If you're looking for one of the most popular protective styles, boho braids are hard to miss. Their relaxed, wavy finish gives them a soft, effortless look that's drawn plenty of attention.
Inspired by the 90s, this style blends classic box braids with loose, textured strands for a more natural vibe.
If you're new to boho braids, this guide will walk you through everything you should know before getting them — from popular styles to care tips and more.
What Are Boho Braids
Boho braids are a 90s-inspired protective style that mixes classic box braids with loose, wavy strands for a softer, more textured finish.
The “boho” comes from the word bohemian, which reflects a relaxed and carefree vibe.
Unlike traditional box braids that have a sleek, uniform look, boho braids are styled to look more natural and effortless.
One of the most common techniques used for this style is knotless boho braids.
Knotless braiding creates a smoother, flatter base at the roots, which makes the braids lighter and more comfortable to wear.
Combined with loose curls added throughout, knotless boho braids have become one of the most requested styles at salons.
Their popularity comes from how versatile they are — they work well for casual looks and special occasions, and they add a playful, feminine touch without losing the protective benefits of box braids.
Boho Braids vs. Other Similar Styles
Boho braids often get compared to other braided styles like goddess braids, Bora Bora braids, and mermaid braids.
All of these styles share a similar foundation: box braids blended with curly strands. But the differences come down to the texture, position, length, and amount of the curls.
For example, goddess braids usually feature softer, tighter curls, while mermaid braids tend to have longer, flowing waves that create a beachy effect.
Bora Bora braids often use looser curls with a fuller volume for a bolder look.
Boho braids, on the other hand, typically keep a more natural balance — not too many curls, but just enough to give movement and texture.
When booking an appointment, you can choose the style that suits your personality best. Your stylist can adjust the curl texture, how many curly strands are added, and their placement to create a look that feels like your own.
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Popular Boho Braids Styles
There are plenty of ways to style boho braids depending on the look you want. The length, curl pattern, and even color can all change the final vibe.
Some styles lean soft and subtle, while others make a bold statement. Here are four popular options that many people love:
1. Short Bob Boho Braids
Short bob boho braids give a fresh, playful look while keeping things light and easy to manage. The braids usually fall around chin or shoulder length, with loose curls blended in for texture.
This style works well if you want something chic without the weight of long braids.
2. Loose Wave Boho Knotless Braids
This style combines knotless boho braids with soft, loose waves for a relaxed finish. The curls are slightly longer and flowy, giving the style a laid-back, natural vibe.
It’s a great choice if you want something versatile that looks effortless but still polished.
3. Body Wave Boho Braids
Body wave boho braids are perfect if you like more defined curls.
The waves are thicker and have more volume compared to loose wave styles, adding bounce and movement to the braids.
This option suits anyone who wants a fuller, glam look without going over the top.
4. Mixed Color #4 + #30 + #27 Boho Knotless Braids
Adding color can completely transform your boho braids. One of the most popular combinations is a mix of shades #4, #30, and #27, which blends deep brown with warm caramel and honey tones.
The result is a natural, sun-kissed effect that highlights the curls beautifully. This style stands out while still keeping a soft, wearable feel.
How to Get Boho Braids
You can get boho braids in two ways. The easiest option is to book an appointment with a professional stylist who knows how to create the look you want.
A stylist can help you choose the right braid size, curl pattern, and even color blend to suit your style.
If you’d rather try it yourself, you can follow a step-by-step tutorial at home. Check out the video below to see how boho braids are done and decide if it’s something you’d like to try on your own.
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The Disadvantages of Boho Braids
With so many questions about boho braids, the first will be: how much will it cost to get them?
Boho braids usually take longer to install than regular box braids, especially when adding curly strands for a natural finish.
That means higher service fees, and the price can go up even more if you choose premium hair extensions or extra length.
Another thing to consider is maintenance. Boho braids need more care compared to traditional box braids because of the loose curls.
The exposed curly strands can tangle or frizz if not handled properly, so you’ll need to moisturize, detangle, and wrap your hair at night to keep the style neat.
And while boho braids look beautiful, they don’t last as long as sleek, fully braided styles. The loose curls can lose shape over time, and the overall style may need touch-ups sooner.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance style that stays fresh for weeks, this might not be the best choice.
How to Make Boho Braids Last Longer
Boho braids need a bit more care than traditional box braids, but with the right routine, you can keep them looking fresh for longer. Here are a few tips:
Go for high-quality human hair curls
Using premium hair makes a big difference. Choosing human hair bulk hair for the curly strands helps them stay soft, smooth, and less prone to tangling. Synthetic curls tend to frizz faster, so investing in better quality can save you effort later.
Trim and detangle regularly
Loose curls can get frizzy over time, so detangle them gently every day using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. If you notice any frizzy or knotted ends, trim them right away to keep the style neat.
Moisturize and wash as needed
Keep your braids hydrated by applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner or braid spray. Wash your scalp only when necessary using a diluted shampoo to avoid product buildup while keeping the curls soft and defined.
Nourish with oils and conditioner
A few drops of natural oils like argan, jojoba, or coconut oil can help maintain shine and softness. Light conditioning also keeps both your natural hair and the added curls healthy.
With consistent care, your boho braids will stay beautiful for longer and feel more comfortable to wear.
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