Large box braids are a popular and stylish protective hairstyle that has been embraced by many for their versatility, durability, and low maintenance. These braids are larger in size compared to traditional small box braids, making the installation process quicker while still providing a bold and attractive look.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about large box braids, from their benefits and styles to maintenance tips and frequently asked questions.

What Are Large Box Braids?

Definition and Technique

Large box braids are a type of protective hairstyle where the hair is sectioned into large, square-shaped parts and braided down the length of the hair. The size of each braid is typically larger than a pencil, and synthetic or human hair extensions are often added to achieve the desired length and fullness.

The braiding process starts from the roots and continues to the ends, creating a uniform and neat appearance.

NO.1 Bold, Braided Beauty

Her hair is intricately braided into thick, stunning cornrows, each strand meticulously woven to create a beautiful pattern on her scalp. The braids are large and close together, making a bold statement. She’s covering her face with her hand, showing off her long, white nails.

Style: Traditional African Cornrows

Maintenance Tips: Keep your scalp moisturized and protect your braids at night with a silk or satin scarf to maintain their fresh look longer.

NO.2 Box braids

She’s rocking box braids that are both neat and stylish. The braids are thick and evenly spaced, giving her a clean and polished look. The braids’ color adds a beautiful contrast to her skin tone, making the style pop.

Style: Bold and trendy.

Styling Tips: Keep your scalp moisturized and use a silk scarf at night to maintain the braids’ neatness and prolong their life.

NO.3 Box Braids

The girl in the photo sports a stunning set of long, neatly woven box braids. They’re meticulously parted and perfectly symmetrical, giving her a sleek, polished look. Her casual outfit, a Nike jacket over a white crop top, complements the hairstyle’s laid-back yet stylish vibe.

Style:
Box braids are versatile and protective, ideal for any casual or formal occasion.

Styling Tips:
To keep box braids fresh, regularly moisturize your scalp and use a silk scarf at night to prevent frizz and breakage.

NO.4 Street Style Beauty

A woman with long, thick braids stands confidently at a sunny outdoor location, the warm light highlighting her flawless makeup and intricate hairstyle. The cityscape in the background adds a vibrant, urban feel to the image.

Style: Bold and sophisticated, her box braids are both practical and stylish.

Styling Tips: Keep your braids moisturized to maintain their shine and prevent frizz. Use a lightweight oil to keep them looking fresh.

NO.5 Box Braids

Wow, check out these gorgeous box braids! They’re neat, tight, and perfectly aligned, creating a stunning pattern across the scalp. The baby hairs are styled with gel, adding a sleek touch to the overall look. The shine and precision of these braids are just top-notch, making them really stand out.

Style: Classic and timeless, these box braids are versatile and stylish.

Styling Tips: To keep your box braids looking fresh, wrap them at night with a silk scarf to prevent frizz and maintain the style. Apply a light oil to your scalp to keep it moisturized.

NO.6 Glamorous Braided Hairstyle

This young woman flaunts beautifully styled box braids adorned with gold accessories. Her hair is neatly parted and the braids are thick, creating a bold and elegant look. The makeup is flawless, complementing her stylish hair.

Style: Bold and Elegant

Styling Tips: To maintain these braids, regularly moisturize your scalp and keep the braids clean by washing them gently every few weeks.

NO.7 Cornrow Braids

The woman in the picture has her hair styled in neat and intricate cornrow braids. Each braid is perfectly aligned, showing off a well-defined pattern on the scalp. The edges are sleek and smooth, adding to the overall polished look. Her hair is tightly braided, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.

Style:
This hairstyle is both stylish and practical, suitable for various occasions and weather conditions.

Maintenance Tips:
To keep cornrow braids looking fresh, regularly moisturize the scalp and edges to prevent dryness and breakage.

NO.8 Braided Hairstyle

A young woman with long, intricate braids sits outdoors, enjoying the sun. Her hair is parted into neat sections, each braid starting close to the scalp and flowing down in thick, uniform patterns. The braids are perfectly symmetrical and shine under the sunlight.

Style: This look features beautifully crafted box braids, a popular protective style that keeps hair safe and stylish.

Styling Tips: To keep your braids looking fresh, regularly moisturize your scalp and avoid excessive manipulation.

NO.9 Gorgeous Braided Extensions

Check out these stunning long box braids. They are intricately styled with neat parts and cascading curls, giving a mix of structure and flow. The braids are tightly woven, showcasing a skillful technique, while the loose curls add a playful touch.

Style: A blend of classic box braids and soft curls.

Maintenance Tips: Keep your scalp moisturized and avoid heavy styling products to maintain the freshness of the curls and braids. Regularly wrap your hair at night to prevent frizz.

NO.10 Beautiful Braided Bob

Look at this stunning braided bob! This hairstyle features medium-sized box braids styled into a chic, shoulder-length bob. The braids are adorned with gold cuffs that add a touch of elegance and flair. Her neat edges and flawless makeup complete the look.

Style: Modern and trendy, perfect for any occasion.

Styling Tips: To keep this style fresh, regularly moisturize your scalp and wrap your hair at night to maintain the shape and neatness of the braids.

NO.11 Cornrow Braids

This young woman sports neat and stylish cornrow braids. The braids are tightly woven close to the scalp in a creative star pattern, extending into long, flowing strands. Each section is meticulously crafted, showcasing the intricate work involved.

Style: Neat, symmetrical cornrows transitioning into long, free-hanging braids.

Maintenance Tips: Keep your scalp moisturized and use a silk scarf at night to protect your braids. Regularly oil your scalp to maintain healthy hair underneath.

NO.12 Braided Beauty

Her long, thick braids are styled with precise parts, leading to curly ends. The symmetry of the braids showcases a neat and polished look. The hairstyle gives off a confident and stylish vibe, perfect for any occasion.

Style: Box braids with curly ends.

Styling Tips: To maintain the curls at the end, use a curling mousse or gel and wrap them around perm rods overnight. This helps keep the curls defined and bouncy.

NO.13 Braided Ponytail

Her hair is styled in neat, long braids that are pulled up into a high ponytail, giving a sleek and elegant look. She pairs the hairstyle with a sheer black top, adding a touch of sophistication. The backdrop includes green plants, providing a fresh and natural vibe.

Style: This braided ponytail is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.

Maintenance Tips: To keep the braids looking fresh, wrap them in a silk scarf at night and moisturize the scalp regularly.

NO.14 Bold Box Braids

Check out this girl’s bold and vibrant box braids. Her hair is a stunning mix of deep red and fiery orange, creating a standout look. The thick, long braids cascade down, adding a dynamic and eye-catching flair.

Style: Fun, vibrant, and confident.

Styling Advice: For a look like this, make sure to moisturize your scalp regularly to keep it healthy. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to protect your braids while you sleep.

NO.15 Braided Bun

This girl is rocking an incredible braided hairstyle. Her long, thick braids are neatly styled into a high bun at the top, with a few braids hanging down. She’s wearing stylish glasses and a simple black sweater, which makes her look effortlessly chic. The look is both trendy and elegant.

Style: Sleek and sophisticated with a touch of casual.

Styling Tips: To maintain this look, regularly moisturize your scalp and braids to keep them looking fresh and neat. Use a silk scarf at night to protect the style.

NO.16 Braided Beauty

This woman rocks long, thick braids with a flawless middle part. Her dark hair, adorned with gold accessories, cascades elegantly over her shoulders. The cozy off-shoulder sweater adds a soft touch to the striking hairstyle, making her look effortlessly chic.

Style:
Long, intricate braids with gold accents.

Styling Tips:
For a look like this, make sure to moisturize your scalp regularly to keep it healthy and prevent dryness. Add accessories like beads or cuffs to elevate your braids and personalize your style.

NO.17 Braided Elegance

The woman has long, sleek box braids that are neatly parted and styled with care. Her hair falls gracefully, each braid uniform in size, adding to the overall polished look. The edges are perfectly laid, framing her face beautifully.

Style: Neat, classic box braids.

Styling Advice: To maintain this look, ensure regular moisturizing and protect your braids at night with a silk scarf to keep them looking fresh and tidy.

NO.18 Braided Beauty

Her long, thick braids cascade down her shoulders, each one meticulously plaited to perfection. The bold red lipstick adds a touch of elegance and contrasts beautifully with her striped shirt. She’s poised and confident, with a piercing gaze that draws you in.

Style: Box braids, chic and timeless.

Maintenance Tips: Keep your braids moisturized with light oils, and wrap them in a silk scarf at night to maintain their sleek appearance. Regularly wash your scalp to keep it clean and healthy.

NO.19 Bold Braids

Her long, thick braids cascade down, blending beautifully with her natural hair color. Each braid is meticulously crafted, showing off the rich, warm brown tones that catch the light just right. The braids frame her face, adding an element of elegance and style.

Style: Box Braids

Styling Tips: To keep your braids looking fresh, wrap them at night with a silk scarf and use a light oil to maintain shine and scalp health.

NO.20 Braided Hair Style

This woman rocks long, sleek box braids that are thick and perfectly parted. Her braids fall straight down, reaching almost to her knees. The braids are neatly done, showcasing skill and precision. The high-quality braiding gives a clean and elegant look.

Style: Classic box braids with a modern twist.

Maintenance Tips: To keep braids looking fresh, sleep with a silk scarf to protect them. Regularly moisturize your scalp and braids to prevent dryness and breakage.

NO.21 Stunning Braided Hairstyle

She’s rocking long, black braids with a striking white accent braid. The intricate gold thread detail on one braid adds a touch of elegance. Her neatly laid edges frame her face beautifully, and her dimples shine as she looks thoughtful. The simple yet stylish black and white Adidas top completes her look.

Style:
Box braids with a splash of color and gold thread accent.

Maintenance Tips:
Keep your braids neat by wrapping them at night with a silk scarf. Regularly moisturize your scalp to prevent dryness and itchiness.

NO.22 Box Braids with Beads

She’s rocking sleek, shoulder-length box braids with clear beads at the ends. Her hair is parted neatly with each braid crafted to perfection. The style frames her face beautifully, and the beads add a playful, stylish touch. Her confident smile completes the look, making it both elegant and fun.

Style: Chic and modern.

Styling Tips: To maintain this look, keep your scalp moisturized and sleep with a silk scarf to reduce frizz.

NO.23 Box Braids

This girl rocks long box braids with wooden beads on the ends, giving a unique and stylish touch. She’s wearing a maroon shirt and a black mask with gold letters. Her braids are neatly parted and perfectly braided, falling gracefully over her shoulders.

Style: Neat, long box braids with wooden bead accents.

Maintenance Tips: Keep your scalp moisturized to avoid dryness. Use a satin scarf or pillowcase at night to prevent frizz and maintain the neatness of the braids.

NO.24 Braided Beauty

Check out this stunning girl rocking long, thick braids that frame her face perfectly. The sunlight hits just right, giving her skin a beautiful glow. Her high-necked top and the urban background make the whole look pop.

Style: Sleek and sophisticated with an urban edge.

Maintenance Tips: Keep your scalp moisturized and avoid heavy products to maintain the neatness and longevity of the braids.

NO.25 Chunky Braids

She’s rocking a set of chunky braids, neatly parted with geometric precision. Her hair gleams under the light, showing off the intricate work. The edges are slicked down, adding a clean finish. It’s a striking look that turns heads.

Style: Bold and modern with a touch of elegance.

Styling Tips: Use a good edge control gel to keep the edges sleek. Keep your braids moisturized to maintain their shine and prevent breakage.

NO.26 Box Braids

Loving these sleek and neat box braids! The sections are perfectly straight, creating a clean and stylish look. The braids are thick and uniform, giving a bold and striking appearance. You can see the attention to detail in how the hair is parted and braided close to the scalp.

Style: Bold and Protective

Maintenance Tips: Keep your scalp moisturized and clean. Wrap your hair at night with a silk or satin scarf to maintain the style and prevent frizz.

NO.27 Braided Hair Art

This unique braided hairstyle features intricate patterns and neat rows. The hair is divided into geometric sections, creating a stunning visual effect. Each braid is carefully crafted, showing great attention to detail. The overall look is both bold and artistic, perfect for making a fashion statement.

Style: Creative, Geometric Braids

Styling Tips: To maintain this look, keep your scalp moisturized and protect your braids at night with a silk or satin scarf. Regularly check for loose braids and get them retouched to keep the style fresh and neat.

NO.28 Braided Hairstyle

Check out these neat, thick box braids on a young woman. Her hair is sectioned into triangular parts, and the braids are long and neatly woven. The style is both trendy and low-maintenance, perfect for any occasion.

Style: Box braids with triangular parts

Styling Tips: To keep your braids looking fresh, wrap your hair with a silk scarf at night. This helps reduce frizz and maintains the sleek look of the braids.

NO.29 Box Braids

Check out these gorgeous long box braids! The braids are neatly done, falling gracefully over the shoulders. A few golden cuffs add a stylish touch. The hairstyle frames her face beautifully, giving a natural and chic look.

Style:
Trendy and protective, perfect for low-maintenance beauty.

Maintenance Tips:
Keep your scalp moisturized and wrap your braids at night to maintain neatness and longevity.

Benefits of Large Box Braids

• Time-Efficient: Due to their larger size, large box braids take less time to install compared to smaller braids.
• Low Maintenance: Once installed, they require minimal upkeep, making them ideal for those with busy lifestyles.
• Versatile Styling: These braids can be styled in various ways, offering flexibility and creativity.
• Protective: Large box braids protect natural hair from daily wear and tear, promoting growth and health.

Choosing the Right Size and Length

Size Considerations

Large box braids are defined by their thickness, which can vary based on personal preference. Larger braids create a bolder look and reduce installation time but may not last as long as smaller braids due to their weight and size.

Length Options

When selecting the length of your large box braids, consider your personal style, lifestyle, and maintenance preferences. Longer braids offer more styling versatility but can be heavier and require more care. Shorter braids are easier to manage and maintain while still providing a fashionable look.

The Installation Process

Preparation

Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the health and longevity of your large box braids. Here are the steps to prepare your hair:

1. Cleanse: Wash your hair thoroughly to remove any buildup and ensure your scalp is clean.
2. Condition: Deep condition your hair to provide moisture and strengthen your strands.
3. Detangle: Carefully detangle your hair to make the braiding process smoother.
4. Stretch: Stretch your hair using a blow dryer or heatless methods to make it easier to braid.

The Braiding Process

1. Sectioning: Your hair is divided into large, square-shaped sections to determine the size and placement of each braid.
2. Parting: Clean and precise parts are made to ensure a neat and organized look.
3. Braiding: The braider starts at the roots, adding extensions as needed, and continues braiding down to the ends.
4. Securing: The ends of the braids are secured with a knot or elastic band to prevent unraveling.

Maintenance and Care

Daily Care

• Moisturize: Keep your scalp and braids moisturized by applying a light oil or leave-in conditioner regularly.
• Protect: Wear a satin or silk scarf or bonnet at night to reduce friction and prevent frizz.
• Cleanse: Use a diluted shampoo or scalp cleanser to keep your scalp clean without disturbing the braids.

Long-Term Care

• Re-tighten: As your hair grows, you may need to re-tighten the braids near your scalp to maintain a neat appearance.
• Avoid Heavy Products: Heavy creams and gels can cause buildup, so opt for lightweight products instead.
• Limit Heat: Avoid using heat styling tools on your braids to prevent damage to both your natural hair and the extensions.

Styling Options

Versatile Hairstyles

Large box braids offer numerous styling options to suit different occasions and preferences:

• High Bun: Gather your braids into a high bun for an elegant and sophisticated look.
• Ponytail: A sleek ponytail can be both casual and chic, perfect for everyday wear.
• Half-Up, Half-Down: This style combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to showcase the length of your braids while keeping some hair out of your face.
• Braided Crown: Create a regal braided crown by wrapping braids around your head and securing them in place.
• Loose and Flowing: Let your braids hang loose for a carefree and natural look.

Accessories

Enhance your large box braids with accessories like:

• Beads: Add beads to the ends of your braids for a playful and decorative touch.
• Hair Cuffs: Metal hair cuffs can be placed along the length of your braids for a trendy look.
• Scarves: Wrap a colorful scarf around your head or tie it into your braids for a stylish accent.
• Hair Rings: Small rings can be threaded through your braids to add a bit of edge and flair.

Removing Box Braids

When to Remove

Large box braids typically last between six to eight weeks, depending on how well you maintain them. It’s essential to remove them when you notice significant growth at the roots or if the braids begin to look frizzy and untidy.

Removal Process

1. Cut Extensions: If your braids are longer than your natural hair, carefully cut the extension hair to make the removal process easier.
2. Unbraid: Starting from the ends, gently unravel the braids, being careful not to tug or pull on your natural hair.
3. Detangle: Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair once all the braids are removed.
4. Cleanse and Condition: Wash your hair thoroughly and follow up with a deep conditioning treatment to restore moisture and strength.

Conclusion

Large box braids are a stylish and protective hairstyle option that offers numerous benefits, including time efficiency, low maintenance, and versatile styling options. By choosing the right size and length, preparing your hair properly, and maintaining your braids with care, you can enjoy this trendy hairstyle for several weeks.

Whether you’re looking for a bold statement or a practical protective style, large box braids are an excellent choice.

FAQs

1. How long do large box braids last? Large box braids typically last between six to eight weeks, depending on maintenance and hair growth.
2. Can I wash my hair with box braids? Yes, you can wash your hair with box braids. Use a diluted shampoo or scalp cleanser to keep your scalp clean without disturbing the braids.
3. Are box braids suitable for all hair types? Box braids can be done on various hair types, but the technique may be more suitable for certain textures. Consult with a professional stylist to determine the best option for your hair.
4. How can I reduce frizz in my box braids? Keep your hair moisturized, wear a satin or silk scarf at night, and avoid heavy products that can cause buildup to reduce frizz.
5. Can I swim with box braids? Yes, you can swim with box braids. Rinse your hair with fresh water before and after swimming, and apply a leave-in conditioner to protect your braids.
6. How do I choose the right length for my braids? Consider your lifestyle and maintenance preferences. Long braids offer more styling options but can be heavier, while shorter braids are easier to manage.
7. What products should I use on my box braids? Use lightweight oils, leave-in conditioners, and scalp cleansers specifically designed for braids to maintain your hairstyle.