Fulani Braids Are the Perfect Hybrid Protective Style

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I'm most indecisive when I'm trying to decide which braided hairstyle I want next. Do I go for sleek cornrows? Neat box braids? Maybe I should just get the look that'll get me out of the salon the fastest? Every time I'm met with this dilemma, I come to the same conclusion: I want all of the above—and there's one way to do so.

Fulani braids start with a cornrow base and cascade into any box braid or twist style your heart desires. This braiding technique originated with the Fulani (or Fula) people of West Africa, according to Xia Charles, a Brooklyn-based braider and owner of Braided New York Salon. “These intricate hairstyles have been a part of their cultural expression for centuries,” Charles says.

While the style and technique are ancient, their impact is timeless. “Fulani braids have transcended their cultural origins to become a popular and fashionable hairstyle, celebrated for their beauty, versatility, and deep cultural significance,” says Charles. Black starlets including Cicely Tyson (in the 1960s) and Alicia Keys (in the early 2000s) put their spin on the look decades ago, but some of the most iconic versions remain popular today: The girls still pull up to salons asking for “Alicia Keys braids.”

Charles says Fulani braids are one of the most requested hairstyles at her salon, explaining that its appeal is in how customizable it is. Her clients love how creative they can be when “choosing their design for the front of the head or the cornrow part,” she says. Braiders, celebrities, and content creators are putting modern twists on the classic look by experimenting with bright hair colors, beads, and contemporary motifs like heart shapes.

Thinking of booking an appointment for Fulani braids? Expect to spend between four and seven hours at your salon and between $200 to $800. Yes, that’s a huge range, but like all braided hairstyles, how much time and money you spend is based on the size of the braid and how intricate you want your cornrow design to be.

For all that money, you’re going to want to ensure your braids last a while. Thankfully, Fulani braids can last up to six weeks with proper care, says Charles. For cornrows that look fresh for as long as possible, you’ll want to keep your scalp hydrated and free of flakes. We like the Flawless by Gabrielle Union Scalp Nourishing Spray for this, because it contains rosemary (an anti-inflammatory) and aloe (a moisturizer) to help keep your scalp feeling fresh and itching at bay.followed by your hair oil of choice (our favorite is the Mielle Rosemary Oil). Also, be sure to wrap your hair with a scarf at bedtime and sleep in a bonnet to preserve the style.

Flawless by Gabrielle Union Nourishing Scalp Spray

$11.00, Amazon

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil

$10.00, Amazon

Since such a wide variety of styles falls under the Fulani braid category, you’ll want to bring photos of the look you’re seeking when you head to the salon. Ahead, some options to screenshot before your next appointment.

Flip-Over Fulani Braids

Fulani Braids with Highlights

Diagonal Part Fulani Braids

Zig-Zag Fulani Braids

Fulani Braids Ponytail

Middle Part Fulani Braids

Discover more braid styles:

• Here’s Proof That Box Braids Are the Most Versatile Protective Style

• Boho Braids Are TikTok's Favorite Protective Hairstyle

• I Discovered My New Favorite Protective Style on a Recent Trip to Ghana

Now, watch Tyla get ready for her first Met Gala:

Originally Appeared on Allure