Box braids and cornrows are two of the most popular protective styles for Afro hair, but there’s another style set to make a comeback: Goddess braids. Here’s everything you need to know about this trending style…
What Are Goddess Braids?
“Goddess braids are an upgrade on your traditional box braids,” explains Naomi Brooks, owner of The Hair Sanctuary, which specialises in (and provides training for) Afro hair. “The foundation starts as a knotless braid but you add curly hair, either synthetic or human, as you braid and leave those pieces out to create a blend of textures.” Describing the placement of the curly hair, Jai-Li Rayneau, a barber, braider and hairdresser based in Milton Keynes, says: “You would normally add in one curl at the top of the braid and one part way down, depending on how much volume is wanted.” Depending on the length of the hair and size of the braids, this style can take anywhere from four to eight hours to complete.
Discussing the recent popularity of goddess braids, Naomi suggests that the natural look and feel of the style may hold an appeal for some, while Jai notes that they’re are a great way to include different colours into the hair without the need for bleach. Plus, with celebrities such as Zoe Kravitz, Jhene Aiko and even Michelle Obama adopting the style, there’s plenty of inspo pictures on social media.
What Is the Difference Between Goddess Braids and Boho Braids?
Both of these styles follow the same technique, however Jai explains that with boho braids, more curls are added in to the braids, giving a fuller, more natural appearance, whereas with goddess braids, the fewer curls results in a more uniform finish. “For boho braids you would normally use human hair, which tangles less than synthetic hair. As you’re using more hair overall, this helps with the upkeep – however it does make this style a bit more expensive.”
@kstyles_hair on TikTok demonstrates the difference between the two styles perfectly in her video here…
What Makes Goddess Braids a Great Protective Style?
“Just like traditional braids, goddess braids are a great protective style because the hair isn’t being manipulated daily from brushing, styling or adding heat,” says Naomi. However, this doesn’t mean that braided hair can be neglected; “Clients wearing braids should wear a bonnet in bed to prevent friction and use leave-in conditioner sprays or detangling mists to keep hair moisturised and manageable,” she adds. If cared for correctly, goddess braids can be kept in for four to eight weeks, and Jai explains once the curls begin to look a little frizzy and tangled, they can be cut out, leaving clients with just the braids – like a two-in-one hairstyle.
