Last Updated on August 29, 2025 by Laverne Rhimes
Butterfly braids contain the most stunning and trending vibe among all protective styles for African American women. The art of creating braid wings with large wavy braids is a style that fuses intricate braid work with a bohemian and carefree vibe. They are the ideal choice when you want to make a bold style statement while preserving the health and strength of your natural hair. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about butterfly braids, from their definition and why they’re a great choice to a collection of popular styles, maintenance tips, and FAQs. Whether you’re a beginner or a braiding enthusiast, this guide will awaken your adventurous spirit and inspire you to try this free-spirited hairstyle.
What Are Butterfly Braids?
Butterfly braids are a protective style in which braids are loosened and puffed out to look like the delicate wings of a butterfly. This gives a rough-and-tussled appearance that gives hair instant thickness and dimension. The braids are usually styled like cornrows, box braids, or knotless braids. They are typically achieved with extensions to add extra length and thickness. Stylists get the signature “butterfly” effect, which allows the braids to look fluffy and airy from pulling small sections of hair out. This look is not only stylish but also a protective quality that keeps your natural hair from being manipulated too much, as well as encourages growth. They are versatile, available for all hair textures, and are especially beneficial for type 4 hair.
Why Choose Butterfly Braids?
There are so many reasons why these royal braids are a great go-to. They’re incredibly versatile and offer styling options. For example, ponytails, updos, and free-flowing looks and customizable with different colors and accessories. They’re also lightweight and require very little maintenance daily, which is excellent for a busier lifestyle. Butterfly braids are also a protective style that helps protect natural hair from external damage and breakage and promotes healthy growth. Plus, they are so boho-chic and on-trend that they work just as well for daywear as they do for miles of style.
Features That Make These Braids Stand Out
Well, there are 4 key points that make these braided hairstyles stand out. Let’s have a look at them.
- Volume & Texture: Stylists let these braids loose to achieve a soft, fluffy butterfly wing shape with depth to the look.
- Disordered, Texturized Look: It’s gritty and imperfect and won’t leave hair crunchy. It creates a carefree, bohemian look. Even the straightest hair can achieve these beach waves.
- Protective Styling: Butterfly braids extend the life of natural hair by decreasing manipulation. At the same time, these awesome styles lead to less breakage and promote hair growth naturally.
- Customizability: Thanks to their range of sizes (jumbo to mini) and colors (natural to extreme), as well as plenty of accessory options (beads, cuffs, scarves), they work with all styles and face shapes.
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And these are the 4 key elements that make butterfly braids a stylish and convenient hairstyle for anyone who wants a protective yet stylish look.
Popular Types of Butterfly Braids
You can try the butterfly effect on enormous types of braids. And every one of them will offer you a unique twist. Below, we explore the most popular types of braids that are perfect for every face shape, occasion, and preference.
Classic Butterfly Braids
The traditional butterfly braid has a sleek center braid with looser, pulled-out strands to produce a distinguishing look. This flexible style can be used for elegant, formal events and casual or everyday use. It accentuates the facial features and is perfect for square or diamond-shaped faces. Add flowers or clips as a simple accessory for some feminine flair. The classic cut is low-maintenance and suits long and medium lengths well. And all these features make these braids a timeless style that’s as protective as it is polished.
Butterfly Box Braids
Butterfly box braids are a cross between regular box braids and butterfly braids. The braids are made in clean sections and plump for puffy and winged-out glory. This style is ideal for braid lovers who prefer the box braid look with a fresh and light twist. At the same time, it’s low maintenance and protective. Moreover, they can be worn in so many different ways. For example, you can consider them for ponytails, updos, etc. In addition, these styles are perfect for everyday wear and special occasions.
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Knotless Butterfly Braids
Knotless braids are made without a knot at the scalp to remove some of the tensile pressure. This is an excellent method for keeping everything polished and in place. But the tousled and undone vibe of this style gives you a butterfly effect by unraveling the braids. Moreover, they are a great choice for sensitive scalps as the knotless butterfly twist braids reduce irritation and help hair grow. Moreover, these neat braids can be done in any length and color and are ideal for anyone who wants a comfortable and fashionable protective style.
Butterfly Locs
Butterfly locs are pretty distinctive; this variation incorporates water-wave hair to generate a more roughed-up and textural effect. The locs are made via crochet with wavy hair looped into a plait to look like butterflies’ wings. It’s a very low-key and relaxed hairstyle that has a real bohemian feel. On the other hand, these locs are ideal for anyone who adores the look of faux locs but prefers something lighter and more airy. You can wear these locs with a variety of lengths and adorn them with an enormous variety of accessories.
High Ponytail with Butterfly Braids
This look pulls the butterfly braids into a high pony that is both stylish and lifting to the face. The braid is loosened to pull forward to give you the perfect butterfly effect and creates more volume and texture in the ponytail. It’s great for active settings such as workouts or events like parties. You must have worn several ponytails in your life, but the high ponytail is versatile. It is quick and easy to style to keep hair away from the face while still looking modern or stylish.
Thick Butterfly Braids
Thick braids are always attractive and iconic. Because they are bigger, thicker, and more undone. This edgy style screams to get gram attention and is great for those who love bold looks. Moreover, the large chunks are quicker to install than smaller ones. As a result, these chunky braids are perfect for the woman on the go! Wear them down or put your hair up, and they still look amazing.
Single Butterfly Braids
When you make one big braid in the center or on top of your head, the butterfly effect takes place from the shaggy sections of the style. This simple but bold and minimalist style is ideal for all you folks who want that ‘standout look’ triggered by too many braids. Additionally, it’s easy to maintain and add onto with cuffs or beads for a casual or dressier look.
Middle-Parted Butterfly Braids
Like all other middle-parted hairstyles, this braided hairstyle is parted in the center of the scalp and is loose on both sides to form the butterfly. This style can make you look neat and flattering around the face. It’s great for anyone looking for a classic and sophisticated look. So, it looks great at a variety of lengths and is styled with accessories, including beads and scarves.
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Side-Parted Butterfly Braids
Side-parted Butterfly Braids are today’s asymmetrical style with hair parted to one side. Here, braids are loosened to give that butterfly effect. As a result, these styles soften your sharp face shapes and bring an air of sophistication. Remember, these styles are great for square and diamond face shapes. And you can wear them loose or in a ponytail for two completely different looks. So, it’s a trendy option that is an excellent solution for any bride looking for a fashionable feel.
Jumbo Butterfly Braids
Well, they are big braids with the butterfly effect. They are the bold braids that make you loud in the crowd. They’re loosened to allow for volume and add the butterfly effect (they flow), which is perfect for women who want a bold look with fewer installation hours. As a whole, you can wear these chunky braids like a low bun, with beads or scarves to implement regal style. On the other hand, these braids create a wild vibe and hot mess, which is an ideal low-commitment look for concerts or a weekend.
Face Framing Butterfly Braids
Front-facing butterfly braids are smaller braids framing the front of the face. They are loosened to resemble a playful and delicate butterfly. These braids bring out the features of the face and give a soft and romantic look to make you charming. Moreover, they’re ideal for women who want a smooth and fashionable look. Additionally, these braids can be worn with other braid styles for a flexible and stand-out look.
The Braided Updo
Butterfly updos involve pinning the pigtails at the back of your head creatively to demonstrate the butterfly pattern. This elegant look is perfect for a betrothal or work occasion. The up-do style leaves your hair looking neat and shows off the texture and volume of the braids. As a result, these braided updos reduce your styling effort and make your life easier.
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Butterfly Ponytail
This style pulls all the braids together into a high or low pony, where they flaunt their fullness. It’s a flexible look that can work for anything from casual errands to exercise wear to a night out. The ponytail can be embellished with beads or cuffs to give it even more personality, so it’s perfect for a vibe style.
Bohemian Braids
There’s a whimsical, natural element to bohemian butterfly braids, with tiny braids and twists and little accents like flowers or strings. They’re great for outside casual events, Mother’s Day, a daughter’s birthday, and other family events. Their unkempt, rugged texture looks fantastic with the bohemian image. And that’s why they’re so perfect for creative personalities.
Butterfly Crown Braids
Butterfly crown braids encircle the head like a crown, with wispy bits fluttering out to create a noticeable butterfly effect. This classy style is ideal for weddings or proms, which are full of character and charm. It’s a fabulous way to bring out the texture of the braids and give them a crisp texture.
Butterfly Bun
The buns are loved by millions of women around the world. And we wear them for special occasions like weddings, birthday parties, quinceañera, and many more. As you know, there are several ways you can create a charming bun. But have you ever tried to make a bun with butterfly braids? If not, it’s time to experience the unearthly magic in your hairstyle. These braided bun creates a neat, clean look straight off the runway and are the ideal look to sport to show off the braid’s texture.
Halo Butterfly Braids
Halo butterfly braids hairstyle entails creating a “halo” of butterfly-looking braids around your head. These styles are typically Dutch braids with a loose butterfly effect. It has a graceful and eye-catching design that is well-suited for a special occasion or festival. Moreover, it looks beautiful around the face and feels quite royal on the visage.
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Half Up Half Down Braided Hairstyle
This is where the top set of the braids is usually styled up into either a bun or a ponytail, and the central portion of the hair is immaculately left down. The butterfly effect is evident in both sections, creating a romantic and versatile look that is perfect for everyday wear or events.
Half Ponytail with Butterfly Braids
Like the half-up look, the half ponytail pulls the top braids into a ponytail and the rest stands free. It’s a young and practical look while your hair is away from your face. These braided ponytail hairstyles emphasize that they’re all a bunch of butterflies. Your butterflies are damp in the rain and getting ready to take off at any moment. It’s great for casual or active situations.
Double Butterfly Braids
Double braids have two massive braids, one on either side of the head, both loosened enough to bring out the butterfly. This symmetrical look is bold and balanced, which makes it an excellent option for anyone who prefers a standout style with the fewest braids.
Butterfly Braided Bob
Bob braids often have a shorter look that goes until the chin or mid-neck. And despite the braids being short, you can still get the butterfly effect with some texture. This structured yet ornamental style is trendy and practical simultaneously. That’s why it’s ideal for wannabe, stylish, low-maintenance folk.
Butterfly Braids with Bangs
Braids and Bangs are two beautiful combinations in modern hairstyles. These hairstyles feature straight, side-swept, or curly bangs that caress the face. Pull the braids apart for the butterfly effect and a stylish, custom finish, which is perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
Zigzag Butterfly Braids
Zigzag braiding pattern follows to straight or parallel pattern. Its parting pattern is a playful zigzag, and its waterfall braids are reduced to look like butterflies punctuate. This is a funky and fun style that anyone who wants a crazy and bold look!
Feed In Braids
Feed-in butterfly braids are thin at the scalp and become thicker as hair is fed into the plait. As a result, they create a uniform and natural look. The braids are released for that butterfly effect, highlighting length and volume. And TBH, these braids are perfect for those who want to look professional while they protect their hair!
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Butterfly Space Buns
Here, your braids are accumulated to create two buns to form your next young and lively hairstyle. In this style, your braids are pulled apart for the butterfly effect. Many of the celebrities and influencers are seen with these lovely styles nowadays. Moreover, they are just ideal for festivals or casual wear.
Straight-Back Chunky Butterfly Braids
The straight-back chunky butterfly braids involve chunky braids styled straight back, but have lines softened for a little extra volume. This is a drastic, easy-to-maintain, but dramatic look that suits the practical creature in everyone.
Peekaboo Butterfly Braids
Tuck some bolder, green, or blue strands beneath the braids in a more natural hue, which can be peeked when you shift. This fun and dynamic style will suit all those who like to look with a slight but fun twist.
Colorful Butterfly Braids
Color is an undeniable influencer for every kind of hairstyle. That’s why the butterfly braids can be more enchanting, more impressive, and more charming with different colors. Your colorful braids bring the bright shades into the fold and are a daring self-expression option. Let’s have a look at some of the popular braid colors.
Purple Butterfly Braids
Purple butterfly braids feature bright purple extensions for a playful look. These braids are often loosened to show off the butterfly effect. For this, these styles provide you with a great look for summer festivals or a daring fashion statement.
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Blonde Butterfly Braids]
Blonde is the color of joy, beauty, and fun. You can enjoy this color with all of your braid types and other hairdos. The blonde extensions are perfect for summer or to lighten up cooler days. The borrowed braids add volume and texture to give you a high-fashion feel all year.
Highlighted Butterfly Braids
Butterfly braids work great with added highlights. These could be a reserved tone like ginger or something a bit more out there like blonde. But both add dimension to the loosened braids. This multi-dimensional style is ideal for anyone looking for a warm look.
Multi-Colored Butterfly Braids
Braids in multiple colors combine different hues, such as blue, pink, and purple, for a rainbow effect. This brazen style is perfect for those looking to make a bold statement with their headgear.
Ombre braids
Ombre butterfly braids are a style with a color transition from dark roots to lighter tips, which can help emphasize the texture of the braids. This fashionable trend gives the butterfly effect a modern, elegant twist.
Ginger Butterfly Braids
Warmed, fall ginger extensions give loose ginger butterfly braids a little extra zing. This represents a bold, colorful look for those who want to wear their seasons on their sleeves.
Burgundy Butterfly Braids
Burgundy Braid Hairstyles with the butterfly effect have gorgeous, long, rich red extensions with attitude! The free strands also add value to the color, making it suitable for bright and glamorous looks like this.
Honey Blonde Butterfly Braids
The warm and golden honey blonde braids leave a soft and divine impression on your hairstyle. The loose braids add volume to the hair and are perfect for summer and romantic styling inspiration.
Red Butterfly Braids
Red is always a regal color in terms of hairstyles. Red braids feature bright red extensions for a fierce and confident feel. The butterfly effect makes the color more vibrant and enjoyable.
Brown Butterfly Braids
Some of you might like your hair to be brown. Because this color perfectly adjusts with the skin tone of the African American women. Moreover, the brown color of these butterfly braids is quite natural, easy to style, and yet very modern. The relaxed braids give it a textured feeling, which is appropriate for any occasion.
Pink Butterfly Braids
The color pink represents womanhood and feminine power. And that is why most women are not just fans of pink, they are addicted to it. By the way, butterfly braids allow you to wear them in pink. And here are the stunning examples.
Butterfly Braids by Length
Whatever hairstyle you wear, you have to admit the different effects of different lengths of that particular hairstyle. In case of butterfly braids, the length plays an important role in terms of style, vibe, and look. So, it’s time to consider the lengths of the butterfly braids for a perfect pick.
Short Braids
Short butterfly braids are above the shoulder or sometimes stay around the shoulder. They are super-low-maintenance and are ideal for anyone looking for a new commitment style. When you add the butterfly effect with these textures, they are just a complement to this length. Moreover, it’s the perfect length for everyday wear.
Medium (Back-Length) Braids
Butterfly braids in the middle as medium butterfly braids that fall into the middle back length, so you have a balance between length and maneuverability. The braids let down, creating a much fuller and more textured vibe that’s great for all kinds of styles.
Hip-Length (Long) Braids
Hip-Length Butterfly Braids Butterfly braids are hip-length and provide an epic and complete look. The butterfly effect is stronger with longer braids, making them perfect for ladies who wish to be dramatic and daring.
Super Long Braids
Ultra-long butterfly braids go all the way to the waist for a beautiful statement. These braids are the style that will draw attention, but they do take some work.
Bonus Butterfly Styles
Well, here’s more. You can wear your favourite butterfly braids without any limitation in terms of color, style, and length. Check these styles also.
Tips for Maintaining Butterfly Braids
It’s important to know about the maintenance tips for butterfly braids. So, for a long-lasting and healthy vibe of your braids, here are a few steps you should consider. These steps and tips are proven to keep your butterfly braids looking stylish:
- Use Quality Hair Extensions: If you want your braids to look great and last longer, invest in good-quality extensions.
- Moisturize Before Braiding: Put a leave-in conditioner or oil on your hair and scalp before braiding, which can keep your hair moisturized.
- Wrap Hair Before Bed: Wrap with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet to keep from creating frizz and to help keep the braids’ texture.
- Stay Away From Excessive Heat: Try to limit the use of heat styling tools, as they can damage the fragile loops of the braids.
- Weekly Wash: Use clear shampoo once weekly to cleanse the braids. Massage into the scalp and rinse out well.
- Apply Light Oils: Light oils such as coconut or grapeseed can help moisturize the scalp and avoid dryness.
- Refresh with Shine: Lightly spritz with a finishing hairspray or hair oil to keep the shine and frizz out all day.
- Tie-Up Ends Securely: Use tiny rubber bands or hot water to secure the braids’ ends and prevent them from slipping and unraveling.
Elaboration of Maintenance Tips
| Maintenance Tip | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Use Quality Extensions | High-quality synthetic or human hair extensions | Ensures longevity and vibrant appearance |
| Moisturize Before Braiding | Apply leave-in conditioner or oil | Prevents dryness and promotes hair health |
| Wrap Hair at Night | Use a silk/satin scarf or bonnet | Reduces frizz and maintains texture |
| Avoid Excessive Heat | Limit the use of heat styling tools | Protects delicate braid loops |
| Wash Weekly | Use clear shampoo, rinse thoroughly | Keeps scalp clean and braids fresh |
| Use Light Oils | Apply coconut or grapeseed oil | Maintains scalp hydration |
| Refresh with Shine | Use hairspray or light oil | Enhances shine and hold |
| Secure Ends | Use elastic bands or hot water | Prevents unraveling and extends style life |
FAQs
Butterfly braids are a protective hairstyle where braids are loosened and puffed up to resemble butterfly wings, offering style and hair protection.
Butterfly braids typically last 4 to 8 weeks, depending on maintenance and hair type. Proper care can extend their lifespan.
Costs range from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the stylist, location, and materials used, such as extensions or accessories.
Yes, with practice and tools like a rat tail comb and extensions, you can create butterfly braids at home, though it may take time to master.
Butterfly braids work well with most hair types, especially type 4 hair, due to their protective benefits and versatility.
Moisturize regularly, wrap hair at night, avoid heat, and wash gently once a week to keep braids fresh and healthy.
Yes, but use a swim cap to protect the braids from water damage and maintain their texture and structure.
When installed and maintained correctly, butterfly braids are low-tension and protective, minimizing damage and promoting hair health.
Style them loose, in ponytails, buns, or half-up styles, and accessorize with beads, cuffs, or scarves for added flair.
Popular variations include classic, box, knotless, locs, jumbo, and colorful styles like purple, blonde, or ombre. What are butterfly braids?
How long do butterfly braids last?
How much do butterfly braids cost?
Can I do butterfly braids on my own?
What hair types are best for butterfly braids?
How do I take care of my butterfly braids?
Can I swim with butterfly braids?
Are butterfly braids damaging to the hair?
How do I style butterfly braids?
What are some popular variations of butterfly braids?
Conclusion
Butterfly braids aren’t just a braided hairstyle but a colorful proclamation of style, creativity, and self-care for African American women. Due to their wingspan, they combine an elegant and boho style. Whether you want a classic or colorful style, butterfly braids are a great choice for a wide range of preferences. At the same time, whether you want an on-trend, striking statement or an understated, everyday look, these braids are always there for you. They are both protective to your hair and hands, and proper maintenance allows you to maintain your braids and keep them looking good for weeks.
Thanks to:
- MyBraidedWig.com
- Jaliza.com
- AllThingsHair.com
- CurlyGirlSwag.com
- 21Ninety.com
- BraidsConnect.com.ng
- AfroChicBeauty.com
- FabExtensions.com
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