African plait styles for short hair offer a creative way to express style and celebrate heritage, even without long locks.
From sleek cornrows to playful mini braids, short hair can be transformed with patterns, textures, and accessories that turn everyday looks into something unique.
Whether you’re visiting a stylist or experimenting at home, these styles show that you don’t need length to wear stunning, manageable braids.
Table of Contents
Everyday & Simple African Plait Styles for Short Hair
African Hair Braiding Styles Pictures #1: Cornrows
These are classic African plaits where hair is braided close to the scalp in straight or curved lines.
You can do simple narrow rows or more artistic patterns across the head.
Cornrows work great even when your hair is short, because they rely on scalp‑braiding rather than length.
Plaited Hairstyles for African Hair #2: Mini Braids
Instead of long, chunky braids, mini (tiny) braids can be done with short hair by braiding tiny sections.
They’re sleek and last longer because once plaited, you don’t rely on much length at the ends.
You can also add beads or cuffs to give them personality.
African Hairstyles Simple Plait Style #3: Braided Crown
This wraps braids around the head, almost like a headband.
It works especially well if your hair is long enough to braid just the front and sides.
Securing the ends with pins creates a neat look that frames the face.
Hair Platting Style #4: Mini Box Braids With Beads or Colors
If your hair has enough length (even just a few inches), short box braids can be created and embellished with beads, rings, or colored thread.
These give a playful, expressive style without needing long hair.
Culturally Rooted & Trend‑Inspired Styles
Fulani‑Inspired Braids
This traditional West African braiding technique often features a center braid with smaller side braids, sometimes accented with beads or shells.
On short hair, stylists might create just a few signature braids to evoke the Fulani look without needing long length.
Asymmetrical & Pixie Braids
Shorter cuts like pixie styles look great with small French or cornrow braids at the front or sides. Braiding only part of your hair can create contrast and make the most out of short length while keeping most of your hair loose or tapered.
Braided Updo Twist
With slightly longer short hair (around ear to chin length), you can braid small sections and twist them up at the back with bobby pins to create a textured updo.
It’s a great choice for casual days and formal occasions alike.
Styling Tip for Short Braids
Accessorize: Beads, cuffs, threads, or rings can make even simple braids stand out.
READ ALSO: 10 Interesting Different Styles of French Braids
Braid Ideas Short Hair Styles #1: The Crown Braid
READ ALSO: Elevate Your Style with 6 Stunning Different Braided Hairstyles
READ ALSO: 4 Hair Elegant Styles & Essential Tips for Effortless Chic
Side Braid Hairstyles for Short Hair
How to Braid Hairstyles for Short Hair
Hair Twist Styles
If you would like to know more about hair twist styles, click here.
Short Hair Styles in Kenya
Photo Credits: The Right Hairstyles, Poor Little It Girl, Glam, Beauty Crew, Pulse Kenya, Shakiera Rentz
READ ALSO: Elevate Your Look with French Twist Hair Styles Today in 2023: A Timeless Elegance