We hope you’re not still sleeping on Fulani braids.
Fulani braids have become increasingly popular in recent years because of their designs and history (or “cultural significance”, as some would say.)
The primary architects of this art are the Fulani people of West Africa. This style has gained fame in recent years and is now common among celebrities like Alicia Keys, Beyoncé, and Kim Kardashian.
If you’re looking to braid your hair but unsure which style to choose, don’t go anywhere. Just keep reading, and we shall spill the tea on these exotic hairstyles.
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What are Fulani Braids?
Also known as Fulani cornrows, Fulani braid is an African hairstyle that has gained fame in recent years.
The origins of Fulani braids can be traced back to the Fulani people, a pastoralist ethnic group spread across West Africa. The hairstyle is an important cultural symbol for the Fulani, representing beauty, wealth, and social status.
What is the Common Braid Style for Fulani?
While no two Fulani braid hairstyles are the same, each one typically features three key elements: Stitch feed in cornrow braids on the top & sides of the head.
Knotless box braids on the back of the head. Two forward braids, one on each side of the head above the ear.
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How to make Fulani Braids
To create Fulani braids, you want to start by sectioning your hair into thin, smaller sections and use a fine-tooth comb to ensure you detangle the strands.
Next, take a small section from the hairline and divide it into three equal parts. Cross the right section under the middle one, then cross the left section under the middle one.
Gradually add more hair from the sides and continue braiding. After a couple of braids, pinch a few extensions onto the braid. Continue braiding the hair, but be sure to leave out some unbraided hair in the centre or off to the side to form a pattern.
Braid this part of the section until the end of the hair. Repeat the process on the other side until the braids are all complete. Style the braids with your desired accessories.
However, the style can take several hours to complete, depending on the length and thickness you wish to make. If you like caring for your braids for several weeks, Fulani braids are just what you need.
Now you can try out these amazing hairstyles and rock to that event or occasion. You want to keep scrolling as you reveal the top Fulani braids to inspire you for your next hairdo.
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How to Make Fulani Braids on Curly Hair
If you’re creating Fulani braids with curls, you can use the following steps to craft the perfect look.
Most importantly, don’t forget to section your hair with clips before you start: Building Fulani braids with curly hair is much easier with help from your favorite hair clips.
STEP 1: BACK BRAIDS
Technically, you can start with either the knotless box braids in the back or the stitch feed in cornrows in the front.
If you choose to start with the back:
- Part & clip your hair into sections, using edge control techniques to create sharp lines.
- Start your knotless box braids by creating approximately ½” sections.
- Separate the section into three strands & braid a few times.
- Once you’ve created about a ½” braid, add three pieces of braiding hair one at a time.
- Complete your braid & add beads as desired.
STEP 2: BRAIDING FORWARD
Add forward braids after you finish your first major section (the front cornrows or the back box braids). While some stylists see forward braids as a key part of the Fulani braid hairstyle, they’re optional—you can skip this step if you’d like.
To create a forward braid:
- Gather a ½” section of hair slightly above & behind your ear.
- Start braiding & begin adding braiding hair using the stitch feed-in method.
- Instead of moving toward the back of the head, move forward toward the face.
- Complete the braid & add beads if desired.
Your end result will be a braid that hangs in front of your ear—a gorgeous, small detail in this sleek look. But, if you’re looking to style your baby hair along with your Fulani braids, you might want to skip it.
STEP 3: TOP & SIDE BRAIDS
Whether you do your top & side braids first or last, follow these steps for a classic Fulani style:
- Part hair in the middle (or any way you like!) with PATTERN’s Edge Tool & section with clips.
- Start your cornrows at the top of your head or the side.
- Create about a ½” braid, then start adding braiding hair one piece at a time.
- Complete the braid (with beads, if you’re feelin’ it).
While straight-back cornrows parted in the middle are the most traditional Fulani braid look, they’re certainly not required: cornrows are an excellent place to flex your creativity.
Top Amazing Fulani Styles You Must Try
Fulani braids come in different styles, ranging from classic to unique designs. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular styles.
1. Ethiopian Fulani Hairstyle
Ethiopian Fulani braids are a slight variation of the original Fulani braids, and their smaller size primarily distinguishes them.
These braids are much thinner and more delicate than standard Fulani braids, and they are usually adorned with intricate beadwork, cowrie shells, and gold thread.
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They are often styled in zigzag patterns (a symbol of the Ethiopian markings) and some braids fall across the face, making for a signature look.
The Ethiopian Fulani braids are best with black synthetic hair to capture the beautiful dimensions it creates.
This hairstyle is usually cornrowed into a pattern that can be styled upwards, downwards, or sideways.
2. Fulani Style with Heart
It looks good and stands out. If you’re the sort of person who likes to look adorable, then this is the perfect choice for you.
To achieve Fulani braids with a heart, you have to braid with heart-shaped edges that can be decorated with beads, cowrie shells, and other embellishments to bring out the unique design even more and a beautiful touch.
You can rock this style to romantic outings, weddings, and festivals and steal the show.
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3. Fulani Braids with Beads
Beaded Fulani braids are among the most popular Fulani braids styles, and it’s a trend that has continued to thrive in the hair fashion world.
Beads can be added to the ends of the braids or woven into the hair itself. The beads come in different colours, shapes, and sizes that can be chosen to coordinate with your outfit’s colour to create a cohesive look.
Beadwork enhances the overall aesthetic vibe of the braid while also giving it an appealing texture that is fun to run your fingers through.
They are perfect for adding glamour, shine, and elegance to your hair, making you stand out wherever you go.
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4. Fulani Braids with Curls
Fulani braids with curls can be styled up, down, sideways, in different shapes, or as a mix of different curl types. This unique style brings out the beauty of both Fulani braids and curly hair, giving you an extraordinary look that’s perfect for everyday wear or formal events.
5. Tribal Fulani Braids
These braids are often styled upwards, sideways, or downwards. If you want to create more dimensions, add beads, cowrie shells, and gold thread and you’ll activate the chic look.
Tribal Fulani braids are ideal for occasions that require a representation of culture, such as cultural events, festivals, or family gatherings.
Tribal Fulani braids are another. So, when next you have a cultural event, don’t hesitate to activate this beauty to show off your cultural heritage.
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6. Fulani Braids with Design
The designs in the patterns vary from simple shapes to complex, mixed with swirls, curves, and lines. They are a perfect choice for weddings, festivals, and formal events.
To level up your look, you can add different colour extensions and enhance the braid artwork.
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7. Fulani Braids with knotless
You can wear this to any event and still, the moment, don’t forget to activate your braids with cowrie and gold thread, the beauty is giving.
8. Fulani Braids Ponytail
This style involves placing your braids into a sleek ponytail that can be styled upwards, sideways, or downwards, depending on your preference, occasion, and overall style.
How to Maintain Your Fulani Braid
To maintain your Fulani braids, keep your scalp and surrounding hair clean.
Ensure that you wash your hair regularly with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, moisturize your hair with oil or butter, and keep your hair neat and fresh by rebranding your loose strands.
DIY Braiding
Many ladies love braiding their hair by themselves, and although this is cost-effective, it’s important to know the pros and cons of DIY braiding, which is what we will show you.
PROS OF DIY BRAIDING
- Protective: Braids can protect your hair from frizz and breakage. Braiding can also protect your hair from friction caused by rubbing against your pillow.
- Low maintenance: Braids are low maintenance and can help your hair grow.
- Creative: Braids can be creative and attractive.
- Variety of styles: Braids come in a variety of styles.
- Reduce split ends: Braids can reduce split ends.
- Lock in moisture: Braids can lock in moisture.
CONS OF DIY BRAIDING
- Time consuming: Braids can take a long time to do and undo.
- Pain: Braids can pull and hurt.
- Scalp irritation: Braids can cause scalp irritation and discomfort due to pulling and tugging.
- Hair breakage: Braids can cause hair breakage, especially if the hair is already damaged or fragile.
- Hair shedding: Leaving crochet braids in for more than eight weeks can cause hair shedding and a receding hairline.
- Tight braids: Tight braids can strain the hair follicle and lead to hair loss
Conclusion
Fulani braids are a stylish and unique way to rock your natural hair. With the styles outlined in this article, you can choose the perfect style that suits your taste and personality.
The braids are easy to maintain and can last for several weeks, making it a perfect low-maintenance protective style.
Whether you want to add tribal flair to your look or show off your romantic side, Fulani braids are the perfect choice. So next time you’re looking for a chic yet cultural hairstyle, Fulani braids should be at the top of your list.
FAQs
What do Fulani braids symbolize?
Fulani braids, also known as Bo braids or tribal braids, are a traditional hairstyle originating from the Fulani people of West Africa. In Fulani culture, braids symbolise social status, wealth, and beauty. The intricate patterns and styles of the braids can also signify the age, marital status, and tribal affiliation of the wearer.
What did Kim Kardashian call Fulani braids?
In January 2018, Kim Kardashian received criticism for referring to her Fulani-inspired braids as “Bo Derek braids” in a tweet and on social media. Actress Bo Derek had famously worn similar braids in the 1979 film “10”. Kardashian’s comments were seen as culturally insensitive and appropriating a hairstyle with deep cultural significance.
What is the common hairstyle for Fulani?
The most common hairstyle for Fulani women is braids, often styled into intricate patterns and adorned with beads and cowrie shells. The braids may be pulled back into a ponytail or bun, or left loose and flowing. Men may also wear braids, but they are usually simpler in style.
What is the common hairstyle for Fulani?
Fulani braids are a traditional hairstyle associated with the Fulani people, who are a nomadic ethnic group found throughout West Africa. The hairstyle is particularly popular in countries such as Senegal, Mali, Guinea, and Nigeria, where the Fulani people have a significant presence. However, the style has also gained popularity outside of Africa, particularly in the United States, where it is sometimes called “tribal” or “ethnic” braids.
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