29 Exquisite Bob Braid Hairstyles & How To Style Them

This uber-cool hairstyle is a surefire way to get the best of both worlds.

Reviewed by Tuera A. Jacobs, Licenced Cosmetologist Tuera A. Jacobs Tuera A. JacobsLicenced Cosmetologist insta_icon
Written by Anjali Sayee, BTech Anjali Sayee BTech linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Edited by Madhumati Chowdhury, MA (English Literature) Madhumati Chowdhury MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Fact-checked by Bhumika Daga, MA (English) Bhumika Daga MA (English) linkedin_icon Experience: 2.5 years
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Moesha Mitchell is known for two things: being the Fresh Princess Of L.A. and her bob braids. In Western African communities, braids were used to show marital status, wealth, religion, age and rank. The ever-trendy braids have since been blended with a lot of hairstyles like bangs, layers, updos, and ponytails. It means the ’90s super cool bob-braid hairstyle is back! While the bob is super edgy and modern, braids have transcended time and remained flawless. Therefore, this hairstyle is the perfect mix of vintage and modern.

protip_icon Before You Get Started
  • Bob braids may be short in length, but they can be equally time-consuming to do. Consider getting them done through a professional.
  • If you already have a protective style on, let your hair and scalp breath for a week before getting new braids.
  • Instead of coloring your hair for a flashy bob braid look, use extensions in the color of your choice. This is a safer and more convenient option.

Excited to know more about this trend that has taken the world by storm? In this article, we take a look at the top 27 bob braids of all time. But before that, we have also shared a few pointers on how you can pick a bob braided style from all the different types of braids that exist. See which one will look fabulous on you. Keep reading to know more!

How To Style Bob Braids

  • Decide Which Bob You Want
Decide which bob hairstyle you want
Image: Shutterstock

The bob is one of the trendiest hairstyles, so it’s no surprise that we’ve created multiple variations of it. The bob has been ruling the short hair world since 1920. Ranging from the classic bob all the way to the A-line and asymmetrical bobs, there is a wide variety to choose from. You need to keep your face shape in mind as bobs help in framing your face. For this, you will have to know how to determine your face shape.

  • Decide What Kind Of Braids You Want

Dutch braids, Ghana Braids, feed-in braids, regular braids, Khaleesi braids…the list goes on and on. You need to decide whether you want protective braids or regular braids.

  • Hair Extensions

Almost all protective styles use hair extensions. If you’re opting for extensions, you need to consider what kind you want to use. The options are broadly categorized into synthetic and virgin hair types? Synthetic hair is made from fine plastic fibers while virgin hair is natural human hair. Licensed cosmetologist and hair expert, Tuera Jacobs, who has over 20 years of experience in the beauty and styling industry, adds, “Today, braiders have mastered the art of braiding and “dipping” synthetic hair in a manner which creates free flowing, lightweight braid designs, that move like natural human hair, for a fraction of the cost.” Therefore, you need not worry about your extensions looking unnatural.

  • Colored Or Not
Colored bob braids hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Using hair extensions not only adds volume but also prevents damage. Instead of coloring your natural hair, you can pick colored extensions. You can also buy extensions and then dye them the color you want.

  • In-House Or A Salon
Braided bob hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Can the bob and braids you want be cut and styled at home or will they be done better at a salon? In my experience, it’s always better to get your haircut and style done professionally.

  • Accessorize

Accessories can really amp up your hairdo. You need to decide whether you want to go big or stay minimalistic. You can choose from hair rings to clips to beads to flowers to…you get the drift. Now that you know the things to consider when picking a bob braids style, it’s time for the fun part! Here’s a list of the 29 bob braids that are trending all over the world.

Let us now read about some tips on choosing the right hairstyle for yourself.

Key Takeaways

  • Bob braids help accentuate facial features, making them ideal for those with oval or diamond faces.
  • You can add gold beads or threads to your bob braid hairstyle to create visually striking looks.
  • Ensure you wash and condition your braids every week to keep your scalp clean and your hair follicles moisturized.

Expert Tips On Choosing The Right Bob Braid Hairstyle

A woman with a bob braid hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Here are some tips for choosing a flattering bob braids style for yourself.

  • Face Shape: Choose a style that complements your face shape. Longer or asymmetrical bob braids elongate wider faces, while shorter bobs with layers suit more angular or oval faces.
  • Hair Texture: Consider your natural hair texture when selecting the type of braid. Smaller braids work best for finer hair, while thicker hair can handle larger, chunkier braids.
  • Length: Decide on the length of your bob braids based on your aesthetic and styling preference. A chin-length bob braid gives a classic look, while shoulder-length braids offer more versatility for styling.
  • Braid Size: The size of your braids affects the overall look. Micro-braids offer a more intricate, detailed style, while larger braids create a bolder look.
  • Maintenance: Consider how much time you are willing to invest in maintenance. Smaller braids typically require more upkeep, while thicker, larger braids may last longer with less need for touch-ups.
  • Protective Benefits: Bob braids can be a great protective style. But, make sure your hair is prepped with proper conditioning and care before braiding to avoid breakage or tension on the scalp.

You can select a bob braid style that flatters your face, suits your lifestyle, and expresses your individuality, by considering the factors mentioned above! Now, without further ado, browse through the many ways in which braids can upgrade your bob hairstyle.

29 Exquisite Bob Braids You Need To Know

1. Long Bob Braids With Wooden Beads

Long-Bob-Braids-With-Wooden-Beads
Image: Pexels

The light feel of shorter braids syncs well with wooden beads. It makes for such a playful look. And, imagine these beads rattling together with every step you take! All the boho, cottage-core enthusiasts curlies out there, this style seems to be custom-created for you! This hairstyle is also perfect for casual outings and parties.

2. Copper Bob Braids

Copper-Bob-Braids
Image: Pexels

A moderately vibrant bob braids for those who want to test the waters with a dyed look. And you need not necessarily dye your hair, colored extensions will work just as brilliantly. Darker braid shades also seem to carry an edge to them. No wonder this style demands attention with its feisty looks! And you can accessorize these thin braids with threads and mini clip-on beads for added flair.

3. Pink Curved Braids

Pink reminds me of all the good things from my childhood – unicorns, cotton candy, Barbie dolls, teddy bears, and bubblegum.

Braid that glee into your hair with this awesome side curved bob braids style. You are now ready to look FASHIONABLE & GLAMOROUS!

4. Asymmetrical Braided Bob

Asymmetrical bobs look badass. I thought there was no possible way to top them until I saw this asymmetrical braided bob. It has such a strong personality. It is stunning! The blonde extensions look incredible in these box braids.

5. Thick Bob Braids

Hair extensions are generally used to make hair look thicker. That is exactly what this braided bob does. The burgundy accents are subtle yet boisterous at the same time. Love this crochet braid look. There are some amazing ways to style your crochet braids; knowing them can easily uplift your look!

6. Long Braided Bob

Long braided bob hairstyle
Image: The Snapper

Don’t let the braided bob fool you. While it is inherently badass, it is versatile enough to be styled in a girly manner.

7. Shaved On The Side Braided Bob

#Thuglife! Some hairstyles ooze personality, and this is one of them. The shaved pattern on the side can be a simple or an intricate design, depending on your preference. With the pattern, this hairdo looks totally edgy.

8. Braided Bob With Hair Rings

Braided bob hairstyle with rings
Image: IStock

This braided bob looks tribal and wild. You can almost hear the opening theme for The Lion King in the background. Come to think of it, if The Lion King was remade with humans, I think this is how Nala would look. Pretty wild, eh?!

9. Wavy Braided Bob

Wavy braided bob hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

When you tightly weave a braid, your hair tends to get squiggly – which makes for a crazy hairdo. These wavy braids are perfect for sporting on a beach holiday.

10. Ombre Braided Bob

Ombre braided bob hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Ombre will never go out of style. The key is to pick colors that go well with your skin tone. Your skin has surface tones and undertones. Dark, olive, medium, and fair are surface tones while warm, cool, and neutral are undertones. It’s the undertones that really matter when picking a hair color.

11. Pop Of Color Braided Long Bob

Sometimes, all you need in life is a pop of color. Braided long bob hairstyles are something else! This one would look like any other if it weren’t for that splash of reddish brown. Add some vibrance to your locks to set them apart. You can explore more long bob hairstyles to help you get that edgy look that will make you the talk of the town.

12. Silver Gray Braided Bob

Tight twists braided bob hairstyle
Image: IStock

Storm is known for being a fierce mutant who controls the weather, and for her iconic silver gray hair. It’s no wonder that every woman at some point in her life wanted this hair color. I still do.

13. Shell Braided Bob

Side-braided hair with shells
Image: Shutterstock

Who needs flowers and headbands when you have shells? Shells carry the sound of the ocean and make you feel like you’re on holiday 24/7. Sounds pretty awesome, right? So, accessorize your bob braids with some shells to create a summer-perfect look.

14. Electric Blue Bob Braids

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Blue is a futuristic color. It’s no wonder it’s the color of a famous time-traveling spaceship. (If you get that reference, you have a special place in my heart). These bob braids look chic and uber cool with electric blue highlights.

15. Volumizing Bob Braids

This girl has flawless features, and the bob braids only accentuate them. Bob braids can help accentuate your features, especially if you have a diamond- or oval-shaped face.

16. Thick Threaded And Beaded Braided Bob

Why settle for thin braids when thick locks give you more volume? And the colorful thread and extensions and gold beads add vibrance to the hairdo. The slight pop of color here and there is a nice touch that adds some dimension to the braided bob.

17. Gold Beaded And Threaded Bob Braids

To look a class apart, all you need are accessories like these gold beads and threads. They transform this braided bob into a masterpiece.

18. Dual Colored Box Braid Bob

Simple, yet very stylish. If you like subtle hair colors, this is the braided bob for you. The best part is that you don’t even need to color your hair. You can achieve this look by using some colored extensions.

19. Undercut Braided Bob

You don’t have to braid your whole bob to look glamorous. If you have a pixie bob, weave your hair on one side into a thin braid. You’ll have to use the French braiding method where you keep adding hair to the side sections of the braid. This hairstyle looks especially great with big earrings!

20. Side Braided Bob

This one is pretty easy to try. Using a straightener, style some waves at the ends of your hair. Part your hair on one side. Take some hair from the front of the side with lesser hair and weave it into a braid. Pin it up underneath some loose hair at the back of your head. This hairstyle looks especially great with coffee brown highlights done on black hair as it adds texture and dimension to the look.

21. Simple Thin Braided Bob

Simple thin braided bob hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Thin braids can also look very voluminous. The key is to use hair extensions that make your hair look fuller than it is. Simple accessories like classy clip-on beads can add oomph to this hairdo.

22. Free Ended Braided Bob

Free ended braided bob hairstyle
Image: IStock

I love this hairdo. The skinny black braids look brilliant and go well with her overall look. I like how the beads are placed at the front. It looks traditional, yet has a modern feel to it.

protip_icon Trivia
Actress Danai Gurira wore her bobbed Fulani braids with fanned or open ends at the 2019 Oscars.

23. Long Braided Bob

Long braided bob hairstyle
Image: IStock

Growing out your bob is never wrong, especially if it’s a slanted bob with the back shorter than the front. Weaving the entire bob into thin black braids adds a lot of edge to the look. Add in some beaded hair accessories, and you can wear this hair look just about anywhere.

24. Over-Side Braided Bob

Over-side braided bob hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

This mix of pink, light purple and red colors adds texture and dimension to the hair. Part your hair on one side. Weave a braid on one side, flip it over to the other side, and pin it underneath loose hair. Pancake the braid to make it look voluminous.

25. Patterned Braided Bob

Black women take a lot of pride in their braids, which is why they spend a lot of time perfecting them. Intricately patterned braids like these look breathtaking, to say the least.

26. Tightly Twisted Braided Bob

Tightly twisted braided bob hairstyle
Image: Istock

These tight twists look like the polished version of dreadlocks. It’s important to remember not to twist or braid your hair too tight, especially near the scalp. This can lead to Traction Alopecia. Apply some gel or mousse near the roots so you get a better grip when braiding or twisting your hair instead of pulling it tightly.

protip_icon Trivia
Actress Whoopi Goldberg wore her iconic dreadlocks in a bob hairstyle while filming for the popular show The View.

27. Scarfed Braided Bob

Scarfed braided bob hairstyle
Image: IStock

Scarves have been around for ages. They can amp up any hairdo and add vibrance to an ensemble. While there are many ways to tie a scarf around your hair, this almost-turban look is a hot favorite. Now that you know which bob braids are trending right now, here are some maintenance tips to make those braids last longer.

28. Jumbo Bob Box Braids

Jumbo Bob Box Braids
Image: Shutterstock

Jumbo box braids are a bold and stylish hairstyle that adds flair to your look. These braids are larger in size, creating a chunkier and more eye-catching appearance. They are not just a protective style but also a fashion statement. You can experiment with different lengths and colors, making it a versatile choice for expressing your unique style.

29. Butterfly Locs Bob Braids

Butterfly Locs Bob Braids
Image: Shutterstock

This trendy look combines the charm of bob braids with the intricate and textured appearance of butterfly locs. The result is a chic and playful hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to your overall look. Add a splash of color to those voluminous butterfly locs and take the classic bob hairstyle to a whole new level.

How to Maintain Bob Braids

  1. Get your braids re-weaved every three months. This way you won’t have to start from scratch, but simply secure the loose ends.
  2. Wash your hair only once a week. Washing your hair too often can loosen the braids. Concentrate on washing off the buildup on your scalp.
  3. Kinky hair dries out faster than all other hair types. To remedy this, apply oil to your roots regularly. Use your fingertips to massage hot oil on your scalp.
  4. Deep condition your hair at least once a week; use a natural leave-in conditioner. This will moisturize your hair follicles.
  5. Wrap your hair in a silk scarf before you go to sleep. This will prevent your braids from getting frizzy. Also, use silk pillow covers to minimize friction when sleeping.
  6. Using a blow dryer can dry out and damage your hair. Instead, allow your hair to air dry.

Additionally, Tuera Jacobs offers her expert suggestion, “Scalp treatments, in the form of a dry and itchy scalp shampoo mixed with an antiseptic, can be applied between installs. This will help deter itching and flaking, as well as promote blood circulation, which is key to hair growth.”

Infographic: 5 Most Trending Braided Bob Hairstyles

Give your bob a new twist by incorporating braids into it. No matter your curl pattern, you can go for different variations of bobs and braids to revamp your look. The infographic below highlights the trendiest braided bob hairstyles you need to try. Scroll down and check it out.

5 most trending braided bob hairstyles (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

It is time for you to make a statement with this round-up of bob braid hairstyles. Although it is quite a move to get some of these hairstyles done, they are surely worth it. Whether you have straight or curly hair, bob braids are perfect for women who want a low-maintenance hairstyle that’s easy to style and maintain. Of course, when styling a bob braid hairstyle, you should focus on the accessories that go best with your personality. So, take some inspiration from the above options and get ready to look fabulous.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do bob box braids last?

Bob box braids can last up to 8-10 weeks.

How do you seal a bob box braid without burning it?

You can use a flat iron to seal a bob box braid without burning it.

How long does doing bob box braids take?

It may take around 4 to 8 hours to do bob box braids.

How many packs of hair do you need for box braids for a bob?

You may need 2 to 3 hair packs for doing a box braid bob.

How much is for braiding a bob?

Getting box braids done by a professional may cost $300 to $600.

Illustration: Exquisite Bob Braid Hairstyles & How To Style Them

Bob Braid Hairstyles

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team

Learn how to create a beautiful box braid bob. Sounds difficult? Not really. Watch this beginner-friendly tutorial and get ready to rock your new look.

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Tuera A. Jacobs
Tuera A. JacobsLicenced Cosmetologist
Tuera A. Jacobs is a licensed cosmetologist with over 20 years of experience in makeup, wardrobe styling, branding, creative directing, and overall style coaching. She is also the owner of Studio Hush 4:14 Image Consulting Firm, Creative Director of Christina Michelle Branding Agency, Beauty Director of Columbia Fashion Week, mother of three, and grandmother of one.

Read full bio of Tuera A. Jacobs
Anjali Sayee
Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
Madhumati Chowdhury
Madhumati ChowdhuryAssociate Editor
Madhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.

Read full bio of Madhumati Chowdhury
Bhumika Daga
Bhumika DagaBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Bhumika is a content writer with 2.5 years of expertise in crafting articles across diverse genres. She graduated from the University of Delhi and completed her post-graduation from Indira Gandhi National Open University, Delhi.

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