- Micro braids are a versatile and stylish hairstyle created by carefully braiding small sections of hair close to the scalp.
- Chic Micro Braids offer a sleek and polished look, making them suitable for various occasions, from casual to formal events.
- Micro braids can be styled in various ways, such as updos, ponytails, or left down, for a flowing and elegant look.
- Proper maintenance and care are essential to keep micro braids looking their best, such as regular washing, moisturizing, and avoiding excessive tension on the scalp.
There’s a slew of braids styles out there for women to try these days, but a timeless braids style that doubles as a long-term protective style and a head-turning look are micro braids.
These cute mini braids have been around since the 90s and continue to be rocked by celebrities like Brandy and Zoe Kravitz on red carpets and irresistible Instagram posts.
With various shades, textures, and patterns, the styling possibilities for micro braids are endless. That means there’s a cute style to suit everyone, no matter your style preference.
This style might seem intimidating because of the time commitment required to get them installed, but in the long run, they offer the most longevity and versatility of all the different braid styles out there.
Once installed, you don’t have to worry about getting your hair done for over a month, saving you the time and money you would otherwise spend getting your hair done every few weeks.
The tiny sizes also allow them to be styled in many different ways to change up your look whenever you feel like it. It sounds like a pretty sweet deal if you ask us!
Before You Get Started
- Hair breakage could result during micro braiding. It is inappropriate for hair that has been relaxed, chemically processed, dry, or brittle.
- Hair maintenance is minimal with micro braiding. However, the braiding and removal procedures might take anywhere from 3 to 11 hours to complete.
- Due to their limited manipulation capabilities, micro braids are a fashionable hair protection method. But it’s imperative to get the hair evaluated by a specialist.
To satisfy all your micro braids cravings and curiosity, we’ve put together some of the best micro braids styles that’ll have you drooling with hair envy.
Honestly, some of these had us rushing to give our stylist a call.
1. Textured Ends Micro Braids
Image by @zoastyles via Instagram
Mimic the kinky texture of your natural hair with these textured micro braids. They feature braids made with kinky braiding hair that give the style a tightly coiled texture at the ends.
With this style, your micro braids will look like you made them with only your natural hair.
2. Crochet Knotless Micro Braids
Image by @microbraids9 via Instagram
Want the minimize the time you need to spend in the braiding chair? Then, opt for crochet micro braids.
With this technique, pre-braided micro braids are simply woven into the hair using a crotchet, thereby saving you time.
RELATED: What Does Cornrow Ponytail Mean? 25 Hottest Cornrow Ponytail Braids
3. Brown Wavy Short Micro Braids
Image by @albertine_couturehairsalon via Instagram
Micro braids are all about giving your braids a wispy hair-like appearance and these wavy micro braids are a great way to pull them off.
The microbraids are only made a quarter of the length of the hair, then the rest of the braiding hair is curled in a wavy manner that creates a stunning volume.
4. Red Mix Micro Braids
Image by @massafricanhair via Instagram
A great way to add a pop of color to our micro braids is to sprinkle in a few strands of copper-red braids.
It creates a lovely mix of colors that brightens the hairdo without being too loud.
5. Caramel Gold Micro Braids
Image by @braidsbybako via Instagram
Looking for a way to rock a rich shade of gold in your hair?
You should definitely try these caramel gold micro braids. They feature a mix of different shades of gold that blend well together and give a hair an elegant hue.
6. Curly Ponytail Micro Braids
Image by @elizas_vineyardbeauty via Instagram
A ponytail and curly hair combo is always the way to go if you need a hairstyle with some flair while giving the face a nice lift.
These micro braids variations are made with the braids only half the way, and the curly ponytail is placed just at the crown.
Quick Styling Guide for Micro Braids:
- How To Choose A Style: Select micro braid styles that suit your face shape and personal taste. Popular options include straight, wavy, or curly micro braids, and you can add hair accessories or beads for a personalized touch.
- Level Of Maintenance: Low to Moderate
- Suitable For: All hair types and textures. Micro braids work well for a variety of hair types, whether straight, wavy, or curly, and can be adapted to various lengths.
- Looks Best With Micro braids offer versatile styling options, and the choice of makeup and accessories can complement your style.
7. Classic Straight Black Micro Braids
Image by @nyldashair via Instagram
These classic straight micro braids are an eye-catching way to rock braids with smoothness.
The braids are tiny enough to look like strands of hair and will have people doing a double-take to check if they’re actual hair strands or not.
8. Wavy Micro Braids Braids
Image by @hairdesignsbytaye via Instagram
Want a cute style you can rock without much extra styling? These wavy micro braids are the perfect style for you.
The wavy pattern at the ends of the braids gives them a fun vibe that would be great to wear in the summer.
9. Long Multi-Colored Micro Braids
Image by @hairteria via Instagram
Give your braids a smooth flow and brightness by incorporating different colors into each strand of micro braids.
This style does not require a complete color mix but just the addition of a few strands of colored braiding hair to give the braids a hint of color.
10. Bob Length Micro Braids
Image by @hair_boulevard_beauty_salon via Instagram
A bob cut is always a nice and structured way to rock short hair, and these micro braids are long enough to graze just above the collar bone.
It is a gorgeous style made better with the wine color of the complete look.
RELATED: Trendy Pixie Haircuts for Thick Hair
11. Brown Curled Micro Braids
Image by @ceeeee_hair via Instagram
These brown curled micro braids will be perfect if you’re a fan of thick curly hair with definition.
The long flowy curls perfectly contrast the tiny braids that start from the base and flow into defined curls from the midway point.
Also, These braid types are suitable for offices, work, and other occasions. You’ll enjoy wearing these attractive small braids with curls.
12. Curled Micro Braids
Image by @byvitoriabraids via Instagram
If you’d like to give your braids a natural curl pattern, curl the entire length of your micro braids to give them a beautiful flowy structure that pairs nicely with the natural hair-like size of the braids.
This is a great style to wear whenever on those casual days while looking fashionable.
13. Mini Buns Micro Braids
Image by @queenpetitelocs via Instagram
If you’re looking for a micro braids style that would be great for kids, these mini buns versions are the perfect style to try.
The braids are sectioned into medium-sized squares and knotted to form cute buns that look cute and fun.
If you don’t want to use hair extensions, this style can also be made with only natural hair. These braid types are suitable for offices, work, and other occasions.
You’ll enjoy wearing these attractive small braids with curls.
14. Medium Length Micro Braids
Image by @emanda_jewel via Instagram
These medium-length micro braids are the perfect style to try if you need a hairdo with some volume and length but don’t want overly long hair getting in your face.
The braids at the base flow into loose curly hair to create a lovely style you can wear with any outfit.
15. Light Brown Micro Braids
Image by @naenaebraidsandcreations via Instagram
These light brown micro braids are a cute way to rock a brown shade that will compliment the skin tone really well.
They feature ringlet-shaped curls at the ends of half-done braids that look very light and natural.
RELATED: Shag Haircuts For Curly Hair: 9 Styles That You Will Adore
16. Waist Length Micro Braids
Image by @albertine_couturehairsalon via Instagram
Want extremely long braids that are not too heavy? Try these waist-length micro braids.
The braids are small and light enough not to weigh down the hair while allowing you to rock long, luscious hair that flows down the back.
Keep in Mind
- Scalp Health: Prioritize a clean and moisturized scalp to prevent dryness and discomfort.
- Tension and Size: Consider the size of your micro braids to prevent excessive tension on your hair and scalp.
- Maintenance: Regularly moisturize your scalp and hair, and consider a weekly hot oil treatment.
- Heat Protection: Always use a heat protectant when styling your micro braids with heat tools.
- Trimming: Trim split ends every 8-12 weeks to maintain the health and appearance of your braids.
17. Half Up Half Down Micro Braids
Image by @datwist_queen via Instagram
Pull half your braids into a loose ponytail and let the remaining hair flow down the back to create a stylish half-up-half-down look that is sure to attract the right compliments.
18. Loose Micro Braids
Image by @bibis_haircouture via Instagram
Want to up the ante with your micro braids? Make them look fully like strands of curled hair with these loose micro braids.
The braids are made with curly braiding hair and only braided to a short length to allow the loose braiding hair to be the main star of the show.
19. Side Parted Micro Braids
Image by @atlplugg__ via Instagram
These side parted micro braids are a lovely way to rock a hairdo with some thickness while elongating your facial features in the best way.
Be sure to curl the unbraided parts of the braiding hair when trying this look, as the light curls are essential to slaying this look.
20. Natural Short Micro Braids
Image by @queenpetitelocs via Instagram
The great thing about micro braids is that their tiny size means that they can be done without any added hair and these natural short micro braids are the perfect way to do so.
They feature braids that skim just below the neck, and it is a stylish way to rock your short natural hair.
RELATED: The Best Medium Length Hairstyles for Fine and Thin Hair
21. Extra Bouncy Micro Braids
Image by @bofiabraiding via Instagram
These extra bouncy micro braids feature defined curls that give the hair a beautiful texture. It is a great style to try if you’re looking for something with a light bounce and structured shape.
22. Smooth Silver Micro Braids
Image by @jollygirl_africanhairbraiding via Instagram
Want to style your mane in an eccentric color that will be perfect for any season? These smooth silver micro braids might just be your new favorite look.
They feature smoothly crafted braids that end at the nape of the hair and then transition into lightly curled loose braiding hair.
23. Silky Black Micro Braids
Image by @afro_brujasemporium via Instagram
There’s just something incredibly sexy about these silk black micro braids. They also feature a combo of braids and loose curly braiding hair that is long and shiny.
This style is the perfect look to go for if you need something to pair with a dressed-up outfit.
24. Red Micro Braids
Image by @braidsbytasha via Instagram
Go a fiery shade of red when making your micro braids if you’d like to style your mane in a vibrant and bold shade.
When trying this look, incorporate a few different shades of red to create lovely shadows around the hair and allow the color to meld well with the skin tone.
25. Micro Braids With Curly Weave
Image by @fabulous_hair_braiding via Instagram
Give your micro braids a feathery texture and volume by incorporating curly weave into the braids.
This style requires the weave to be added at the root of each braid after the braiding process is complete. It is a great way to rock braids and weave at the same time and look stunning while doing so.
RELATED: How To Do Stunning Goddess Braids
26. Crotchet Curls Micro Braids
Image by @js_simple_touch via Instagram
Don’t want to spend forever getting your micro braids installed? Then opt for this crochet curls and braid combo.
The micro braids are only made in front of the hair, while the rest of the hair has curly hair woven in crochet style.
Fun Fact
Micro braids are a versatile and trendy hairstyle that gained popularity in the 1990s. They involve small, tightly braided sections of hair, and when combined with crotchet curls, they create a unique and eye-catching look. This style allows for creative expression and can be customized with various curl patterns and colors to suit individual preferences.
27. Side Swept Micro Braids
Image by @ijelalastylez via Instagram
This side-swept micro braids style is a great way to don a long and curly look while accentuating the cheekbones and showing off your best facial features.
It also features a deep brown and blonde mix to create a head-turning color pattern. This type of side-swept braid is one of the best aspects of micro braids.
They can be worn in a formal or casual dress, making your looks classy.
28. Short Color Mix Micro Braids
Image by @dedicated2beauty28 via Instagram
If you want a simple micro braids style you can wear to work or school with a casual outfit, this short color mix look is perfect for you.
It features a mix of black braids with brown braids hidden at the back without being too obvious.
29. Layered Micro Braids
Image by @scbraid_university via Instagram
If you’re looking to give your braids a weightless and light structure with an edgy vibe, then you should definitely try these layered micro braids.
The braids are cut in uneven layers that give the hair a stunning movement pattern without you having to do much to style them.
This type of braiding gives the same layered effect as regular hair, but it also serves as a protective style. The braids are usually micro-sized to ensure flexibility.
30. Braided Sections Micro Braids
Image by @tarynmichelleart via Instagram
A great way to restyle your micro braids is to put them into chunky braids that allow you to show off any color combination you may have going on.
It is also a cute method of keeping the hair out of your face on a busy day or while working out.
31. Grey Ringlet Curls Micro Braids
Image by @royalty_hairstylin_beauty via Instagram
These grey ringlet curls micro braids are a lovely way to rock your grey hair with confidence and style, The color of the braiding hair blends in seamlessly with the greys at the root of the hair, and it features ringlet shaped curls that pull this look together stunningly.
32. Cornrowed Micro Braids
Image by @braidsbybako via Instagram
A unique way to give your micro braids a more prominent pattern is to include tiny cornrows at the front section of the hair and then make micro braids with the rest of the hair.
When making the cornrows, try to incorporate a creative parting design to give a style some personality.
33. High Pony Micro Braids
Image by @naturally_giftedhandsllc via Instagram
These high pony micro braids are a beautiful way to accentuate the structure of the face while softening any sharp angles around the face.
The micro braids are made halfway with long curly braiding hair flowing from the ends.
34. Loose Pony Micro Braids
Image by @sisterprofessionalbyfaith via Instagram
These loose pony micro braids are another way to accentuate the natural contours of the face.
The braids are medium length, allowing them to be easily pulled into a loose ponytail but are also short enough to tempt anyone who loves short hair.
35. Brown Streak Micro Braids
Image by @ttmodeltype via Instagram
Add a prominent streak of color in the middle of your braids by making a chunk of the braids in the middle with brown braiding hair.
This style also features full curly ends and tendrils that frame the face beautifully.
RELATED: Bubble Ponytail – The Hottest Hair Trend of the Season
36. Goddess Micro Braids
Image by @albertine_couturehairsalon via Instagram
You should definitely try these goddess micro braids if you want to give your hairdo a feathery curly texture with a soft, voluminous structure.
They include brown curly weave added into individual strands of braids to create a full and flowy look that will look stunning on anyone.
37. Simple Brown Micro Braids
Image by @newimage309 via Instagram
Try these simple brown micro braids if you’re looking for a natural-looking style you can wear on any occasion.
When trying this style, do not braid the entire length of the braids, as the loose ends give the hair a straight hair-like appearance that adds to the elegance.
38. Shiny Micro Braids
Image by @cuttinup_nextlevel via Instagram
These shiny micro braids are the perfect style to try if you want a hairdo with some shine.
They are made in a half braid-half curl combination, but adding a hair spray after braiding gives them a sheen that makes them pop out.
39. Jet Black Micro Braids
Image by @zkluv via Instagram
Want a sleek and black style to make you look alluring and stylish? Try these jet black micro braids. They are cute and can be styled with many outfits for casual and dressed-up events.
40. Deep Brown Curled Micro Braids
Image by @lhovelyempire via Instagram
Try these deep brown micro braids if you’re a fan of curly hair that comes in earthy tones. They are long and full enough to cover the length of the back while adding a softness to your facial features.
RELATED: Fabulous Half Up Half Down Braids Hairstyles For Any Season
41. Boxy Micro Braids
Image by @ibk.hair via Instagram
If you’re a die-hard fan of box braids and can’t seem to let them go. These boxy micro braids might convince you to do just that.
They are made in even box-shaped parts for that signature box braids look without any of the heaviness or tightness.
42. Round Bun Micro Braids
Image by @atlantafastbraiders via Instagram
Looking for a way to style your braids in a cute and simple style? These round bun micro braids are the perfect look to go for.
The thick bun placed at the crown of the head draws attention to the face and allows you to show off your best facial features.
43. Fade Micro Braids
Image by @kronoskuaforkadikoy via Instagram
Go for these faded micro braids if you want a bold and edgy look. The braids are held in a loose ponytail that allows you to show off the shaved hair on the sides.
44. Accessorized Micro Braids
Image by @itylicioushair via Instagram
Take your micro braids to the next level by adding a cute accessory like a headband to sleek down the front and bring your face into focus. Don’t hesitate to match the headband to the color of your outfit for the day.
45. Knotless Black Micro Braids
Image by @fmhairstyles via Instagram
Opt for these knotless micro braids if you don’t want any tension at the root of your hair that could cause damage. They are made in a silky black shade that will look incredible on anyone.
46. White Wavy Micro Braids
Image by @noismhairculture via Instagram
Have some fun with your micro braids by opting for a white shade mixed with a light grey for an eye-catching look with wavy curls at the ends.
47. Golden Blonde Micro Braids
Image by @braids_ch via Instagram
These golden blonde micro braids are a great way to rock blonde hair with a lovely curl pattern and structure.
The golden shade is key to creating a look that blends well with the dark color at the base, so be sure to choose a shade of blonde that is not too bright.
48. Platinum Micro Braids
Image by @braidsgang via Instagram
These platinum micro braids are another great way to rock bright blonde hair, and they are definitely going to attract only the best compliments.
49. Black and brown mix micro braids
Image by @braided_4_u via Instagram
This is a simple Black and brown mix of micro braids with natural or extra hair to give the braids a fuller look.
This type of braid is suitable for all occasions, typically handled and styled like your natural hair & protected against humidity. Whenever trying this, do not braid the entire length of the braids.
When making these braids, whether with your hair or hair that has been added, only a few hair strands are utilized at a time. These mini braids produce very little frizz and show length very well.
Pro Tip
To maintain the longevity and neatness of micro braids, regularly moisturize your scalp with a lightweight oil or spray, and wrap your hair in a satin or silk scarf at night to reduce friction and frizz.
- 31 Soft Locs & Distressed Faux Loc Hairstyle Ideas For Revolutionizing Texture And Messy Marvels In 2024 - December 4, 2023
- 45 Faux Locs Styles For Black Women: The Ultimate Inspiration In 2024 - December 3, 2023
- 65 Fun and Flirty Two-Strand Twist Hairstyles To Achieve Confidence In 2024 - November 28, 2023