60 Most Trending Knotless Braid Hairstyles
Steal the show by flaunting your gorgeous braids in different looks every time.
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Knotless braids are a game changer when it comes to protecting your hair. These protective braids are versatile enough to suit both formal and casual occasions. They are effortlessly chic and shield your scalp and tresses from all kinds of damage. They are also gentle on your scalp, reduce tension, and promote healthy hair growth. Knotless braids are a huge trend right now, and it’s easy to see why. Recently, many celebs have walked on red carpets flaunting knotless braids, including Gabrielle Union and Beyonce. They offer a polished look that can be dressed up or down as needed. Believe us, knotless braids are everything you want in a hairstyle. So, stick around and check out how you can style knotless braids and show off your creativity.
Before You Get Started- It is important to maintain your overall hair health. It would be best to have healthy roots, edges, and a moisturized scalp before you get knotless braids.
- Be sure to use a good-quality detangling brush and leave-in conditioner to help make the braiding process as smooth and painless as possible.
- You need to be patient when getting knotless braids. Depending on the size and style of the braids, it can take anywhere from 2-8 hours to complete the look.
In This Article
What Are Knotless Braids?
Knotless braids are what the name suggests – box braids without knots. Braiding starts right from the natural strands, and extensions or hair are woven into the braids as they go along to provide thickness and volume. It is a natural-looking way of braiding, and since it does not start with a knot, you have the flexibility to style them in a number of ways. These knotless braids styles your hair in a protective yet stylish hairstyle.
So what sets knotless braids apart from traditional box braids? Keep reading to learn about the major difference between these styles.
Key Takeaways
- Knotless braid hairstyles look stylish while protecting your scalp and tresses from stress and damage.
- These braids use the feed-in technique where hair extensions are added to the hairstyle in the middle.
- You can either leave the ends of the extensions free or leave random strands of hair uncurled in between to add a unique look.
- Add highlights and lowlights to add dimension to these braids.
Knotless Or Traditional Box Braids – Which Is Better?
In traditional box braids, the hair extensions are added right at the start by tightly knotting them with natural hair at the scalp, making them painful. Box braids can strain the scalp and edges due to their weight and bulk. On the other hand, the feed-in technique is used while doing knotless braids, and extensions are incorporated as you weave the braids. Knotless braids provide a considerably more organic appearance. It is difficult to tell where natural hair ends and hair extensions begin. If done correctly, the knotless method can prevent traction alopecia as well. The health of your hair and scalp is worth the lengthier installation time for this approach.
TriviaKnotless braids, like box braids, can be styled in a number of ways. Unlike other protective styles (like cornrows), knotless braids are not tight at the scalp and can be styled in updos, top knots, half updos, and more, making them a suitable option for African hair. Check out all the best styling ideas below!
60 Chic Knotless Braid Hairstyles
Knotless Braids With Curly Ends
1. Long Curly-Ended Knotless Braids
Long knotless braids can look quite unique and eye-catching. If the ends are left curled, it can be one of the best knotless braid styles with a distinctive and dramatic finish.
2. Short Curly-Ended Knotless Braids
Leave the tiny braids open towards the ends, add playfulness to the tresses, and confidently slay this look. The curls will look great styled messy or sleek. Fluff them up for an even more exciting look while styling them.
3. Burgundy Curly Ended Knotless Braids
Amp up your regular knotless braids with some color. Add a burgundy hue to the curly ends, taking the hairdo to a new level and becoming a trendsetter.
4. Knotless Braids With Unruly Ends
The gorgeous knotless braids with loose wavy ends stand out from other knotless braids and give the appearance of being thicker. No wonder Zoe Kravitz decided to sport them at a cool event!
5. Large Goddess Knotless Braids
Braid the tresses all over your head, leaving a few strands out here and there. Curl the loose hair to create an eye-catching combination of braids and curls. Any woman will become an ethereal goddess sporting this knotless braids look.
TriviaKnotless Braids Hairstyles For Medium Hair
6. Half Curls Half Knotless Braids
Add volume to your mane by adding curls in between the knotless braids. This fuller adaptation adds loudness to the hairstyle with that vibrant burgundy color.
7. Mix Highlight Knotless Braids
Give yourself a multidimensional shaded effect with the blend of highlights and lowlights. Interweave dark and light braids according to your face shape, emphasizing your best features.
8. Blue Medium Knotless Braids
Knotless braids are incredibly adaptable and you can customize them to fit their preferences and showcase their style and personality. For instance, choose some extensions in blue color to make some plain knotless braids with an accented pattern on the scalp.
9. Accessorized Knotless Braids
Add some oomph to regular knotless braids with some simple yet stunning hair accessories like beads and threads. The best part is you don’t have to go above and beyond with these accessories. A simple criss-cross pattern with threads and a bead can go a long way.
10. Red Highlighted Knotless Braids
Red is a fierce color that perfectly expresses the strength of women. Add red accent braids to make these square knotless box braids stand out more.
11. Knotless Braids In An Updo
Elevate the mood with a braided updo. This knotless braided bun is an adaptable and timeless fashionable hairstyle. Just wrap the ponytail over itself to create this fabulous bun. This look is effortlessly chic.
12. Jumbo Knotless Braids Half ‘Do
An elegant half updo is a great way to flaunt your knotless braids. Jumbo knotless braids tied at the crown give this hairstyle all sorts of Greek goddess vibes. Bookmark this one for your next big party!
13. Knotless Braids And Cornrows Low Bun
This look is perfect for a boss lady! The bun with knotless braids clasped at the back gives a refined and respectable appearance. Mixing knotless braids with other protective styles like cornrows can really amp up your updos. Opt for a low bun or an updo, both look equally bossy and chic.
14. Unicorn Knotless Braids
Bring the playfulness out with these unicorn-colored extensions weaved in with natural hair. It is an ongoing trend, so hop on the trend wagon and flaunt those colorful knotless braids.
15. Arrow Knotless Braids
Just like with traditional box braids, you can play around with patterns for knotless braids. Instead of simply sectioning your hair in square sections, add patterns like arrows to dial up the heat on your hairstyle.
16. Knotless Box Braids
Keke Palmer does not shy away from experimenting with her natural tresses. This girl has showcased protective hairstyles at many events. So take a cue from her and pair your side-swept braids with a silver jacket and soft dewy makeup to shine away and slay.
17. Coveted Purple Knotless Braids
This purple knotless braided hairstyle is chic and exquisite. Purple is the latest hair color you can get your hands on and it goes well on all skin tones, so do not worry and try it on.
18. Root Knotless Braids
The best part about knotless braids is that you can play around with their patterns. Take a page from Alicia Keys’ book of amazing hairstyles. The braids have been joined together on the side to form a lovely root pattern. At the top, you can crisscross the braids.
19. Ivory Knotless Braids
Go bold with your knotless braids! Nothing can prevent you from being at the top of the style game with this mid-parting and trend-setting white braided look. All you need is white hair extensions to finish this look.
20. Long Knotless Half Updo
Even if you have medium-length hair, you can make your hair seem longer with knotless braids. Knotless braids are so seamless when done right, you can’t tell where the hair extensions begin! Copy the beautiful Keri Hilson and style your hair in this long half updo, perfect for formal occasions.
21. Faux Cornrow Knotless Braids
Teyonah Parris looks absolutely stunning here! If you look closely, you’ll notice that the front of her hair is not actually done in cornrows. Her hair is braided in knotless braids that are joined together to give a faux cornrows look. You get the badass look of cornrows without dealing with the hair damage that actually comes with cornrows.
22. Knotless Braided Pompadour
Skai Jackson is a chameleon when it comes to hair. This Disney star is giving goals when it comes to protective hairstyles. Bold girls can pull this off easily, bookmark this pompadour made of knotless braids for the next event.
23. Goddess Square Knotless Braids
While the classic box braids appear stunning, it’s hard not to love these thick square knotless box braids. Large square-shaped pieces will lead to fewer but chunkier knits on the head.
24. Triangle Knotless Braids
This is for the girls who are ready to try a unique pattern of conventional square braids into gorgeous triangle braids with a splash of colors. These are unique, attractive, and require less time than square braids.
Knotless Braids Styles For Long Hair
25. Long Side Knotless Braids
Maintain a striking and beautiful appearance with these side-swept knotless braids. Weave the braids toward one side to make them look all-natural and seamless.
26. Medium Knotless Braids
The hair falling on your face may bother you, but you still want to showcase your inherent beauty. Try gathering the front knotless braids into a rubber band at the back. It will give a smooth and natural finish to the look and a practical, functional, and spectacular hairstyle to flaunt.
27. Super Long Knotless Braids
Draw attention to yourself with these super-long luscious braids. These never-ending braids will give a feminine finish and are the perfect way to showcase your free spirit.
28. Blonde Half-Up Top Knot
Blonde makes any hairdo stand out magnificently. Consider these straightforward knotless braids on the crown wrapped in an updo and rest falling on the neck. With this pale tint, the braids stand out and look lovely.
29. Auburn Long Knotless Braids
Zendaya’s notorious extra-long knotless braided hairdo created a buzz when she strutted down the blue carpet of the Critics Choice Awards. Even Disney princesses dream of such a breathtaking hairdo!
30. Dreamy Micro Knotless Braids
Here’s another incredibly girly approach that neatly manages textured hair. A simple yet elegant look to pull off is an extremely long, thin, knotless braid with an ombre color for an evening party or a date.
31. Jumbo Knotless Braids
This is for all minimalists out there. These thick knotless braids nicely fit in the “less is more” concept. They are also low-maintenance and easy to style.
32. Volume Curls Knotless Braids
Rock these dense ombre knotless braids with perfectly loose ends. These braids have a flirty, romantic vibe to them, so try them out this Valentine’s Day.
33. Partial Updo With Knotless Braids
Keke Palmer sports this stunning yet simple hairstyle that reminds us that less is more! This is a classy option that appeals to everybody who enjoys simple knotless box braids gathered at the top.
34. Mid-Part Small Knotless Braids
Gabrielle’s straight-back braids are a no-brainer protective style that requires little maintenance. Her braids are slicked down, while a few braids on the side are tied at the back to form a half ponytail. Pair this chic braided hairdo with a shimmery black dress to slay.
35. Easy Knotless Micro Braids
Zoe Kravitz stunned everyone by showing up with thin micro knotless braids for the Mad Max: Fury Road premiere. These face-framing braids emphasize her eyes and give a soft touch to her cheeks.
36. Bohemian Knotless Braids With Wavy Ends
Zoe Kravitz never plays by rules when it comes to hair. It is all about unique knotless braids with free-flowing loose ends to give bohemian touch. You do not have to aim for uniformity of the braids, but make each braid unique and let them be in their natural element.
37. Dark Pink Knotless Braids
Welcome a new season in your life with a vibrant dark pink hair color. Add pink extensions to the conventional knotless braids and ace the look on all occasions.
38. Chunky Knotless Braids
Justine Skye looks like a goddess with these chunky braids! Maintain a striking and beautiful appearance with these chunky braids. It takes less time to create and is a cute and versatile braiding style.
39. Chestnut Knotless Braids
Every long-haired girl was drooling over Tessa Thompson’s locks when she walked the red carpet at the premiere of Thor: Love & Thunder last year. These knotless chestnut hip-length braids are enviably gorgeous. Pair it with a bustier-style dress, and you are all set for the evening.
40. Two-Toned Thick Knotless Knits
Why choose only one color when you can have two? If you are all in for experimenting with hair extensions, choose the vibrant color combinations with which the braids pop out, like these red and yellow braids.
41. Knotless Braided Bantu Knots
Another cool way to style knotless braids is in bantu knots. Learning how to do bantu knots is very easy. All you need to do is divide the front braids in four sections and wrap each section in a bun. learning how to do Bantu knots.
42. Sunset Hues Knotless Braids
Without a doubt, knotless braids look best in a high ponytail. Then, add whimsical orange-yellow hues to the locks, creating an ombre effect to make them stand out.
43. Knotless Goddess Braids
Give your braids a boho flair by crocheting extensions into the hair. Create any style you like, such as goddess braids, box braids, or twists. You can experiment with colors and accessories like beads.
44. Top Knot With Accented Knotless Braids
Wrap the braids in an updo and leave accent braids on the side because why not? Add a pinch of drama to this classic bun hairstyle, leaving two or more accent braids on the sides.
45. Winter Purple Knotless Braids Ponytail
Cool down with this stunning wintery knotless braid hairdo. Break the monotony, take a plunge, and add a dash of light purple shade to the knotless braids. You can leave the ends loose in ringlets to give a thicker appearance.
46. Knotless Elegant Updo
An elegant updo produces a stunning, feminine finish and is one of the sexiest new braided hairstyles available. To best express your style, you can play around with the updo style to find a bun that best matches your personality and vibe.
46. Patterned Knotless Braids
Accentuate your box braids with a combination of different patterns like this one to mimic a Fulani braid. Cornrow the center front section of your hair. At the sides, section your hair in small boxes. Then cornrow your hair a bit, and let your box braid the rest of your hair.
47. Heart And Triangle Knotless Braids
A braided bun definitely looks chic, but here, we are hooked to the heart and triangle-patterned knotless braids. So switch things a little, and book an appointment with the hairstylist- STAT!
48. Knotless Braids With Statement Hearts
Cornrows and patterned knotless braids come together to form this stunning look. The gorgeous heart-shaped braid stole the show, along with neatly pressed baby hairs against the forehead. Add in beads to enhance the hairstyle.
49. Half And Half Knotless Braids
Channel your inner badass villainess! Remember Cruella? Spruce your braids by experimenting with complementary colors. Add extensions to half of the braids and let the other be in the natural color.
50. Ombre Knotless Braids And Curls
Amp up the conventional and mundane knotless box braids by adding loose curly strands in between to let the ombre stand out. Get your hairstylist on the call right away and rock this look at the next event.
Knotless Braids Styles For Short Hair
51. Knotless Braids Bob
Add a dash of gold to your natural hair to spice up your look. The gold hair extensions complement every skin tone! So give your short knotless braids the gift of gold and show off the mane in a new way.
52. Small Knotless Braids
Small braids can be customized however you like as they are short, lightweight, and attractive. Try experimenting with a bold color to create a look that emphasizes the braids.
53. Blonde Knotless Braids Lob
Looking for something low-maintenance and can’t take the weight of long braids, these chic short braids are for you. Shorter braids give a cute lob look and flatter every face cut.
54. Knotless Braided Bob
For medium-length hair, braid naturally textured hair in a short bob. Then, add vibrant color extensions and turn heads with this killer look.
55. Triangle Thick Knotless Braids
If you love symmetry, look at these beautifully laden thick box braids with triangle patterns. Such a neat girl look. So bookmark it and get this one on your next salon appointment.
56. Knotless Micro Braids With An Undercut
We adore this hairdo, the combination of crisscross micro braids and undercut. It is an excellent hairstyle for those who like to play it safe but not boring.
57. Dual Knotless Braided Bob
How much pink is too much pink? The answer – there can never be too much pink! Jazz up your bob by embracing the pink and blue colors, and be the new you with full enthusiasm and confidence.
58. Knotless Braid Mohawk
Look as superior as you feel with this sidecut hairdo styled in knotless braids. Tie the back of your hair in a ponytail. Weave the front and top sections of hair in small knotless braids. Then, weave the knotless braids in a mohawk. You can customize them to reflect your personality and alter them to fit the dress or occasion.
59. Rainbow Knotless Braids
The black hair flawlessly complements the subtle rainbow streaks, creating an edgy appearance to flaunt this season, and the box braids express confidence.
60. Fiery Red Knotless Braids
Unleash the force in you with these red braids and softly touched edges. You can tie your braids into a low bun or accessorize them with beads. Pair this look with chunky gold jewelry to complete this fierce look.
You can create any of these looks if you know some basics of styling your knotless braids. Let us take a glance at them.
How To Style Knotless Braids
- Know your hair well before braiding. Do not make large box braids on fine hair, as they can pull your hair out of the scalp.
- Protective hairstyles cannot be worn forever. Even though some say you can keep your knotless braids for up to 8 weeks, we recommend taking them down in 4-6 weeks.
- There is no set rule for creating knotless braids. Mix and match braid sizes, types, and patterns for a unique look. To add variety, alternate between large and small braids, cornrows, or box braids.
- Knotless braid is a bold hairstyle. Experiment with different hair colors or extensions to add flair to your look.
- Accessorize with beads, scarves, or other hair jewelry to add color and bling to your knotless braid.
- Play around with textures and patterns to make your knotless braids stand out. Try blending them with other styles like twists or traditional braids for a fresh twist on your look. And remember, your stylist can always offer great advice tailored to your hair type and lifestyle.
When it comes to knotless braids, one size definitely does not fit all. Your hair texture plays a huge role in determining what style will work best.
Knotless Braids For Different Hair Types
Always consider your hair’s unique needs for a knotless braid hairstyle that gently protects it. Here are some notes on customizing these braids for different hair types.
- Fine Hair: Opt for smaller knotless braids to minimize tension on the scalp and prevent hair breakage.
- Coarse Hair: Go for larger braids work well for thicker textures, providing both style versatility and reduced strain.
- Thick Hair: Try bolder, more voluminous braided styles to complement a stable hair volume.
- Curly Or Wavy Hair: Choose medium-sized braids to balance definition and protect your natural texture while reducing frizz.
Now that you know all the stunning ways you can style your knotless braids, let’s check out how to take care of them.
How Do You Care For Knotless Braids?
Knotless braids need the same care as any other protective style. One advantage is that with knotless braids your scalp is easily accessible, so you can apply oils, creams, or spot treatments.
- Start with clean, moisturized hair and use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair before braiding for less breakage and damage.
- It is crucial to wash your hair and scalp to remove buildup and keep your hair nourished even when it is protected. Avoid using too much product on the braids.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture after every wash. Knotless hair can be challenging with frizz and dryness. Keep re-moisturizing the braids regularly.
- You can keep the hair close to your scalp looking defined and fresh by applying mousse to your roots, covering them with a scarf, and blow-drying them.
- Use a satin scarf or bonnet to protect the braids at night. Avoid sleeping with wet braids.
You should visit the salon after every 4 to 6 weeks for a professional touch-up that will combat frizz and dryness and remove any buildup. Depending on how well you take care of your hair, these can last up to two months.
Infographic: Top 7 Knotless Braid Hairstyles
Tired of taming your naturally textured hair? Knotless braids are a great way to switch up your hairstyle without committing to a drastic change. Whether you prefer something more subtle or dramatic, these versatile looks can be customized with different colors and accessories to create an eye-catching look that is perfect for any occasion.
Check out the infographic below for the 7 best knotless braid hairstyles you should try out!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Knotless braids are an excellent choice if you want a protective style that is in fashion, looks natural and is long-lasting with proper hair care. From classic to creative, these 60 best knotless braid hairstyles offer something for everyone! Whether you go for a classic knotless braid style or a show-stopping pattern, these braids will turn heads everywhere. We hope this article has inspired you to try out some of these unique styles on your next visit to the salon and show off your love for hair styling and hair trends!!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do knotless braids take?
Depending on your hair’s length and thickness, it typically takes between five and nine hours to weave it in knotless braids.
How do I keep my braids from smelling?
Once or twice a week, give your braids a decent wash to keep them smelling fresh, clean, and odor-free. Soak your braids in water before shampooing your scalp.
How do knotless braids appear?
Knotless braids are non-traditional box braids. Typically, this hairstyle has square-shaped sections with braids. The sections can also be triangular or diamond-shaped.
Are knotless braids damaging?
Knotless braids, like any other protective braiding style, can lead to damage if left on for more than the recommended time. Tight knotless braids may lead to traction alopecia, hair breakage, or thinning. But with the right care, these issues can be avoided.
How do you keep knotless braids fresh?
Soak your braids in water and shampoo the scalp. A leave-in conditioner works best to lock in moisture after every wash. Use a towel to drain out the water and air-dry your braids. Apply the right hair products such as mousse and edge control cream to lay your edges.
How do you sleep with knotless braids?
When you are sleeping, cover your braids with a satin scarf or bonnet. Use a silk or satin pillowcase to prevent your hair from drying out at night by reducing friction against the braids.
Are knotless braids good for hair growth?
Anecdotal evidence suggests that knotless braids can promote hair growth. Since they are not tight at the scalp, these braids promote hair growth by reducing breakage, hair follicle damage and tension on the scalp.
Illustration: Most Trending Knotless Braid Hairstyles
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Check out this video for 15 quick and easy ways to style your knotless box braids! Perfect for beginners, these styles are sure to make you look fabulous!
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