Boho braids – there’s something about them that exudes freedom, individuality, and a touch of whimsy. They’re the hairstyle equivalent of a well-loved, perfectly worn-in pair of jeans: comfortable, versatile, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you're at a music festival, on a beach vacation, or just adding a little flair to your everyday look, boho braids deliver that casual yet polished vibe. It’s no wonder they’ve been embraced by so many, from celebrities to everyday fashionistas alike. But where did this bohemian braid trend come from, and why has it stuck around? Let’s unravel the history and get into all things boho braids!
The Origins of Boho Braids
To understand the rise of boho braids, we have to take a little trip back in time. The “boho” in boho braids is short for “bohemian,” a term that originally referred to the Romani people in Europe, who were mistakenly thought to come from the region of Bohemia in the Czech Republic. Over time, "bohemian" came to represent a carefree, artistic lifestyle—one that values freedom, individuality, and connection to nature.
Boho braids started to gain popularity in the 1960s and ‘70s during the countercultural movements of the time. Hippies and free spirits were all about rejecting the clean-cut, structured looks of the ‘50s and instead embraced more relaxed, natural styles. Think long, flowing hair, loose braids, and flowers woven into strands. Boho braids were a perfect match for this aesthetic, embodying the freewheeling, earth-loving vibe of the era.
In recent years, boho braids have made a major comeback, thanks to the popularity of the Coachella festival look and an increased interest in more natural, carefree beauty routines. Celebrities like Blake Lively, Vanessa Hudgens, and Zendaya have all rocked variations of boho braids on red carpets, runways, and beyond, cementing their status as a go-to look for anyone wanting a laid-back yet fashionable hairstyle.
Types of Boho Braids
Boho braids are all about creativity and personal expression, so there are countless ways to rock this style. Let’s break down some of the most popular types of boho braids:
Boho Knotless Braids
What They Are:
Boho knotless braids skip the traditional knot at the scalp, making them lighter and gentler on the roots. These braids start with your natural hair and gradually add extensions, creating a smooth, seamless look. Adding loose, curly strands throughout gives them a bohemian flair.
Why People Love Them:
- Less tension on the scalp makes them more comfortable.
- The natural look blends effortlessly with different hair types.
- They’re versatile and can be styled in buns, ponytails, or left flowing.
Bohemian Box Braids
What They Are:
Bohemian box braids are similar to traditional box braids but with a twist. Loose curls or waves are strategically pulled into the braids, adding texture and volume. These braids can be small, medium, or large, depending on your preference.
Why People Love Them:
- They combine the structure of box braids with a soft, romantic vibe.
- Perfect for adding a touch of personality to classic braids.
- Can last several weeks with proper care.
Boho Goddess Braids
What They Are:
Boho goddess braids are thick, intricate braids that incorporate curls or wavy extensions to give a more dramatic, ethereal effect. They often include embellishments like beads, shells, or cords for added flair.
Why People Love Them:
- A show-stopping style that stands out in any crowd.
- The curls soften the look, making it both bold and feminine.
- They’re great for special events or everyday wear.
Boho Fulani Braids
What They Are:
Boho Fulani braids are inspired by the traditional Fulani style, characterized by a central braid running along the scalp, surrounded by other smaller braids. The boho version includes loose strands or curly pieces to create a relaxed effect.
Why People Love Them:
- They blend cultural heritage with modern trends.
- Can be accessorized with beads and cowrie shells for a unique touch.
- Work well for medium to long hair lengths.
Boho Twist Braids
What They Are:
Twists replace traditional three-strand braiding with two-strand twisting. Boho twist braids take this up a notch by adding curly or wavy extensions to create a soft, breezy style.
Why People Love Them:
- Easier and faster to install than other braids.
- Lightweight, making them perfect for warmer climates.
- The curls add a playful, effortless look.
Boho Crochet Braids
What They Are:
Crochet braids are achieved by weaving pre-braided or twisted extensions into cornrows using a crochet needle. The boho style adds loose curls or waves for a more natural, carefree appearance.
Why People Love Them:
- Installation is quick compared to other braiding styles.
- Provides endless possibilities with pre-made patterns and textures.
- Easy to maintain and style.
Boho Feed-In Braids
What They Are:
Feed-in braids start small and gradually get thicker by adding hair extensions as you braid. The boho variation incorporates loose strands or curls to soften the look and give it a relaxed feel.
Why People Love Them:
- Creates a seamless, natural appearance.
- The gradual thickness adds dimension and versatility.
- Perfect for protective styling while maintaining a chic look.
Boho Lemonade Braids
What They Are:
Inspired by Beyoncé’s iconic look in her Lemonade album, these braids are swept to one side in a sleek, asymmetrical pattern. The boho twist includes curly or wavy strands for added volume and softness.
Why People Love Them:
- They’re bold yet feminine.
- The side-swept design is flattering for all face shapes.
- A great way to combine structure and creativity.
Boho Stitch Braids
What They Are:
Stitch braids are clean and precise, using fine, visible "stitches" created by parting the hair into sections. The boho version adds loose curls or waves to the design for a more laid-back aesthetic.
Why People Love Them:
- The detailed stitching adds a polished look.
- Curly accents make them less rigid and more fun.
- They’re great for people who want something trendy yet different.
Jumbo Boho Braids
What They Are:
Jumbo boho braids are larger in size, making them faster to install and a statement in their own right. Adding loose curls or wavy extensions gives them a bohemian touch.
Why People Love Them:
- Big, bold, and beautiful, these braids make an instant impression.
- They take less time to install than smaller braids.
- The added curls make them playful and unique.
Boho Braids Maintenance
As carefree as boho braids look, they still require a bit of maintenance if you want to keep them looking fresh. Here’s how you can make sure your boho braids last while still embracing that lived-in, natural vibe.
1. Start with Clean Hair
You’ll want to braid hair that’s not too oily or dirty, as this can weigh down your braids and make them lose their shape. That said, freshly washed hair can sometimes be too slippery to hold a braid. The sweet spot? Braiding on second-day hair or using a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to give your hair some grip.
2. Use Light Styling Products
You don’t need heavy gels or sprays with boho braids—these styles are all about looking light and airy. A little texturizing spray or sea salt spray can go a long way in adding volume and hold without making your hair stiff. Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep your braids intact without sacrificing movement.
3. Sleep with Your Hair Up
To preserve your boho braids overnight, tie them up loosely in a silk scarf or use a silk pillowcase. This reduces friction, helping to maintain your braids and prevent frizz. In the morning, you can simply touch up any loose strands.
4. Moisturize and Care for Your Hair
If you’re wearing braids regularly, make sure you’re taking care of your hair underneath. Moisturize your scalp, and give your strands a little TLC by deep conditioning once a week. Braids can cause tension, especially on fine hair, so be mindful of how tight you’re braiding.
Boho Braids on Different Hair Types
One of the best things about boho braids is that they can be adapted to work on just about any hair type. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily, there’s a boho braid for you.
1. Straight Hair
Boho braids can add texture and dimension to straight hair, which can sometimes look flat. Using a texturizing spray before braiding can give your hair the grip it needs to hold the style better. If you have fine hair, opt for looser braids to add volume.
2. Wavy Hair
Wavy hair and boho braids are a match made in heaven. The natural texture of wavy hair makes braids look fuller and more dynamic. You don’t need much product to achieve that laid-back, boho vibe, but a bit of sea salt spray can enhance your waves before braiding.
3. Curly Hair
Boho braids on curly hair are simply stunning. The natural volume and texture of curly hair lend themselves perfectly to more intricate braid styles like the crown braid or fishtail braid. You can play with different braid sizes, or even braid small sections of hair while leaving the rest curly for a truly unique look.
4. Coily Hair
Coily hair looks beautiful in boho braids, especially when mixed with natural textures. Many people with coily hair love to do protective boho styles, where braids are worn in ways that protect the hair while maintaining its integrity. Using lightweight, moisturizing products will help keep your hair healthy and reduce breakage.
DIY Boho Braids: How to Get the Look at Home
Feeling inspired to try out some boho braids yourself? It’s easier than you might think! Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to help you master a simple boho braid at home.
What You’ll Need:
- Hair ties
- Texturizing spray or sea salt spray
- Hairpins (optional)
- Accessories (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prep Your Hair: Start by spraying a texturizing or sea salt spray through your hair to add grip and volume. You want your hair to have some texture so the braid holds better and doesn’t slip out.
- Divide Your Hair: Choose the section of your hair you want to braid. You can braid your entire head or just a small section for a more subtle look.
- Start Braiding: Begin braiding as you normally would—either a classic three-strand braid or a fishtail braid. As you go, pull apart the braid slightly to create a more voluminous, undone look. Remember, perfection isn’t the goal here!
- Add Accessories: Once you’ve finished your braid, you can add fun accessories like beads, ribbons, or small flowers to enhance the boho aesthetic.
- Set with Light Hairspray: Finish by misting a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place without making the braid stiff.
Conclusion
Boho braids have a timeless appeal that continues to capture hearts across generations. Their versatility, relaxed vibe, and ability to work with all hair types make them a go-to hairstyle for any occasion. Whether you’re dressing up for a special event, embracing a festival-ready look, or just want to add a bit of flair to your everyday style, boho braids have you covered. With a little practice and the right products, you can easily create these stunning, free-spirited braids at home. So go ahead, embrace your inner bohemian, and rock those braids like the queen you are!
