Hey beautiful! I’m thrilled to share my favorite braided styles with you today. As a makeup artist and beauty educator, I’ve watched these gorgeous protective styles transform how my clients feel about themselves. There’s something magical about pairing structured braids with soft, bouncy curls—it’s the perfect blend of sophistication and playfulness.
Throughout my years in the beauty industry, I’ve learned that the right hairstyle does more than just look good. It gives you confidence, protects your natural hair, and lets your personality shine through. Whether you’re preparing for a special event or just want to switch up your everyday look, Cassie braids with curly hair offer endless possibilities.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through fourteen stunning variations that combine the protective benefits of braiding with the beautiful movement of curls. Each style has its own personality, and I’m confident you’ll find something that speaks to you.
Jumbo Box Braids with Loose Curls
What It Is
Jumbo box braids are thick, square-sectioned braids typically one to two inches wide. The last few inches remain unbraided and are curled into soft, bouncy spirals. This creates a bold yet romantic look that combines structure with flowing movement. The thick braids make a powerful statement while the curls add a touch of femininity.
Best For
This style is perfect if you want maximum impact with minimal time commitment. It works beautifully on medium to thick hair and is ideal for busy lifestyles. If you have a sensitive scalp, the larger sections mean less tension. Plus, you can style these braids dozens of ways—buns, ponytails, half-up styles—making them incredibly versatile for any occasion.
How to Make It
Start with clean, detangled hair. Section into one to two-inch squares using a rat-tail comb. Fold extension hair in half at your roots and braid down using the three-strand technique. Stop braiding three to four inches from the ends. Dip the loose ends in hot water briefly to set, then wrap around flexi-rods or perm rods. Let dry completely, remove rods, and gently separate curls. Wrap in silk or satin at night to maintain the style.
Medium Box Braids with Spirals
What It Is
Medium box braids offer the sweet spot between jumbo and micro—typically half an inch to three-quarters of an inch wide. The spiral curls at the ends are tighter than loose curls, creating defined corkscrew patterns that add gorgeous dimension. These spirals catch light beautifully and create amazing texture contrast against smooth braids.
Best For
Perfect for professional settings or anyone wanting a polished, refined look. The medium size works wonderfully for fine to medium hair density, creating fuller appearance. These braids are excellent for accessorizing with beads and cuffs, and they tend to last longer than jumbo braids while offering incredible styling versatility.
How to Make It
Section hair into medium squares, keeping sizes consistent. Braid with even tension—not too tight, not too loose. For tight spirals, use smaller perm rods on the unbraided ends. Wrap each section carefully around rods and secure. Use the hot water dipping method, being extra careful with tighter curls. Leave rods in overnight for best results. When removing, gently fluff with fingers to maintain spiral definition.
Micro Box Braids with Curly Tips
What It Is
Micro box braids are tiny, pencil-thin braids that create intricate, detailed looks. When paired with curly tips, they offer delicate yet dramatic volume. The combination of precision braiding and playful curls creates the perfect balance between structure and movement.
Best For
Ideal for long-lasting protective styling that offers maximum versatility. You can create elaborate updos, intricate ponytails, and any style imaginable. Perfect for growing out natural hair or recovering from damage. Note that installation takes significant time—often eight hours or more—but the style lasts six to eight weeks with proper care.
How to Make It
Divide hair into four sections for manageability. Create pencil-width square parts within each section. Use three-strand braiding technique, maintaining consistent tension and neatness. For curls, use tiny rods or the straw method—wrap unbraided hair around drinking straws. Work in good lighting and take breaks to prevent fatigue. Once complete, style freely—micro braids move like natural hair.
Knotless Box Braids with Beach Waves
What It Is
Knotless braids start with your natural hair and gradually feed in extensions as you braid down. This creates natural-looking roots with significantly less tension. Beach wave curls at the ends provide relaxed, tousled movement—perfect for that effortless, vacation-ready vibe.
Best For
Amazing for anyone who experiences tension headaches from traditional braiding. The feed-in technique distributes weight evenly, making it perfect for fine hair or sensitive scalps. The natural look works beautifully in professional environments, while beach waves add personality without being over-the-top.
How to Make It
Begin braiding with just your natural hair for half an inch to an inch. Gradually incorporate small amounts of extension hair as you braid down, adding thin layers for seamless transition. Leave last few inches unbraided. For beach waves, use larger flexi-rods or try the twist-out technique—twist damp ends, let dry completely, then gently separate for soft, natural waves.
Feed-In Braids with Curly Ponytail
What It Is
Feed-in cornrows lie flat against your scalp in various patterns, using the gradual feed-in technique. All braids gather into a ponytail with a mass of curly hair at the ends. This creates an elegant yet fun style that’s both sophisticated and playful.
Best For
Perfect for active lifestyles, hot weather, workouts, or anytime you want hair completely off your face. Ideal for special events—weddings, parties, date nights. Works on all face shapes, though you can customize cornrow patterns to complement your features. Side-swept patterns elongate round faces, while straight-back looks stunning on oval and heart-shaped faces.
How to Make It
Section hair for your desired cornrow pattern—straight-back, curved, zigzag, or creative designs. Begin each cornrow at your hairline with natural hair, feeding in extensions as you braid backward. Maintain even tension throughout. Gather all cornrows at desired ponytail placement—high, middle, or low. Secure with elastic, attach curly ponytail piece, and wrap a small section around the elastic to hide it.
Tribal Braids with Curly Ends
What It Is
Tribal braids feature intricate patterns with curves, swirls, and geometric designs rooted in cultural heritage. These artistic expressions turn your hair into a canvas. Adding curly ends brings modern flair while honoring traditional beauty.
Best For
Perfect for making statements and showcasing appreciation for cultural artistry. Works beautifully on all hair types and lengths. The intricate patterns are particularly stunning on medium to long hair. Great for anyone wanting unique, eye-catching styles that stand out while providing durable, long-lasting protection.
How to Make It
Plan your pattern carefully—find inspiration from traditional designs or create your own. Section hair according to your pattern using precise parts. Begin each braid with feed-in technique, adjusting hand position for curved designs. This takes practice, so don’t get discouraged. Leave ends loose and create curls using your preferred method. The contrast between intricate patterns and soft curls is stunning.
Goddess Braids with Curly Texture
What It Is
Goddess braids incorporate wavy or curly hair throughout the braid length, creating softer, more textured appearance than traditional box braids. They look fuller with beautiful movement and dimension. Adding curly ends enhances this ethereal, goddess-like quality.
Best For
Perfect for anyone wanting protection and longevity with a softer, more feminine look. Wonderful for romantic occasions or everyday wear if you prefer eye-catching styles that aren’t too bold. Excellent for growing out natural hair or transitioning, as the soft texture masks demarcation lines between different textures.
How to Make It
Section hair into squares and use textured or wavy braiding hair instead of straight. As you braid, allow texture to show through rather than pulling too tight. Maintain that soft, romantic quality throughout. For curly ends, use flexi-rods, perm rods, or finger-wrapping techniques. Match curl pattern at ends with texture throughout braids so everything flows cohesively.
Bohemian Box Braids with Loose Curls
What It Is
Boho braids feature loose, curly pieces left out throughout each braid’s length rather than being completely braided in. Tendrils of curly hair peek out between braids, creating carefree texture. Loose curls at ends complete this flowing, dimensional style.
Best For
Ideal for anyone wanting protective styling that doesn’t look uniform or structured. Perfect for festivals, beach vacations, or everyday carefree vibes. Works on all lengths but looks particularly stunning on longer hair. Great for those new to protective styling who want something that feels more natural and less “done.”
How to Make It
As you braid each section, intentionally leave small pieces of curly extension out as you work down. Let them fall naturally and organically—randomness is key for authentic bohemian vibes. Continue down the length, leaving ends loose and curly to match throughout. Use pre-curled bohemian braiding hair or water wave/deep wave extensions. Gently tug loose pieces to create more volume.
Triangle Box Braids with Curly Ends
What It Is
Triangle box braids use triangular sections instead of traditional squares. This creates unique, eye-catching patterns on your scalp. Paired with soft, romantic curly ends, you get beautiful contrast between geometric structure and flowing freedom.
Best For
Perfect for trying something different while keeping protective benefits and versatility. Triangular sections make braids appear fuller—great for fine to medium hair. Parts are less visible as hair grows, extending style longevity. Works well for all face shapes and can be customized from micro to jumbo sizes.
How to Make It
Create rows as usual, but form triangular sections within each row using rat-tail comb. Alternate triangle direction—one up, next down—for most appealing pattern. Braid each section using standard three-strand technique. Choose any curl type for ends—tight spirals complement geometric precision, while loose curls create beautiful softness. Use preferred curling method for desired pattern.
Lemonade Braids with Curly Ponytail
What It Is
Lemonade braids are side-swept cornrows braiding from one side of the head to the other, creating beautiful flowing patterns. Gathering these into a side ponytail with voluminous curls creates glamorous, red-carpet-worthy looks that are sophisticated yet playful.
Best For
Perfect for special occasions, photo shoots, or anytime you want to feel like a star. Side-swept nature is incredibly flattering—draws attention to your face, elongates your neck, creates gorgeous asymmetrical lines. Wonderful for oval, heart-shaped, or diamond-shaped faces. Great for covering edges or thinning areas while looking fabulous.
How to Make It
Create deep side part and begin cornrows on heavier side, braiding diagonally across head. Use feed-in technique for natural-looking roots. Vary thickness for added dimension or keep uniform. Gather all cornrows into side ponytail at desired placement. Secure with elastic, attach generous curly ponytail piece. Style curls to cascade over shoulder, securing with bobby pins. Add accessories for extra flair.
Ombre Box Braids with Curly Tips
What It Is
Ombre box braids feature gradual color transition from one shade at roots to different shade at ends. This can be subtle or dramatic—dark brown to medium brown, or black to blonde, purple, red. Curly tips in the lighter shade create beautiful focal points.
Best For
Perfect for experimenting with color without dyeing natural hair. Ideal for adding dimension and interest without complicated braiding techniques. Works for everyone, especially those wanting to brighten their look. Customize color transitions to complement skin tone—warm ombres with golden tones for warm skin, cooler ombres with ashy or burgundy for cool skin.
How to Make It
Purchase two colors of braiding hair. Decide where color transition should occur. Start with base color at roots. As you approach transition point, gradually incorporate second color while phasing out first. This creates seamless gradient rather than harsh lines. For curly tips, use lighter color and preferred curling method. Curls showcase ombre effect beautifully, especially in light. Separate curls for maximum volume.
Fulani Braids with Curly Ends
What It Is
Fulani braids feature central cornrows running front to back down the middle, with additional braids on sides. Often incorporates decorative elements like beads, cowrie shells, or metal cuffs. Curly ends blend traditional and contemporary styling, honoring cultural roots while adding modern flair.
Best For
Perfect for appreciating cultural hairstyles respectfully and beautifully. Works wonderfully on all face shapes and hair types. Central braiding pattern is flattering and elongating. Distinctive style stands out from typical box braids or cornrows. Decorative elements make this excellent for special occasions when you want hair as statement piece.
How to Make It
Plan pattern carefully. Create central braid or braids from hairline to back—typically feed-in cornrows slightly thicker than sides. Create side braids—thinner cornrows or small box braids. Include thin temple braids framing face, sometimes wrapped with thread or decorated with beads. Add beads while braiding or thread on afterward. Choose tight curls for drama or loose curls for softness. Coordinate decorative elements with curls.
Crochet Box Braids with Curly Hair
What It Is
Crochet box braids use a different installation method. Create foundation of cornrows, then use crochet needle to loop pre-made braided extensions through cornrows. This allows quick installation while achieving natural-looking results. Curly ends provide the same beautiful contrast as traditional methods.
Best For
Ideal for anyone wanting box braid looks without lengthy installation time. Perfect if you’re doing your own hair or have limited salon time. Great for protective styling beginners wanting to try braids without major time and tension commitment. Works well for all hair types and natural hair lengths.
How to Make It
Braid natural hair into horizontal cornrows from front to back—typically four to six rows work well. Take crochet needle and pre-made braided hair. Fold braided hair in half, insert needle under cornrow, catch folded hair loop, and pull through. Pull loose ends through loop and tighten. Repeat across all cornrows until head is covered. Purchase pre-made crochet braids with curly tips or create curls on straight-ended versions.
Twisted Box Braids with Curly Ends
What It Is
Instead of three-strand braiding, twisted box braids use two-strand twist method. Each section divides into two parts twisted around each other. Curly ends create beautiful spiral patterns throughout hair length that transition seamlessly into loose curls.
Best For
Perfect for trying something different from traditional braids or if two-strand twisting is easier than three-strand braiding. Works wonderfully on all hair types in various sizes. Excellent for enhancing natural texture patterns. Great for anyone wanting easy-to-undo protective styling—twists generally unravel more easily than braids.
How to Make It
Section hair into desired square sizes. Divide each section into two parts instead of three. Split extension hair in half and place at roots for two even pieces. Twist by wrapping one section over the other with consistent tension. Continue to desired length, leaving last few inches untwisted for curls. Use flexi-rods, perm rods, or continue twisting loose ends and secure with pins until dry.
Conclusion
As I reflect on these beautiful styles, I’m reminded why I love the beauty industry. It’s not just about hairstyles—it’s about the transformation that happens when you look in the mirror feeling confident, beautiful, and empowered.
Cassie braids with curly hair celebrate versatility, creativity, and the beautiful spectrum of hair textures. Whether you choose jumbo braids for bold statements, delicate micro braids for elegance, or bohemian braids for carefree vibes, each style tells your unique story.
Throughout my career, I’ve watched clients transform not just their appearance but their entire demeanor when finding styles that resonate with them. That’s the magic of protective styling—giving your natural hair a break while exploring different aesthetics, colors, and textures without permanent commitment.
Remember, there are no rules for expressing yourself through hair. Love ombre colors? Go for it. Want to mix different curl types? Why not? Beauty isn’t about strict guidelines—it’s about finding what makes you feel like your best self.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. Some of my most beloved looks came from taking risks and stepping outside comfort zones. Hair grows back, braids can be removed, and every style is temporary—so have fun with it!
Prioritize your natural hair’s health. Protective styling only works if you’re actually protecting your hair. Keep your scalp clean and moisturized, don’t leave styles in too long, and listen to what your hair tells you.
Use these styles as inspiration rather than strict templates. Mix elements, add creative touches, incorporate colors and accessories reflecting your personality. The fourteen styles I’ve shared are starting points—possibilities are endless when combining creativity with these foundational techniques.
Most importantly, remember beauty is not about perfection. It’s about confidence, creativity, and feeling empowered to express yourself however you choose. Whether braids are professionally installed or DIY, whether curls are perfectly uniform or beautifully imperfect, what matters is how you feel wearing them.
I hope this guide inspires you to try something new, gives you confidence to experiment, and provides practical knowledge for creating or requesting these looks. Your hair is your crown, and protective styles are beautiful ways to wear it proudly.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope you feel inspired, empowered, and ready to embrace protective styling’s transformative power. True beauty comes from within and reflects in how we present ourselves. Choose the style speaking to your soul and wear it with confidence. You deserve to feel absolutely stunning every single day.
Here’s to beautiful hair, endless creativity, and confidence to express yourself authentically. May your braiding journey be filled with gorgeous styles, healthy hair, and joy from loving what you see in the mirror.