Fulani Braids Hairstyles 2024: 31 Ideas with Curls, Beads, Weave Cornrows, Twists for Natural Hair

The Fulani braids trend has continued to captivate fashion enthusiasts and hairstylists alike, offering a blend of traditional African beauty with modern twists. Originating from the Fulani people of West Africa, these braids are known for their intricate patterns and the unique adornments. In 2024, Fulani braids are evolving with creative variations. Whether you’re looking for a classic style or something more contemporary, these 31 Fulani braids ideas will inspire your next hairstyle.

Fulani Braids with Beads

Adding beads to Fulani braids brings an extra layer of tradition and style, creating a look that is both timeless and trendy. Fulani braids with beads are perfect for those who want to embrace their cultural heritage while adding a modern twist. This style is particularly flattering on square and diamond face shapes, and the beads can be customized to complement any eye color. It’s an excellent choice for cultural events, weddings, or any occasion where you want to make a sophisticated statement.

The process involves braiding the hair close to the scalp and threading beads onto the braids, securing them at various points along the length. To ensure the beads stay in place, use small rubber bands at the ends. Regular moisturizing with a leave-in conditioner will keep the braids soft and prevent them from becoming dry or brittle, especially around the beads.

Fulani Braids with Curls

Fulani braids with curls add a playful twist to the traditional style, combining sleek braids with soft, bouncy curls. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to maintain a natural and voluminous look while enjoying the intricate beauty of Fulani braids. Ideal for round and oval face shapes, this style enhances the natural beauty of those with brown or hazel eyes, making it a versatile choice for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events.

To achieve this look, the hair is braided from the roots, leaving the ends free to be curled. You can use a curling wand or flexi rods to create the desired curl pattern. To maintain the curls and keep them looking fresh, a light mousse or curl-defining cream is recommended. Additionally, sleeping with a satin bonnet will help preserve the style and prevent frizz.

Fulani Braids with Color

For those looking to make a bold statement, Fulani braids with color are the perfect choice. Incorporating vibrant hues like deep red, royal blue, or even pastel shades can turn a traditional hairstyle into a head-turning work of art. This style is ideal for those with heart-shaped faces and pairs beautifully with light-colored eyes, such as blue or green. Whether you’re attending a festival or a party, these colorful braids will undoubtedly steal the show.

Creating this look involves braiding colored extensions into the hair, allowing you to experiment with different shades without damaging your natural hair. It’s essential to use color-safe shampoos and conditioners to maintain the vibrancy of the extensions. To keep your scalp healthy, consider applying a scalp oil, like tea tree or peppermint, which will also prevent itching and dryness.

Fulani Braids with a Heart Design

A unique variation of the Fulani braids is incorporating a heart design into the pattern. This creative style is perfect for those looking to add a touch of romance and individuality to their look. It’s especially suited for oval and heart-shaped faces, accentuating soft features and drawing attention to the eyes. Whether you’re going on a date or celebrating a special occasion, this hairstyle is a charming way to express your personality.

To create the heart design, skilled braiding techniques are required to shape the braids into a heart pattern on the scalp. The rest of the hair is braided in the traditional Fulani style. To keep the design intact, use a strong-hold gel or pomade during the braiding process. Regular scalp massages with lightweight oil, such as jojoba, can help maintain scalp health and promote hair growth.

Fulani Braids with a Low Bun

For a chic and polished look, Fulani braids styled into a low bun offer the perfect balance of elegance and tradition. This hairstyle is ideal for those with long, oval faces, as the bun adds volume and draws attention to the neck and shoulders. Paired with bold accessories, this style is perfect for professional settings or formal events, adding a touch of sophistication to your overall look.

The low bun is created by gathering the ends of the Fulani braids at the nape of the neck and securing them into a bun. You can use bobby pins and a strong-hold hairspray to keep the bun in place. To maintain the smoothness of the braids, a light serum or oil can be applied to prevent frizz and add shine.

Fulani Braids with an Afro Twist

Blending Fulani braids with an Afro adds a stunning contrast of textures that is both bold and beautiful. This style is perfect for those with round or square face shapes, as the volume of the Afro balances the features. It’s a versatile look that can be worn to casual gatherings or more formal events, making a statement with its unique combination of styles.

To achieve this look, the front section of the hair is braided in the Fulani style, while the back is left in its natural Afro texture. To keep the Afro looking full and defined, use a pick to fluff the hair and a leave-in conditioner to maintain moisture. For the braids, regular application of scalp oil will keep your hair healthy and hydrated.

Fulani Braids with a High Ponytail

A high ponytail adds a sporty and youthful twist to traditional Fulani braids, perfect for those with long faces looking to add height and drama to their look. This hairstyle is great for active individuals who want to keep their hair out of the way while still looking stylish. It’s a versatile option that can transition from the gym to a night out with ease.

To create this look, the braids are gathered at the crown of the head and secured with a strong hair tie. To maintain the sleekness of the ponytail, use a light gel or edge control around the hairline. A spritz of shine spray will keep the braids looking glossy and well-maintained.

Fulani Braids with Twists

Fulani braids paired with twists create a unique and textured look that combines the intricate patterns of braids with the softness of twists. This style is ideal for those with round or oval faces, as the twists add volume and movement to the hairstyle. It’s a perfect choice for both casual and formal occasions, making it versatile and eye-catching.

To achieve this look, sections of the hair are braided, while others are twisted to create a contrasting texture. Maintaining the style involves regular moisturizing with a leave-in conditioner and using a twisting cream to keep the twists defined. Sleeping with a satin scarf or bonnet will help preserve the style and reduce frizz.

Fulani Braids with a High Bun

For a look that is both elegant and practical, Fulani braids styled into a high bun offer a chic updo that is perfect for formal events or everyday wear. This hairstyle is flattering on long and oval face shapes, as the height of the bun adds balance to the face. Paired with statement earrings, this style exudes confidence and sophistication.

To create the high bun, the braids are gathered at the top of the head and twisted into a bun. Secure the bun with pins or a strong hair tie. To keep the style sleek and polished, use a smoothing serum and edge control around the hairline. A satin pillowcase can help maintain the smoothness of the braids overnight.

Fulani Braids with a Side Part

Adding a side part to Fulani braids creates a sleek and modern look that is both stylish and versatile. This hairstyle is particularly flattering on oval and heart-shaped faces, as it adds dimension and frames the face beautifully. It’s an excellent choice for both everyday wear and special occasions, offering a chic alternative to traditional center-parted braids.

The side part is created by sectioning the hair off to one side before beginning the braiding process. The braids are then styled to follow the natural curve of the head, creating a smooth and polished finish. To keep the part intact and prevent frizz, use a styling gel or pomade. A silk scarf worn at night will help maintain the style and prevent frizz.

Fulani Braids with a Natural Weave

Combining Fulani braids with a natural weave offers the best of both worlds, blending the intricate braiding patterns with the fullness and length of a weave. This style is ideal for those with heart-shaped or oval faces, as it adds volume and creates a balanced look. It’s perfect for special occasions or everyday wear, offering a versatile and elegant hairstyle.

The natural weave is sewn into the braids, allowing for added length and fullness. It’s essential to use a high-quality weave that matches your natural hair texture to achieve a seamless look. Regular deep conditioning treatments are recommended to keep both the weave and your natural hair healthy and moisturized.

Fulani Braids with a Twisted Bun

The twisted bun is a sophisticated take on the traditional Fulani braids, offering a sleek and elegant look that is perfect for formal events. This hairstyle is particularly flattering on those with long or oval faces, as the bun adds volume and balances the features. It’s a timeless style that exudes grace and poise.

The twisted bun is created by gathering the ends of the Fulani braids into a bun and twisting them around each other before securing with pins. A strong-hold gel or spray will keep the bun in place, while a shine serum can be applied to keep the braids looking glossy and frizz-free.

Fulani Braids with a Side-Swept Bang

Adding a side-swept bang to Fulani braids offers a soft and romantic twist to the traditional style. This look is particularly flattering on heart-shaped and round faces, as the bangs frame the face and draw attention to the eyes. It’s a great choice for date nights or special events where you want to showcase a more feminine look.

To create this style, the hair is braided into Fulani braids, with a section left out to be styled into a side-swept bang. To keep the bangs in place, use a light-hold hairspray or gel. A silk scarf worn at night will help maintain the shape of the bangs and prevent frizz.

Fulani Braids with a Sew-In Weave

Combining Fulani braids with a sew-in weave offers the best of both worlds—intricate braids in the front and voluminous hair in the back. This style is ideal for those with oval or long face shapes, as the added length and volume create a balanced look. It’s perfect for those who want to switch up their style without committing to braids throughout their entire head.

To achieve this look, the front section of the hair is braided in the traditional Fulani style, while the back is left out to be sewn in with extensions. It’s essential to use high-quality extensions to ensure a natural blend. Regular deep conditioning treatments will keep both the natural hair and extensions healthy and moisturized.

Fulani Braids with Beaded Cornrows

For a truly unique and traditional look, combining beaded cornrows with Fulani braids adds a layer of cultural significance and style. This look is ideal for those with square or diamond face shapes, as the cornrows create a structured and detailed appearance. It’s perfect for cultural events or when you want to make a bold fashion statement.

To create this style, the hair is cornrowed close to the scalp, and beads are threaded onto the ends of the cornrows. Regular scalp oil treatments will keep the scalp healthy, while a light sheen spray will keep the braids and beads looking glossy and fresh.

Fulani Braids with a Weave Ponytail

Fulani braids combined with a weave ponytail offer a sleek and polished look that is perfect for both casual and formal settings. This style is ideal for those with oval and heart-shaped faces, as the ponytail adds length and accentuates the neck and shoulders. It’s a versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

To achieve this look, the front section of the hair is braided, while the back is left out to be styled into a high ponytail using a weave. A strong hair tie and bobby pins are used to secure the ponytail in place. To maintain the sleekness of the style, use a smoothing serum and edge control. A satin bonnet will help preserve the look overnight.

Fulani Braids with an Updo Twist

For a more formal take on Fulani braids, an updo twist offers an elegant and sophisticated style that is perfect for weddings or special events. This look is flattering on those with long or oval faces, as the updo adds height and drama to the hairstyle. Paired with statement jewelry, this style exudes elegance and grace.

To create the updo twist, the braids are gathered and twisted into an intricate updo. Secure the twists with pins and use a strong-hold hairspray to keep the style in place. Regular moisturizing with a light oil will keep the braids looking shiny and frizz-free.

Fulani Braids with a Wigs Overlay

For those who want the look of Fulani braids without the long-term commitment, a wigs overlay is the perfect solution. This style allows you to enjoy the beauty of Fulani braids while being able to switch up your look quickly. It’s ideal for those with oval and heart-shaped faces, as the wig can be customized to suit your face shape and style preferences.

The wig is created with Fulani braids attached to a wig cap, allowing for easy wear and removal. It’s essential to care for the wig by using a wig-specific shampoo and conditioner to maintain its quality. When not in use, store the wig on a stand to keep its shape and prevent tangling.

Fulani braids continue to be a powerful symbol of cultural heritage and personal style. With the versatility to be worn in a variety of ways, these braids offer endless possibilities for expressing individuality and creativity. Whether you’re looking for something traditional or a modern twist, the Fulani braids hairstyles of 2024 have something for everyone. Feel free to share your thoughts and favorite styles in the comments below—let’s keep the conversation going!