Move over, messy buns and half-hearted ponytails: goddess braids are all the hype this fall season. These larger-than-life, swoon-worthy hair braids are the ultimate flex in protective styling. At Dapper Diary, we don’t just follow trends. We drag them to the spotlight, sprinkle sass, and hand you the backstage pass. Therefore, these trendy braids remind us of Beyoncé-level drama mixed with Serena William’s power moves. And yes, if you’re rocking them, you’re officially walking around with diva energy!
If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram, wondering “What are goddess braids?” and why every It-girl suddenly has them. The Goddess braids are thicker cornrows or box braids with a soft, feminine twist. Some are slicked back, some cascade with curls, and some go full red-carpet fantasy. Basically, goddess braids hairstyles are like the couture version of braids. They are polished, versatile, and scream “main character energy.”
From Zendaya rocking goddess braids with curls on the Oscars carpet to Rihanna serving island-goddess realness in braiding hairstyles, celebs have been low-key (okay, very high-key) pushing this trend back into circulation. Even Cardi B, the rapper, got goddess braids styles that deserve their own award category. Gabrielle Union has shown off goddess braids with curls that definitely deserve their own Pinterest board. If the A-list stunners can’t get enough of this braid style, your FYP won’t either!
Sure, straight-back goddess braids are chic, but the real MVP right now? Goddess braids with curls. The combo of sleek plaits and bouncy tendrils is basically a filter-free glow-up. It’s giving “I woke up like this” but also “yes, I booked a pro braider for eight hours.” You can add some honey blonde extensions that scream sun goddess vibes, while jet black braids scream don’t mess with me, I’m expensive. With this look, you’ve hacked the braids hairstyles 2021 pictures everyone still double-taps in 2025.
We all know that protective hairstyles aren’t just about looking cute. Goddess braids protect natural hair braids from heat, styling stress, and overzealous flat irons that think they’re in Mortal Kombat. They’re low maintenance (yes, really) and last weeks without demanding the kind of upkeep that makes you regret your life choices. You can think of goddess braid styles as the Birkin bag of protective hair. These braids remind us of the hairstyle Malia Obama chose and had us wondering, “Why Malia Obama Blowout Summer Hair is Perfect for Summer?” You can protect your natural hair and allow it to grow by getting these braids.
Do you want to wake up without your braids looking like they went to battle? We talked to hairstyle experts, and these are the tips they shared:
➺Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Oil: It keeps the scalp thriving without leaving you greasy.
➺ORS Olive Oil Nourishing Sheen Spray: All you need is a few puffs before heading out the door. This spray tames frizziness and keeps your baby hair down.
➺Eco Styler Gel (Argan Oil edition): This gel is a great pick for laying down your edges. You don’t have to worry about any stray hair getting loose.
➺A satin bonnet or scarf: This is totally non-negotiable. If you don’t own one, the braid gods are judging you!
Goddess braids aren’t just a passing trend. Braiding hairstyles has a long history in Black communities, going back centuries. They represent culture, creativity, and strength. The fact that godess braids are dominating runways, red carpets, and even Pinterest mom boards just proves what we already know: Black hair sets the culture, and everyone else scrambles to catch up. You can also check out 10 Iconic Braided Hairstyles That Are Totally Fun and Trendy!
Goddess braids are more than just a hairstyle. They’re a look that stands out and makes you feel confident. You can easily keep them fresh and lasting longer with the right night routine, good products, and a satin pillowcase. At Dapper Diary, we’re calling it: this is the season of the goddess braid takeover. Therefore, we can easily say that nothing completes your style better than well-kept goddess braids. These braids scream, “Yes, I’m THAT girl.”
➥What’s the difference between goddess braids and bohemian braids?
Bohemian (boho) braids usually have fewer curly pieces and a lighter, more effortless finish, while goddess braids feature both the braid and visible curly strands woven in for a fuller, bolder look.
➥What type of hair should I use for goddess braids?
You’ll need braiding hair for the base and loose, wavy, or curly extensions for the “goddess” effect. Options include:
➥Do goddess braids get tangled easily?
Yes, tangling can be an issue, especially with the added curly hair. Frizz and matting may occur, so regular moisturizing, gentle detangling, and protective styling at night can help maintain them.
➥What are gypsy braids, and how are they different from goddess braids?
Gypsy braids are made with small to medium-sized braids, with curls incorporated into almost every braid, creating a very full and voluminous look. Goddess braids, on the other hand, tend to have larger braids with strategically placed curls for a softer finish.
➥What are Fulani braids, and how do they compare to goddess braids?
Fulani braids are a traditional West African style featuring cornrows along the scalp with extensions flowing into longer braids. They’re often accessorized with beads or shells and styled with a central part. Unlike goddess braids, Fulani braids are more structured and culturally rooted in traditional patterns.
Lena lives for bold fits, viral looks, and saying what everyone’s thinking in a way that resonates. A style-savvy Gen Z queen with a soft spot for streetwear and red carpet drama, Lena only has one rule: “Serve every day like it’s Fashion Week.” Catch her dropping truth bombs, style inspo, and outfit slays at Culture Club and Slay Report!
