Braid styles explained: how to choose the right one
Not sure whether knotless or box braids will be kinder to your edges, how long crochet lasts, or what passion twists actually involve?
This is the plain-English guide to UK braid styles. It explains what each style involves, who it suits and roughly what it costs in the UK, before pointing you to braiders who do them.
Knotless braids
Individual braids fed in without a knot at the root, so they sit flat and pull less on your edges than traditional box braids. The braider adds the hair gradually as each braid grows, in small, medium or jumbo, and you can add curls or a boho finish.
Suits most textures, and a strong choice if your edges are fine or tight braids have hurt before.
Roughly £80–180 for a medium size; small, long or boho push higher.
Find knotless braiders →Box braids
The classic three-strand braid, sectioned into neat squares and made with added hair for length and fullness. A long-wearing protective style you can wear up or down, in any size from micro to jumbo. The knotless version is gentler at the root.
Suits most textures and anyone wanting a low-effort style for six to eight weeks.
Roughly £60–160 depending on size and length.
Find box braid braiders →Cornrows
Braided flat to the scalp in rows or patterns, worn on their own, for men and boys, or as a base for a wig or weave. Plain straight-backs are quick and cheap; feed-in and stitch braids hold a crisper pattern and last longer.
Suits everyone, and one of the most-booked men’s and boys’ styles.
From around £20 for straight-backs; £50–100 for feed-in and detailed designs.
Find cornrow braiders →Crochet braids
Pre-made curls, twists or braids looped onto cornrows with a hook. Because the hair is ready-made, a full head goes in far faster than hand braiding, and you can wear big curls or locs without the long appointment.
Suits anyone wanting a quick protective style or a change of texture.
Roughly £60–120 depending on the hair.
Find crochet braiders →Passion twists
Soft, rope-like two-strand twists made with wavy bohemian hair, for a full, natural finish. Also called bohemian twists. Done as a full two-strand install or the quicker crochet method, in lengths from shoulder to waist.
Suits people who want a lighter, textured look rather than a sleek braid.
Roughly £80–160 depending on size and length.
Find passion twist braiders →Fulani braids
A cornrow-and-braid pattern, traditionally with braids framing the face and often finished with beads and cuffs. Part cornrow skill, part box braid, so braiders who do both tend to do these well.
Suits anyone wanting a patterned, decorative style with a cultural heritage.
Roughly £60–150 depending on size, length and detail.
Goddess braids
Large, smooth cornrows braided close to the scalp, often in curved or sculptural patterns. Fewer, chunkier braids than standard cornrows, so they are quicker to do and make a statement.
Suits anyone wanting a bold, low-count cornrow style for an event or everyday.
Roughly £40–100 depending on the design.
Boho braids
Knotless braids or twists left with loose, curly pieces through them for a relaxed, undone finish. The curls soften the look and add volume without much extra weight.
Suits people who want length with a softer, less uniform finish.
Roughly £90–200 depending on size, length and the curly hair used.
Senegalese twists
Sleek, rope-like two-strand twists made with smooth braiding hair, for a more defined surface than passion twists. A neat, classic twist that holds a clean line.
Suits anyone wanting a polished twist rather than a textured one.
Roughly £80–160 depending on size and length.
Faux locs
Locs created with added hair and wrapped or crocheted on, for the look of locs without committing to the real thing. Soft or faux, short or long, they come out when you are ready.
Suits people who want the loc look temporarily, or to try it before locking.
Roughly £100–250+ depending on length, size and method.
Prices are rough UK guides to help you plan. They vary by braid size, length, the hair used, your own hair and where you are in the country. London and the larger cities tend to sit at the higher end. Always confirm the price with your braider when you book in.
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