Fulani braids are the new “it girl” of braids for this summer. This style is for all the creative girlies who want to display artistry and flexibility. Given that this style is mostly by using the braid back method, it takes shorter than box braids or traditional braids because we know you’re trying to be on the move this summer, and you’re not trying to be in the chair all day.
Although the Fulani braids are best known for including unique designs, these braids have origins dating back to West Africa in the 1500s. This means this braiding technique constantly evolves, reminding us of its popularity.
We have snagged a few of our favorite Fulani styles so you can recreate your own “it girl” moment this summer.
1). Carnival Fulani
Image Source: @UMATRANCISTA
Carnival celebrates fertility and the transition from darkness to light as the first spring festival of the new year. This style pairs perfectly with carnival attire or carnival-themed parties, leaving just enough space for an extravagant headpiece to sit on top.
2). Fulani Heart Throb
Image Source: BRAIDPLUGLDN
The heart design in these braids is neatly done and truly reflects the art of braiding. We love the attentive skill that goes into the Fulani braiding design, it’s what sets this style apart from all the other braiding styles.
3). Long Hair, Watch Em’ Stare
Image Source: @hairbykingunyque
These Fulani braids are elongated and surpass knee length. This length is for all the ladies that are going for drama and body. The baby hairs on this style are another eye-popping moment for this memorable style.
4). Fulani But Make It Juneteenth
Image Source: @OULFABEAUTY
Juneteenth is right around the corner. What better way to commemorate the holiday than with this cultural-esque style? Although the Fulani method is full of history, the beads and accessories on these braids make it a perfect look for any cookout or celebratory function. What better way to honor freedom than with a style that is saturated in expression?
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5). Catch You On The Flip
Image Source: @ALXBRAIDS_
The Fulani braids that include hybrid styling are truly a chef’s kiss for all of my indecisive babes. We know how stressful it can be when our stylists ask us, “Side part or middle part?” However, this hybrid flip allows you the luxury and peace of being indecisive. Save yourself the contemplation, ladies. Next time they ask, just say you want both.
6). Fulani With A Twist
Image Source: @THEHAIRHVSTLR
We’ve reserved this style for you if you’re allergic to the status quo. Diverging from the traditional Fulani braiding method, this style gives you the best of both worlds. We love how the top of the head starts with the typical Fulani braid backs, but towards the back, we are surprised by a plot twist of twists instead of braids. Down to the color, this look is the opposite of average.
7). Fulani Top Bun
Image Source: @GLADZBRAIDHOUSE
Did we mention how flexible the Fulani braiding style was, right? Well, this look is proof of range. We love how this technique was tailored to feature hot water rod curls. The curls at the ends of the braids were achieved by hot water dipping. The braided curly bangs are an additional detail that sets this design apart. These defined curls hanging from the top bun of this half-up, half-down style make us want to book an appointment immediately.
8). Human Hair = Extra Flair
Image Source: @_THENAOMIEFFECT
The Fulani braiding method, featuring loose curly extensions, is the dynamic duo we never knew we were missing. These extra curls towards the back give volume to traditional Fulani braids.
9). Fulani Bob
Image Source: @ZYDIDIT_
Just when you think you’ve seen them all, you realize this thread could be endless because there’s so much versatility in store. Yes, there’s something for everyone, including my ladies who don’t want extra hair on them during the summer but still want Fulani braids. If this is you, the Fulani bob is your go-to for this summer. This style gives you all the perks of traditional Fulani braids but with half the hair.
10). Bantu & Faux-lani
Image Source: @KOOKIETHESTYLIST
This style puts such a spin on traditional Fulani braids that we might just be dizzy. Not only are the Fulani braid backs Bantu knotted at the top, but the hair in the back is color faux locs mixed with curly strands. This look is stunning and unique if you want to take the Fulani technique to another level.
11). What’s The Stitch?
Image Source: @MXBRAIDS
The stitch braiding method on these Fulani braids gives the style a different magnitude of sleekness. The stitching of these braids is so neat and clean that they are flawless.
12). A-Maze- ing
Image Source: @DUBLACKAFRO
The design on these braids is so intricate, that you’d think you were staring at a maze. Every loop and part reminds us that this might be the most creative braiding style.
13). Thick Braiding
Image Source: @AFFRO_HAIR
This half-down pony reminds us that Fulani braids don’t have to be super small to maintain the aesthetic. These braids are thick and bountiful, akin to a full-top pony.
14). Peek-A-Boo Color
Image Source: @_BRAIDEDXKI
Another level of creativity has been unlocked. These braids being half back and half pink put a cool spin on the traditional style.
15). Goldie Locs
Image Source: @JOICEROCHA_TRANCAS
Maintaining the traditional braids towards the front with the remaining blonde braids sitting pretty towards the back is the perfect compliment to her skin tone. This look is proof that less is more.
Like what you’ve read? Perfect! Keep those braids nice and neat until your next style using Mielle Pom/Honey Mousse from our NC shop.
For more inspo on your next style, read: How to Prevent Hair Loss When Wearing a Wig, According to a Trichologist