15 Bob Braid Styles for Every Personality

When you think about getting braids, the first thing you think about is the length—and almost 100 percent of the time you're going to go for long (and we don't blame you, we love a hip-grazing box braid style). But bob braids are are a style that's on our radar. Whether you’re curious about longer bob braids (a braided lob, perhaps?) or super-short, chin-length bob braids, these below examples show that bob braids aren’t going anywhere—and for good reason.

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Metallic Accessories

Sometimes you just need those ‘90s baddie vibes, and adding in some metallic cuffs is just the right amount of throwback flair. If the look isn’t eye-catching enough, just keep adding more accessories.

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Subtle Details

Thicker braids with some unique details, like a metallic cuff and a few locs added throughout, makes the look feel more artful, especially when paired with softly swooped baby hair.

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Clean and Simple

An asymmetric lob? Yes, please. This long, classic take on bob braids allows you to highlight delicate collarbones as the braids sweep gently downward, framing the face.

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Add Locs

Short Hairstyles for Black Hair Loc Bob Willow Smith — Getty Images

Curious about bob braids, but want to take it to the next level? Try out locs. Perfect for natural hair, especially if you add hair for a full, thick look, a style like this creates a powerful, gorgeous vibe.

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Middle Part

If the 2010s were the age of the side part, this decade, it’s all about the middle part. Bring your face to the forefront by selecting a center part for your bob braids. And don't forget to add in some metallic braid cuffs to the ends for some sparkle and shine.

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Blonde Bob Braids

If you’ve been dreaming of going blonde, why not make today the day to finally go for it? The best part? You don't even have to dye your hair. Just get a pack of 22 Ash Blond Kanekalon braiding hair!

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Colorful Bob Braids

Braided Hairstyles for Natural Hair Colorful Amandla Stenberg — @amandlastenberg

The fun is never-ending with this look. Level up your bob braids with some strips of gorgeous color—we love how the pastel blue frames Amandla Stenberg's face and contrasts their otherwise golden brown braids.

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Deep Side Part

While we love a sharp middle part, there’s something about a deep, deep side part that feels early 2000s in the best way. Paired with on-trend shades like these, side-parted bob braids give off a distinctly trendy vibe.

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Short Box Braids

Sometimes, keeping it simple with a clean set of box braids is the perfect way to go. With clear beads to secure the ends and a statement makeup look, you can't go wrong.

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Touch of Red

Sure, bob braids can be neat and tidy, but they can also lean much more free-spirited, especially if you choose a color like bright red. Play with your baby hair and form a few curly-qs to really give the look a pop.

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Ombré Bob

Ombré is the ever-evolving hair trend. This box braids look puts a very early 2020s twist on the ombré trend by applying it to short braids, each tied off with a silver cuff.

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Tribal Inspired

A single cowrie shell on either side of your face is a creative and visually impactful way to frame your features. If you or your braider are really ready to commit, weave gold and blonde strands throughout your bob braids for an extra punch.

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Heavily Accessorized

You know the way that walking down a hallway in a good pair of heels makes you feel? Or how you feel when you’re typing with fresh nails, listening to the click-clack of your progress? These heavily accessorized braids will make you feel just as seen, and just as powerful.

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Golden Braids

Turn up the heat by adding warm tones to your bob braids. These golden-brown box braids woven with the darker hair provide a casual, easy-going look that’ll be easy to replicate.

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Platinum Blonde

Amandla's braided bobs are so iconic that we had to feature them again. This time, their platinum braided bob is offset by a sparkly blue smoky eye and a neutral lip—a classic cool-girl combo.

FAQ

How long do bob braids last?

Bob braids last anywhere from 4-8 weeks, with 8 weeks being the maximum before there's substantial new growth and potential damage.
How do you maintain bob braids?

Maintaining bob braids is simple—wash your braids, keep your scalp moisturized, and sleep with a bonnet or on a silk pillowcase to avoid frizz and snagging.