to take that playful look to the next level!

6. Pulled Back

Are you trying to elongate the timeline for wearing your braids? Then control frizz with a quick spray of dry shampoo! This is a great way to refresh your braids on a week-to-week basis. Make sure not to overdo the dry shampoo!

7. Wavy Braids

Spice up your box braids with some waves. We love waves at the end of braids. However, we recommend a full wave-out of your braids for full glam, chic boho hair looks!

8. Dip-Dyed

Have some fun with your hair by adding a pop of fun color. Add some flair with dip=dyed ends. Most beauty supply stores now offer the option of braids with dip-dyed ends.

9. Halo Braid

This classic style is a major staple for any event. From a major gala to brunch with gal pals, this style will give your look a kick of chicness. This look can be styled on both box braids and natural hair.

10. High Updo

If you decide against braiding your ends, this style is perfect! You throw your hair up and have the perfect high updo. Slightly spread your box braid bun apart for an effortless-looking relaxed bun style.

11. Loose Side Ponytail

Get an effortlessly stylish look with this loose-side ponytail. Leave a few braids out in your bangs area to add on to elevate the loose-side ponytail. A great look to help maintain box braids.

12. Multi-Colored

Light up your box braids on natural hair with a little color! Whether you want to stay on the natural-toned path or go with some eye-catching neons and pastels, your colored box braids will definitely make you stand out from the crowd.

13. High Ponytail

A sleek high ponytail is always one of our go-to choices. If you want to create a slicked-back look, then smoothen your tied-up box braids with TRESemmé Tres Two Mega Firm Control Gel.

14. Side Part

Try a deep side part to show off your edges and try a change of perspective. Changing up your part is a simple change that has a big impact as braids age. Side parts tend to stay looking refreshed a bit longer than the middle part.

15. Bob

This classic bob with oversized braids is one of the chic styles in this collection. The perfect everyday look! When in doubt, bob it out!

16. Oversized Braids

These larger supersized plaits make a major statement. They are the fastest braid style to install and are great for anyone who likes to switch hairstyles fast. Make your style go a long way with a little neutral color.

17. Blue Braids

Get in on the pastel color trend and try this beautiful blue hue. Pastel braids come in various gorgeous colors aside from blue such as pinks, greens, and more! Which pastel color will you choose to make a statement with?

18. Half-Top Knot

Pull your braids up into a cute half-up style. This style looks great regardless of what type of box braid style you choose to wear, including jumbo braids. We recommend wearing this hairstyle while your box braids are still fresh.

19. Pulled Over

Add some volume to your style by trying this pulled-over style. If it’s your style, you can even adjust this style by laying your edges.

20. Pink Ombré

Not quite ready for a full head of bright hair? Try this easy ombré style. Ombre hair looks not only look great with neutral colors but with bold colors such as this one as well! Live your boldest life with this look!

21. Lob

The lob is here to stay, and we love this braided iteration. We love the look of rubber bands at the end, making this style look trendy and achievable simultaneously! We love this look for school and work.

22. Loose Half-Updo

Ease the tension on your braids while still nailing a pulled-up hairstyle with this loose half-up look. We love this look for a casual day out and errands!

23. Chic Updo

Does it get any chicer than this beautiful braided updo? This style looks great on natural hair without braids as well.

24. Bright Pink Bun

Pull off a pop of bold pink hair color and twist your strands up into this loose bun. Pair it with a fun scrunchie and jewelry for a fun look.

25. Bleach Blonde

Go lighter than you’ve gone before with this ultra-vibrant bleach-blonde hue. We also love this half cornrow, half box braids hairstyle.

26. Colorful Braids

Sure, these pink and blue colored braids might not be for the faint of heart – but we say if you’re going to do color, why not go all out? Plus, with such head-turning hues, you can afford to keep your actual style super simple – just a basic low pony will do.

Give it a go at home, creating your own box braids on natural hair. Learning how to do it on your own can save time and money and be relaxing! What box braids hairstyles will you be trying?