20 Badass Box Braids Hairstyles That You Can Wear Year-Round

Braid it up. Braid it down.
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Box braids are the quintessential hairstyle for women who need versatility.

Defined by its “boxy” or square-shaped hair parts, this individual braided hairstyle has been a go-to for black women for many years. Famous faces, including Brandy, Patra, Janet Jackson, Solange and Zoë Kravitz, have all made the look even more popular.

Box braids are so appealing because they are low maintenance, can be worn in countless styles with or without hair extensions and they work great for those with hair that’s either natural or chemically-straightened. Not to mention, these braids can last for months when properly taken care of, which makes them ideal for any time of year.

Whether you’re currently rocking box braids or considering booking a salon appointment to get this popular ‘do, scroll through the photos below for hairstyle inspiration.

1
Half-Up, Half-Down Topknot
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Sevyn Streeter
2
Half-Up, Half-Down Topknot
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Imani Hakim
3
Half-Up, Half-Down Topknot
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Nicolette Robinson
4
Side-Swept Strands
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Justine Skye
5
Side-Swept Strands
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Monique Coleman
6
Side-Swept Strands
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Xosha Roquemore
7
Side-Swept Strands
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Jhené Aiko
8
Center-Parted
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Zoë Kravitz
9
Center-Parted
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Joy Bryant
10
Long & Flowy
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Solange

11
Long & Flowy
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Keri Hilson
12
Chignon
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Brandy
13
High Ponytail
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Janet Jackson
14
Ballerina Bun
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Eva Marcille
15
Ballerina Bun
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Tia Mowry
16
Ballerina Bun
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Regina King
17
Messy Ballerina Bun
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Beyoncé
18
Fishtail Ponytail
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Yara Shahidi
19
Faux Hawk
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Jada Pinkett Smith
20
French Braid Undercut
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MC Lyte

CORRECTION: A previous version of this article misidentified actress Tia Mowry as her sister, Tamera Mowry.

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