23 Uber Cool Ways To Style Your Micro Braids
Color, beads, updos – you'll love how your braids get trendier with the right tweaks.
Favour is a certified makeup artist with 5 years of experience and a lover of all things science and beauty. She is also the founder of Favoured Beauty, a brand committed to creating an inclusive community in the beauty space and developing science-backed solutions for hyperpigmentation.
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Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
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Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati 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.
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Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience crafting short-form content for the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle niches. She has a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.
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Originating in Namibia, Southwest Africa, braids have remained a staple of modern culture, and can never go out of fashion. Micro braids may look feminine, delicate, and intricate but make no mistake; they are fiercely badass too. If micro braids are your staple hairstyle, and you want new ways to style these braids, keep reading. We have suggested a few top ways to style your micro braids so you can flaunt a new way daily! Micro braids are quite different from crochet braids. Though they might look a little similar, they aren’t. Box braids are very similar to microbraids, only differing in size. Tiny sections of hair are braided with hair extensions from the roots to the ends of your hair. These super tiny braids provide a faux natural hair texture look. They do not make your hair look uber-stylish and protect it from damage. Rumor has it that it may even aid hair growth, but you did not hear that from us.
However, if you weave your micro braids too tight, they can damage your hair. The tighter you weave your braids, the more they pull on your hair roots. Also, tight braids may cause hair breakage. So make sure to check your hair health before you weave micro braids. You can try deep conditioning hair treatments, oiling your hair, and avoiding any coloring or chemical processes before braiding your tresses. This will help with hair hydration and hair repair. Also, steer clear of heat styling hair tools that cause fragile hair and damage.
Now that you have been fairly advised, keep reading to learn how to weave micro braids!
Before You Get Started- Micro braiding may cause hair breakage. It’s unsuitable for weak, dry, fragile, chemically processed, and relaxed hair.
- Micro braiding is low hair maintenance. However, the braiding and removal processes are time-consuming and can take up to 3-11 hours.
- Micro braids are a stylish way to protect your hair as they allow minimal manipulation. However, getting the hair assessed by a professional is a must.
In This Article
How To Micro Braid Your Hair At Home
What You Need
- 5 packets of synthetic braiding hair
- Rat tail comb
- Water
- Hair gel
- Sectioning clips
- Hair elastics
How To Micro Braid
- Take a hair parting of a horizontal section of hair that is about 1/4th inch in width at the nape of your neck with the help of the tail end of your rat tail comb.
- For precise hair sectioning, pin up the rest of your hair above this section with the help of a sectioning clip.
- From one corner of this horizontal section, pick up a small 1/8th inch section of hair and wet its roots with your fingers.
a). If you are micro braiding your natural hair: Simply divide this section of hair into 3 strands, braid it tightly right till the end, and secure the ends snugly with a small hair elastic that matches your hair color.
b). If you are adding extensions:
– Add a little bit of hair gel at the roots of your section of natural hair.
– Separate a 1/4th inch section of hair from your packet of extensions and wrap it around your section of natural hair, right at the roots.
– Now with the hair extension acting as the 2 side strands and the section of natural hair acting as the center strand, start braiding.
– With each stitch of braid, keep adding hair from the natural hair strand into either strand of the hair extensions so that each section maintains equal thickness throughout the braid and so that the extension is securely braided in place.
– Once you have reached the end of your micro braid, secure it with a slip knot. To do so, combine the tail ends of all 3 strands and wrap them around your index finger to form a loop. Remove the loop from your finger and carefully insert the tail of your braid into it and pull it tight to knot it in place. You can do this a couple of times to secure the ends completely.
– Once you are done braiding all the hair in one horizontal section, section another horizontal section and repeat all the steps until all your hair has been micro braided.
You can experiment with different haircuts and add hair layers to give your micro braids a touch of style. There are plenty of hair tutorials for doing these kinds of hairdos but to get a clearer picture of how to micro braid your own hair, you can follow this easy video tutorial by hair vlogger Miss Rubys Beauty.
TriviaHow Long Can You Keep In Micro Braids?
Microbraids can be considered protective hairstyles that help shield your hair from damage while allowing it to grow and remain healthy. So, you can keep them on for about 2 months. Favour Akinjiyan, founder of Favoured Beauty, says “I recommend keeping your braids in for a maximum of 6-8 weeks. Keeping your braids in longer can lead to excessive buildup and hair loss.”
This too should preferably be done by a professional as your hair can be extremely prone to breakage after staying braided for so long. Make sure you do proper hair care by deep conditioning your hair thoroughly after removing the micro braids, you need to work on hair restoration by moisturizing them.Now that you know how to micro braid your hair and how long you can keep them in, let’s jump into all the cool ways that you can style them!
23 Ultra Cool And Funky Micro Braids Hairstyles
1. Red Micro Braids
While neutral hair shades are most appreciated, it surely doesn’t hurt to have some fun with vibrant colors. Micro braids have often been worn in humble shades like black, brown, and blonde, but donning hues like red can guarantee to bring the much-needed charm to the hairstyle. A perfect shade for the bold and experimentalist in you! You can try small hair accessories like beads to accentuate the style.
2. Dual-Toned Micro Braids
Still not over the Barbiecore? No worries, we got you covered. If you wish to go beyond the classic shades for micro braids and bring in your love for everything pink and purple, then this hairstyle will definitely satiate you. The dual-toned micro braids exude playfulness and allure, ideal for any bubbly personality. And the most amazing thing about these micro braids is that they suit any hair type.
3. Ombre Micro Braids
Without a doubt, micro braids look best in a high ponytail. Add vibrant hues to those braids and create an ombre effect to make them stand out. This gorgeous style that starts off as dark-rooted cornrows at the top and fades down to green and white micro braids is as trendy as it gets.
4. Cool Toned Micro Braids Cat Ear Buns
Since watching Disney’s insanely popular movie Frozen, all I’ve wanted is to give off the same cool toned vibes as Queen Elsa. Have the same childish fantasy as mine? Then it’s time you sported this multi-toned micro braids style! These brown, white, and sky blue hair highlights, with the micro braids have been tied up in half cat ear buns to create the most adorable hair look ever. You can try this amazing hair transformation and stand out from the crowd with style.
5. Emerald Green Micro Braids Half Knot
If you describe your style as rich and opulent, here’s a micro braid style that you will absolutely love. This dual toned black and emerald green style looks like something fit to be sported by royalty. Tie these gorgeous micro braids in a half knot style to showcase them in all their glory. Now, you don’t need to think about styling everyday or hair straightening or hair curling. These micro braids are the best go to hairstyles to do.
6. Jet Black Micro Braids
Like to keep things simple and basic? No frills and fancies for you, huh? No problem! If you truly believe that less is more, then you have to check out this simple micro braids style. These understated jet black micro braids left long and loose keep things elegant and classy without calling for too much attention.
Trivia7. Curly Micro Braids
It’s weird, right, to even think about using a heating tool on protective styles? But, believe it or not, you actually can do it! Provided that you read the instructions on the packet of extensions about the maximum heat that can be applied to them. There are plenty of hair braiding patterns out there for you to try. To give yourself curly micro braids, take out a curling iron and make tight curls so they look even more striking!
You can also get the curly look by using curling rods on your braids and setting it in hot water.
8. Half Up Blonde Micro Braids
Always wanted to dye your hair blonde but were too afraid of the damage it would cause to your hair? Then here’s a simple solution for you! Just invest in some blonde hair extensions to make your dreams come true. Add these gorgeous extensions to your hair in micro braids and tie them up in a half up style before you walk out with a swagger in your step. This half-up-half-down hairstyle is one of the best hair trends to try for a casual day out.
9. Bubblegum Pink Micro Braids Half Bun
Fancied yourself as the princess of CandyCaneLand when you were a kid? I know I did! Fulfill your childhood fantasies by going for this cutesy as hell half black/half bubblegum pink micro braids style. Tie your braids up in a half bun to show off the striking contrast created by the light and dark shades.
10. Micro Braids Undercut
If a badass look is what you’re going for, then a badass look is what you’ll get with this micro braids look. First, you’ve got the platinum blonde micro braids that are a class apart all by themselves. Then there’s the undercut at the back that makes the style as edgy as it gets. Now, add in a cute little powder blue dyed heart at the nape of your neck and you’ve got one of the most intriguing and beautiful hair makeovers.
11. Accented Micro Braids
Ahhh Gabrielle Union. Besides being a supremely talented actress and having the coolest last name ever, she also rocks the most gorgeous micro braids in Hollywood. And she does this in the simplest way possible by going for a few silver beaded accents and sweeping all her braids over to one side to create an elegant yet sexy look.
12. Silver Grey Micro Braids
If the mighty cute arctic fox is your spirit animal, then this micro braids style will suit your personality perfectly. These silver gray micro braids will make you look like you’ve stepped right of the future (or the pages of a really cool alternative magazine). Show this picture to your hairstylist, get the look, and just throw on a casual baseball cap to shoot the cool factor of this look out of the roof.
13. Micro Braids Half Updo
Be it a full day of classes or a casual day out with friends, this is one style that will suit any occasion. Just tie up your jet black, blue, and purple micro braids in a simple half up style to create an understated and graceful look. And it only takes a minute to perfect!
14. Unicorn Micro Braids
Forgive me but no hair trend list is complete without featuring a unicorn do. And can you blame me for it? Just look at this technicolor style! Visit one of the most professional hair salons and get these shades of blue, pink, and yellow on your hair, that come beautifully together to create an epic micro braids style. The giant half bun on top only adds to the drama of this look.
15. Super High Micro Braids Ponytail
Now here’s a summer micro braids style that you need to check out if you live in a particularly hot city. Ponytails are amazingly easy to pull off and, with the cornrows at the top, ensure your scalp can breathe while the micro braids tied up in a super high ponytail keep all your hair off your neck. You need hair sprays, hair gels, or even hair mousse to keep them intact.
The bright red hair shading of these micro braids jazz up the hair look in a jiffy!
16. Micro Braids Shaggy Bun
These brown micro braids are dynamic all by themselves thanks to their shaggy edges. But what adds to the beauty of these braids is the high bun that they have been styled in. The shaggy edges of this bun add some quirk to the whole look.
17. Colorful Boho Micro Braids
Fancy yourself to be a free spirited boho chick? Want to express that side of your personality to the world? Then you need this micro braids style in your life. These super long micro braids in shades of blonde, beige, and khaki green have been accessorized with colorful beads and threads to create a gorgeous boho chic look.
18. Blonde Micro Braids Loose Bun
When it comes to styling micro braids, no one does it better than Zoe Kravitz. And ‘effortlessly chic’ are the only words that come to mind when looking at her hair looks. Here she has gone for a simple low bun that she probably did in under 2 minutes by pulling her hair only halfway through the last loop of her hair elastic.
19. Hippie Micro Braids
First, let’s take a moment to appreciate the ethereal beauty that is Zoe Kravitz. Now, take inspiration from her sense of style that knows no fear or apprehension. With some decorative butterflies and fresh flowers balanced precariously on her blonde micro braids, she looks like a wood nymph right out of a fantasy novel.
20. Simple Black Half Knotted Micro Braids
Having one of those days when everything (including your hair) is getting on your last nerve? Or maybe you’re just feeling hot and want to keep your hair out of your face? Whatever the reason, this simple half knot done with your micro braids will fulfill your purpose while leaving your hair looking oh-so-chic.
21. Beaded Micro Braids Bun
The term ‘avant garde’ takes a whole new meaning with this bun hairstyle that’s one for the ages. As if the blonde micro braids weren’t cool by themselves, they have been topped off with heavily beaded faux micro braid hair bangs to make the whole look even fresher and funkier. But the real highlight of this look is the big jumbo braid bun at the back, which is created with multiple hair twists. Making her look like an absolute goddess.
22. Black And White Micro Braids Half Dutch Braid
Now, this is what I call trippy. This is a look that knows just how to play with the contrast created by its black and white micro braids. A chunky half Dutch braid blends the dual-toned micro braids beautifully to create a look literally no one will be able to take their eyes off of.
23. Tree Braids
Tree braids offer a versatile canvas for styling micro braids as they allow for various creative and chic looks for various occasions. You can opt for a half-up, half-down style by gathering the top section into a ponytail or bun while leaving the rest of the braids down. Another trendy option involves braiding the front section into cornrows or twists to add a unique flair to your look. You can also go for a sleek updo or a high ponytail to showcase these beautiful braids. What is more, you can add accessories like beads or hair cuffs to elevate the look instantly.
Infographic: 4 Chic Ways To Rock Micro Braids
Micro braids can add that extra element to elevate your style and make it more playful and exciting. What’s more, you can do them at home to show off your flair for it! Check out the infographic below to find out how to style this utterly fantastic hairdo.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Micro braids are already cool, but if you are in the mood to take your game up a level, we are here for it! Who knew that there were other cool and unique ways to style them to take your coolness up a notch! This article will tell you everything you need to know about micro braids and how you can get experimental with them. So, take some hair inspiration from our uber cool ways to style your micro braids and get loud and bold with your self-expression. Lastly, remember to talk to professional hair experts about maintaining them, what kind of hair products to use and regularly deep condition your hair with. Ask what kind of hair oils, hair masks, and hair serums to use for better hair protection. Follow a good hair wash routine with great hair shampoos and hair conditioners that suit your hair type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash my micro braids?
Yes, you can wash your micro braids with dry shampoo or with diluted shampoo in a spray bottle to keep your hair smooth and moisturized.
Can you comb micro braids?
No. Micro braids are generally prone to unraveling so it is not a good idea to comb them. If you are referring to combing the natural hair root, this is also not advisable since you may end up with tangled hair.
What hair is best for micro braids?
Human hair is best for micro braids as they are less tangled.
How do I sleep with micro braids?
You either sleep on a satin or silk pillowcase or tie your hair in a silk or satin scarf to reduce friction and loss of moisture at night.
Should I dip my micro braids in hot water?
Yes, dipping them in hot water keeps the ends of the braids straight and frizz-free and prevents them from coming undone.
How many braids are in micro braids?
Generally, there are 10 braids in each section of micro braids.
Can I braid my micro braids into a crown braid?
Yes, you can braid your micro braids into a crown braid by twisting them as you braid.
How do I create waves in my micro braids?
Section your micro braids, apply heat protectant on them, and braid them into bigger braids. Now, dip them into hot water and apply a curling mousse on them, and blow dry. Open up the big braids that you created and you have got yourself waves in your micro braids.
How do I prevent my micro braids from getting frizzy while styling?
Apply hair pomade or gel for frizz-free hair while styling.
Key Takeaways
- Micro braids first originated in Namibia, Southwest Africa, and have since become a hyped hairdo in modern culture.
- Micro braids differ from crochet braids. They involve tiny sections of hair being braided with extensions from roots to ends, providing a faux-natural hair texture.
- While micro braids can be stylish and protective, weaving them too tight may lead to hair damage and breakage.
- You need things like synthetic braiding hair, a rattail comb, water, hair gel, sectioning clips, and hair elastics to perform this braiding style.
- You can color your micro braids in vibrant colors, like red or shades of ombre for a cool appearance.
Illustration: Uber Cool Ways To Style Your Micro Braids
Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team
Learn how to style layered micro braids with claw clips. Get ready to rock the latest trends with this easy tutorial video below. So go ahead and check it out!
Read full bio of Favour Akinjiyan
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