As a salon hairstylist with more than a decade behind the chair, I’ve braided hundreds of Fulani and boho-inspired looks. Fulani boho braids combine signature cornrows with loose, textured braids, beads, threads and free-flowing ends to create a relaxed yet defined aesthetic. These styles suit women with natural and relaxed hair textures, a variety of face shapes, and busy lifestyles who want a protective, low-maintenance option that still reads fashion-forward. They work beautifully on short, medium and long lengths—extensions let you customize volume and length without stressing fragile ends. In the gallery below I’ve curated 28 images showcasing variations in parting, braid size, accessory placement and edge styling so you can choose the best match for your features. Salon tips: keep tension gentle at the hairline, moisturize the scalp regularly, and opt for lightweight braiding hair to avoid heaviness. With the right prep and upkeep, Fulani boho braids are versatile, wearable and perfect for everyday or special occasions.
Sleek Ghana Feed‑In Cornrows into Long Chunky Braids with Defined Edges
This look pairs sleek, feed‑in (Ghana) cornrows at the crown with two long, chunky braids — ideal for textured, kinky or coily hair and works well on medium to thick relaxed hair when prepped correctly. The technique: section and cornrow small to medium rows toward the sides and feed in braiding hair gradually to build thickness, then finish each side with a three‑strand or knotless braid. Tools: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, fine edge brush, elastic bands, hair clips and a braiding hook if using extensions. Products: hydrating leave‑in conditioner, braiding gel or edge control for a sleek finish, lightweight hair oil for scalp health, and flexible holding spray or mousse to set flyaways. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 1.5–3 hours depending on length and extension work; knotless/feed‑in methods reduce tension and are gentler on the hairline. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk bonnet or pillowcase, reapply lightweight oil to the scalp every 3–4 days, refresh edges with a small amount of edge control, and avoid excessive pulling. Remove or redo within 6–8 weeks to prevent breakage and maintain healthy regrowth.
Bohemian Long Micro Braids with Beads & Chain Hair Jewelry
This statement bohemian look uses small micro/box braids with decorative beads, wrap details and lightweight chain hair jewelry. Best suited for Type 3–4 textured hair (medium to coarse), it also works on straighter hair when blended with extensions. Technique: clean sectioning, create small box braids or two-strand twists from the scalp, add cornrows at the crown for placement of chains, and incorporate beads/wraps during braiding or with a beading needle afterward. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, duckbill clips, quality braiding hair/extensions, beading needle or loop tool, small elastics, scissors and a crochet needle (if adding micro-locs). Products required: lightweight leave-in conditioner, anti-frizz gel or edge control for smooth parts, braid-hold mousse, weekly braid spray, and a nourishing scalp oil. Difficulty level: intermediate to advanced — professional installation recommended for even tension and secure jewelry placement. Maintenance tips: sleep with a silk/satin scarf or bonnet, re-tension visible roots every 4–6 weeks, wash gently with diluted shampoo and focus on the scalp, avoid heavy products near roots, remove heavy jewelry before sleeping or washing, and keep the style for 8–12 weeks to protect natural hair health.
Boho Cornrow Crown with Long Box Braids and Purple Extension Accents
This look pairs a tight cornrow crown with long feed-in/box braids finished with colored extension accents and metallic hair jewelry. It suits natural textured hair (3A–4C) best for grip and longevity; straighter or finer hair can achieve the look with pre-braiding stretching and quality braiding hair for hold. Start on clean, detangled hair: blow‑dry or band‑stretch to reduce shrinkage, section the crown and create neat cornrows following the hairline, then transition into feed‑in box braids for length and thickness. Add pre‑colored synthetic or human extensions for the purple highlights and secure ends with small elastics or micro‑braids. Tools: rat‑tail comb, duckbill clips, edge brush, braiding comb, crochet needle (optional), and small elastics. Recommended products: lightweight leave‑in conditioner, edge control gel, braid mousse for shine and frizz control, anti‑itch braid spray, and a light oil for scalp hydration. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 2–5 hours depending on density. Maintenance: wrap with a silk scarf nightly, mist scalp weekly with braid spray or diluted leave‑in, avoid heavy creams near the roots, and refresh edges every 2–4 weeks; fully redo after 6–8 weeks to protect natural hair.
Long Beaded Box Braids with Fabric Wraps and Thread Accents
This look suits natural, curly or coily hair textures and works best on medium to thick hair or with added braiding hair for length and fullness. Technique: detangle and deep-condition, then create clean small-to-medium sections with a rat-tail comb and secure with clips. Use a three-strand or feed-in braiding method to keep tension even; incorporate pre-stretched braiding hair for length. Finish selected braids with colorful fabric/thread wraps and slide on beads or metal cuffs with a beading tool. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, braiding hair/extensions, small elastics, beading tool/needle, edge brush and sharp scissors. Products required: leave-in conditioner, a light hold edge control, moisturizing braid spray or lightweight oil (jojoba/argan), and a light setting mousse to smooth flyaways. Difficulty: intermediate — requires braiding skill and 3–6 hours depending on size. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk scarf/bonnet, mist scalp with braid spray and oil weekly, avoid heavy accessories that pull the roots, and refresh edges and loose braids as needed. Remove or restyle after 6–8 weeks to prevent breakage.
Micro Box Braids — Thin Side‑Swept Braids with Beaded Accents
This look features tightly braided micro box braids swept to the side and decorated with beads and wraps. Suitability: best for textured hair (3B–4C) because the natural grip holds small braids, but it can be achieved on straighter hair with added synthetic or human braiding hair for volume and length. Styling technique: create clean, small square sections with a rattail comb, add pre-stretched braiding hair if needed, and three‑strand braid each section keeping even tension; gather and pin extra braids to form a soft side sweep or low bun. Tools needed: rattail comb, sectioning clips, braiding hair (optional), small elastic bands, beading tool or crochet hook, and U‑pins. Products required: leave‑in conditioner, lightweight braid gel/edge control, braid spray or scalp oil, and a light setting mousse to reduce frizz. Difficulty level: intermediate to advanced — time‑consuming (4–8+ hours) and requires precision. Maintenance tips: protect at night with a silk scarf or bonnet, refresh edges with edge control, moisturize scalp weekly, avoid excessive tension to prevent breakage, and plan removal/retouch after 8–12 weeks.
Center-Part Cornrow (Dutch) Braids with Gold Thread Wraps
This polished center-part cornrow style features two thick Dutch/boxer braids finished with gold thread and cuff wraps — a protective, wearable look that suits natural/coily, wavy, and relaxed hair, and can be built with added extensions for fine or short hair. Technique: create a precise middle part, section small-to-medium panels at the hairline, and use a feed-in Dutch braid to build each braid smoothly down the scalp before continuing a three-strand braid to the ends. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, fine-tooth/edge brush, long-tooth comb, small elastics, optional synthetic or human hair extensions, and decorative thread/cuffs. Products required: light leave-in conditioner, edge-control gel for baby hairs, a moisturizing cream or butter, lightweight oil for the scalp, and a light holding spray. Difficulty level: intermediate — typically 45–90 minutes in a salon depending on additions and braider speed. Maintenance tips: sleep with a satin scarf/bonnet, apply oil to the scalp every 3–4 days, refresh edges sparingly with edge gel, avoid over-tightening the base, and remove or redo after 6–8 weeks to prevent breakage.
Long Cornrows Into Chunky Protective Braids with Edge Styling
Suitable for medium-to-coarse and natural Afro-textured hair, this style also adapts to finer or straighter hair when pre-braided extensions are added. Begin on clean, detangled hair: use a rat-tail comb to create precise parts and cornrow the front and sides with a feed-in (stitch) technique to build gradual thickness. Transition the cornrows into long, chunky three-strand braids or two-strand twists, integrating pre-stretched Kanekalon or human hair for extra length and volume. Seal ends with small elastics or careful hot-water dipping for synthetic hair. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, wide-tooth comb, small elastics, crochet/latch hook (optional) and hair clips. Products: leave-in conditioner, light holding gel/edge control, braid mousse, anti-frizz serum or braid sheen, and a moisturizing scalp oil or spray. Difficulty: Intermediate — expect 3–6 hours depending on size and added hair. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet or pillowcase, lightly mist with braid spray or diluted leave-in to prevent dryness, apply scalp oil weekly, avoid heavy products at the roots, gently cleanse with diluted shampoo using an applicator, refresh edges after 2–3 weeks, and remove within 6–8 weeks to protect hairline and scalp health.
Textured Cornrows into High Buns with Beaded Dreadlock Accents
This look works best on Type 3–4 natural textures or hair prepped with extensions for length. Start by parting clean, hydrated hair and creating neat cornrows from the hairline toward the crown using a feed-in technique for smooth growth transitions. Leave several sections out or install faux locs/dread extensions through crochet or braid-and-wrap methods so they hang long and can be accessorized. Gather the top rows into two or three small high buns and pin securely; let the long locs fall and add beads, wraps or charms for visual interest. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, edge brush, small elastics, bobby pins, crochet needle/latch hook (for extensions), and scissors. Products: lightweight leave-in conditioner, twisting cream or gel for hold, edge control, lightweight oil for shine, and a dry shampoo or scalp cleanser for hygiene. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 2–5 hours depending on extensions. Maintenance: sleep on a satin bonnet, refresh edges weekly, lightly oil the scalp and avoid heavy product buildup, re-tighten buns and cornrows every 3–6 weeks, and remove or redo extensions after 8–12 weeks to protect the natural hair.
Boho Fulani Cornrow Braids with Beads, Thread Wraps & Edge Styling
Suitability: Ideal for medium to thick textured hair (4A–4C) and works well with added kanekalon or synthetic extensions for length and uniform thickness. Fine hair can adopt the look with lighter extensions and looser tension. Technique: Create clean feed-in cornrows along the scalp forming a crown, then transition to larger three-strand or two-strand braids/twists that are finished with thread wraps, metal cuffs, beads and fabric strips. Finish baby hairs with gel and a small edge brush. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, long tail crochet needle (if using crochet or pre-loop extensions), braiding hair (kanekalon), scissors, edge brush, and small pliers for cuffs. Products required: moisturizing leave-in, lightweight cream or butter, edge control gel, anti-frizz serum, lightweight oil (argan or jojoba), and a light-hold setting spray or mousse. Difficulty: Intermediate–advanced — expect 3–6+ hours depending on size and accessories; professional styling recommended for perfect tension and scalp health. Maintenance: Sleep on a silk scarf/bonnet, lightly mist scalp weekly and seal with oil, refresh edges with small amounts of edge control, retouch loose feed-ins as needed, avoid over-tightening to prevent traction, and remove carefully to prevent breakage.
Long Box Braids with Beaded Ends and Top-Knot Accents
This look pairs small-to-medium box braids with cornrowed crown sections pulled into two soft top-knots and decorative wooden beads and wraps along the lengths. Best suited to natural 3A–4C textures or medium-to-thick hair; people with finer hair can achieve the same silhouette using lightweight Kanekalon or premium synthetic extensions. Technique: section the hair into clean squares, feed-in braiding with extensions for length/thickness, create two front cornrows that finish as knotted top-buns, and add beads or wraps with a beading tool or small elastic. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, fine-tooth comb, beading tool, crochet/latch needle (optional), scissors and safe-end-sealing method. Products required: leave-in conditioner, lightweight braid spray, edge control gel, light oil (jojoba/argan), and anti-frizz mousse. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 4–8 hours depending on density; book a professional for tight, uniform micro-braids. Maintenance tips: sleep on silk/satin, reapply braid spray and lightweight oil weekly, cleanse scalp with diluted sulfate-free shampoo every 2–3 weeks, avoid excessive tension at the hairline, and retouch edges or replace beads as needed to prolong wear (6–8 week lifespan).
Boho Faux Locs Half-Up Top Knot with Beads — Long Protective Style
This boho half-up faux locs look is a long-lasting protective style ideal for medium to coarse natural hair or relaxed hair with enough density. Technique: section the hair into medium-sized parts, cornrow or feed-in braid each section, then install pre-made faux loc extensions (or wrap braiding hair/Marley hair to create locs) and secure a top-half into a loose bun/top knot while leaving the rest to fall. Add beads, shells, and wraps for texture. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, hair clips, crochet or latch hook (if using pre-looped locs), elastic bands, scissors, bead/threading tool and bobby pins. Products required: lightweight leave-in conditioner, edge control gel, anti-frizz mousse, lightweight hair oil/serum for shine, sulfate-free clarifying shampoo for scalp washes and a dry shampoo or scalp refresh spray. Difficulty level: Advanced — professional installation recommended for clean tension and longevity; expect 4–8 hours depending on length and thickness. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet or scarf, refresh edges with edge control, gently cleanse scalp every 2–3 weeks using diluted shampoo, re-tighten or redo perimeter braids at 6–8 weeks to avoid tension, avoid heavy oils at the roots and remove accessories before washing.
Knotless Long Box Braids with High Crown Bun and Face‑Framing Twists
Knotless long box braids gathered into a high crown bun with elongated face‑framing twists. Suitable for natural 3A–4C textures and relaxed hair when prepped, this style works best on medium to thick density hair and can be created with added Kanekalon or synthetic extensions for length and contrast. Technique: create clean box or feed‑in sections, use the knotless (feed‑in) method at the root to reduce tension, braid to desired length and leave two to four longer braids for the face, then coil the remainder into a stacked bun and secure with elastic and pins. Tools: rat‑tail comb, duckbill clips, small elastic bands, long‑handled crochet or latch hook (optional), stainless steel sewing pins. Products: lightweight leave‑in conditioner, braid mousse to set, edge control gel, scalp oil/foaming braid spray and anti‑frizz serum. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 4–8 hours depending on size. Maintenance: moisturize scalp twice weekly, sleep on silk, mist with braid spray, avoid heavy oils at the roots, and re‑tighten or redo hairline braids after 3–5 weeks to protect edges.
Twisted Long Braids with Top Buns and Wrapped Accents
Suitable for Type 3–4 natural curls and textured or relaxed hair seeking grip; works best on medium to thick density and mid-back length for similar fullness. Technique: prep with a deep-conditioning and detangling, section hair into a defined top area for cornrows and larger sections for two-strand rope twists or chunky three-strand braids. Create small feed-in cornrows at the hairline, twist or braid the remaining lengths, incorporate synthetic extension for length/volume if desired, and wrap selected braid sections with thread or metal cuffs. Gather the top section into two small buns for the half-up style and secure with elastics and pins. Tools: rat-tail comb, duckbill clips, small elastics, crochet needle (for extensions), long-tooth comb, sectioning clips. Products: leave-in detangler, lightweight cream or butter for definition, edge control for baby hairs, lightweight oil for shine, and light holding spray. Difficulty: moderate to advanced — expect 2–5 hours depending on extensions and density. Maintenance: sleep with a silk scarf/bonnet, refresh oil and edge control weekly, avoid excessive tension, and redo cornrows every 4–6 weeks to protect the hairline.
Gold‑Accented Goddess Braids with Faux‑Locs — Boho Braided Upstyle
This look suits medium to very textured hair and can be created on finer hair using added extensions. Technique: small, neat cornrows at the crown feed into a mix of feed‑in box braids and wrapped faux‑locs; larger sections are finished as a chunky boho braid with wrapped yarn and metallic thread. From salon practice, start with clean, detangled, pre‑stretched hair and leave a 1/4–1/2 inch of natural growth at the scalp to reduce tension. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, crochet hook (for prelooped extensions), bead/needle kit, hairpins and tension clips. Products required: lightweight leave‑in conditioner, anti‑breakage cream or butter, firm edge control, braid holding mousse, lightweight oil or scalp serum, and a braid refresher spray. Difficulty level: advanced — expect 6–10 hours depending on length and amount of extensions. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet, reapply scalp oil weekly, refresh edges with a small amount of gel or mousse, use diluted shampoo applied with an applicator bottle and dry thoroughly, and retouch loose braids after 6–8 weeks. Avoid excessive tension at installation to protect the hairline.
Cornrow Side-Part with Long Beaded Micro Braids and Teal Extension Accents
This look combines clean feed-in cornrows at the crown with long micro/box braids and twist-style extensions threaded with teal synthetic strands and decorative beads. Best suited for Type 3C–4C natural textures or anyone wanting protective styling with volume — medium to thick hair holds the style best, though extensions can add fullness for finer hair. Technique: part the hair into neat side cornrows using feed-ins at the top, then transition into individual micro braids or two-strand twists, adding pre-colored synthetic braiding hair with a small crochet or latch hook to blend color and length. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, latch-hook/crochet tool, small scissors, bead applicator/pliers and a fine-tooth edge brush. Products: moisturizing leave-in, lightweight braiding gel or edge control for smooth parts, setting mousse to reduce frizz, and a sealing oil for scalp hydration. Difficulty: moderate to advanced — expect 4–8 hours depending on density and length. Maintenance: sleep with a silk scarf/bonnet, refresh edges with light gel, oil scalp weekly, avoid excessive tension at the hairline, and remove or redo after 6–8 weeks to prevent breakage.
Feed-in Cornrowed Box Braids — Long Micro Braids with Accessories
A polished feed-in cornrow to box-braid style ideal for clients seeking long, low‑manipulation protection. Best suited to natural textured hair (3A–4C) because the feed‑in technique creates a smooth, tension‑controlled start; it can also be installed on straighter hair using synthetic braiding hair for bulk and length. Technique: section the hair with a rat‑tail comb, create small cornrows at the scalp using the feed‑in method to gradually add braiding hair, then continue the braids to the desired length and finish with a knot, band or sealed end. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, edge brush, small elastics, braid hair (Kanekalon), blunt scissors and optional hot‑water pot for sealing. Products: leave‑in conditioner before braiding, lightweight edge control for sleek parts, braiding mousse to set, scalp oil (jojoba or tea tree blend) and a braid spray for hold and hydration. Difficulty: intermediate to advanced; expect 3–6 hours depending on size and length. Maintenance: sleep on a satin scarf/pillowcase, oil scalp weekly, gently cleanse every 2–3 weeks with diluted shampoo, refresh edges with mousse, and remove or redo after 6–8 weeks to prevent breakage.
Long Box Braids with Beaded Accessories
These long, neat box/micro braids with mixed beads are best suited to medium-to-coarse, textured and curly hair that can hold tension and extensions. The technique uses small box parts and a feed-in method with Kanekalon or premium synthetic extensions to create uniform, long braids; beads and metal cuffs are added after braiding. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, measuring mirror, crochet hook (optional), braiding hair, small elastics, needle-nose pliers for beads, sharp scissors and a bowl of hot water for sealing ends. Products: lightweight leave-in conditioner, braid cream for hold, anti-frizz serum, scalp oil (jojoba or grapeseed) and edge control for smooth hairlines. Difficulty level: advanced — expect 6–8 hours in salon and a senior braider for even tension and consistency. Maintenance tips: wash gently every 1–2 weeks with dilute shampoo or dry shampoo, moisturize the scalp twice weekly, use braid spray to refresh, sleep on satin and avoid heavy wetting. Important: avoid excessive tension at the hairline to prevent breakage; remove or redo after 6–8 weeks to protect natural hair.
Cornrow Crown into Long Feed‑In Braids — Protective Natural Braided Style
This look suits Type 3–4 textured hair and anyone wanting a long-term protective style; it also works on straighter hair when prepped with added braiding hair. Technique: create clean, parallel cornrows at the crown and sides, then transition into individual feed‑in/box braids that are secured down the length. Keep tension moderate to protect edges. Tools needed: rat‑tail comb, fine tooth comb, sectioning clips, edge brush, braiding hair (Kanekalon or X‑Pression), small elastics, hairdryer with comb attachment (optional). Products required: moisturizing leave‑in conditioner, lightweight styling gel or edge control, braid spray or light oil (jojoba/argan), mousse for set, and a clarifying shampoo for washes. Difficulty level: intermediate to advanced — expect 4–8 hours depending on size and length; recommended to book with an experienced braider for even tension and neat parts. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin bonnet or scarf, refresh edges with light gel, mist scalp and braids 2–3 times weekly with a hydrating spray, cleanse scalp every 2–3 weeks using diluted shampoo, and remove or redo within 6–8 weeks to avoid breakage and maintain scalp health.
Sleek Feed-In Cornrows into Long Box Braids with Beaded Accents
This style suits natural, curly, coily, and textured hair (type 3–4) and can be adapted for finer hair with extensions. To create it, the hair is sectioned into clean, straight parts and feed-in cornrows are braided close to the scalp, transitioning into medium-sized box braids that hang long and are finished with metallic beads or cuffs. Tools: rattail comb, wide-tooth comb, small clips/duckbill clips, edge brush, hair ties, scissors, and quality Kanekalon or human extension hair if extra length/volume is needed. Products: leave-in conditioner, lightweight oil, edge control gel, holding mousse and a dry‑shine spray to set. Technique: braid with consistent, gentle tension; feed extensions gradually for a natural root; seal ends neatly and add accessories. Difficulty: intermediate to advanced — expect 3–6 hours depending on size and length; a salon professional is recommended for precise parts and to minimize tension. Maintenance: wrap with a satin scarf nightly, refresh edges weekly, moisturize the scalp twice weekly with diluted oil or light spray, avoid heavy products at the roots, and remove after 6–10 weeks to prevent breakage.
Chunky Box Braids with Braided Crown Updo and Hair Jewelry
Salon-ready chunky box braids swept into a braided crown and top bun, accented with metallic hair cuffs and beads. Suitable for natural Afro-textured hair (3A–4C) and medium to thick densities; can also be installed on straight or relaxed hair using synthetic or human hair extensions for added length. Technique: section hair into clean parts, install feed-in cornrows at the hairline or along the crown, create large three-strand or box braids down the length, gather top sections into a high bun and secure with pins; finish with cuffs, beads, and decorative threads. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, tail comb, small elastic bands, bobby pins, crochet needle (for pre-loop extensions) and an edge brush. Products: pre-wash deep conditioner, leave-in moisturizer, lightweight oil or anti-itch scalp oil, edge control, and a braid-refresh spray. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 3–6 hours depending on size and length; professional installation recommended for even parts and feed-in technique. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk scarf/bonnet, mist braid spray 2–3× weekly, cleanse scalp with diluted shampoo or dry shampoo, avoid heavy products at the roots, refresh edges as needed, and remove after 6–8 weeks to prevent tension-related breakage.
Long Micro Braids with High Bun and Beaded Accents
Suitable for textured hair (3A–4C) and relaxed or straight hair with added braiding hair; micro/box braids provide long-lasting protective styling. Technique: part hair into small, even sections and create feed-in or knotless micro braids using pre-stretched braiding hair, secure ends with tiny bands, gather the front crown into a high bun and leave remaining lengths loose; add beads and metallic cuffs as finishing touches. Tools: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, pre-stretched braiding hair, small elastic bands, beading tool/loop, blunt needle for sewing in extensions if needed, and a wide-tooth comb. Products: hydrating leave-in conditioner, lightweight scalp oil, edge control gel, setting mousse to smooth flyaways, and a heat-free shine serum. Difficulty: Advanced — expect 6–10 hours for a full-head install; a professional stylist is recommended for even tension and neat parting. Maintenance: sleep on a silk scarf or bonnet, refresh edges with lightweight gel, apply scalp oil weekly, cleanse with diluted shampoo or dry-cleanse spray every 1–2 weeks, and remove beads/re-tension at first signs of thinning. Recommended redo every 6–8 weeks to protect edges and scalp health.
Cornrow Feed-In Updo with Long Braids and Beaded Accents
Suitable for natural 3A–4C textures and anyone seeking a protective style, this look works best on medium to thick hair or with added braiding extensions for extra length and volume. The style pairs tight feed-in cornrows along the scalp that converge into a textured stacked bun at the crown, while several long braids are left to frame the face and finished with metallic cuffs or beads. Technique: section hair into even rows, use a rattail comb and clips, create tight feed-in cornrows directed to the crown, add kanekalon or human braiding hair where length is desired, wrap and pin braid ends into a bun, then apply decorative accents. Tools: rattail comb, sectioning clips, elastic bands, long bobby pins, braiding hair, crochet/latch hook (optional). Products: moisturizing leave-in, edge-control gel, braid mousse for hold, lightweight scalp oil, and anti-frizz or shine spray. Difficulty: intermediate–advanced; allow 3–5 hours in salon. Maintenance: sleep with a satin bonnet/scarf, oil the scalp weekly, cleanse gently with diluted shampoo or dry-cleanse between washes, refresh edges as needed, and redo cornrows after 3–6 weeks to prevent tension and breakage.
Knotless Feed-In Jumbo Braids with Bantu-Knot Accents and Hair Cuffs
This style suits medium to coarse natural textures best, and can be adapted for finer or chemically-treated hair by using pre-stretched extensions for added grip and volume. Technique: start on freshly cleansed, detangled hair with a light leave-in conditioner. Create a clean center part, then section small cornrows at the crown and transition to knotless (feed-in) jumbo braids down each side, finishing with secured ends. Add two small bantu-knot loops across the top for visual interest and attach metal cuffs or rings for embellishment. Tools needed: rattail comb, sectioning clips, edge brush, hair bands, long synthetic braiding hair (pre-stretched if desired), needle/thread or small pliers for cuffs. Products required: lightweight leave-in, edge control or gel for smooth parts, mousse or setting foam to reduce frizz, light scalp oil/serum, and braid spray for shine and scalp refresh. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 2–4 hours depending on length and thickness; book a stylist if unsure. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk bonnet, refresh edges weekly with edge control, apply oil to the scalp every 3–4 days, avoid heavy weights on the braids, and remove or redo after 6–8 weeks to protect hair health.
Box Braids with High Knot Bun and Beaded Gold Accents
This look pairs small-to-medium box braids with a soft top-knot bun and decorative beads/cuffs — ideal for natural Type 3–4 hair for best grip and longevity, though it can be created on straighter textures using feed-in or pre-loop extensions. Technique: create clean box-part sections, braid using the feed-in method for a tapered, natural root, gather selected braids into a high bun while leaving others to frame the face and neck; add metal cuffs and beads as finishing touches. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, braiding hair (optional), latch hook/crochet needle, small elastics, scissors and a tail comb. Products required: lightweight leave-in conditioner, edge control gel, setting mousse to reduce frizz, scalp oil/serum and a lightweight shine spray. Difficulty level: intermediate — expect 4–8+ hours depending on size and length; professional installation recommended for crisp parts. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk scarf/bonnet, reapply scalp oil weekly, refresh edges with a small amount of gel, avoid heavy creams that attract residue, and schedule touch-ups after 6–8 weeks to keep the style neat.
Feed-In Cornrow Crown with Long Box Braids — Protective Braided Style
This feed-in cornrow crown that transitions into long box braids suits textured, coily, and curly hair best, and can also be adapted for relaxed or straightened hair with added extensions. Technique: start on clean, detangled hair; section the crown into precise parts and create feed-in cornrows (small added-hair stitches at the scalp) that form a braided crown, then continue each row into three-strand box braids for length. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, fine-tooth comb, braiding hair (optional for length), elastic bands, and a small crochet needle or beading tool for accessories. Products required: lightweight leave-in conditioner, edge-control gel for sleek edges, holding pomade for grip while braiding, braid-spray or moisturizing mist, and a lightweight oil to seal the scalp. Difficulty level: intermediate to advanced — neat parts and even feed-in technique often benefit from a professional stylist. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk/satin scarf or bonnet, refresh edges weekly with edge control, mist scalp and braids with braid spray or diluted leave-in, cleanse gently every 2–3 weeks with a diluted shampoo and dry fully, and avoid excessive tension to prevent breakage; ideal longevity is 6–8 weeks with touch-ups as needed.
Micro Braids with Gold Coil & Bead Accents — Long Protective Style
Suitable hair types: Best for naturally textured, kinky or coily hair (3A–4C) but also achievable on straighter hair with pre-stretched or Kanekalon extensions. Works well for medium to thick density; very fine hair should avoid excessive tension. Styling technique: Create small individual micro braids, adding extensions for length and thickness. Begin with neat cornrows or feed-in braids at the hairline for a soft edge, then three-strand braid down each section. Incorporate metal coils, cuffs and beads after braiding. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastic bands, crochet needle (for invisible knot or attaching extensions), bead applicator, scissors. Products required: pre-stretch or detangler spray, lightweight leave-in conditioner, edge control gel for neat hairline, braiding mousse to set, lightweight scalp oil (jojoba/tea tree) and dry shampoo. Difficulty level: Advanced — expect 4–8+ hours depending on size; recommended to book an experienced braider for uniform tension and longevity. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk bonnet, oil the scalp twice weekly, avoid heavy creams that cause buildup, refresh edges with light gel, wash gently every 2–3 weeks, and remove after 8–12 weeks to prevent breakage.
Chunky Cornrow-to-Braid Style with Decorative Metal Coin Accessories
Suitable for Type 3–4 textures and medium to high density hair, this look can be adapted for finer hair by incorporating lightweight extension hair. Technique: begin on clean, conditioned, and detangled hair. Use a rattail comb to create neat parts and cornrow small-to-medium sections from the hairline inward; where the cornrow ends, transition into a three-strand or feed-in chunky braid. Add braided extension hair during the feed-in stage for extra length and volume, then secure ends with small elastics and trim any stray fibers. Tools needed: rattail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, crochet hook (optional), hair clips, and sharp scissors for finishing. Products required: leave-in conditioner, braiding cream or gel for part definition and hold, lightweight butter or cream for moisture, anti-frizz serum, and a lightweight scalp oil. Difficulty level: intermediate — requires precise parting and consistent tension; a professional braider is recommended for very even cornrows. Maintenance tips: sleep in a silk bonnet or use a satin pillowcase, refresh edges weekly with light edge control, apply scalp oil 1–2 times weekly, avoid excessive tugging, and remove or redo after 6–8 weeks to protect hair health.
Textured Cornrow-to-Twist Ponytail with Beads and Wrapped Accents
This look suits medium-to-very thick, curly or coily hair (3A–4C) and can be created on relaxed hair with added texture or on natural hair for best hold. Technique: section the top into neat cornrows directed toward a high/low pony, secure the base, then incorporate long two-strand twists, sisterlocks or faux-dread extensions into the ponytail. Finish with microbraids, wrapped thread, metal cuffs and beads for detail. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastic bands, crochet hook/latch needle (for extensions and tightening), hairpins and a firm brush for edges. Products required: firm-hold styling gel or edge control for clean cornrows, leave-in conditioner or light cream to hydrate strands before braiding, anti-frizz serum or sebum-free oil for shine, and a braid-spray for scalp hydration. Difficulty: intermediate to advanced — expect 2–4 hours depending on length and added extensions. Maintenance tips: sleep on a satin scarf or bonnet, mist with a light braid spray weekly, avoid heavy oils that create buildup, gently cleanse the scalp every 2–3 weeks, and re-tighten or refresh cornrows/edges after 4–8 weeks to keep the style neat.
As you explore the 28 Fulani boho braid looks, follow a few pro rules to keep hair healthy and the style looking its best. Start with a deep conditioning treatment and a clean trim before braiding, and request lightweight, soft extensions if you want extra length or volume. Prioritize gentle tension at the roots—too-tight braids can cause breakage and traction alopecia. For maintenance, apply a lightweight oil or scalp serum every 3–4 days, refresh edges lightly with an edge control, and sleep on a satin scarf or bonnet. I recommend touch-ups or removal at 6–8 weeks to protect fragile ends. For styling, experiment with half-up crowns, wrapped buns, high ponytails, and beads or thread accents for a boho finish. If you experience persistent pain or thinning, loosen or remove the style early and consult your stylist. These professional steps will keep your Fulani boho braids looking fresh, healthy and effortlessly chic. — Lena