Feed-in braids are a braiding technique in which the braids begin small at the scalp and grow larger as more hair is added. This technique is accomplished by adding extensions to the braid as it progresses, resulting in a uniform appearance.
The feed-in braid technique is popular for creating cornrows, box braids, and twists, among other braided hairstyles. The technique enables a seamless, natural-looking braid with less bulk at the roots than conventional braiding techniques. Moreover, feed-in braids can protect natural hair from damage caused by styling and the environment.
To create feed-in braids, the hair is divided into small sections at the scalp, and a small amount of natural hair is used to begin the braids. As the braid progresses, extensions are added, gradually increasing its thickness. Repeat the procedure until the desired length is reached.
Importantly, even though feed-in braids are a protective style, improper installation or prolonged wear can cause damage to the hair and scalp. To prevent damage, it is essential to take proper care of the braids and have them removed by a professional.
We’ve compiled 35 gorgeous feed-in braided hairstyles to help you achieve a detailed look. Let’s begin!
1. Lemonade Feed-In Braids
Side-parted cornrows are a trendy feed-in braid hairstyle. Beyonce’s “Lemonade” music video hairstyle inspired these braids. They are braided diagonally from the front of the head, creating a side-parted look. Lemonade braids are small to medium-sized and can be styled in a ponytail or bun.
2. Ghana Feed-In Braids
Ghana braids, also known as Banana braids or Ghana cornrows, are a popular West African feed-in braid hairstyle. Thin to medium-sized braids are zig-zagged close to the scalp. Ghana braids can be worn in a bun, ponytail, or with beads and cuffs.
3. Fulani Braids
West African feed-in braids, also known as tribal braids or cornrows with beads, are popular. Thin to medium-sized diagonal braids with small cornrows are typical of these braids. Beads and cowrie shells decorate Fulani braids.
4. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are larger, more intricate cornrows. These braids are usually one large braid with smaller braids for texture and detail. Goddess braids can be worn in a bun, ponytail, or loose.
5. Halo Braids
Halo braids, also known as crown braids, are a popular feed-in braid hairstyle that wraps around the crown. A smaller braid hides the ends of these circular braids. Halo braids can be worn loose or bunned.
6. Jumbo Box Braids
Jumbo box braids are chunky feed-in braids and are one of the most popular Afro-American hairstyles. Synthetic braids can be styled in a ponytail, bun, or loosely. Jumbo box braids protect natural hair.
7. Small Box Braids
Feed-in braids with small, tightly braided braids are popular. Synthetic braids can be styled in a ponytail or updo. Small box braids protect natural hair for weeks.
8. Senegalese Twists
Long, rope-like twists are a popular feed-in braid hairstyle. Synthetic twists can be styled in a high ponytail, bun, or loosely. Senegalese twists protect natural hair for weeks. They’re also easy to maintain.
9. Marley Twists
Like Senegalese twists, Marley twists use kinky or coily hair extensions like Marley hair. Senegalese twists are smaller and less natural-looking. Marley twists can be worn in a ponytail, bun, or loose. Protective hairstyles.
10. Micro Braids
Extension-made micro braids are very thin feed-in braids. Versatile and low-maintenance braids are popular. Ponytails and updos are possible with them. Micro braids protect natural hair.
11. Kinky Twists
Kinky twists feed-in braid uses extensions to mimic natural hair. Medium to large twists can be styled differently. Kinky twists look natural and textured. For achieveing an unique look, try wearing it with a retro touch or an updo.
12. Crochet Braids
A crochet hook is used to loop pre-braided or pre-twisted extensions through scalp-braided cornrows. Repeat until the desired amount of hair is achieved by knotting the extensions. Crochet braids are versatile and easy to install.
13. Waterfall Braids
These feed-in braids start at the crown of the head and cascade down the side, with strands of hair left out to create the waterfall effect. Waterfall braids are beautiful and versatile.
14. Snake Braids
This feed-in braid creates wavy, textured hair. As the name sggests, the extensions create snake-like braids. Snake braids look cool and edgy. You can style this hairstyle with an updo, undercut, bun or a ponytail.
15. Half-Up, Half-Down Feed-In Braids
This style allows for full braids while keeping some hair out of the face. The top section is braided, while the rest is loose. It’s versatile. Half-up, half-down hairstyle can be featured with a bun, ponytail or even with bandanas.
16. Braided Ponytail with Feed-In Braids
Feed-in braids from the hairline to the nape of the neck are braided into a ponytail. It’s chic and easy to do with different braid sizes. Try top braid hairstyle or side braids to get an edgy look.
17. French Feed-In Braids
We all are obsessed with French braids, so here’s another way to style it. These feed-in braids are braided near the scalp in a head-shaped pattern. French braids come in many sizes and styles. Their timeless style makes them popular.
18. Dutch Feed-In Braids
Like French braids, Dutch braids are done by weaving the hair under the braid. The braid sits on top of the hair rather than weaving into it. Dutch braids are trendy because they can be styled in many ways. Ideal for short or long hair.
19. Fishtail Feed-In Braids
Fishtail feed-in braids are stylish fishtail braids. These fishtail braids start small at the top and grow as more hair is added. The braid adds texture to all hair types and lengths. Fishtail feed-in braids can be side-swept or half-up, half-down.
20. Side Feed-In Braids
Side-swept feed-in braids are chic and versatile. These braids start small at the front and get thicker as they reach the back, giving the hairstyle a unique and eye-catching look. Side-swept feed-in braids can be styled in a side ponytail, bun, or middle part.
21. Crown Braids
Crown feed-in braids look royal. These braids start at the front and thicken as they circle the head, forming a crown. Crown feed-in braids can be worn half-up, half-down, or updo. Ideal for women with curly hair.
22. Viking Braids
Viking warriors inspired Viking feed-in braids. These braids start thin and thicken, creating a unique look. Viking feed-in braids can be styled in a ponytail, bun, or with a middle part.
23. Tribal Braids
African braiding-inspired tribal feed-in braids. Hair extensions create intricate patterns and designs in these small braids. Tribal feed-in braids can be worn half-up, half-down, or updo.
24. Bohemian Braids
Feed-in braids are carefree. These feed-in braids are thicker and looser than others, giving them a bohemian look. A messy bun or side ponytail can style bohemian feed-in braids.
25. Knotless Braids
Traditional feed-in braids are now knotless. Starting with a small braid at the scalp, these braids gradually add extensions for a natural look. Knotless feed-in braids reduce scalp tension and breakage and are popular protective hairstyles.
26. Butterfly Braids
These feed-in braids is fun and unique as it resembles butterfly-look. Butterfly wings are formed, as the braids are thicken from the top to the back of the head. Butterfly feed-in braids can be styled in ponytails or buns. Wear this hairstyle to your next beach or summer outing.
27. Ladder Braids
Ladder braids are trendy. Ladder-like braids start thin at the top and thicken as they reach the back of the head. Side ponytails and half-up, half-down styles are possible with ladder feed-in braids.
28. Tree Braids
This feed-in braid hairstyle uses cornrows to add synthetic hair to natural hair. These braids are called “tree braids” because they use a “tree” or “crochet” needle to attach extensions to natural hair. Tree braids can be straight or curly. They are low-maintenance and last several weeks. Tree braids protect natural hair while letting it grow.
29. Cornrow Braids
Cornrow braids are straight-line feed-in braids. Straight, zigzag, and curved braids are possible. Cornrow braids can protect hair or support hair extensions. Beads, rings, and other accessories can be added.
30. Bantu Knots
A unique feed-in braid hairstyle, bantu knots involve twisting small sections of hair into small top-knot. Bobby pins or elastics hold the knots to the scalp. Bantu knots can be worn alone or used to create twist-outs and braid-outs. They keep natural hair moisturized and breakage-free.
31. Mixed Size Feed-In Braids
These braids use different-sized extensions. This style is versatile and textured. Braids can be styled into buns, ponytails, and other updos. This hairstyle is becoming popular among celebrities and red-carpet looks.
32. Mermaid Feed-In Braids
Mermaid feed-in braids are popular because they combine large and small braids. The fish-scale-patterned braids can be straight, curly, or wavy. Beads, shells, and other ocean-themed accessories can decorate mermaid feed-in braids.
33. Mohawk Feed-In Braids
This bold and edgy style braids the hair in tight cornrows on either side of the head, leaving the center unbraided. Twisted, coiled, or high-bun hairstyles are possible with the unbraided section. This mohawk hairstyle is adaptable.
34. Two-Toned Feed-In Braids
Adding extensions in two colors creates a unique and eye-catching style. Braids can be styled and arranged. This style is ideal for those who want to color their hair without dyeing it permanently.
35. Basket Weave Feed-In Braids
Basket weave are an unusual hairstyle. All you need to do is to keep weaving your hair similar to a basket. It can be worn in updos, buns, and ponytails. This hairstyle is perfect for adding elegance.