Braids are more than a stylistic expression. Before slaves braid rice into cornrows for those seeking freedom and refuge, their African ancestors used braids to identify tribes, social statuses, and even ages.
Fulani braids, created by the West African Fula Tribe, are a tribal braid style that has been widely popularized in recent years. They are characterized by their unique cornrow patterns in the front, which usually include a few forward-facing braids and individual box braids or corn rows in the back. Lately, many stylists have also been innovating the style by using curly hair to create bohemian-inspired Fulani braids. However, Fulani braids are not the only type of tribal braid.
Here is a round-up of 18 tribal braid styles to show braiders when trying new summer styles:
1. Cross-over Fulani Braids, With Curly Afro
This style provides a youthful take on the Fulani braid, with bob-length criss-cross braids in the front and an afro in the back. This afro-textured hair can be substituted with bundles or crochet hair of any texture.
2. Fulani Stitch Braided Bun
Women looking for versatility in their summer braids can try this style. The stitch braids curve to create an elegant pattern, complete with box braids in the back. This style can be worn in a bun, straight down or half-up half-down.
3. Bohemian Flip-over Fulani braids
The triangle design takes the trendy flip over to new heights. Women stuck on the classic Fulani braid style can expect compliments on this innovative tribal pattern.
4. Classic Fulani Braids
Fulani braids will never go out of style. Braiders can add curly hair to achieve the bohemian look or use more cross-over braids for a more intricate design.
5. Nubian Micro Feed-in’s
Despite what most people think, cornrows also originated in ancient African civilizations. These detailed tribal patterned braids are a perfect example of simple yet stylish tribal braids.
6. Side Swoop Fulani braids
Side-swoop Fulani braids have been the trendiest style this summer.
7. Freestyle Tribal Cornrows
Freestyle fulani cornrows offer clients a chance to stunt in a tribal design for half the time. It includes zig-zag braids, bohemian-style hair, and dramatic edges to complete the look.
8. Allante Braids
Smedium Allante braids are a gorgeous alternative to regular sitch braid cornrows. These braids feature a traditional Fulani pattern in the front with cross-over braids and parallel zig-zag braids in the back.
9. Fulani Stitch Braids with Small Knotless
These Fulani braids have a defined middle part, with two braids to compliment the face on either side. This style fits any woman trying tribal braids for the first time.
10. Zig-Zag Tribal Cornrows
The twists and turns in these braids are perfect for any woman with an experimental taste. Beaded to aesthetic perfection fit for an ethereal queen, these braids incorporate zig-zags, swirls and cross-over braids.
11. Nubian Cornrows
Women searching for the perfect vacation hairstyle should consider trying these Nubian Cornrows. These braids offer a sleek look with a simple design that is guaranteed to turn heads.
12. ‘One Tribe Fits All’ Braids
These bohemian Fulani braids are perfect for the simple yet stylish woman.
13. Alicia Keys Inspired Tribal Braids
Alicia Keys-inspired tribal braids will curve a woman’s curls in the right direction. This curvy pattern will definitely compliment gorgeous girls with round faces.
14. Ghana Braids
Ghana braids are known for their large size, and these bohemian-style goddess braids are no exception. This style is for girls who love a quick jumbo braid style.
15. Tribal Pin Curls and Braided Top Knot
Tribal pin curls add an extra layer of extravagance to this hairdo, perfect for a formal occasion. Who said tribal braids were just for vacation?
16. Triangle Tribal Twists
This is a cute alternative for women who prefer twists instead of braids.
17. Goddess Tribal Braids
Traditional tribal braids with a bohemian flare.
18. Crossover Fishbone Cornrows
It is a complicated yet cute tribal style for all the women ready to pop out in braid art that most probably hasn’t seen yet.
Which tribal style would you try this season? Post a picture and tag us @NaturallyCurly so we can see how you stunt in the summer heat!
