I’ve always loved braided hairstyles.
They allow me to get creative with my natural hair in so many fun ways!
Recently, I’ve become obsessed with Fulani braids in particular.
These braids originated from the Fulani people in West Africa and typically involve cornrow braids at the front of the head transitioning into loose braids or twists in the back.
Not only are Fulani braids gorgeous, but they are also one of the easier protective styles to DIY at home.
The other day, I learned there are at least 17 different ways to rock Fulani braids!
Here are my top 17 simple Fulani braid styles for every occasion:
Fulani braids are a versatile protective style that can be dressed up or down for any event.
With so many different Fulani braiding techniques, you’ll never get bored wearing these beautiful braids.
1. Classic Fulani Braids
This is the classic Fulani braid look with cornrows at the front hairline and loose, long braids at the back.
It’s simple, yet makes a statement.
I love wearing this Fulani style for a girls’ night out or date night.
The classic style has about 5-10 cornrows at the front of your hairline, starting from around your temples and going back towards the crown of your head.
The cornrows don’t usually go all the way back – they transition into loose box braids after about 2-3 inches.
I like to do thinner cornrows, about 1/4 inch each, so they lay flat and look really sleek and crisp.
The box braids in back are usually pretty long, down to mid-back or even longer if you want a really dramatic look.
I prefer to use Kanekalon synthetic braiding hair for the Fulani box braids since it holds curls well and doesn’t get frizzy.
A major tip for getting the front cornrows extra flat is to set them overnight with rods or flexi-rods.
This helps train them to lay really smoothly against your scalp.
For my nights out with the girls, I usually curl the ends of my Fulani braids into loose spirals using perm rods.
It creates gorgeous, touchable curls that bounce when I walk and dance.
Or, I’ll flat twist the braids into chunky twists which gives a cool, boho vibe.
I always finish off my classic Fulani style by decorating the braids – I love using gold cuffs and beads for a little sparkle and glam.
2. Fulani Bun
For a chic updo, sweep your Fulani braids up into a top knot bun.
This style looks great for both casual and formal events.
I like to add hair jewelry like cuffs or beads to jazz it up.
The Fulani bun is so easy to do – just gather all your braids together at the crown and wrap them into a bun shape, securing with bobby pins.
I prefer to do a messy, imperfect bun rather than a super slick one since it looks more stylish to me.
Let a few pieces frame your face around the edges for a relaxed vibe.
For casual days, I’ll do a Fulani bun with my braids in their natural state, no additional styling needed.
It’s a great gym hairstyle that keeps my braids up and off my neck when I’m working out.
For dressier events, I like to curl the ends of my braids before sweeping them into an elegant Fulani bun.
Spritzing the bun with shine spray keeps flyaways under control and gives it a polished look.
I love to accessorize my Fulani bun with gold hair cuffs – they instantly glam up the style.
Or, I’ll wrap a fabric headwrap or scarf around the base of the bun which adds brightness and color.
Small cowrie shells woven into the braids are another pretty accent for a Fulani bun.
This updo works for so many events, from brunch with friends to weddings or date nights.
3. Fulani Braid Bob
If you want to wear your Fulani braids short, opt for a bob length.
Keep the braids in the back slightly longer than the front cornrows for a cool asymmetrical look.
This Fulani bob is perfect for the office or a night on the town.
A Fulani braid bob typically falls somewhere between your jawline and collarbone.
I prefer mine to graze my collarbones since I like how it frames my face.
The cornrow portion stays close to the hairline as usual.
But I keep the braids in back quite short, no more than 8 inches long.
This makes the bob bouncy and flirty when I walk or turn my head.
I always do a slight A-line angle for my Fulani bob, with the back braids an inch or two longer than my chin-length front cornrows.
That asymmetry gives it a modern edge that I love.
For work, I’ll do a sleek Fulani bob and add pearl stud earrings for a polished, professional look.
On weekends, I love to spice up my Fulani bob by curling the ends into spirals for tons of volume and bounce.
Or, I’ll flat twist the back braids for a cool textured vibe.
Statement earrings like hoops or tassels paired with a Fulani bob bob make it night-out ready in a snap.
This chic, short Fulani style works year-round and lets me change up my look while protecting my natural hair.
4. Half-Up Fulani Style
Half-up, half-down Fulani braids give you the best of both worlds.
Pull back the top section of braids into a ponytail or bun and let the rest flow down your back.
This style works for everything from brunch with the girls to date night.
I divide my Fulani braids horizontally across the back of my head, usually right above the ears.
Then I gather up the top half and secure in a ponytail holder or bun.
For work or casual days, I’ll do a simple low pony.
It keeps the braids out of my face yet still lets the length show.
On weekends or nights out, I like to do a messy Fulani bun on top.
It adds a bit more style and polish to the look.
I always leave a few face-framing tendrils out in the front.
They soften the look and complement my features.
When I want to amp up my half-up Fulani braids, I’ll curl the ponytail or bun portion.
This gives me bouncy, touchable texture that’s super sexy.
Or, I’ll add accessories like a scarf around the base of the ponytail.
Gold string through the braids is another way to glam up this half-up style.
This versatile Fulani look transitions seamlessly from day to night.
It’s one of my favorites for everything from brunch with the girls to romantic date nights.
5. Fulani Braid Updo
Speaking of updos, Fulani braids can easily be styled into a full updo as well.
Try braiding them into a regal crown or intricate knotted design for formal events like weddings and black-tie affairs.
There are so many gorgeous ways to sweep Fulani braids into a stylish updo.
For formal events, I like to pull all my braids together into a braided crown around my head.
It creates an almost tiara-like effect that’s perfect for weddings and fancy occasions.
Or, I’ll do an intricate updo by splitting my braids into sections and knotting them in a criss-crossed pattern at the nape of my neck.
It looks almost like a braided basket weave and is stunning for black-tie affairs.
For a romantic date night, I’ll opt for a messy, side-swept Fulani updo.
I’ll loosely sweep all my braids over one shoulder in a low side ponytail or bun.
It’s a relaxed yet elegant look that’s perfect for an evening out.
No matter what Fulani updo I choose, I like to curl the ends under for a polished finish.
It helps smooth any flyaways so my updo looks sleek.
I’ll also add accessories like crystal hairpins or cuffs to accent my Fulani updo.
They catch the light beautifully and add the perfect special touch.
Setting my edges with gel is a must for a crisp, defined Fulani updo.
I simply slick down my baby hairs and edges with a toothbrush and gel.
This Fulani braid updo is stunning for any formal event or romantic night out.
It keeps all my braids swept up and lets my accessories shine.
6. Curly Fulani Braids
Love big, bouncy curls?
Ask your stylist to braid in loose, free-flowing curls into the back section of your Fulani braids.
The curly Fulani look is great for a beach vacation or summer concert.
Curly Fulani braids add gorgeous volume, bounce, and texture.
To get the look, have your stylist braid in loose spiral curls using a perm rod set.
Or, simply braid your hair wavy and allow it to curl up naturally.
I prefer to have fairly tight, springy curls braided into the back of my Fulani style.
The contrast between the slick front cornrows and spiraled back braids is so fun.
For beach vacations, I love rocking jumbo curly Fulani braids.
The thicker, looser curls move with the ocean breeze and give me mermaid vibes.
I’ll add seashells or beads to my curly Fulanis to complete the island look.
When I’m headed to a summer music festival, I like to do micro-curly Fulani braids.
The tiny spirals have tons of bounce when I’m dancing and shaking my hair.
I’ll accessorize with neon cuffs that pop against my dark curly braids.
No matter the occasion, curly Fulani braids give me a lively, playful look.
The curls feel sexy and celebrate my natural textures beautifully.
7. Ombre Fulani Braids
Ombre braids are a fun way to add subtle color to your Fulani style.
Go for a natural-looking fade from dark roots to light ends.
This trendy Fulani look is perfect for Coachella or a tropical getaway.
Ombre Fulani braids let me rock a cool two-tone look.
Typically, I’ll do a dark brown or black color on my roots that fades into caramel blonde ends.
It provides dimension while still looking natural.
I prefer a blended ombre look versus a harsh demarcation line.
Ask your stylist to hand-paint the color for a seamless fade.
For music festivals like Coachella, I’ll do a vivid ombre.
Maybe purple roots fading to pastel blue ends.
It’s fun and funky against the desert vibes.
On tropical vacations, I’ll do a beachy ombre like chocolate to honey blonde.
It complements my tan and feels ultra-chill for laying poolside.
I’ll add cowrie shells or beads to my Fulani braids to complete the island look.
An ombre Fulani style lets me change up my look while keeping my braids low-maintenance.
It adds a cool pop of color that works for festivals, vacations, and so much more.
8. Fulani Braid Bangs
Spice up your Fulani braids by adding short bangs in the front.
Keep them straight across or angle them diagonally.
Bangs frame your face nicely for photos and add personality to your Fulani style.
I love playing with different Fulani bang styles to customize my look.
For a bold, eye-catching vibe I’ll do short, blunt straight-across bangs.
They make a statement and draw attention to my eyes.
Or, I’ll do longer side-swept bangs angled diagonally across my forehead for flair.
Side-swept bangs are fun and flirty.
I also like to do piece-y bangs that are choppy and uneven.
The texture creates dimension and complements my natural curls.
Bangs instantly update your Fulani braids and show off your face shape.
I’ll curl my Fulani bangs under or out to accentuate my cheekbones.
For selfies and photoshoots, bangs make sure my face is the focus.
At parties, I can headbang or whip my Fulani bangs around on the dancefloor.
Bangs let me customize my Fulani braids to be glam, edgy or flirty.
They instantly transform your whole look!
9. Side-Swept Fulani Braids
For an eye-catching look, braid your Fulani cornrows in a deep side part and sweep them dramatically to one side.
Let the braids in the back hang over one shoulder.
Wear this Fulani style on date night for a little va-va-voom!
I love wearing my Fulani braids in a sultry side-swept style.
First, I’ll part my hair way over to one side, about an inch past my temple.
Then I’ll cornrow the front portion toward that side as well in a deep diagonal part.
When I sweep all the braids over my shoulder, it creates major drama and volume.
For date night, I’ll amp up the vamp factor by curling the ends of my Fulani braids.
This adds lush, touchable texture that’s irresistible.
A bold red lip and chandelier earrings complement the look perfectly.
I’ll spray my Fulani braids with shine spray before heading out to maximize sheen.
Posing with my braids all swept to one side creates stunning photos.
The angles and lines are so eye-catching and dynamic.
This seductive side-swept Fulani style brings all the va-va-voom for date night.
It’s one of my favorite sultry looks when I want to feel confident and sexy.
The dramatic side part and cascade of braids highlights my best features.
I’ll add a pop of highlight to my cheekbones to accentuate the look.
Gold jewelry like hoops or bangles complement the braids beautifully.
A side-swept Fulani style lets me show off my edgy, artistic side too.
I’ll wear it with bold makeup looks featuring dark lips or graphic liner.
It’s the perfect complement to avante garde fashion.
I can even accessorize it with funky hair clips or cuffs.
This bold side-swept Fulani style makes a statement any way you wear it.
It’s eye-catching, alluring and full of personality.
10. Fulani Braid Top Knot
Another way to switch up your Fulani updo is with a top knot.
Simply wrap the braids into a knotted coil atop your head, leaving the ends flowing down your back.
This Fulani style works everywhere from brunch to the beach.
A top knot bun is one of my favorite ways to style Fulani braids.
I’ll gather all my braids at the crown and twist them into a coil shape.
Then wrap the ends around the base and secure with bobby pins.
The messy, imperfect top knot looks effortlessly chic.
For a beachy vibe, I’ll add shells or beads to my Fulani top knot.
The accessories look so cute peeking out from the bun.
When going out with friends, I like to wrap a bright headscarf around the base of my Fulani top knot.
It adds a pop of color andPulls the look together.
If I want to dress up my Fulani top knot, I’ll curl the ends under for extra polish.
It amps up the style and gives major glam vibes.
I can do my makeup more dramatic with a stand-out red lip.
The Fulani top knot bun frames my face shape so nicely.
This stylish updo works for so many occasions, from backyard BBQs to nights on the town.
It’s one of my fave easy Fulani hair ideas.
11. High Fulani Ponytail
Pull your Fulani braids up into a sleek, high ponytail for an elegant look.
Make sure to define your edges with gel or edge control.
I wear this Fulani style for nights out dancing with my girlfriends.
I love a dramatic high ponytail with my Fulani braids.
Pulling my hair up extra high at the crown creates a super sleek look.
For hold, I’ll spritz my edges with edge control gel and slick down with a toothbrush.
To amp up the glam factor, I’ll wrap a strand of rhinestone chain around the base of my ponytail.
It catches the light for mega sparkle.
Using shine spray on my Fulani braids makes the pony super glossy and sleek.
For nights out at the club, I’ll wear hoop earrings that complement the sexy silhouette.
This Fulani high pony shows off my bone structure and lets me highlight my makeup.
On the dance floor, I can whip my braids around or lean my head back hands-free.
It’s a comfortable style that keeps my hair secure and stylish at parties.
I’ll curl just my ponytail portion for extra bounce and body.
Dressing up my high Fulani ponytail with accessories makes it so eye-catching.
It’s one of my favorite party hairstyles for a night out with my girls.
12. Fulani Space Buns
Double top knots, aka space buns, are super cute with Fulani braids.
Part your hair down the middle and wrap each side into a bun.
Space buns are fun for festivals, birthday parties, and other celebratory events.
I love rocking playful pigtail buns with my Fulani braids.
First, I part my hair cleanly down the middle into two even sections.
Then, I split each side into a ponytail and twist into a top knot bun.
The double Fulani space buns are so adorable and unique.
For music festivals, I’ll add fun accessories like metallic beads to my buns.
The silver and gold complement my festival outfit perfectly.
On my birthday, I’ll wrap different colored ribbons around each bun.
It’s a festive, whimsical touch to celebrate.
Space buns work for any event where I want a playful, eye-catching look.
I’ll curl the ends before twisting them into buns for extra bounce.
Or, I’ll braid colorful extensions into my Fulani braids first.
The space buns show off the bright colors and textures beautifully.
This double bun look is so much fun and makes a statement.
It’s one of my favorite Fulani styles for parties and special occasions.
13. Fulani Braid Bun Updo
For special occasions like weddings and black-tie events, sweep your Fulani braids into a layered updo with multiple stacked buns.
Finish it off by curling the ends under for an elegant, formal style.
A Fulani braid bun updo is my go-to for fancy events and weddings.
I start by parting my hair into multiple horizontal sections.
Then, I twist each part into a neat bun, stacking them on top of each other at the back of my head.
Securing with bobby pins, I create a cascading bun effect.
For sleekness, I’ll smooth down the stray hairs with a bit of gel.
Then, I curl any loose ends under to polish off the look.
I’ll weave strands of pearls or crystals into my braids as accessories.
The jewels dress up the style and photograph beautifully.
A bold matte lip and smoky eye complete this glam Fulani updo.
The slicked edges and stacked buns elongate my neck for an elegant effect.
This regal, intricate Fulani bun updo makes me feel like a queen at any black-tie affair.
It’s gorgeous yet totally secure for dancing and mingling all night.
14. Half-Down Twisted Fulani
This half-up, half-down Fulani look features flat twists rather than cornrows in front.
The rest of the hair flows down in box braids.
It’s a cute Fulani option for school, work, or brunch dates.
I love the look of Fulani braids combined with flat twists.
So I’ll flat twist the front portion starting at my temples.
This gives me defined twist detailing while still having flowy braids in back.
For casual days, I’ll do two larger twists that meet in the middle.
It’s quick, easy, and keeps my hair out of my face.
When I want a more intricate look, I’ll do smaller flat twists in a cool pattern.
Intricate twists show off my styling skills and look so pretty.
The braids in back swing freely when I walk or turn my head.
It’s a breezy look that works well for school or the office.
When I’m going on a brunch date, I’ll curl the ends of the braids.
This adds a flirty bounce that’s fun and feminine.
I’ll accessorize with dainty jewelry like a necklace or earrings.
It complements the soft twist detailing.
I can dress up this Fulani twist style by wearing it half-up half-down too.
Pulling some of the braids into a bun or pony amps up the style.
This mixed Fulani braid and twist look gives me the best of both worlds.
It’s pretty, practical and perfect for my busy life.
15. Faux Hawk Fulani
Channel your inner rock star with a faux-hawk Fulani style!
Braid the hair down the center and sweep the edges up into a mohawk shape.
Pair it with edgy makeup for concerts, clubs, and anywhere you want to turn heads.
I love getting funky with my Fulani braids in a faux hawk style.
First, I tightly cornrow my hair into one braid down the middle of my head.
Then, I use gel to sweep the edges up high on each side.
Creating that mohawk silhouette amps up the edge.
When I’m headed to a rock concert, I’ll add grungy accessories like spikes or chains to my braids.
Smudgy black liner and dark lipstick complete the look.
For cosplay or costume parties, this Fulani faux hawk slays.
I’ll tease it bigger and go all out with bold makeup.
Dancing and head banging at the club is so much fun with this braided ‘do.
It definitely makes me stand out in a crowd!
I feel powerful and badass sporting this unique Fulani style.
It unleashes my inner rocker chick vibes.
16. Fulani Braid Bun Hawk
For another fun punk rock take on Fulani braids, sweep them up into a braided hawk bun.
It brings just the right amount of edge to your Fulani style for music festivals or a night out.
This Fulani hawk bun is bold yet practical.
I cornrow my hair into one tight braid down the middle.
Then sweep the edges into a tall mohawk shape using gel.
Next, I twist the length of the braid into a top knot bun.
It’s edgy yet keeps my braids contained.
When I’m headed to a rowdy music festival, this style holds up.
I can headbang without my braids flying everywhere!
It also shows off colorful extensions when I braid them in.
I’ll weave bright synthetic hair into my cornrow for music fests.
This Fulani hawk bun works for crowded concerts since it’s secure.
But it still has punk attitude with the faux mohawk effect.
It’s an awesome hybrid style when I want to look fab yet feel hands-free.
17. Jumbo Fulani Braids
If you want an eye-catching Fulani look, go for jumbo braids!
Thick, chunky Fulani braids make a major statement.
I love rocking this style for tropical vacations, music festivals, and other fun events.
Jumbo Fulani braids are all about drama and volume.
I usually get them done with at least 10-12 big cornrows in front.
The bigger the better, up to about 1 inch wide each.
Thicker braids in back mean less maintenance and longer lasting style.
For music festivals, I’ll add brightly colored extensions to my jumbo braids.
The neon pops against the thick braids and looks so cool.
On tropical getaways, I’ll weave in beads or seashells.
They complement my island vacation vibe perfectly.
Jumbo Fulani braids make a statement no matter where I wear them.
I feel like a goddess with all that incredible thickness and volume.
This eye-catching Fulani style is bold, beautiful and black girl magic!
It’s one of my favorite protective styles for making a major impact.
