If you’re searching for boho braids site:chickabouttown.com, you’re likely looking for a braided hairstyle that combines neat, defined braids with loose curls or waves. Boho braids have a distinctive relaxed look because curly or wavy pieces are intentionally left out of the braids, creating texture, movement and fullness.
Unlike conventional braids where most of the hair is incorporated neatly from root to tip, boho braids leave some strands free along the length or toward the ends. You can have just a few curly pieces for a subtle effect or add plenty of loose hair for a fuller, more dramatic finish.
There are plenty of ways to wear the style. You can choose long individual braids, medium or small braids, boho knotless braids, shorter braided styles or even a braided bob. Different curl patterns, hair colours and accessories can also give the hairstyle a completely different appearance.
If you’re considering trying boho braids, the amount and placement of the loose curls is one of the first things to think about. It can make the difference between a relatively understated braided hairstyle and the full, textured boho look that has made this style so recognizable.
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What Makes Boho Braids Different?
The easiest way to recognize boho braids is by looking at the texture.
A conventional box braid is generally uniform from its root to its end. With boho braids, curly or wavy strands interrupt that uniformity. You might have a long braid with several loose curls emerging from different points along its length, giving the hairstyle movement and a deliberately less structured finish.
The amount of loose hair can vary considerably. Some versions have just a few curls scattered throughout the braids, while others incorporate substantial amounts of curly hair for a much fuller appearance.
This also means that no two sets of boho braids have to look exactly alike.
Boho Braids vs. Goddess Braids
The terms boho braids and goddess braids are sometimes used interchangeably, although there can be a difference in how the styles are presented.
Boho braids generally emphasize curls or waves incorporated throughout the braids. Goddess braids can also have loose curls, but the curls are often more concentrated toward the ends or used as a more prominent feature of the style. (Chick About Town)
There is plenty of overlap between the two, so you may find a hairstyle described as boho, goddess, bohemian, or boho goddess braids depending on the stylist or salon.
Boho Knotless Braids
Boho knotless braids combine the knotless braiding technique with loose curly pieces.
Knotless braids begin with the natural hair and have extension hair gradually fed into the braid. This creates a flatter-looking root without the pronounced knot associated with traditional box braids. (Chick About Town)
Adding curly strands gives the knotless style a much softer finish.
You can also experiment with:
- Small boho knotless braids
- Medium boho knotless braids
- Large boho braids
- Waist-length boho braids
- Boho braids with short curly ends
- Boho braided bobs
- Half-up boho braids
- Boho braids with coloured extensions
Boho braided bobs are particularly interesting if you like the texture of the style but don’t want the weight or length of waist-length braids. Shorter braided styles can also take less time to install and may feel lighter.
What Hair Is Used for Boho Braids?
The braiding portion can be made with synthetic braiding hair, while the loose curly sections can be created with synthetic curly hair or human hair.
READ ALSO: On Braids
Photo credit: TheeHealingHands, Luxe Digital