Fulani Braids 101: Step-By-Step Guide to Achieving This Look | PATTERN (2024)

If you’re looking for an elegant, intricate & protective hairstyle steeped in cultural pride, Fulani braids might just become your new fave.

The Fulani braid hairstyle is centuries old, dating back to pre-1500s West Africa.1 But it’s never gone out of style—you might have spotted Alicia Keys, Willow Smith or Rihanna rocking the tribal braids look over the last few years.

Fulani braids styles come in all shapes & sizes: from intricate, beaded braids to simple, classic patterns. No matter which vibes you’re going for, this guide will help you create a stunning Fulani braids style.

What Are Fulani Braids? Exploring the History & Cultural Significance

What are Fulani braids? They’re a protective style with deep West African roots—& they’re still turning heads (often on runways & red carpets).

While no two Fulani braid hairstyles are the same, each one typically features three key elements:

  1. Stitch feed in cornrow braids on the top & sides of the head
  2. Knotless box braids on the back of the head
  3. Two forward braids, one on each side of the head above the ear

These intricate braidsare also commonly accessorized with beads or charms. This, too, is an homage to the Fula peoples, who often adorned the ends of their braids with stones, beads or coins.2

Getting Started: Preparing Your Curly Hair for Fulani Braids

For best results, you’ll want to make a few key preparations in the days leading up to your braiding appointment or DIY braiding session:

  • A few days before, you should wash your hair as normal. If you’re using , for instance, keep doing what you’re doing. In addition, make sure you have all the supplies you need: pre-stretched braiding hair, your curly hair styling products of choice, clips, edge tools & any beads or accessories.
  • The day before you start braiding, consider using a hair mask for curly hair, such as PATTERN’s Treatment Mask, to help you lock in moisture & prevent an itchy scalp after your look is complete.
  • On braiding day, make sure your hair is clean, dry, moisturized & ready to braid!

  • Step-By-Step Guide: How to Create 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 hairs 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.

    Create the Perfect Fulani Braids with PATTERN

    Fulani braids are a classic, sleek & eye-catching choice if you’re looking for a protective style with room for personal flair. Whether you try out a new part or add beads to your braids, there are countless ways to make Fulani braids your own.

    When you’re crafting cornrows, Bohemian braids or any other protective style, PATTERN has your back with everything you need to nourish & style your natural hair. We’re a one-stop-shop for hair products for braids, hair tools for curly hair & everything in between.

    Explore our collection of products for braiding natural hairto create your next stunning look.


    Sources:

    1. "History of Braids: More Than Just a Hairstyle." Genesis Career College. https://www.genesiscareer.edu/history-of-braids-more-than-just-a-hairstyle
    2. Hummy P. "The History and Meaning Behind Fulani Braids (Explained)."https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWDDe8IkZSY

    Reviewed by Ashley Ludgood

    With over 12 years of experience in the beauty and fashion industry, Ashley Ludgood brings a wealth of expertise to her current role at PATTERN. Her insights have been featured in reputable publications like American Salon Magazine, American Spa Magazine, and Skin, Inc. Ashley has also shared her knowledge at conferences, including Face & Body, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to contributing to the industry. Having been an integral part of the team at PATTERN for nearly 4 years, Ashley continues to make significant contributions. Holding a degree in Journalism from Northwestern University, she remains passionate about her field. Among her favorite products, Ashley turns to the PATTERN Styling Cream, Moisture Milk, and the Cleansing Shampoo as her go-to essentials.

    Fulani Braids 101: Step-By-Step Guide to Achieving This Look | PATTERN (2024)

    FAQs

    How many hours does it take to do Fulani braids? ›

    Fulani braids typically last between 3 to 6 weeks, but this can vary based on how well they are maintained and how quickly your hair grows. It will take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours to complete a full head of fulani braids.

    How many packs of hair do I need for Fulani braids? ›

    For Fulani braids you can purchase 4-6 single packs of X-pression By Outre pre-stretched braiding hair. Same goes for EZ Braid Professional or you can simply get this bundle from Unruly the line.

    How much do Fulani braids usually cost? ›

    How Much Do Fulani Braids Cost? Price varies between salons, stylists, size, and length of braids. However, getting Fulani braids typically ranges between $150 to $400.

    Are Fulani braids good for your hair? ›

    But thanks to the mix of braids and cornrows, flip-over Fulani braids make the at-home upkeep simple. “Having both styles means that you're able to moisturize your scalp daily (and easily) which will ultimately help prevent flakiness and dry ends that can lead to damage,” says Leatherwood.

    Is 3 packs of hair enough for braids? ›

    For the braided updo no more than 2-3 packs of Kanekalon braiding hair is needed to achieve this look with medium-sized braids. If you have a full head of thick hair, or would like skinnier braids, you should spring for 3 or 4 packs of Kanekalon hair.

    What is the meaning of Fulani braids? ›

    It symbolizes origins, social status and marital status. Fulani women throughout Senegalese society used to decorate their styled hair with beads and other accessories. Fulani braids can be distinguished from other Senegalese hairstyles by two or more long strands braided on each side.

    What braids to use for Fulani braids? ›

    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.
    Jun 21, 2023

    How to make Fulani braids last? ›

    Sleeping in a silk or satin bonnet or scarf will help keep your braids looking fresh for longer. Refreshing braids with washes and leave in conditioner as needed will also help the longevity of your braids.

    What are braids with beads called? ›

    Fulani Braids with Beads | Hairstyles for Black Girls | TikTok.

    How many hours does it take to braid your hair? ›

    On average, it can take you anywhere from 4 to 8 hours to do box braids with added extensions. The amount of time it takes depends on your braiding skills, technique, and the style of box braids you want. The longer and smaller in size you want your braids to be, the more time it will take to install.

    How long do knotless braids take to do? ›

    “A knotless braids install can take anywhere from three to 12 hours depending on the size of the braids you create, the density of your hair, or the amount of hair on your head, and the skillset of the braider,” White says. To be more specific, here are the general times you can expect, according to Ransome.

    How long does it take to do boho braids? ›

    How long does it take to complete boho braids? Experts agree that timing can vary depending on the size of your head, braids and hair texture. However, a full head of boho box braids can typically take about 5-6 hours minimum.

    Do braids take long? ›

    Length of Installation Process

    The process of getting a lot of braided protective styles, specifically box braids, can take anywhere from 4 up to 8 hours. This is mostly determined by the size and length you want your braids to be.

    References

    Top Articles
    Latest Posts
    Article information

    Author: Delena Feil

    Last Updated:

    Views: 6129

    Rating: 4.4 / 5 (45 voted)

    Reviews: 84% of readers found this page helpful

    Author information

    Name: Delena Feil

    Birthday: 1998-08-29

    Address: 747 Lubowitz Run, Sidmouth, HI 90646-5543

    Phone: +99513241752844

    Job: Design Supervisor

    Hobby: Digital arts, Lacemaking, Air sports, Running, Scouting, Shooting, Puzzles

    Introduction: My name is Delena Feil, I am a clean, splendid, calm, fancy, jolly, bright, faithful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.