In recent years, there has been a captivating and empowering shift in the world of hairstyling, as braided hair trends have risen to remarkable prominence. The art of braiding hair, whose roots trace centuries through diverse cultures, has undergone a modern renaissance that celebrates cultural heritage and individual expression.
This phenomenon has transcended mere fashion to symbolize empowerment, unity, and a celebration of black excellence.
In this blog, we embark on a journey through some of the most iconic braid moments in celebrity hairstyles, highlighting how these stunning looks not only grace the red carpet but also amplify the voices of those who proudly wear them, contributing to the ever-evolving narrative of beauty, culture, and identity.
Celebrity-Inspired Braided Hairstyles: Achieving the Iconic Look at Home
Here are five of the most iconic braid moments in recent times showcasing the mesmerizing hairstyles of celebrities:
Beyoncé’s Lemonade Braids (2016):
In her visual album “Lemonade,” Beyoncé sported a series of distinct braided hairstyles that made a profound cultural impact.
From long box braids to smaller intricate designs, these empowering looks embodied themes of strength and resilience while highlighting the versatility of braiding hair.
Beyoncé’s Lemonade braids have become synonymous with her artistic expression and an unapologetic celebration of black identity.
How To Recreate This Braiding Hair Look?
- Begin by deep-parting your hair to one side and dividing it into larger and smaller sections.
- Start a regular braid with a small triangular portion near your hairline, gradually adding Kanekalon braiding hair while braiding diagonally downward.
- Maintain the diagonal direction, incorporating extensions into the outer sections of the braid to enhance volume and thickness.
- Tie off each braid’s end with a hair tie, then apply edge control or styling gel for a sleek hairline and neat finish.
- Repeat the process for the larger section, practicing and refining your technique for Beyoncé’s Lemonade braids at home.
Amandla Stenberg’s Box Braids (2019):
Amandla Stenberg made a bold statement at the Oscars in 2019 with her long, elegant box braids adorned with golden cuffs.
Her choice to wear this hairstyle on such a prestigious red carpet highlighted the importance of representing and celebrating black heritage in spaces lacking diversity.
How To Recreate This Braiding Hair Look?
- Start by thoroughly washing and conditioning your hair to create a clean base for the style inspired by Amandla Stenberg’s Box Braids at the 2019 Oscars.
- Divide your hair into even sections, then braid each section using the box braid technique, incorporating extensions for added length and volume.
- After braiding, seal the ends by dipping them in hot water, and trim any excess extensions for a neat and polished finish.
- To achieve the voluminous effect seen in Amandla’s look, delicately pull apart each braid to achieve the desired thickness and textured appearance.
- Style the braids to cascade to one side and secure them with pins, then apply a light-hold hairspray to provide both hold and longevity to your recreated box braid style, all within the comfort of your home.
Rihanna’s Fulani Braids (2019):
Rihanna made a stylish appearance wearing Fulani braids at the 2019 British Fashion Awards. Her choice of Fulani braids, a traditional African braiding hairstyle, showcased cultural pride while adding a contemporary and chic touch to her overall look.
The braids celebrated the Fulani heritage and contributed to her status as a trendsetter in the world of fashion and beauty. This moment further highlighted Rihanna’s influence on modern hairstyling trends.
How To Recreate This Braiding Hair Look?
- Begin by parting your hair down the center to establish the foundation of the look.
- Braid sections of hair along your hairline into tight, thin cornrows, paying homage to the signature style.
- Leave some sections of hair unbraided to replicate the distinct visual effect of the hairstyle.
- Enhance the authenticity by incorporating gold or beaded hair accessories into the braids, embracing the cultural influence.
- Complete the look by attaching extensions for added length if desired, and adorn your braids with statement gold hoops and beads, embodying the striking and culturally rich Fulani-inspired style Rihanna wore.
Zoe Kravitz’s Bold Braids (2019)
Zoe Kravitz made a lasting impression at the 2019 Met Gala with her ethereal and bold braided hairstyle. The look showcased intricate micro braids that elegantly cascaded down her shoulders, creating a mesmerizing blend of bohemian chic and red-carpet glamour.
Each braid was meticulously crafted, highlighting her dedication to detail and personal style. The braids effortlessly captured a sense of timelessness and modernity, amplifying the overall impact of her ensemble.
This iconic hairstyle stood as a testament to the artistry of braiding hair and Zoe Kravitz’s innate ability to merge cultural influences with high fashion.
How To Recreate This Braiding Hair Look?
- Start by washing and conditioning your hair before creating the style.
- Part your dry hair in the center to establish the symmetry of the look.
- Divide your hair into small, even sections to prepare for braiding.
- Begin braiding each section from the roots, integrating extensions for extra length and volume if desired.
- After braiding, gently pull the braids apart for a textured effect, then arrange them into an updo or over one shoulder using bobby pins as needed, and enhance the style’s elegance with a bejeweled headpiece or hairpins, echoing the glamour of Zoe Kravitz’s Met Gala appearance.
Zendaya’s Boxer Braids (2020)
Zendaya’s hairstyle at the 25th Annual Critics’ Choice Awards 2020 was a set of stunning box braids. She rocked long, intricate braids that were both stylish and eye-catching.
Zendaya is known for her versatility in hairstyles, and her choice of box braids for the event was widely praised for its elegance and cultural significance.
How To Recreate This Braiding Hair Look?
- Divide your hair into quadrants: use a rat-tail comb for the center part and ear-to-ear parts.
- Clip three sections and leave one loose.
- Start a three-strand braid with a small section, integrating Kanekalon braiding hair for the desired length.
- Continue the braid, adding extensions if necessary.
- Secure the ends with a tie and repeat for each section.
- For a polished look, smooth edges with styling gel if desired.
- Enjoy Zendaya’s stylish box braids, achieved with patience and basic braiding skills.
You can check out this post to better understand box braids for that glamorous, red-carpet-worthy look.
Maintaining And Caring For Braided Hairstyles
Here are five essential points to keep in mind while trying out these iconic braided hairstyles:
- Scalp Health: Cleanse with sulfate-free shampoo and moisturize your scalp with a lightweight leave-in conditioner or natural oils like coconut or jojoba to prevent dryness.
- Braid Cleaning: Diluted shampoo-water mixture applied gently to the scalp, avoiding excessive rubbing. Air dry braids thoroughly to prevent odor or mildew.
- Night Protection: Tie hair in a silk/satin scarf or use a silk pillowcase to prevent frizz and maintain neatness while sleeping.
- Tension Awareness: Ensure braids aren’t too tight to prevent hair breakage and discomfort. Communicate with a stylist about tension during installation.
- Rest Periods: Keep braids for 6-8 weeks to avoid excessive stress on hair and scalp. Allow breaks between braided styles for hair recovery.
Conclusion
In the world of hairstyling, the resurgence of braided hair trends signifies more than just a fashion statement; it’s a celebration of cultural heritage, individuality, and empowerment.
These iconic braid moments in celebrity hairstyles speak volumes about the beauty of diversity and the narratives we weave through our hair.
As we recreate these styles at home, let’s embrace the techniques and stories they tell, recognizing the significance of each braid as a thread in the rich tapestry of black excellence and self-expression.
