I’ve told myself 100 times, ‘I don’t think I’ll ever get braids,’ ‘I would look weird with braids,’ ‘Braids aren’t for me.” And here I am today. Clearly this is a case of never say never, because this hairstyle not only freed me my hair from strain and heat — it also freed me from any self doubt I had in my appearance.
After years of saying I don’t think this hair style is for me, I decided to give box braids a try for the end of the summer. I had just got done with two sew-in bobs that I will probably wear forever, but since I was getting a bit bored with my look at the moment I decided to go a new route.
I feel liberated. I want my 20’s to be about going outside of my comfort zone and trying new things in all aspects of life. While getting a new hairstyle may not seem like a big deal, it is. Not only does my hair look super cute, it’s a protective style and low maintenance. Before I get into my reasons to love my hair, I will note that the braids will be tight and uncomfortable for a few days. So if you’ve never had them, I’d recommend getting them a few days in advance if you have an upcoming event.
Without further adieu, check out my five reasons I love my box braids.
- Affordable & Long Lasting
I only paid $100 for my neat, well done style. Pricing is different based on stylists but I was able to find a stylist last minute that was also cheaper that I had originally planned to pay. (I’ll tag her on IG.) She took about 4.5 hours to install and style my hair. Not only was this a great deal but box braids can last up to 6- 8 weeks, depending on care and hair growth.
2. Shorter Times Getting Ready For The Day
It feels so nice to spend extra time on my makeup since my hair is already done. Putting my hair in a bun or top knot is such a cute, easy to go style without the struggle or straightening your hair.
3. Natural Heat Protector
When I get sew ins, I always have leave out. So even if most of my hair is protected, the front of my hair is being styled which leads to heat damage, no matter how much product you use. Having braids has allowed my hair to be completed protected from heat without having a full sew in. Braids also protect the hair from breakage!
4. More Versatile Than I Imagined
When I first wanted braids, I imagined only wearing them in the top knot style but there are so many styles for box braids. I’ve been watching YouTube videos on how to style my braids, and one of my favorite videos is from TeteMariee, where she styles her braids 13 different ways. Check out her video here. I’ll be sure to post all of the versatile styles that I try on my IG!
5. They Make Me Proud Of Who I Am
I have gotten so may compliments on my hair (including from MakeupShayla) that have made me more confident in my new look. No, I wasn’t waiting for validation from others to know I look good, but hearing it from peers and idols does boost your confidence. Nevertheless, as a black woman we get so much shit about our natural hair. It’s supposedly not good enough for white or corporate America, but it’s who we are. Although I’m not a full blown naturalista, getting braids has made me feel more connected to my happy, black self. I’ll still rock straight (non-relaxed) hair, but I do see why women choose more natural styles over others. No one rocks braids quite like a black girl, because we rock. <3
