20 French Braid Hairstyles For Black Hair: Timeless Tresses Reimagined

As a versatile and protective style, French braids offer numerous ways to express your creativity and showcase the beauty of your natural tresses. 

Whether aiming for an everyday casual look, heading to a special event, or seeking a protective style, French braid hairstyles provide diverse options that suit your individual taste and needs. 

While traditionally associated with a single, classic plait down the back of the head, modern French braid hairstyles for Black hair come in various forms, such as side-parted braids, double French braids, or even intricate cornrow designs. Each style allows you to highlight your unique hair while keeping it healthy and protected from damage. 

In this article, you’ll learn about 20 French braid hairstyles for Black hair that will surely turn heads and inspire your next look.

20 French Braid Hairstyles For Black Hair

1. Classic French Braid

The Classic French Braid is a timeless look that works well with black hair.

It is a simple, elegant style that keeps your hair neat and tidy.

2. French Braid Bun

A French Braid Bun is a tasteful updo perfect for casual outings or formal events.

Braid your hair as usual, then wrap the braid around itself to form a bun, securing it with a scrunchy, clips, or bobby pins.

3. Two-Toned French Braids

For a striking and stylish look, try Two-Toned French Braids.

You’ll need colored extensions to achieve this look, and you can go with natural shades or vibrant hues, depending on the desired results.

4. French Braid Mohawk

A French Braid Mohawk offers a daring and edgy look.

This trendy style adds rock and roll to your French braid, showcasing your fun and fearless personality.

5. Double French Braids

Double French braids protect your hair and keep it out of your face.

Double braids can be customized with colored extensions and hair accessories and styled in multiple ways. 

6. French Braid Pineapple

Show off your curls with a French Braid Pineapple.

To achieve this look, French braid your hair from the nape of your neck towards the crown, gathering the rest of your hair into a high ponytail.

Style your natural curls as usual, or add a weave for extra volume. 

7. Side-Part Double French Braids

Put a modern spin on Double French Braids by parting your hair on one side and braiding each section separately.

This asymmetrical look is classic and chic, creating visual interest and elevating your look. 

8. Half-Up French Braids

Get the best of both worlds with Half-Up French Braids.

Start by braiding two sections of hair from your temples, pulling them back, and securing them with a hair tie, clips, or bobby pins.

Let the rest of your hair flow loose, showcasing your natural texture.

9. Double French Braids Into a Single Braid

Combine elegance and simplicity by styling your Double French Braids into a single braid.

After Double French braiding your hair to the nape of your neck, continue braiding the remaining hair into a single braid.

10. Half French Braids

Half French Braids are a laid-back style that keeps your hair off your face while showcasing your natural texture.

Half French braids end at the nape of your neck, leaving the hair loose at the ends.

Depending on your preferences, you can try this style with one braid or two.

11. Four-In-Two Braids

Four-In-Two Braids are intricate and cool.

These braids are easily customizable, leaving endless options to elevate the look.

This technique is a bit advanced, so you may need to consult a professional or have someone assist you.

12. Sideways French Braid

Try a unique and intriguing style with a Sideways French Braid.

Begin braiding at one side of your head, moving horizontally across to the other side.

This distinctive look is visually stunning and sure to make a statement.

13. French Braid Updo

For a polished and elegant look, opt for a French Braid Updo.

French Braid Updos can be worn high or low, offering versatile sophistication for any occasion.

14. Double French Braids Into a Single Ponytail

Styling Double French Braids into a single ponytail is beautiful and practical, keeping your hair out of the way while still looking classy and put together.

Combining braids and loose hair is popular for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events.

15. Halo French Braid

The Halo French Braid is an ethereal and delicate style.

Starting from one side of your head, French braid your hair around your head, forming a halo shape and securing the end with a hair tie or bobby pin.

16. Triple French Braids

Make a statement with Triple French Braids.

Divide your hair into three sections and braid each individually for a bold and fashionable look.

17. Double French Braids Into a Single Bun

Upgrade your Double French Braids by tying them into a single bun.

Double braid your hair as usual, then join the braids at the nape of your neck, wrap the remaining hair around itself and secure it with bobby pins to complete the look.

18. Senegalese Twist French Braid

Just because you have Senegalese Twists doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the look of a French Braid.

While French braids with twists are bigger, chunkier, and looser, they still offer a tasteful and eye-catching style.

19. Double French Braids With Cornrows

Incorporate intricate detail into your hairstyle with Double French Braids With Cornrows.

You’ll likely need a professional to achieve this look, but the striking combination of French braids with cornrows is well worth a trip to the salon.

20. French Braid With Top Knot

Combine the classiness of a French Braid with the playfulness of a Top Knot.

Braid your hair from the nape of your neck to the crown, and secure the remaining hair into a high bun for a fun and fabulous style.