If you’re looking to try out some new hairstyles, but aren’t quite sure where to start, look no further than Rihanna, who consistently pulls off the best braid looks in Hollywood. This pop diva has been giving us braids for years now, so whether you want an intricate and fancy French braid or just want to keep it simple with a simple fishtail braid, she’s got you covered. Here are eight of our favorite Rihanna braids of all time.
Rihanna’s Goddess Braids
Rihanna’s braided hairstyles are signature looks that never disappoint. Take your favorite style from her most iconic moments, like this goddess braid, and try them at home for a quick and easy update. The stunning ballerina bun updo is always one of my favorites.
The long rope braid is also an adorable look for day or night! I love to mix up the loose waves with some soft curls as well—perfect if you’re running out the door!
Rihanna’s Cornrow Ponytail
This cute hairstyle starts with an asymmetrical cornrow. The hair is then pulled back into a ponytail and wrapped around itself to form a braid.
Although this hairstyle may look like just two braids, there’s some serious artistry happening here! In order to create the perfect texture for your bangs, the hairstylist carefully wove the hair in between the cornrows and loosely pulled it apart near the top of your head.
Rihanna’s Accent Braid
It’s sleek and polished, but still fun and young. There’s also no messing around with a braid like this — if you want it to stay neat, you have to give your locks plenty of time to dry after washing them. It’ll require several hours or overnight drying for best results. If you’re in a rush, go for her right-side-up French twist instead!
This hairstyle is the perfect way to keep things sophisticated while still looking like you had a ton of fun this summer.
Rihanna’s Knotless Box Braids
Rihanna has a simple box braid that is beautifully pulled up into a knotless style that looks as if she just finished curling her hair. The easiest way to do this hairstyle is to separate the hair into two ponytails, one on each side of your head. Take all of the hair on the right and make a ponytail, secure it with an elastic and then take all of the hair on the left and put it in a bun. Next, use a piece of the hair from the left hand side and cross it over to the right hand side. Then take some of the bottom layer from the left hand side and bring it over to create another braid. Add in some hairs from both sides for more volume and then twist them together before wrapping them around one another. Make sure you have at least four twists before you tighten everything down with bobby pins or clips!
Rihanna’s Fulani Braids
Rihanna’s hairstylist confesses that he created the Fulani braid specifically for her, as a way to try out new braiding techniques and bring new looks to his clients. It was a long process but it turned out so beautiful, he explained. To get the look, start by parting hair in three sections and styling your first section of hair like a regular braid.
Rihanna’s Waterfall French Braid
Take a section of hair from the bottom of your head and start braiding it all the way up. Once you reach the crown, tie your braid with elastic so it won’t unravel. Then, take one strand from either side of your face, separate them into two strands and tie them in a knot to conceal the elastic that’s peeking out. Now you’re ready to create something magical!
Rihanna’s Fishtail Crown
Rihanna’s fishtail braid crown is an understated take on the classic hairstyle. She has been rocking this look for years and it suits every occasion! To get this particular braid, make a french braid but leave out one section of hair (we recommend starting at the nape of your neck). Then divide the sections into two parts—one strand from each section goes to the other section before crossing in the middle to tie off with an elastic.
Rihanna’s Side-Swept Cornrows
Side-swept cornrows are a style that is so basic, but it looks great on just about everyone. This style will make your hair look effortlessly styled without spending too much time on styling and fussing. You can tie the braids into pigtails or leave them out. For this particular hairstyle, it’s best to part the hair down the middle to ensure you have enough length to work with while braiding. You can use Marley or Braidless extensions if you don’t have enough natural hair to braid.
