Box braids are having a major moment right now, beloved for their versatility and protective qualities. But basic box braids can seem a bit, well, basic. Take your braided style from blasé to boho with tips for weaving whimsical, free-spirited charm into every strand. From hair prep to accessorizing, use these tricks to make your box braids an elevated expression of your inner flower child. Learning how to do boho box braids involves paying attention to details like hair texture, strategic parting, fun embellishments, and trendy accessorizing to weave bohemian charm into every strand.
Start with the Perfect BoHo Box Braid Hair
The foundation of fab boho braids lies in choosing the right hair. For optimal texture, spring, and durability, opt for 100% Kanekalon fiber hair. The synthetic Kanekalon retains volume and sheen better than cheaper alternatives. Aim for pre-stretched braiding hair between 10-24 inches long. This gives you length while minimizing tension on roots. For boho texture, choose hair with loose curls or waves at the ends. Or, look for hair with varying shapes and sizes of zig-zag or twist patterns all along the strands. This adds organic movement.
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Prime Hair for Optimal Volume
Prepping your natural hair is key for maximizing the volume and fullness of box braids. Start by clarifying hair and scalp to remove buildup. Follow up with a moisturizing deep conditioner. When hair is dry, work a texturizer product through your strands. This expands the cuticle for extra body when braiding. Then lightly mist hair with leave-in conditioner and let it 90% dry before braiding. Damp hair takes better to added extensions. Finish priming with braid lotion to prevent frizz.
Part Hair Strategically for Shape and Fullness
Your parting pattern lays the foundation for the visual shape and volume of your boho box braids. Square parts give the most seamless, full look from every angle. Try a zigzag part for fun flair. Triangle parts create graduated volume, with more boho braids in back and fewer toward your hairline. Curved side parts and deep side parts are good for round or square faces. Part sizes impact fullness too. Keep parts 1/4 inch or less for dense, full braids. Wider parts save time but look more sparse.
Incorporate Fun Add-Ins for Whimsy
The beauty of box braids lies in the creative freedom to weave in fun embellishments. For bohemian braids, slide thin satin ribbons down individual braids. Use colorful threads or embroidery floss to create geometric shapes. Or, braid in thin metallic cord for a subtle sparkle. For music festivals or beach trips, add featherhair extensions and beads. You can also braid hair jewels directly into your parts. Just take care not to overdo it—a few thoughtful accents go a long way.
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Play with Fun Ends for Texture
The ends of your box braids offer opportunity for boho flare too. For beachy style, dip just the ends of your braiding hair in sea salt spray before installing, creating perfectly imperfect texture. Or, use hair with loose curls or waves at the ends. For eclectic vibes, use a mix of textures in different boho box braids—some straight, some curly, some beaded. You can also tie colorful embroidery thread or thin ribbons around braid ends. And small cowrie shells pinned at ends give an earthy feel.
Style with Headwraps for Global Appeal
Fabric headwraps take your box braids to new boho heights. Use them to conceal roots as hair grows out. And they protect delicate edges from friction. Choose wraps made of soft, natural fabrics like rayon or cotton in vibrant African prints or colorful tie-dye patterns. Tie them on for an instant style refresh, or use bobby pins to create turban-inspired looks. Headwraps pull together ponytails or updos, and add a signature bohemian touch.
Accessorize for Personality
The beauty of boho style lies in self-expression. So accent freely with jewelry and accessories that speak to your personal tastes. Slide in hair cuffs above your ears for urban edge. Dot chain-link bands around braids. Layer long, delicate necklaces into your box braids. And line the crown with floral pins, barrettes, or combs. For music festivals, weave bright fabric through chunky box braids. You can even braid in thin leather cords or scarves. Simply let your spirit shine through.
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Finish with Luminous Hair Oils
Preserve and amplify your box braids’ beauty between appointments with nourishing hair oils. Argan, coconut and castor oils moisturize braids, add healthy shine, and reduce frizz from new growth. Apply oils daily focusing on ends and length rather than roots. Twist braids gently as you distribute oil. For boho water babies, coat hair in oil before beach or pool dips to protect from chlorine and saltwater damage. Your locs will stay supple and shiny.
Mask and Deep Condition for Longevity
Keep box braids beautiful longer by supplementing oils with regular conditioning. Once a week, massage hydrating hair masks into your braids and sit under a hooded dryer. Then shampoo braids gently and follow up with a moisturizing deep conditioner. Avoid vigorously scrubbing, which can cause frizz. Deep conditioning replenishes moisture, prevents dryness and breakage, and keeps boho braids looking fab.
Fall in Love with the Freedom of Boho Braids
Box braids offer the perfect protective base for weaving carefree bohemian beauty into your strands. Take inspiration from nature, global cultures, music festivals, beaches and your own soul. Adorn and accent freely to create a vibrant expression of your spirit. Change up parts and textures for new looks. Treat hair gently, and moisturize often. When you embrace the versatility of box braids, the styling possibilities are endless.
For those seeking high-quality box braids without the commitment of installing on natural hair, uBraids provides a solution. Emerging as a specialized brand under JALIZA's fashion platform, uBraids offers premium synthetic braided wigs celebrating the diversity of Black hairstyles. With meticulous construction mirroring human hair, boho knotless braids allow you to experiment with versatile protective styles while giving your natural hair a break.
So unleash your inner flower child, and let your boho box braids make a bold, beautiful statement!
