Fulani Braids: 10 Styles to Choose Your Next Braid Pattern A few years ago, Fulani braids finally made a comeback after a long absence...
Fulani Braids: 10 Styles to Choose Your Next Braid Pattern
A few years ago, Fulani braids finally made a comeback after a long absence, and they haven't left. The renowned protective style often referred to as tribal braids, previously reached its height in popularity when celebrities like Alicia Keys wore it on the cover of her 2001 album Songs in A Minor or when Rihanna wore Fulani braids on the red carpet at the British Fashion Awards in 2019. Due to their elaborate design, distinctive appearance, and low care requirements, Fulani braids (also known as tribal braids) continue to be a popular choice for Black women even without celebrity backing. The nomadic Fulani people that inhabit East and West Africa are the source of the name. The braiding designs used traditionally by Fulani women are included in the style.
The cornrow that runs down the center of your head separates the Fulani hairstyle from other braided styles. On either side of your face, one cornrow is often braided, starting at the back and ending at the front, creating loose hanging braids at your temples and a braid wrapped around the hairline. This appearance is given life by beads and ornaments and is further enhanced by the length added by Kanekalon hair. The appeal of this look is that you can completely personalize it by incorporating accessories, a splash of color, or your own unique braid pattern.
For tribal braids, the majority of women will choose to visit a salon because it can be difficult and time-consuming to do it yourself. If you're courageous enough to try Fulani braids on your own, our style 101 post has all the information you need. Our protective style guide's tips for maintenance and takedown will also be useful.
Long and luscious tribal braids
Tribal braids can be made with natural hair, however adding length with Kanekalon hair improves the appearance. The majority of braided styles work best with kanekelon hair because of its kinky, blown-out nature. It has greater quality than most other synthetic hair kinds, is less wiry, and moves more naturally. The most traditional Fulani style is undoubtedly one with a longer length, which is why so many ladies like to wear it. For a unique touch, adorn the braids' ends and middle sections with beads and other details.
Middle part with or without a cornrow
The cornrow that runs down the center of the hair defines the Fulani style. Many ladies opt for a middle part without cornrows for a more contemporary look; you can still have some cornrows pointing in your direction or straight back. For this variety, ombre or a single solid color might also work incredibly well.
Shoulder Length Fulani Braids
Take a look as how these women are rocking shorter tribal braids that are finished with braids. The shorter length is wonderful for highlighting the beads because it brings them closer to your face and frames your face. Having a longer bob length on one side and a lesser length on the other is a fantastic alternative.
Mid-length braids with beads
If you can't decide between going long or short, mid-length is the ideal alternative. Your mid-length braids will feel more like an accent if you add beads to them because they sit at your neckline and can match a set of earrings.
Color galore
Adding color to your tribal braids may be a terrific way to give them personality, whether you choose to go blonde, red, ombre, or pastel.
Fulani Braids from the side and back
It's all in the details, so take a look at how stunning these Fulani braids are from the side and the back.
Chunky braids
By choosing thicker braids, you can change up your Fulani look. Larger braids relieve tension on your scalp, which is better for you.
Numerous beads
Tribal braids are elevated by adding beads and decorations. Be careful when putting wooden beads because they tend to be heavier and to generate greater tension on your scalp. Because plastic beads are lightweight and can be layered with various colors and designs, they offer a distinctive twist on the Fulani fashion.
Ponytails and buns
Tribal braids are incredibly adaptable, as demonstrated by the way they look when tied into a high bun or ponytail.
Goddess Fulani braids
Simply leaving a few braiding hairs (often wavy) strands unfastened adds a touch of divinity. Goddess styles are most frequently applied to box or knotless braids, but when combined with the Fulani style, they provide an entirely new appearance.