7 Bold Braids for Spring 2024: Celebrating Authenticity and Individuality

BY ALICIA MPUNGOSE
Aug 31, 2024
3 min read

Photo: Amandla Stenberg

Spring is the perfect time to embrace new beginnings, and what better way to do so than by celebrating our hair? Braids have always been a symbol of authenticity, individuality, and cultural pride for Black women. We have gathered the best, daring and fashionable braids perfect for spring, these braids will encourage you to embrace your individual beauty and enter the season with confidence, whether you're searching for a protective style, a statement look for a special event, or just a fun way to express yourself, we've rounded up inspiring 7 looks to recreate at home or show your stylist for reference at your next salon appointment!

1. Boho Braids: The Effortless Chic

Photo: Gabrielle Union

Boho braids are a perfect blend of laid-back style and intricate beauty. This spring, embrace the free-spirited vibe with loose, wavy braids adorned with beads, shells, or delicate chains. Boho braids are ideal for transitioning from cool mornings to warm afternoons, making them a versatile and imperative choice for spring braids. Braid accessorising is a vital step in making your braids pop and look fresh. They bring an extra edge and make the braids look newer, especially if you change them out and try different beads and shells every other week.

2. Short Braids: The Statement Look

Photo: Amandla Stenberg

Short braids are making a big comeback in 2024. This bold, edgy style is perfect for those who want to make a statement without the length. Short braids are low-maintenance and can be accessorised with gold cuffs or vibrant hairpins for an extra pop. They’re perfect for the fluctuating spring weather. If you are looking for something sweet and short, then short braids are exactly what you need.

3. Mini Twists: The Natural Route

Sometimes, you just prefer a natural style, especially if you have had braids in for a while. Mini twists offer a natural, protective style that’s perfect for spring. These twists can be worn loose for a casual look or pinned up with a claw clip for something more polished. Mini twists are a celebration of your natural hair texture, offering a beautiful way to embrace your authentic self.

4. Colourful Braids: Inspired by Sho Majozi

Photo: Sho Madjozi

Channel the vibrant energy of Sho Majozi with colourful braids this spring. Known for her fun, radiant hairstyles, Sho Majozi’s signature look is a celebration of individuality and joy. Whether you go for pastel hues or bold neon’s, colourful braids will ensure you stand out and feel empowered. You will enter a room, and it will feel like you bounced and twirled into it. Colourful braids not only make you feel bright and light, but also make the people around you feel the same. Try them out this spring and see if you will fall in love with them!

5. Box Braids with a Twist: Adding a Personal Touch

Photo: Zendaya

Box braids are a timeless classic, but why not add a twist this spring? Incorporate curly ends, ombre colours, or mix in different braid sizes to create a look that’s uniquely yours. Box braids are versatile and can be styled in countless ways to suit any spring occasion, we can take a look at how Amandla Stenberg does it, making them short and colourful. She instantly stands out and looks fresh and chic. Since you probably have had Box braids, let's spice things up and show up to our next meeting with curly ends or sharp ends like Amandla Stenberg’s, customise your braids so you will look different and new. 2024 Spring is our season to be trendsetters!

6. Fulani Braids: The Cultural Celebration

Photo: Tyla

Beaded and intricately patterned Fulani braids are a beautiful way to honour cultural heritage.With braids being one of the most important parts of black history, it’s such an honour having to walk around representing your culture while keeping your hair protected and looking good. This spring, embrace this lovely look by giving it a contemporary touch by incorporating other modern twist braid designs or adding colour.

7. Half-Up, Half-Down Braids: The Versatile Beauty

Photo: Leigh-Anne Pinnock

For those who do not want to choose and want the best of both worlds, the half-up, half-down braid style is perfect. This look combines the elegance of braids with the freedom of loose hair, making it ideal for spring’s unpredictable weather. You can accessorise with floral clips or ribbons to add a touch of spring to your look. The utilisation of ribbons has made a huge splash in 2024, let’s see what they will look like on you!

Spring 2024 is all about celebrating your uniqueness and embracing styles that make you feel powerful. Whether you opt for boho braids or colourful twists, let your hair be a reflection of your boldness and individuality. Remember, your hair is your crown—wear it with pride.