Box Braids Hairstyles for this Summer: Hair Inspiration and More

Box Braids are easily one of the most well known braiding styles in the black hair community. Due to their chic look, endless style variations, and ensured protective styling, box braids are always in season.

By Nina King

First things first, what are box braids?

Box braids are braids that are typically parted into “boxy” square parts, and usually contain added hair for length. They are great for protective styling and are recommended to stay in for a maximum of six to eight weeks before they need to be refreshed. If you’re looking to grow your hair out, or just want a break from daily styling, box braids are the way to go!

Before we dive into some styles, let’s start with a quick history of these famous braids. Box braids first originated from Africa, more than a thousand years ago, as wealthy African women weaved jewelry and shells into their braided hair. However, we saw an enormous resurgence in their popularity in the 90s (hello, Janet Jackson in Poetic Justice!). These braids were nothing short of iconic, and since the ’90s, box braids have not slowed down in popularity. Thanks to the constant evolution of styles, there are endless ways to spice up your braids, and below, we’ve collected some of the best trends to explore if you’re itching for a new look. If it’s your first time getting box braids or you’re looking to switch up the classic style, we’ve got you covered.

Box Braids Styles

Here are five popular variations of box braids that will inspire you to try some new styles for the summer.

Jumbo Box Braids

If you want box braids, but also want to cut your time in the salon chair in half, jumbo box braids might be for you. You can still get the sleek look of the boxed parts and length, without the hours of braiding (and the takedown is quicker, too). Jumbo box braids are also great for short term commitments. If going eight weeks with the same hairstyle makes you cringe, jumbo box braids offer the perfect solution, as they usually last for slightly less time than average box braids.

Triangle Box Braids

Triangle box braids offer the perfect subtle summer hair switch up. Instead of the traditional square parts, triangle box braids are parted into… you guessed it, triangles! When the style’s complete, you will have a stunning geometric parting pattern, in addition to some beautiful braids. What else do you really need?

Crochet Box Braids

Crochet Braids are the master illusionists when it comes to box braids. Instead of traditional braiding, crochet box braids start with a cornrowed pattern; this pattern will determine the placement of your braids, as well as specific partings for your hair. The magical aspect of this style is that crochet box braids are bought already braided. All your stylist needs to do is thread or “crochet” the individual braids into the cornrows for the finished look. Next to jumbo box braids, crochet braids offer the fastest results in achieving the classic box braid look, in a fraction of the time.

Braided Bob

The braided bob is a classy take on the box braid style. You can take any of the styles mentioned above and turn them into a braided bob with a quick cut. If long braids aren’t your thing (especially in the summer heat), a braided bob offers you the box braid style with lighter and lower maintenance.

Knotless Box Braids

If you keep up with the box braid community, you have definitely heard of knotless box braids. Celebrities from Rihanna to Beyonce have all been spotted wearing these trendy braids and their popularity continues to soar. Like their name, knotless box braids require additional hair to slowly be added or “feeded” into the braid, in order to achieve the sleek and “knotless” look. Knotless box braids are also known for being painless, due to the lack of tension on the hair, so if you have a sensitive scalp (or have dealt with hair loss in the past) these may be the perfect option for you. Just be prepared to spend a little more time in the chair, as knotless braids take slightly longer to install than traditional box braids, but the results are so worth it! (Just a heads up: They can also be a little pricier too.)

Before you rush off to the salon, here are some quick FAQs, tips, and tricks for maintaining your box braids….

Where do I go to get Box Braids?

You’re in the right place! If you go to the Swivel Website and input your hair type, style, and location, you can find a perfect trusted braider to complete any of these looks.

How much do box braids cost?

The cost of box braids will differ depending on length, hair type, and style, but expect to pay anywhere between $70 – $300.

How do I maintain my box braids?

Once you get your box braids, you still need to keep up your regular hair care regimen. Although box braids are great for protective styling, don’t forget that your hair still needs nutrients and moisture. Moisturizing is key as it will keep your hair healthy when it’s time to take the braids out; and of course, continue to wash, oil, and condition your hair and scalp as usual.

How do I wash my box braids?

For wash day, choose your favorite shampoo and conditioner and gently massage the products onto your scalp and braids. Make sure to go slowly in order to minimize any frizz in the future. Once you’re done, you can either dry your hair with a microfiber towel or choose to let it air dry, definitely one of the easiest wash days you’ll ever have.

Remember: Box braids give you space to creatively express yourself, There’s no right or wrong way to wear them. If you feel confident and love the braids you wear, they’re perfect for you! If any of these styles inspired you to try something new for the summer, head on over to swivel to book your appointment with one of our top-notch braiders.