“Layered Braids” Simplify Summer Hair

The versatility of black hairstyles never ceases to amaze. Just when you think you’ve discovered a new look, someone picks it up and turns it on its head. First example? box braids.

We all know and love them. Box braids were a staple style that took many of us back to middle and high school, and the look has continued to evolve to give us offshoot trends like goddess braids, Knotless Box Braids, and more. Still, there’s nothing quite like taking an old style and making it new again, which brings us to a protective new style to put on your radar: layered braids.

“Layered braids are a protective hairstyle that consists of different layers and lengths throughout the entire style,” Brooklyn-based stylist. martika cogdell he tells POPSUGAR. The look was popular in the early years, but it’s making a fierce resurgence thanks to the Y2K-ification of fashion and beauty. Layered braids are just as cute now as they were in the ’90s and ’00s, so if you want to get the look yourself, Cogdell breaks down everything you need to know about the style, including styling options and how to protect your hair. below. below.

What are layered braids?

Layered braids essentially consist of braids that stop at different lengths. Many of the styles typically feature a “French braid” (where the ends are left undone and given a slight curl), but there are numerous iterations that feature completely full braids that simply stop at different lengths to achieve the look.

“Shorter versions of this trend typically have face-framing layers that end at about the mid-chest area,” says Cogdell. “The longer ones consist of longer, fluffier layers that have plenty of body and volume for a more dramatic look.”

Types of layered braids

The beauty of this hairstyle is that it is as customizable as you want. You can cut your braids in layers to make them look more like a jolt to the Brandy about 1999or you can get your own version of a cut “octopus” – The world is your oyster. “I’ve seen multi-colored layered braids, twisted ends, flipped ends, and everything in between,” says Cogdell. “We’ve clearly stepped back into the time capsule of the ’90s and ’00s, but we also have the added benefit of learning about new haircuts like “the wolf,” so the possibilities feel even broader.”

Cogdell notes that you need to be careful when styling these braids, as they can cause damage to your real hair if not handled properly. “Be careful with your scalp while wearing these,” she says. “Since this look consists of smaller braids, remember to keep your scalp well-oiled to reduce the chance of breakage.”

Now that you have another look to add to your hairstyle arsenal, take a closer look at some of the low layer braiding styles you can get on your next salon visit here.