Styling for a New Year: African American Braid Hairstyles 2016

Braids have always been a part of the African American hair styling tradition, both culturally and functionally. With its diverse range of forms and styles, modern African American braid hairstyles are infinitely varied, allowing for something uniquely special for each person to rock. As we enter 2016, let’s explore some of the most innovative and inspiring braid trends emerging from the African American hair styling community.

Cornrowed Styles with Lively Colors

Cornrows are an iconic braided style that has developed over many centuries, with evidence of basic cornrowing techniques having been used in Africa since the dawn of recorded time. Cornrowed styles, featuring open rows of braids close to the scalp, are increasingly gaining attention in modern circles, as stylists and individuals alike give this beloved style vibrant new accents. Combining worn-out cornrow techniques with inventive color selection, many practitioners are now mixing light into dark braids and lines, pushing the boundaries of classic African American hair styles with previously unseen artistry. The more basic examples simply involve choosing eye-catching colors while braiding. A finely contrasted try-tonal finish can be created by precisely selecting shade patterns, such as sunrise yellow to violet tips and pearl sheen in between.

Individual Braiding Patterns for Creative Expressions

Another exciting trend in African American braid hairstyles 2016 involves hand-crafted braiding techniques, enabling the freedom to express individual personality through intricate hair designs. Individuals can craft creative works of art on their heads with simple accessorizing plaits added to core braids—like a cobbled-together jewelry necklace, unique customized glitter braid designs are generating interest in African American hair scene. Styling aficionados are also incorporating feathers and ribbons into braids' foundations, immersing subtle gradations of texture, length, and color into scalped gardens of wonder.

Easy, Manageable Maintenance for Every Day

While intricate braids can bring exuberance and flair to formal occasions or neat sophistication for special events, there are equally ambitious ways to inject pizzazz into everyday styles. Many African American braid hairstyle professionals are now offering simple maintenance schemes for reduced-stress braiding. These hassle-free braiding regimes let clients with hectic life schedules enjoy minimal-maintenance braid styling that also looks good during daily runs. Such an easy-care braid styling example involves flat and neat mid-length plaits falling along the sides without the need for re-braiding.

Get Braid Styling Inspiration in 2016

As we move into 2016, African American hair styling takes a leap of imagination into a brilliant abyss of possibilities. Whether it’s bearing the flag of cultural heritage or assembling the latest innovations into stunning fashion expressions, there is something special for everyone in the world of African American braid hairstyles. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring the many options and experiment with some of the hottest trends for 2016.

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