16 Gorgeous Fulani Braid Looks to Try ASAP

Head-Curving Braids

Fulani braids can be worn as short or as long as you desire. Here, Rihanna's braids curve beautifully around her head, providing a stunning component to her glamorous look.

Just be aware that maintaining hair health is integral for any style — even a protective one like this. Colorist Richy Kandasamy, a member of the R+Co Collective and the founder of Rokoko Beauty, advises: "Return to your salon for routine trims." He says that doing this will slowly remove any damaged hair over time, "and that’s a slow process if you have patience."

Updated Traditional Style

Depending on the length of your hair, you may need to add extensions to bring this style to life. Once you're done braiding and pinning your hair up, be sure to add beads and jewels to make it your own. Try Shine 'N Jam Magic Fingers Setting Mousse ($13) to set the look.

Micro-Fulani Braids

Like any braided look, you get to decide how small or large you like Fulani braids, but be prepared for an extended salon visit. Though these aren't quite micro, they are small and will add tension to the scalp, so be sure to care for your edges and scalp post-appointment with an aloe or castor oil-based product. Moisturize with African Pride Moisture Miracle Leave-In Cream with Coconut Oil & Baobab Oil ($5).

Extra-Long Braids

Gabrielle Union's cascading braids are the quintessential summer protective style. Washing braids can be a bit of challenge, especially when you want to keep the frizz at bay, but Cantu Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse ($9) makes it easy to cleanse the scalp without disrupting your style. 

Back-Length Braids

Javana Mundy is the protective style queen, and her back-length Fulani braids are a style out of her playbook that we should all give a try. 

Mermaid Braids

Mirian Njoh is giving us mermaid vibes, and we are here for it. Sea tones give these blonde braids a pop of color that screams endless summer. If you want to add color to your actual strands (rather than just using colorful accessories), go for it, says Kandasamy.

"A fun option is to use bright funky or pastel colors," Kandasamy says. "As the length grows, it gets more trendy and as the colors fade with each shampoo, your roots will become more prominent. But when you are going for a fun, funky, urban chick look like this, you can get away with showing some dark roots."

Y2K Braids

All I can envision is Destiny's Child's "Say My Name" video when I look at Alissa Ashley's braids. The straight-back style will forever be an iconic part of beauty and pop culture.

Accessorized

Here on Romance Cox, we see a few different hair go-tos happening. First up are the feed-in braids, accented with baby hair. Stylist TB then upped the creative ante by attaching cowrie shells to the look, and altogether, it's a statement that would be so fun to try. 

Face-Framing Side-Part

Side-parted braids offer a stunning opportunity to protect your coils and frame your face. To ensure edges remain in pristine condition, turn to a product like PATTERN Edge Control ($12).

Simple Style

Braids don't always need additional extensions, and Jeanette's simple style is one that could be done in the comfort of your own home if you're a seasoned braider.

Regal Beads

As we mentioned, Alicia Keys had an unmatched braid game in the early 2000s, and the above style will add decadence to any look. Beads can be found on at your local beauty supply store and on Etsy.

Braided Bob

We love a good braided bob, and Danai Gurira's look for the 2019 Oscars after-party is just that. Fulani braids progress into voluminous ends for a look that truly brings the red carpet drama. 

Mixed Mediums

Yara Shahidi's looks give us braid inspiration for days—here, she rocks a curly puff with a beaded Fulani accent.

Thick Braids

We've already seen Teyonah Parris once before on this list, but I couldn't leave this style off. The chunky braids here are ideal for someone who wants the Fulani look with a minimal salon time commitment.

Braided Bun

Joy Bryant's Fulani braids updo is perfect for the summer heat. But if you have a dry scalp or plan to wear this style for an extended period, you may want to talk to your stylist about proper care (specifically at the crown of the head where the bun sits). Try spritzing on Naturally Africa Tea Tree Oil & Vegetable Protein Braid Moisturizing Spray ($9) over the style whenever you're feeling dry.

Versatile Braid

Fulani braids are incredibly versatile, and this braided pony confirms that. What makes this look special is the placement of the beads. The black and brown accents make Tynece's melanin pop.