20 Fulani Braids Hairstyles: Brown & Black Styles

Fulani braids, also known as Bo braids, are a gorgeous style rooted in West African tradition. You’ll usually spot a center braid paired with one or two side braids going from back to front, often dressed up with beads and accessories that show off personality and culture.

This iconic style traces back to the Fulani Tribe in the Sahel Region of Africa, where braided designs have long been a form of beauty and expression. Thanks to the culture’s rich history, Fulani braids remain one of the most versatile braid styles out there.

You may have first seen them on queens like Alicia Keys or Bo Derek. Now, celebs like Jordyn Woods, Amandla Stenberg, and Taraji P. Henson are bringing these stunning braids to red carpets and magazine covers.

From top buns to long ponytails, mini to jumbo braids, or even soft styles for little girls, Fulani braids can be styled in so many ways to match your vibe and lifestyle. Add in some dyed extensions or colorful ombre pieces and you’ve got a bold, confidence-boosting look that turns heads.

If you’re searching for fresh braid inspo, don’t stress. We’ve rounded up the hottest Fulani braid styles that you’ll want to show your braider right away. Keep scrolling and get ready to screenshot your favorites.

Mid-Length Braids

Javana Mundy is all about standout protective styles, and her mid-length Fulani braids are no exception. They strike the perfect balance between manageability and visual impact, offering a go-to option for anyone wanting something fresh yet simple.

Mermaid Braids

Mirian Njoh brings full-on mermaid vibes with her cool-toned blonde Fulani braids. It’s the perfect summer look with a hint of playful edge. Want to go bold with your own strands? Richy Kandasamy suggests experimenting with fun colors like pastels or bright tones. As the color fades and roots grow out, the look becomes even trendier.

Simple Short Fulani Braids

Short Fulani braids are a great way to keep it simple without losing any of the charm. This version keeps the look neat and easy to manage, while the clear beads bring all the attention to the ends. It’s proof that you don’t need extra length to make an impact.

Gorgeous High Bun with Fulani Braids

If you’re looking for something cute and quick, a high bun styled with Fulani braids is a great choice. Don’t worry if it seems tricky at first. This style works with your natural hair and can even be done at home if you’re comfortable with basic cornrows. Just make sure your edges are healthy before going for this sleek, pulled-up look.

Amazing Fulani Braided Hair

Fulani braided styles like this one are nothing short of stunning. They work beautifully on short, medium, or long hair and give your natural strands a chance to rest underneath. With the right stylist, you can get creative with patterns and even add colorful beads for a bit of flair. These braids frame the face well and can last up to four weeks with proper care. Be sure to talk with your stylist about creating a custom design that suits your vibe.

Accessorized Braids

Romance Cox shows us a creative take on Fulani braids by mixing in a few fun elements. The look features feed-in braids accented with sleek baby hairs, and cowrie shells that bring in extra texture and cultural detail. It’s stylish, unique, and a look that’s easy to make your own.

Fulani Braids with Natural Texture

This version of Fulani braids highlights your natural texture while keeping the look fresh and easy to wear. It’s one of the best options if you’re aiming for a style that stands out but doesn’t require daily upkeep. Just remember to moisturize your hair beforehand to keep it looking healthy and shiny throughout the weeks.

Brilliant Fulani Goddess Braids

These goddess-style Fulani braids come with beautiful patterns that can be tailored to match your personality. The leaf-inspired designs and neat, sleek edges make this style both artistic and elegant. It’s a show-stopping choice if you’re going for something bold and feminine at the same time.

Gorgeous Fulani Braids with Strings and Baby Hairs

Try styling your Fulani braids with extra touches like string accents and perfectly laid baby hairs for a fresh, trendy vibe. Want to soften the look even more? Add in some curls to bring in movement and volume. Human hair is ideal for these curls, especially if you want to use heat or styling products. Be sure to play around with accessories like gold strings or clamps to switch things up from day to day.

Head-Curving Braids

Fulani braids work well at any length, whether short or long. Rihanna’s take on the style shows off a beautiful curved braid pattern that wraps naturally around her head. It adds an elegant touch that perfectly complements her red carpet look.

Gorgeous Fulani Braids with Loose Curls

Fulani braids with loose curls are such a fun and stylish pick for trend-loving Black women. If you usually go for sew-in weaves as a protective style but want to try something new, this look is perfect. To keep it looking soft and natural, human hair works best for the curly pieces. These braids look stunning whether you wear them up or down, giving you the perfect mix of braids and waves in one go.

Simple Style

Yara Shahidi proves that you don’t always need extensions to rock Fulani braids. Her look is simple, clean, and can even be done at home if you’re experienced with braiding. It’s perfect for a low-maintenance protective style that still looks effortlessly put together.

Extra-Long Braids

Gabrielle Union’s long, flowing Fulani braids are a summer favorite for a reason. Keeping them clean can be tricky, but a gentle product like apple cider vinegar rinse from Cantu makes it easier to cleanse your scalp without messing up your braids or causing frizz.

Fulani Cornrow Braids

The detailed pattern in cornrow-style Fulani braids is what really makes this look pop. The way the braids are laid out across the scalp creates such a striking effect. You can add accessories too, like beads or cuffs, to dress it up and make it your own.

Y2K Braids

Alissa Ashley’s straight-back Fulani braids instantly bring to mind the Y2K era and iconic looks from Destiny’s Child. This classic style has stood the test of time and remains a staple in both beauty trends and pop culture moments.

Cornrows with Fulani Long Braids

If you love a mix of textures, this combo of cornrows and long Fulani braids might be for you. The look blends traditional cornrow styles on the scalp with long, flowing braids that hang freely. Some unbraided hair is left in between, giving it a fun layered effect.

90’s Messy Bun

When it comes to throwback styles, the ’90s messy bun is always a favorite. Rahel Brhane nails the look with her Fulani braids pulled up into a loose bun paired with a bold hair color that makes the whole vibe stand out. It’s casual but still full of attitude.

Face-Framing Side-Part

Side-parted Fulani braids like the ones Zazie Beetz wears are both flattering and functional. They not only help protect your hair but also beautifully frame your face. To keep your edges looking neat, reach for a solid edge control like the one from Pattern for a polished finish.

Regal Beads

Willow Smith gives her Fulani braids a bold twist with large wooden beads that create a regal, eye-catching finish. If you want to copy this look, you can find similar beads at beauty supply stores or browse handmade options on Etsy to add a custom feel to your style.

Fulani High Bun

A high bun with Fulani braids is a youthful, low-maintenance look that’s perfect for women who stay active. You don’t have to go for a full head of braids to make it work. Instead, blend braids with your natural texture by gathering everything into a soft top bun. It’s quick, cute, and gives off an effortless vibe.