Andy JonesGoddess braids hairstyles are mesmerizing with their feminine charm and ethereal beauty. Ethnic hair is beautiful, and there’s no better way to flaunt it than with these intricate African braid styles that celebrate black culture with pride.
What is a goddess braid?
A goddess braid is a big braid that looks like a cornrow but is usually thicker. It comes from African styles and is stylish and suitable for protecting hair. You can wear it in many ways: straight back, with astonishing patterns, or wrapped around the head like a halo.
50 Natural Goddess Braids to Bless Ethnic Hair
1. Sporty Twists for Those Active Days
Although these goddess braids may look casual, they give off an edgy vibe. With this easy hairstyle, you’ll be ready to go anywhere without having to fuss with hair for too long. Once they’re in place, they should stay. In the off case where they do come out, they’re not too hard to redo. With a look as minimal as its maintenance, it’s perfect for girls on the go!
2. Easy Goddess Braid for Any Occasion
With its large goddess braids and the low bun, this pretty hairstyle looks more complicated than it is to create. Typically, the larger the goddess braids involved, the less time it takes to put the hairstyle together. Best of all, this bun can work for either casual or formal event.
3. Twin Goddess Braids that Accentuate Your Symmetry
This double take on fishtail goddess braids is easy to do and pull off due to the sheer simplicity of the entire look. This symmetrical design can help to accentuate your own facial symmetry for a more youthful appearance.
4. Goddess Braid Half Up and Half Down Style
A classic hairstyle, these half up and half down braids are faced framing. This means that these goddess braids can make your face appear slimmer with minimal effort. For that reason, this hairstyle is flattering for most face shapes and sizes.
5. Small Goddess Braids for a Modest Up do
Changing the size of your goddess braids can change the entire look of the hairstyle. Using smaller goddess braids allows for a daintier look perfect for casual styles without making too bold of a statement. If you like maintaining a low profile, these are perfect.
6. An Elegant and Easy Side Goddess Braid
Whether you’re trying to channel you’re inner Rapunzel or looking for an easy way to keep your hair out of your face, this hairstyle can make any woman feel like a princess. A side braid effortlessly exudes elegance. This specific braid look especially luxurious due to its thickness.
7. Alternating Big Braids for Cool Cornrows
Rather than sticking with one consistent size for your cornrow braids, try mixing up the sizes for a quirky twist on a classic hairstyle that you already love and know you can pull off. Changing sizes also adds texture to your hair, making it pop in a positive way. Besides, it’s always good to mix things up now and then.
8. Quick and Simple Twisted Goddess Braids
The type of goddess braid style you choose to wear can be changed to speak for your personality. If you’re tired of the classic plaited styles, try out a twisted goddess braid style or French knots. You might love them more than the classic three stranded braid that everyone’s tired of seeing!
9. Classy and Quick Red Goddess Braids
If you’ve found that actual headbands can’t hold your beautiful hair in place, then here’s your solution. Use your very own hair as a headband! Not only is this hairstyle face-framing, but also looks beautiful and classy. This hairstyle is perfect for minimalists and accessory enthusiasts.
10. Twirling Asymmetric Goddess Braid Design for Natural Hair
If you prefer off-center styles, play around with these spiraling asymmetric goddess braids! For an even more intricate look, continue these goddess braids into a sophisticated bun. Although it looks quirky in the beginning, the hairstyle comes together to form a casual look that is still very far from being basic. If you have slightly asymmetrical features, opting for an asymmetric hairstyle can help make you appear more symmetrical.
11. Medium Sized Goddess Braids Topped Off with an Elegant Bun
The classic cornrow goddess braids hairstyle has gotten an upgrade with this larger size. Top it all off with a neat bun and you have another creative and classy hairstyle in the making! This is suitable for older women or anyone who is looking for a more mature and refined look. Let a few strands of hair go free for a tastefully messy look, as seen in this example.
12. Easy Mixed Goddess Braids to the Side
Alternating cornrows in both size and direction can create mesmerizing patterns, such as the one in this picture. Playing around with these variables can help you achieve a fun look that you can wear with confidence. With a style like this, you won’t get lost in the crowd.
13. Quick and Simple Crochet Goddess Braids for a Cool Look
Sometimes less is more to achieve the best look and that concept is exemplified here. This hairstyle can be effortlessly pulled off by anyone regardless of face shape, style or day-to-day activities because it is such a timeless classic. Since the goddess braids are larger in this example, it takes less time to create as well. Of course, the size can always be adjusted to your personal preference and needs.
14. Symmetrical Headband Long Goddess Braids
Playing off of the idea of making natural headbands out of your own hair, this style incorporates two separate goddess braids to maintain a hair part through the center. For those who love a center part to emphasize their facial symmetry, this hairstyle works really well. It’s also simple and can be redone with ease.
15. Blonde Goddess Braids for a Playful Look
If you prefer to stay with your favorite braided style, then change it up by adding a splash of color. If you’re hesitant, try the color out on only a few braids before committing. If you’re not into wild colors, stick with neutral brunette, red, or blonde hair colors to maintain a genuine and professional look.
16. Two Goddess Braids for Healthy and Natural Hair
These modern pigtails aren’t childish anymore. These fashionable goddess braids have gone viral on style blogs and social media so maybe it’s time that you gave them a try! You can vary the length as desired and these goddess braids are pretty low maintenance. Also, this particular style gives off a more youthful appearance.
17. Goddess Braids Updo to Dress Up or Down
These beautiful natural goddess braids can be twisted into a classy knot that can be dressed up for a cocktail party or down for a night in. Regardless of the occasion, this classic updo will effortlessly turn heads. Brown hair with blonde highlights is also a great color choice for this look.
18. Add Beads to Decorate the Goddess Braids
Another cool add-on for braided styles is that you can easily add decorations to it, such as beads. This particular example opted to accessorize the long goddess braids by threading neutral colored beads through them. The final look is simple and classy. Accents like these can really make your hair pop and add that subtle style you’re looking for to stand out of a crowd.
19. Big Goddess Braids for A Flirty High Ponytail
Who says you can’t style with the goddess braids that you just styled? Even if these goddess braids are a hairstyle on their own, they can be taken to the next step and be worn as a ponytail. Have the ponytail sit towards the top of your crown for a flirtatious and youthful look. Wearing a high ponytail can also elongate your face and make you appear taller overall.
20. Spiraling Goddess Braids Updo
Goddess braids can be piled into a lovely and casual topknot to finish your casual look. The only concern is maintaining the weight of your hair on your head, but other than that it’s perfect for laidback looks. If you are concerned about this updo being too heavy, opt for smaller or fewer braids.
21. Alternate between Big and Small Goddess Braids
Changing up the size of your goddess braids makes for an interesting texture rather than sticking with a boring and repetitive design. Try this if you’re tired of your usual monotonous styles but don’t want to go crazy. By doing something as simple as alternating between braid sizes will maintain the same overall look but change the detailing by giving it some shape.
22. Quirky Patterned Crochet Goddess Braids
The nice part of such tight goddess braids is that you can use your scalp as a background for any pretty patterns or designs you want to get creative with. Take inspiration from this one, which sports cute bows in between the braids! Of course, you can change this design to be whatever you want with the help of the right stylist. Who needs accessories when your hair can do it all?
23. Scalp-framing Goddess Braids
Rather than wearing headbands, bows or other accessories, you can simply use the patterns created from your goddess braids to frame your scalp. This style in particular frames the scalp with symmetrical braid style that looks beautiful from the top.
24. An Intricately Casual Braided Updo
You can mix an asymmetrical braid pattern with an elegant topknot to create an eye-catching hairstyle. This style gives off chic vibes and can easily transition from day to evening. This style is also perfect for women who like their hair off their face but still like putting effort into it.
25. Sophisticated Goddess Braids Updo for Braided Natural Hair
This is a great example of using natural goddess braids styles. This braid works its way down from the top of your scalp, almost like a modified French braid, to loop into a relaxed low bun that rests at the nape of your neck. Unlike the previously seen topknots, this style can be managed regardless of weight due to its position against the neck. So if you don’t think your neck could handle the weight of topknots or high buns, you may want to look into this hairstyle. This look matches perfectly well with french tip nails!
26. Cute Twisted Crochet Goddess Braids for a Change of Texture
Rather than going with the classic three stranded goddess braids, try out new twists and even dreadlocks for a more daring and refreshing look. These alternative braid styles will help you stand out from the crowd but still maintain the overall ethereal look of goddess braids. In fact, some of these other types of braids may even last longer.
27. Volumizing French Goddess Braid Ponytail
If you’re looking for that bump of volume from your hair, this style will give you exactly that without the use of any enhancing sprays or accessories! This French goddess braids ponytail emphasizes volume at the crown and ends with a charming ponytail that swoops down your back. Alternatively, you can continue the braid all the way down if you wish. Regardless, this hairstyle will elongate your face and make you look taller.
28. Add Highlights to Make Those Goddess Braids Pop
Highlights add definition and texture to all hair types. Similarly, highlights also definitely add definition to any goddess box braids with the introduction of color and texture. If you think your current hairstyle looks a little too flat, try this one out to give it some life!
29. Emphasize Your Natural Part with Goddess Braids
This creative look mimics your natural hair part with a braid down that same path. Whether you’re looking to be a modern Princess Leia with goddess box braids or want to try something completely new with your part, this design is perfect to help you achieve that look.
30. Mix Patterned Goddess Braids with a Classic Bun
This style encompasses several elements in one hairstyle. Not only does it have miniature goddess braids following the part, but also the varying braid sizes make a symmetrical scalp pattern. This complex work meets together to form a simple bun. All in all, this hairstyle is all about balance.
31. Twin Big Goddess Braids to Keep it Real
A modern and more mature take on pigtails, these twin braids have received a size upgrade and pair together for a fashionable look. They work to practically keep hair out of your face and support symmetrical and volumizing look.
32. Headband Goddess Braids with a Side Part
This style works for those who love side parts. The benefit of having a side part is that it offsets any facial asymmetry, even if it’s slight, and gives off a more attractive look. The braids work with the side part and frame the face asymmetrically. This look flatters most face shapes, unlike a middle part. The way the bun is swirled together to form a cute sweetheart makes for an elegant look.
33. Multiple French Goddess Box Braids
French goddess braids are taken to the next level in this style that emphasizes volume. Hair is split into four large sections and leads to the creation of four separate parts to achieve this look. Again, symmetry is a common theme shared by this hairstyle and can work well for rounder face shapes.
34. Criss-crossed Jumbo Goddess Braids for a Sporty Look
This look works really well for those with sporty styles. The daring criss-cross pattern of the goddess braids is the epitome of athleisure with a playful look. This style is perfect for younger women and teenagers who have a casual wardrobe and relaxed routines.
35. A Pretty and Elegant Side Goddess Box Braids for Dark Hair
For every princess who dreams of being Rapunzel, this side braid was made for you! The epitome of elegance and grace, an intricately knotted side braid is perfect for any formal occasion. This one is on the messier side which is flattering for more face shapes.
36. An Entirely Braided Part for Dark Hair
Rather than stopping at a bun, you can let your goddess braids run straight through to the ends. This will also allow you to braid your part all the way to the back, emphasizing the separation and adding a nice touch to an otherwise classic style. What stands out about this hairstyle is that people will be able to admire the details from the back as well.
37. Replace that Ponytailer with Goddess Braids
Playing off of the idea of replacing hair accessories with your own gorgeous goddess braids, this hairstyle loops a ponytail together with several rows of braids. This completes a clean look perfect for a refined flair. The number of braids used to make this loop can be adjusted depending on the braid and ponytail sizes.
38. An Easy Goddess Box Braids Hairstyle
Nothing can go wrong with classic hairstyles for goddess box braids, as seen here. This specific hairstyle has definitely withstood the test of time, which means this style can suit anyone effortlessly. If you’re new to braided styles, you may want to start with the basics, like this one. After experiencing this, you can safely experiment with a strong base.
39. Side Parted Goddess Box Braids with Geometric Patterns
This hairstyle plays off of a side part but takes the design to the next level. Starting from the scalp, these goddess braids were fashioned to leave interesting geometric patterns at the base of the roots. This is perfect for someone looking for a subtle and creative look.
40. Add a Pop of Color to Your Goddess Box Braids with Loose Ends
One way to make your hairstyle stand out is with a pop of color, as seen by these beautiful and fiery goddess braids. Other fun colors to try are purples, blues, and pinks. You’d be surprised by how well these colors can compliment your skin tone. If you choose to leave the ends loose, you can effortlessly add volume to your hairstyle as seen by this particular style.
41. Braid the Goddess Braids for a Voluminous Look
Playing off of the classic French braid, this intricate style utilizes smaller braids to make a larger, more voluminous braid starting from the front of the scalp. It runs back the top of the head and cascades into a goddess braids ponytail. This particular style also sports goddess braids across the sides of the scalp, adding a nice final touch.
42. Mini Goddess Braids for a Cute Hairtsyle
This is great for those looking for cute easy hairstyles for children. With two low set buns, this low maintenance hairstyle can work well even with natural hair. Opt for beads and other fun hair accents to spice up this cute hairstyle!
43. Alternate Between Braid Sizes and Directions
These particular braiding styles play around with a variety of braiding patterns. It uses smaller goddess braids to accent the larger ones, coming up with a pretty final look. Even simple adjustments like these can take a basic hairstyle to the next level.
44. A Cute Minnie Mouse Goddess Braids Look for the Playful Ones
Another one of those cute easy hairstyles, this allows you to channel your inner Disney fan. This cute hairstyle is perfect for vacations and gives off quirky and playful vibes.
45. Easy and Pretty Goddess Braids
This simple and easy hairstyle is perfect for those who are low maintenance and want practical goddess braids that can be worn down or up. Although it’s a basic look, it’s a classic that can be pulled off with ease.
46. A Sophisticated Crown Braid
This crown braid will suit any princess interested in boasting African braid styles with pride. It naturally frames the face like an elegant crown. The size of the crown can be altered depending on the length of the braid. In this example, the single braid was wrapped around the head twice to produce the stacked appearance.
47. Big Braided Headband for An Elegant Look
Another one of the most sophisticated goddess braids for women, this style is sophisticated and mimics a graceful headband that rests across the head. Finishing final touches to this hairstyle is a few wisps of loose hair at the ears. Almost like a crown, this hairstyle is fit for any princess on her way to a fancy event or for a delicious brunch in the town.
48. Sporty Pigtail Two Goddess Braids for a Casual Look
These pigtails are perfect for women on the go. Low maintenance, effortless and always stays in place, this hairstyle works for busy and active lifestyles. It doesn’t take much time to do, either.
49. A Crown Braid with an Accentuating Headband Braid
Another beautiful example of smaller goddess braids accenting larger ones, this headband, and crown hairstyle is perfect for any occasion. Whether you do your hair for a casual day out or for a fancy evening event, this style will blend right in.
50. An Intricately Braided Side Bun
This side bun is perfect for formal events such as weddings and proms! With its intricate look and voluminous design, it may not last long but it will definitely be the highlight of the evening. This is definitely one of the few hairstyles that you will have to go in and have done the day of the big event.
What to consider before getting goddess braids?
- Hair Health: It’s essential to start with healthy hair. Braiding can exacerbate the problem if your hair is already damaged or broken. Consider doing a deep conditioning treatment before getting braids.
- Scalp Health: Ensure that your scalp is clean and free from any issues like dandruff, irritation, or sores. Braids can put tension on your scalp, so your scalp must be in good condition beforehand.
- Tightness: Braids that are too tight can cause traction alopecia, which is hair loss due to the tension exerted on the hair follicle. Communicating with your braider is essential to ensure the braids are secure but not uncomfortably tight.
- Hair Length: While goddess braids can be done on various hair lengths, having a certain length might help the braids hold better. Concise hair might not hold braids as effectively as longer hair.
- Maintenance: Goddess braids are relatively low-maintenance, but you’ll still need to care for your hair and scalp. This includes keeping your scalp moisturized and clean and possibly wearing a satin or silk scarf or bonnet at night to reduce friction.
- Duration: Think about how long you want to keep the braids in. Typically, goddess braids can last for several weeks. Keeping them in for a short time is not advisable as it can lead to matting and tangles.
Some of these goddess braids for black women can be changed daily while others are designed to last for a long time with the appropriate care. They can be framed or pulled back to accentuate beautiful, strong bone structures. Regardless of the style, African goddess braids give off an effortlessly clean and gorgeous image without having to try too hard this year.
These goddess braids for women usually start from the scalp and go straight down to complete the pattern.
Achieve with either natural hair or extensions.
At first glance, these goddess braids may look daunting at first glance due to their intricate weavings, but they’re not too difficult to do if you’re wondering how to do them. The process of achieving this popular braided look is very similar to cornrows, except this oversized version allows more room for creativity and design. The braiding styles may vary, but these pretty hairstyles give off chic vibes that will help you maintain a classy look.
Once you have the braids, caring for them is easy with a few tips.
Wrap a silk scarf around it at nighttime with a moisturizing hairspray for the best results. This technique can help your beautiful goddess braids last for more than two weeks at a time!
Many women are interested in these styles due to their refreshing take on classic styles. These creative twists and knots form a femininely refined hairdo that will capture positive attention anywhere you go. The possibilities for these goddess braids are endless as they range from formal to sporty, so look at these styles and book your next hair appointment for the best hairstyle!
FAQ
What is the difference between bohemian braids and goddess braids?
Bohemian braids are influenced by the free-spirited, unconventional boho fashion trend, often characterized by loose, carefree elements mixed with braids. Goddess braids have deep roots in African and African diasporic communities. They are akin to cornrows but are thicker and more pronounced, serving as a fashion statement and a protective hairstyle.
What are goddess braids curly hair called?
When goddess braids incorporate curly or wavy hair, especially at the ends or throughout the braided style, they are often called "Goddess Locs" or "Boho Locs." These styles combine the sleekness of the braids, or faux locs with the loose and free-flowing texture of curly hair, creating a hybrid, versatile look. Depending on the desired effect, the curly or wavy ends can be achieved using various hair extensions.
Should I get goddess braids?
Deciding to get goddess braids hinges on your personal preferences and hair health. These braids offer a protective style, helping reduce hair breakage and shielding against environmental factors. However, they require a commitment lasting several weeks and proper maintenance to ensure scalp health. Consider your readiness for upkeep and if the aesthetic aligns with your style.
Do goddess braids last?
Yes, goddess braids are a long-lasting hairstyle. Typically, they can last anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on factors such as hair type, the expertise of the braider, maintenance practices, and daily activities.
How to do a goddess braid?
Creating a goddess braid involves starting with clean, detangled, and moisturized hair. Part the hair in the desired direction using a rat-tail comb. Apply some hair gel or pomade for grip and smoothness. Begin braiding close to the scalp, adding in sections of hair as you proceed. If desired, incorporate hair extensions for length or volume. Continue braiding until the end, and secure with a hairband.
