52 Stunning & Trendy Lemonade Braids For Women To Try In 2024
Steal the limelight with the many variations of this funky and protective hairstyle.
Emilio Uribe is a renowned hairstylist and makeup artist who is hugely popular in the Hispanic and Anglo entertainment worlds. He has over 15 years of experience and has worked with many top artists, including Shakira, Gloria Estefan, Beyoncé, Charlize Theron, Alicia Keys, Anne Hathaway, Yanni, and Johnny Depp.
Read full bio of Emilio Uribe
Experience: 7 yearsAnjali 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
Experience: 4 yearsSubhrojyoti is an associate editor at StyleCraze with four years of experience. He has a master’s degree in English from Presidency University, Kolkata, and has also done a post-graduate certificate course in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University, Kolkata.
Read full bio of Subhrojyoti Mukherjee
Anu is a beauty and lifestyle writer and a graduate of Amity University, Noida, where she refined her writing skills and cultivated her deep passion for the field. She pursued the Beauty Technician Training Program at Maquillage Beauty Institute, which has equipped her with practical skills in various beauty treatments.
Read full bio of Anu Pallavi
Image: shutterstock
In 2016, Beyonce reignited a protective hairstyle! She released her album “Lemonade,” which started the lemonade braids trend. This hairstyle, empowering black women all over the world, is fashioned with side-swept cornrows. Lemonade braids have been around for quite a while and were called side braids. But after the release of her song “Formation,” black women took to the internet sharing their versions of these lemonade braids.
“Thanks to Beyoncé, lemonade braids are making a comeback. She has transformed the traditional sporty style to a timeless and effortless look that any girl can rock from day to night,” says celebrity hair stylist Emilio Uribe. If you are eager to learn how to achieve this style and get some inspiration for creating stylish braids of your own, then keep reading and check out our extensive list of lemonade braids for women below!
Before You Get Started- Depending on the creative pattern of choice, lemonade braiding can take between 5-7 hours.
- These braids can last up to 4 weeks with proper hair care and maintenance.
- Maintenance includes covering your hair with silk wraps before bed every night and avoiding heat styling.
- Washing 1-2 times per month makes the braids last longer.
- Your hair and scalp will need 1-2 weeks of restorative break between braids.
In This Article
What Are Lemonade Braids?
Lemonade braids are protective hairstyles sported by black women. These braids start at the front and are woven and swept to one side. Their name was inspired by Beyonce’s album Lemonade.
What Is The Difference Between Box Braids And Lemonade Braids?
Box braids are sectioned into square or rectangular partitions. On the other hand, lemonade braids are cornrowed on one side.
Now that you have a fair idea about what lemonade braids are, let’s check out the 50 best ways that you can style them.
52 Stunning Lemonade Braids
1. Bohemian Lemonade Braid
This is a classic lemonade braid hairstyle swept to one side. The curvy design of the traditional cornrows makes the hairstyle eye-catching. You can further up the style quotient by adding hair accessories to the braids.
2. Freestyle Lemonade Braids
Freestyle here refers to the stylist’s artistic freedom in weaving your lemonade braids. They use different patterns to weave the hair across your head, braiding it in curved patterns. Doesn’t the abstractness of this style look cool!
3. Multi-Color Lemonade Braids
This is your chance to use hair extensions in all your favorite colors! Use bold colors to weave a few braids from the sides and let them roll down to the ends of the braid. This style also uses golden extensions for the rest of the braids.
4. Freestyle Stitch Lemonade Braids
This hairstyle is an artistic masterpiece! The thick lemonade braids are gathered together in a low bun at the bottom. You can use human hair extensions to stitch a few loose strands into the braids, which stick out in wisps for an aesthetic finish.
5. Golden Lemonade Braids
Golden hair complements darker skin tones and brightens the look in such a gorgeous way that you must experiment with it for every style. As expected, the golden extensions look just as glorious on the lemonade braids.
6. Boho Tribal Lemonade Braids Updo
This look is casual and classy at the same time. Thin lemonade braids are woven upwards in a zigzag pattern for a high bun. The longer the hair, the more texturized and dynamic the updo will look. Let the ends of some of the braids loose so they can fall down your face in soft spirals.
7. Cornrow Stitch Lemonade Braids
The braids in this style are done with such neat precision that despite lemonade braids being a type of cornrow, we would like to call this the cornrow stitch itself. Add some edge styling for a sharp and neat look.
8. Rapunzel Lemonade Braid
This one is a bit unique. This style has only two jumbo braids, weaved from the front on either side in curves. The hair is gathered on one side of the neck and woven into a single braid, creating a fairytale crown around your head. This look offers an edgy and sharp touch to crown braid hairstyles giving off the main character energy of a high-fantasy TV series.
9. Criss-Cross Stitch Lemonade Braids
This intricate pattern is neat and looks amazing with hair extensions. A total of four cornrow braids, two on each side, are woven in a criss-cross stitch pattern. At the bottom, they are woven towards one side to end in the lemonade.
10. Medium Lemonade Braids With Heart
The key point of this lemonade braid style is the heart woven on the temple on one side. Your stylist can make 2-3 similar hearts on one side and then braid them diagonally towards the other end.
11. Concentric Hearts Lemonade Braids
Another lemonade braids with heart design, cause why not? This particular pattern of concentric hearts is just the thing you need to take your style up a notch. It doesn’t have a defined pattern until you look closely, but the curves on the sides are enough to make a statement.
12. Saucy Designer Lemonade Braids
The sauce here is the stylist’s skill in making intricate sections to weave the braids. The thin, side-swept braids are woven in intricate patterns, giving an appearance of simple lines in neat sections. They add impressive detail to this lemonade braid style.
13. Lemonade Locs
The best of lemonade and locs in one style. Does this style get any cooler! The stylist came up with the innovative idea to make locs in the characteristic one-side weave pattern in lemonade braids. It’s a work of creative genius if you ask us!
14. Mirrored ZigZag Lemonade Braids
You might get dizzy if you stare at this pattern long enough. Zigzag patterns begin at the partition, mirroring each other on either side. There is so much attention to detail in this style that one cannot help but gasp at the gorgeousness of it.
15. Vibrant Lemonade Braids
One more colored lemonade braid idea here. The only difference is the extension needs to be in a color that pops out. The braid is done quite simply. But the metallic blue gives it a minimal shine that will add a bit of cheer to your style.
16. Aligned Lemonade Braids
Looking for a gym hairdo? Try this lemonade braided style. Not only do these thin braids keep hair off your face, but they also look super on point! You can now work out while looking like a queen.
17. Burgundy Lemonade Braids
Another stunning medium hair lemonade braid look that is guaranteed to make heads turn. Adding a dash of color to your braids can make all the difference in the world. The best thing about it is that you don’t need to color all your hair to make it happen. Simply get colored extensions or color the extensions yourself. It’s a foolproof plan!
18. Classic Side Braids
Thin cornrow braids, perfectly aligned with the scalp. Notice how the different line patterns merge perfectly. Anyone who loves clean-cut styles will appreciate it! It also shows how much thought and effort has gone into the whole process.
Quick Tip19. Lemonade Braids Bun
Have a formal event to get to, but none of your regular updos are nailing it? Try adding some Dutch braids and lemonade braids all around your scalp and tie them up in a high bun. It’s sure to spice up the hairdo and bring you all the attention you want.
20. Lemonade Braids High Ponytail
This is for all those working women who need to wear formals to work. Lemonade braids tied up in a high ponytail let everyone know you mean business. You can add your personal touch to this style by accessorizing it with a colorful hair tie or tying it slightly to the side.
21. Classic Parted Lemonade Braids
If you want something simple and not over-the-top, you need to try out this classic side-parted style. It looks sophisticated but fun. Perfect for a hard day’s work followed by partying at night.
22. Curved Parting Lemonade Braids
A curve can make your day! Try this stunning lemonade braids style with a curved parting. If you are someone who likes keeping things simple, this hairstyle is for you. The braids look sharp and on point, with the curve adding a cool angled look to your locks.
23. Thin Lemonade Braids
The thing with thin lemonade braids is that they make your hair look thicker and more voluminous. Moreover, if you have a round face, these thin braids will make it look slimmer.
24. Jumbo Lemonade Braids
One of the best things about braided protective hairstyles is that you can customize the look and feel using hair extensions. They make your hair look thicker while protecting it from damage and breakage. You can also add colored extensions to give your hair attractive highlights without incurring any chemical damage. Try out these Jumbo lemonade braids in bright pastels for a futuristic attention-grabbing look.
25. Designer Lemonade Braids
Showcase a masterpiece on your hair with this creatively designed protective hairdo. These swooping lemonade braids are truly a thing to behold. I would recommend getting a professional to do this hairstyle instead of trying it yourself.
26. Colorful Lemonade Braids
If you are using extensions, you might as well go all out! Thanks to hair extensions, you don’t need to put your natural hair through the test of color damage. You can use colored extensions or color the extensions yourself. Pretty cool, right? Say goodbye to hair damage!
27. Line And Curved Lemonade Braids
This hairstyle flows so smoothly. The lines and curves merge together to form a surreal hairstyle. Never underestimate the power of perfectly done partitions, especially if they result in a cool look like this!
28. Warm-Toned Lemonade Braids
Hairstylists will always tell you to pick a color that matches your skin’s undertone. If the veins on your wrist look green, then you have a warm undertone. Opt for colors that have a slight yellow or golden hue.
29. Top Designed Lemonade Braids
Black women truly know the power of hairstyling. They know exactly how to part and weave a braid, making it look like something out of this world. What makes it even better is that these braids have been around for ages. Talk about a rich heritage!
30. Tribal Side Braids
Tribal lemonade or side braids look AWESOME! While the rest of your hair is weaved in side braids, one small section is weaved in front of your ear. This gives the hairstyle a tribal vibe.
31. Highlighted Lemonade Braids
Don’t deny it. When you go to the gym, you want to work out but also look good. There’s nothing wrong with it. You can sport these thick, highlighted lemonade braids while you work out.
32. Jumbo Red Lemonade Braids
Jumbo braids not only look good but also help frame your face. They can make a round face look slender and long. Throw in some color to match your personality and get ready to make heads turn.
33. Symmetrical Braids
When it comes to lemonade braids, symmetry is important. It not only affects the flow of the braids but also adds a luxurious vibe to the look. Just take a look at this hairstyle – isn’t it pleasing to the eye?
34. Fashionista Lemonade Braids
There’s something mesmerizing about the way the partitions of lemonade braids zig-zag. The hairstyle looks even better when they are done meticulously. They help create a hair look that’s fit for a fashionista.
35. Deep Side Braids
Each braid in this hairstyle looks so well-defined. I love the colored extensions used in the creation of this look. If you have thin hair and think you can’t pull off lemonade braids, think again!
36. Traditional Side Braids
This hairstyle looks super hardcore! Take a gander at this fabulous side braid hairdo. Looks spectacular, right? Try it out with any black braids style (ghana, tree, or feed-in), and you won’t be disappointed.
37. Thin Side Braids
Try this little twist with your classic lemonade braids style. The thinness of each braid makes it look even more captivating. It gives your hair a natural look and like you haven’t added extensions.
38. Diva Lemonade Braids
Who doesn’t like looking like a diva? Channel your inner diva with these stunning threaded lemonade braids and starting singing “Ladies get in formation…” I’m sure it’ll set your mood for the day!
39. Edgy Lemonade Ponytail
Every girl wants to achieve the edgy badass look. This hairstyle will certainly help you accomplish it! Weave multiple small lemonade braids on the side (leaving the lower half of your hair unbraided), tie it in a super high ponytail, and accessorize with tons of gold beads to achieve this look.
40. Feed-In Lemonade Braids
If simple braids just don’t do it for you, give these feed-in lemonade braids a shot. Mix in a Skip blonde extensions to give your hair a gorgeous highlighted effect.
41. Cool-Toned Lemonade Braids
Look at the veins on your wrist. Are they blue? If yes, you have cool-toned skin. Colors like copper, blue, and silver tend to look great on you. You need to consider this when you pick a hair color. It can accentuate your lemonade braids beautifully.
42. Low Side Ponytail
Oh my gosh, talk about perfection! Tell me I’m not the only one seeing those flawless braids coming together to form a low side ponytail. There is only one word to describe this look: badass.
43. Ombre Lemonade Braids
Who doesn’t love a good ombre? Especially when it doesn’t involve coloring your hair. This works best on shoulder-length hair, and your extensions are much longer and colored. This creates the ombre effect.
44. Lined Braids
There is beauty in simplicity. I mean, look at this incredible hairdo. The baby hair is finger waved to add a natural touch while the sides are styled perfectly straight. Flawlessness at its best!
45. Designer Side Braids
It’s all about lines and angles. Geometry finally makes sense! These angled patterns make for a great pattern that no one can take their eyes off of. If you love styling your hair like this, I’d say, go for it and get creative!
46. Queen Lemonade Braids
Who doesn’t want to feel like Queen Bey? To do so, weave your side braids in mix-and-match patterns to create this royal look. You’ll surely rule the world with this eye-catching hairstyle.
47. Gradual Lemonade Braids
Protective braids are extremely common, so how can you set your hairstyle apart from everyone else? Add some subtle colored extensions. They will make your braids look on fleek! I love how these braids are thicker at the top and gradually get thinner towards the ends.
48. Creative Lemonade Braids
Are you artistic? Creative? Are you always doodling away? Channel that creativity into your hair look. You won’t be disappointed as it might lead to a stunning lemonade braids style like this!
Did You Know?49. Versatile Lemonade Braids
Lemonade braids are versatile. They can look fierce or happy. Embrace their versatility to change your look every day. For example, you can style these stunning lemonade braids in a big braid or a low bun.
50. Swept Lemonade Braids
We know that side swept bangs work wonders for all face shapes. Now you can incorporate that sweep into your braids as well. Just take inspiration from this hairstyle.
51. Half Up Box Braids
A bun is the best way to sweep your braided hair into a formal look that keeps you comfortable. To do a lemonade half-up braid, you can cornrow and box braid the upper sections of the hair and pull it into a loose bun. The rest of the hair can be left as free-falling braids.
52. Pigtail Lemonade Braid
The cornrowed pigtail hairstyle was popularized by Beyonce as she has been documented wearing several variations of the style. Get this look by gettinging some braids with a middle parting. Gather the braids on each side into a half pony and tie each with a hair elastic to set in place. Opt for sets of narrow pigtails and accessorize with ribbons and colored thread for a fun look.
Infographic: 6 Unique Lemonade Braid Hairstyles
Lemonade braids are great if you want to look stylish while preserving the health of your hair. This style of braids has gained immense popularity in recent years, and people have started wearing different variations of it using hair extensions in a variety of colors. Check out the infographic below for some unique lemonade braid hairstyles and get inspired to create an edgy look.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Lemonade braids are protective styles where braids start at the front and are woven and swept to one side. They are different ways to style lemonade braids. Aligned lemonade braids, burgundy lemonade braids, classic side braids, lemonade braids bun, lemonade braids high ponytail, classic parted lemonade braids, curved parting lemonade braids, and jumbo lemonade braids are a few ways to style lemonade braids. These styles are a perfect way to flaunt your hair. Try any of the hairstyles mentioned above to create your lemonade braid for a perfect look.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hair do you use for lemonade braids?
Kanekalon braiding hair is the most common type of hair extension used for lemonade braids.
Can you swim in lemonade braids?
Yes. You can swim in lemonade braids. However, you should rinse your hair with clean water before and after the swim to ensure your braids don’t absorb much chlorine, and wear a swim cap.
What’s the difference between cornrows and lemonade braids?
Cornrows mean hair braided very close to the scalp in an upward motion to make it raised. Lemonade braids are a type of cornrow that are side-swept.
Are lemonade braids comfortable?
Short-to-medium-size lemonade braids are comfortable to wear but the level of comfort varies from person to person.
Can you use human hair for lemonade braids?
Both human hair and synthetic hair can be used for lemonade braids.
How many packs of hair do I need for lemonade braids?
Usually with a standard medium width of the braids, 5-6 packs of braiding hair is enough for lemonade braids.
How to do lemonade braids on natural hair?
To style your natural hair in lemonade braids, prep your hair by washing it thoroughly with sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner and apply moisturizer after to replace the moisture that must have been lost during washing. Then, stretch your hair and separate it into sections that stretch from ear to ear. Cornrow the hair about half an inch if you want to add extensions or the full length if you are creating the hairstyle on your natural hair.
Key Takeaways
- Lemonade braids are cornrowed on one side. They are different from box braids sectioned into square or rectangular partitions.
- Thin lemonade braids make your hair look thicker and more voluminous.
- Jumbo braids help a round face look slender and long.
Illustration: Stunning & Trendy Lemonade Braids For Women To Try
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Looking for a video tutorial to create gorgeous lemonade braids? The video below will give you a step-by-step guide to creating one such style. Click on the play button and get started!
Read full bio of Emilio Uribe
Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
Read full bio of Subhrojyoti Mukherjee
Read full bio of Anu Pallavi
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.