
Box braids will forever be a protective style (opens in new tab) staple in the natural hair community. They're the perfect go-to: low-maintenance, versatile, and last for six to eight weeks. Plus, the style gives you the opportunity to experiment with color—specifically, the bold shade of red. Before you get discouraged by the vibrant color recommendation, hear me out: The spectrum of red is vast. Think tones of copper, wine, burgundy, and orange-red. Basically, a shade for every skin tone. Whether you're ready for a fiery switch-up or looking for a subtle wine tint, we've rounded up the most mesmerizing looks to get you inspired. Ahead, 12 fierce red box braids styles in various lengths and hue intensities.
1. Bright Side-Swept Bob
A post shared by Nneoma aka (Nee)🇳🇬 (@nneunfiltered) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
Amp up your look and prepare to turn heads with this fiery red braided bob. Note the pretty gold cuffed ends.
2. Burgundy Half-Up, Half Down
A post shared by C Y N T H I A (@ceeceelu_) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
Going red is already a statement in itself. Keep it cute by styling your braids half-up, half-down and add a few hair cuffs to your liking.
3. A Crown of Bantu Knots
A post shared by Rola (@rolablades) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
Turn your look up a few notches by creating Bantu knots to frame your face and complement your braids.
4. Orange-Red High Ponytail
A post shared by Zhané (@zhaanaay) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
Try this fiery brick red for your next braided style. If your real hair isn't red, simply ask your stylist to tuck the ends of your natural hair during the braiding process for a beautiful pairing of dark roots and bold red braids.
5. Embellished Jumbo Box Braids
Accentuate your ruby-toned braids by decorating your style with hair cuffs, jewels, and metallic hair strings.
6. Ruby Space Buns
A post shared by BIG BOSS 🔑🔑 (@keke) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
Switch up from a classic bun to an elegant updo. Gather your braids into two or three mini space buns similar to KeKe Palmer's ruby toned 'do.
7. Shoulder-Length Box Braids
A post shared by Zhané (@zhaanaay) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
Keep it short and super cute like this lob adorned with gold cuffs.
8. Red Knotless Braids
A post shared by kelsley | natural hair + style (@kelsleynicole) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
Do away with tension and soreness by going the knotless box braid route. The knotless technique is a feed-in braiding method that entails gradually weaving extensions into your braids for a seamlessly natural (and pain-free) look.
9. Copper-Toned Box Braids
A post shared by Tiana Major9 (@tianamajor9) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
The versatility that comes with box braid styles are unmatched. Spice things up by styling your small to medium braids in this fun half-up, half-down look.
10. Auburn Fulani Braid Style
A post shared by Self Taught Braider (@kersti.pitre) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
If you're looking for a happy medium between a true red and a deep burgundy, opt for a muted auburn shade and pair with a gorgeous style reminiscent of Fulani braids.
11. Braided High Pony
A post shared by Joyjah Estrada (@joyjah) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
Model Joyjah Estrada puts her natural red hair on full display while wearing box braids in a beautiful high ponytail.
12. Stunning Middle-Parted Style
A post shared by FENTY BEAUTY BY RIHANNA (@fentybeauty) (opens in new tab)
A photo posted by on
No matter the hairstyle or color, Rihanna never disappoints. Screenshot this stunning deep red box braid look—complete with a defined middle part—as inspo for your next hair appointment.
Chelsea Hall is the Assistant Fashion and Beauty Editor at Marie Claire, where she covers celebrity style, fashion trends, skincare, makeup and anything else tied into the world of fashion and beauty
-
I Tested the Oura Ring Fitness Tracker Jennifer Aniston Loves—It Knew I Was Getting Sick Before I Did
Learn more about yourself by simply slipping on a ring.
By Brooke Knappenberger
-
Pearls Are Back for 2023—But These Aren't Your Grandmother's Pearls
Classic, contemporary, and everything in between.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
Meghan Markle Made $80K Per Year With The Tig, But Could Make Much More With a Relaunch: Branding Expert
It could be a smart business move for the duchess.
By Iris Goldsztajn
-
The 20 Best Hair Masks for Damaged Hair, According to Experts and Editors
Healthy strands, here we come!
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
How Often You Should Wash Your Hair, According To Experts
Keep it fresh, my friends.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
The 11 Best Magnetic Lashes of 2023
Go ahead and kiss your messy lash glue goodbye.
By Hana Hong
-
The 25 Best Hair Growth Shampoos of 2023, According to Experts
Rapunzel-like hair, coming right up.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
The 23 Best Beauty Advent Calendars of 2023
The gift that keeps on giving—literally.
By Julia Marzovilla
-
The 18 Best Natural Hair Products in 2023
Remember: Your curls are your crown.
By Gabrielle Ulubay
-
The 9 Best Hot Rollers for the Curls of Your Dreams
This is how we roll.
By Samantha Holender
-
The 12 Best Cream Eyeshadows, According to Makeup Artists
The best part? They’re so easy to apply.
By Samantha Holender