20 Short Box Braids Styles To Try Right Now

Updated on Dec 21, 2021

Reviewed by

Natural Hair Expert

Actress Marsai Martin with a short box braid bob. — Byrdie / Leon Bennett / Getty Images

When I think of box braids, famous beauty icons like Janet Jackson, Brandy, and Beyoncé come to mind. Their cascading box braids instantly make me say, "I need to try those," which I have done twice now. I currently have butt-length box braids as I type this. While I love this style, the one thing I always forget until I have them installed—is how heavy they are, especially when I'm getting ready for bed or washing them.

Though I haven't given knotless box braids a try just yet, certain knotless styles can require significantly less hair. But don't get too excited if you're not ready to spend an extra few hours in your stylist's chair. No matter which box braid method you go with, box braids (like our natural curls) are versatile and can be worn as long or short as you desire. To give you some inspiration to take to your stylist for your next appointment, we searched high and low for short box braids styles that are chic, nostalgic, and full of color. Keep reading to check out 20 short box braids styles that run from pixie to shoulder-length.

01 of 20

Add a Touch of Color

Short Box Braids Colorful — @amandlastenberg

Amandla Stenberg knows how to make any look their own. Follow their lead and add a hint of color around your face to brighten up your beautiful brown skin.

02 of 20

Keep It Simple and Shoulder-Length

Short Box Braids Simple Shoulder Length — @braidsgang

I'm a sucker for a bob, especially a braided one. You get a classic shape with a protective style staple.

03 of 20

Layer to Add Dimension

Going for a chunky box braid is likely easier with a shoulder-length style. To add dimension, have your stylist layer your braids, as Emani did here.

04 of 20

Bring on the Nostalgia

This look is giving me all the nostalgic feels. Someone might think rocking two ponytails is child's play, but I beg to differ.

05 of 20

Add Heat to Your Ends (Carefully)

Short Box Braids Blunt Ends Marsai Martin — Getty Images

A blunt bob is one of the most jaw-dropping ways to rock short box braids. This style is so well-done, and the ends give this style crisp, clean lines.

06 of 20

Go for the Gold

If you're trying shoulder-length box braids for the first time, and you want to add some pizzazz, pick up some gold string from a craft or beauty supply store. I like to make sure my string has a little spring because it makes it a little easier to work with and secure.

07 of 20

Blonde and Bronde Box Braids

Short Box Braids Blonde — @finessedbyabbey

Before you commit to a new hair color or cut, box braids can help you test it without the commitment of chopping your hair—or the possible damage that comes with lightening your coils.

08 of 20

Pop Those Braids into a Pony

Short Box Braids Ponytail Yara Shahidi — Getty Images

Having shorter braids doesn't mean you have to forgo wearing your hair in a ponytail. To keep the stress off of your edges, try using a Snapee or silk scrunchie to secure your braids.

09 of 20

Take on New Parts

If you've ever Googled "box braid styles," Kersti Pitre's photos always pop up. This self-taught braider is continually trying out new looks. Her red hair and triangle parting are both worth experimenting with at your next appointment.

10 of 20

Play with as Many Colors as You Please

Where do I start with these colorful, chunky braids? From the color and cut to the white string accents, I can't get enough of these.

11 of 20

Intermix Two Staples

If you're like me and hate having hair in your face, try a cropped Fulani style and add clear bubble beads.

12 of 20

Go Blonde or Go Home

Going chunky seems to be a trend among those who opt for shorter braids. A middle part with a neck-length style helps frame the face.

13 of 20

Shine Bright Like the Sun

Orange is one of my all-time favorite colors to wear on my brown skin, but I never thought to wear the hue in my hair until now.

14 of 20

Monochromatic is Always a Good Idea

Short Box Braids Monochromatic — @ronkeraji

I get to wear hats when my natural hair is running wild and free. Adding a hat to this stunning beaded look is giving me accessory envy.

15 of 20

Go Natural

Short Box Braids Natural — @protectivestyles

Wearing box braids doesn't always mean you have to add extensions. This beauty opted to use the box braid technique with her natural hair.

16 of 20

Play with Pastels

Pastels aren't just for spring. This side-swept look proves the powdery color can be worn year-round.

17 of 20

Play Up Your Skin Tone and Features

This fiery red braided bob is an example of how to personalize your hair color and cut to compliment your face shape and skin tone.

18 of 20

Bring On the Salt and Pepper

As a young woman that already has a head full of gray hair, I may have to give this salt and pepper look a try.

19 of 20

Pay Homage to the '90s

Short Box Braids '90s — @wordup.official

I couldn't write this story without paying homage to one of the first women I remember seeing on television wearing braided styles week after week.

20 of 20

Embellish Those Braids

Short Box Braids Embellished — @hairbysusy

These two-toned, jeweled box braids scream, "Yaassss, Queen." This is a pretty intricate look to recreate, but with the right stylist or creative eye, you'll be wearing this look in no time.