21 Crochet Braids Hairstyles That Will Bring On The Texture

Crochet braids have become one of the most popular protective hairstyles of 2020. They're a chic alternative to traditional protective style options because they allow you to flaunt natural-looking texture while keeping your strands stylishly (and safely) tucked away. The hashtag #crochetbraids is trending on Instagram with almost 1.9 million beauty lovers sharing everything from the crochet braid pattern to trending hairstyles. So, it’s no surprise that natural hair gurus have decided to take this style for a spin. 

Best of all, with so many crochet braid hairstyles currently on-trend, you’ll have plenty of ways to switch things up in the hair department. If you’re ready to transform your mane, keep reading to learn everything you need to know about crochet braid styles. 

WHAT ARE CROCHET BRAIDS?

You need to know all about crochet braids before you can choose the right hairstyle. As we noted above, crochet braids are a protective style that features extensions that are weaved—a.k.a., crocheted—into cornrows using a latch hook tool. It’s important to note that crochet braids may not be what you would typically expect from a braided hairstyle. The reason being, this look doesn’t have the typical woven pattern of Dutch or French braids. Rather, it’s a technique for adding hair extensions to your mane, and the end result can be braided or not. The braiding aspect is that the hair is first weaved into cornrows, then extensions that mimic natural, textured hair are added in. In the end, the cornrows are hidden. 

You can use crochet braids to achieve a variety of styles, from crochet box braids and short crochet braids styles to loose styles that can put your desired natural texture on full display. Talk about a game-changing protective style!

21 CROCHET BRAID STYLES YOU NEED TO TRY

As we mentioned, crochet braids offer plenty of options when it comes to the end result. If you’re looking to revamp your 'do, here are 21 ideas to get started.

1. CROCHET BOX BRAIDS

Box braids are one of the most popular hairstyles out there right now. If you don’t have enough length to get the look all on your own—or want to keep your natural hair protected—crochet braids could be the perfect way to try box braids for yourself.

2. JUMBO CROCHET BOX BRAIDS

Play with texture and size with gorgeous jumbo crochet box braids. These big box braids provide everything you love about the trend and help to speed up your time in the salon chair without sacrificing your style. 

3. CURLY CROCHET BRAIDS

If your natural curls are hard to manage, but you still want to rock curly hair, you might find yourself in a bit of a predicament—if not for crochet braiding. Simply do the crochet braiding technique with curly extensions. Of course, you can also curl your own extensions.

4. TWIST OUT CROCHET BRAIDS

If curly crochet braids are not your style, twist out crochet braids may tickle your fancy. This style puts a chic spin on the trend and gives your locks a beautiful wavy pattern. 

5. CROCHET MICRO BRAIDS

Besides big box braids, you can also use the crochet braiding technique to get micro braids. We love this look when done with medium-length extensions.

6. SENEGALESE TWIST CROCHET BRAIDS

Twist hairstyles and Senegalese twists, in particular, are other options to consider. It’s up to you whether you want thin or chunky Senegalese twists—both make for an amazing look.

7. SENEGALESE TWIST CROCHET BRAID BOB

Classic Senegalese twists are a gorgeous style on their own, but why not take your look to the next level with a bob. This low-maintenance hairstyle takes all the work out of styling your mane in your beauty routine. We also dig that this style exudes a classy and elegant vibe that can easily complement your beauty looks perfectly. 

8. SHORT CROCHET BRAIDS

Since crochet braiding is all about attaching extensions to cornrows, it’s an easy way to get long hair; but there’s no rule saying you can’t rock short crochet braid styles. In fact, any of the above hairstyles will complement short hair perfectly.

9. HALF-CORNROWS HALF CROCHET

A half-cornrows, half-crochet braids hairstyle is another look that deserves praise. It offers a mix of gorgeous textures with cornrows weaved on the top half of your head and a natural texture on the bottom section that makes a stylish statement. 

10. HALF-TOP KNOT, HALF-CROCHET BRAIDS

Now that we’ve stepped into half-up hairstyle territory, we have to introduce you to the top knot crochet braid look. It’s one of the simplest ways to flaunt your length and keep your locks out of your face for a style that can be worn day or night.

11. CROCHET LOB

Changing up the length of your crochet braids is a foolproof way to add a snazzy touch to your locks. It’s time to get acquainted with the crochet lob. Known as one of the hottest crochet braid hairstyles, this trend works in your favor to minimize the weight on your scalp for less stress. What’s not to love?

12. CROCHET LAYERED BOB

Keep your crochet braids short and neat with a layered bob. You can play with length and angles while keeping your locks at a manageable length. 

13. CROCHET BRAID SIDE-PARTED BOB

Speaking of crochet braid bob trends, the side-parted style has become a hot pick. Typically, hair falls to one side, and by emphasizing that, this particular style helps you to achieve crochet braids that are more natural and fuller-looking. This hairstyle is a nice change of pace that draws attention to your features for an ultra-flattering result. 

14. CROCHET BRAID WIG

Embrace the crochet braids trend by testing the waters with a crochet braid wig. This style consists of a wig that’s styled with the crochet braid technique to emulate curly, wavy, or coily textures. You can totally see what all the hype is about without the full commitment. And once you determine if the style is right for you, you can swap out your wig for a more permanent look. 

15. CURLY CROCHET PIXIE CUT

We’ve already touched on short crochet braid hairstyles a bit, and now we’re going to turn your attention to the crochet braid pixie cut. This look helps to add movement and body to your short strands while flaunting a gorgeous curly pattern. 

16. WAIST-LENGTH CROCHET BRAIDS

Waist-length crochet braids are ideal for anyone who loves to flaunt a super-trendy look. This gorgeous pick adds length and sass to your braided style for a ‘do that’s fit for any occasion. 

17. CROCHET BRAIDS WITH BANGS

A textured fringe easily helps to frame your face and polish your hairstyle. Tip the style scales in your favor by adding bangs into the mix. You can sweep your bangs off to the side or allow them to fall over your forehead to give your braids a romantic touch. 

18. CROCHET YARN BRAIDS

Step into the world of trendy braided hairstyles with yarn crochet braids. This sensational style uses yarn instead of hair extensions to create a natural textured look. Yarn tends to be much lighter than extensions and is a perfect match for anyone looking for low-tension hairstyles. Not to mention, you can totally amp up your look with a burst of color or play it safe with a neutral hue. 

19. SIDE-SWEPT CROCHET BRAIDS

Side-swept hairstyles have been having a major moment in the beauty world. So, of course, we have to share the wonders of side-swept crochet braids. This look frames your face and calls attention to your gorgeous cheekbones and defined jawline.  

20. CROCHET BRAIDS WITH RUBBER BANDS

Consider adding a playful and cool-girl aesthetic to your locks with the combination of crochet braids and rubber bands. Not only does this hairstyle add a burst of color to your hair, but it’s also all the rage on social media. Simply tie rubber bands throughout your crochet braids to get the look. 

21. RED CROCHET BRAIDS

If you ask us, it’s always a grand idea to experiment with color, and red crochet braids are leading the pack. This red hue is a fresh and innovative way to add depth and dimension to your braids for a fresh out of the salon look. You can opt for an ombré style or classic highlights to get the job done. Reach for the L’Oréal Paris Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray in Red to transform your crochet braids.

HOW TO DO CROCHET BRAIDS

If you want to learn how to get a crochet hairstyle for yourself, we’re here to help. While crochet braiding can be done at home, keep in mind that it takes time and skill. If you’re ready to tackle crochet braiding on your own, follow the steps below to install crochet braids. 

STEP #1: CREATE CORNROWS

First things first, you’ll want to braid your natural hair into cornrows. Take a small section of hair starting at your hairline—think about half an inch—and split it into three, equally-sized strands. Then, Dutch braid those strands toward the back of your head, adding in hair as you go. When you reach the end, secure your hair with a clear elastic, then repeat. 

Be sure not to braid too tight, or this can cause discomfort later on. To secure your ends into place, fold them up toward the front of your mane. Then, use thread that matches your hair color to loosely tie and attach your ends to an adjacent cornrow.

STEP #2: GRAB YOUR EXTENSIONS

Gather your loose crochet hair (a.k.a., extensions), so you’re ready to go. The amount of hair you need will depend on the style of loose hair you choose to use, whether that’s pre-styled box braids or kinky curls. Do your research beforehand. You’ll also need a crochet needle for the next step.

STEP #3: CROCHET AWAY

It’s time to create your crochet braids! Start with the hair at the nape of your neck, working from left to right. This will make it easier to keep track of where you’ve crocheted your hair and where you still need to add hair. Take your crochet needle and slide it through your cornrow. Next, twist your crochet hair to keep any flyaways out of the way, then fold it so that it forms a loop. Open the latch of your crochet needle, place the loop in the latch, then close it.

Gently pull the crochet hair through so that the loop is at the other side of your cornrow, but the length of the hair is still at the starting side. Remove the loop from your crochet needle and set the needle aside. Take the ends of your crochet hair and pull them through the same loop. Carefully tug at the ends of the hair to secure it into place and create a knot around your cornrow. One done, many more to go!

STEP #4: REPEAT, REPEAT, REPEAT

Keep crocheting hair through your cornrows, repeating the process above. Crochet braids aren’t permanent, so if you notice an area that needs more hair or one braid that looks too thick, you can always backtrack.

STEP #5: STYLE YOUR CROCHET HAIR

You can leave your new extensions as is, or you can choose to create a whole new hairstyle, such as one of the crochet braid styles we recommended earlier. Make your choice, then style—or don’t. It’s really up to you!

STEP #6: SHOW OFF YOUR NEW MANE

Of course, a gorgeous mane like this deserves to be seen (not to mention the hours of labor you put into it). Instagram selfie, anyone?

Next: The 30 Best Protective Hairstyles for Natural Hair