When it comes to making protective hairstyles, two things are involved; number one is it has to protect the hair of course and number two is, it has to slay! One protective style that has been in the game since the ’90s is Fulani braids. When it comes to protecting and slaying, this hairstyle understands the assignment 100%.
Many of us have been rocking this beautiful hairstyle for years without knowing anything about its true origin. Now that it’s fully back on the hairstyle trending table for 2022, with many celebrities rocking it in different ways, we are here to tell you all you need to know about the gorgeous hairstyle.
What are Fulani braids?
You may not confuse Fulani braids for a regular cornrow if you do not really know what it is. Fulani Braids Ideas are a type of cornrow made by forming a center part on your head and making braids that stretch to the back of the sides. There’s usually one cornrow in the middle that stretches towards the back.
Most Importantly, the hair is characterized by cornrows in front and box braids at the back. Also, it is finished off by adding lots of beads and some ethnic accessories.
Where is the origin of Fulani Braids?
This is the real truth of this trending hairstyle we all need to know. Knowing the roots of a hairstyle, fashion piece, or even food, definitely helps us appreciate it better. Fulani braids originate from West Africa. Fulani is an ethnic tribe of people in West Africa and this hairstyle is their ethnic heritage.
It’s normal to see women of this ethnic group rocking this hairstyle in different ways. Little do they know that the hairstyle has become massively known all over the world.
Different ways to wear Fulani braids
The great thing about this hairstyle is its versatility, there are no restrictions to its styling. Fulani braids can be worn in maybe over 50 different ways but here are our favorite ways to rock them.
Ombre Fulani braids
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A good pop of color always makes everything beautiful. Color does its thing, in Ombre Fulani braids, colored extensions are added to the tip of the hair to bring a fierce, daring look. Color makes everything better, yes or yes? Definitely yes!
Accessorized Fulani Braids
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Accessories are the highlight of this hairstyle, so if you want to accessorize go for it with full force. This style sticks to the original way the Fulani braids are styled, using lots of accessories. It can be bronze hoops, cowries, wooden beads, or any type of beads for that matter. It gives a really unique African queen kind of look.
Fulani Braids updo
Photo: Hairdohairstyle Everyone loves a great updo! The versatility of this hairstyle makes it perfect for different styles. For this variation, the cornrows stop right at the middle of the head and then roll into a bun. This one is perfect for summer when you definitely wouldn’t want anything touching your neck.
Double Low Bun Fulani Braids
Photo: Instagram.com/kersti.pitre This style of wearing the Fulani braid is also quite unique. The cornrows are plaited to the far back of the head, of course on cornrow is plaited straight in the middle. The hair is styled into a bun at the tip, just below the ears. It’s stunning and would definitely attract positive attention.
Head Curving Fulani Braids
Photo: Getty Images Rihanna, Gabriel Union, your favorite black female celebrities have all rocked Fulani Braids before. It is made by plaiting the cornrows in curves from the middle of your head to the middle. The cornrows curve beautifully around your head to give you a unique glammed-up look.
Micro Fulani Braids
For those who don’t mind spending hours at the stylist, you won’t have a problem with this variation of Fulani braids. Rather than the regular-sized braids, your hair will be sectioned into tiny rows and plaited to the side. This style is beautiful and would definitely last longer than regular-sized Fulani braids for an extra 2 weeks, with proper maintenance of course.
Fringe Fulani Braids
Image source: Pinterest Are Fulani braids the same as tribal braids?
Tribal braids are hairstyles that have their roots in the African continent. They originated from there and have become mainstream all over the world. Fulani braid is a type of tribal braid.
Tribal braids are always characterized by cultural accessories like beads, ivory, bronze rings, and more. Examples of tribal braids are Fulani braids, Ghana braids, and even your tradition or regular box braids.
Maintenance tips for Fulani Braids
To maintain the gorgeous Fulani braids, all you have to do is keep your scalp hydrated and your hair moisturized. It has the same maintenance techniques as regular cornrows. You can also use silk bonnets and silk scarfs to preserve the hair, as it prevents the hair from pulling out. Keep your scalp oiled
How much do Fulani Braids cost?
Typical Fulani braids cost from $150-$300. This is the amount stylists charge for this kind of braid normally. But then again, it all depends on the stylist, your negotiation skills, as well as the city you are.
Are Fulani braids worth trying?
Fulani Braids are definitely worth trying right now as they are shaking the trend table. They are perfect for all seasons; you can try the different styles and lengths. You’ll be happy you did.
What hair extension do I need to make Fulani braids?
The regular hair extensions used for box braids or cornrows can also be used to make Fulani braids.
How many hours does it take to do Fulani braids?
Expect to spend at least 3 hours making your Fulani braids. Depending on the length you’re going for and the size. This also depends on how professional your stylist is, so make sure to go to a professional.
Now that you know the real story behind this gorgeous hairstyle, you know you’re channeling your inner black girl magic when you rock it.
