Box braids are a well-recognized hairstyle that is easy to maintain and offers a wide range of flavors to suit almost any taste.  

Box braids are a protective hair-braiding style that can be worn for an extended period of time to let natural hair grow and protect the ends of the hair. The braids are also a little "boxy," consisting of square-shaped hair divisions.

Box braids are generally divided into categories based on size and style, ranging from small to medium to large/jumbo. These stylish braids are typically formed by three-strand plaits where the selected section of hair is divided into three parts and intertwined.

The difference between a typical braid and a box braid is that hair is usually added, and tight tension is applied throughout the braid creating a very polished final look with no loose strands. You can arrange box braids in a variety of great-looking creative designs since they aren't attached to the scalp like other hair braiding styles.

This particular hairstyle has a long and storied history dating back to 3500 BC. In the past hair-braiding styles were used to help differentiate tribes and locations. Back in the day, wearing elaborate braids symbolized wealth and power due to the amount of effort that goes into styling braids.

Popularized in the 1990s by influential celebrities like Janet Jackson, Jada Pinkett, and Brandy, the box braid has become one of the chicest, most iconic looks around.

A few of today's most popular box braid styles are crochet, goddess, knotless, and poetic justice. Crochet braids are similar to the woolen crochet you see on a sweater and are known for their unique styling method.

Goddess box braids are a more delicate take on traditional box braids and feature a softer look because of the curly strands added.

The knotless box braid is a classy and chic braiding style that does not require heavy tension on the scalp. Those with fine hair and sensitive scalps will love this method!

Last but certainly not least, there is the poetic justice box braid. This style is named for the iconic 1993 movie starring Janet Jackson, which introduced this hairstyle on the big screen for the first time. The length of this style tends to be longer, and the box braids are larger.

Box braids are easily one of the friendliest and most stylish protective hairstyles you can have. They are known for being easy to maintain and can last for 4-6 weeks, depending on the care and hair growth.

Even though the origin of this protective hairstyle is rooted in Africa and was first worn by the people of Namibia and the Nile Valley, any hair type is fair game. It doesn't matter if your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or kinky. You can sport box braids with ease! 

Very few styles can offer as many benefits in as many different flavors as the box braid. Give this hairstyle a try and you’ll find it to be a great addition to your personal style catalog.