When we’re scrolling through Instagram, you’ll see the super popular hashtag #braids. 

This African braids hairstyle has a rich cultural and historical significance, representing a diverse range of social, ethnic and personal meanings.

The history of African braids is indisputably deeply rooted in African culture. Braiding is truly remarkable how it can reveal so much about a person’s （either men or women）social status, age, relationship status, and even tribal affiliation in African tribes.

Back in the 1960s, the natural hair movement became a symbol of Black pride and resistance to assimilation, reigniting interest in natural hairstyles and traditional braiding styles. Tribal braids are also valued as a protective style for natural hair.

In this article, we’re going to look at one of the classic African braid styles – the tribal braids – and introduce IPF Hair, a braiding brand that makes your braids more natural and comfortable!

Don’t forget to sign up for Instagram or sign up to stay updated on the latest tribal braids trends!

The term 'tribal braids' refers to the various traditional braid styles of different African tribes, such as the Yoruba, Igbo and Zulu. 

These braids typically feature intricate patterns and hold cultural significance, with roots in African and Native American traditions. Examples include Fulani and Ghana braids, which were traditionally used to express identity and social status.

Many tribal braid styles originate from West African cultures, particularly those of the Fulani people. 

Examples include Fulani braids, which are typically parted in the middle and adorned with beads, and Ghana braids, which consist of cornrows that transition into longer braids. Box braids are also sometimes incorporated into tribal braid styles for added versatility.

Tribal braids are renowned for their intricate designs and cornrow patterns, as well as scalp braids, and for their use of natural materials, such as beads and shells.

1. Longevity:

Like many braided styles, tribal braids can last for several weeks, providing protection for natural hair. They are considered one of the most popular protective hairstyles.

2. Patterns:

Symmetrical geometric patterns, such as zigzags, triangles, or curves, typically braided close to the scalp, are often referred to as tribal patterns, each with its own cultural meaning.

3. Accessories:

Beads, shells or jewels are added to enhance aesthetic appeal and cultural significance. Hair cuffs are also a popular accessory for adding a metallic accent to tribal braids.

4. Versatility:

Can be styled in various ways, such as an updo, a ponytail, or left loose.

Boho braids, which combine tribal braids with loose, wavy strands, are a popular and versatile modern variation.

5. Hair type: 

Suitable for natural hair textures (3C to 4C), but can be adapted for other hair types with extensions. Hair extensions are often used to achieve the desired length and fullness in tribal braids.

6. Cultural significance: 

Historically, African tribes wore it to indicate status, age or marital status. These styles often reflect one's ancestral roots and heritage.

Today, they are a celebration of tradition and culture and are promoted by global celebrities like Beyoncé & Rihanna on social media.

Some people say that Fulani braids are a type of tribal braid, but not all tribal braids are Fulani braids. So, how can we tell the difference? Let’s explore this together.

Some people say that Fulani braids are a type of tribal braid, but not all tribal braids are Fulani braids. So, how can we tell the difference? Let’s explore this together.

Although the terms ‘tribal braids’ and ‘Fulani braids’ are often used interchangeably, they have unique characteristics rooted in their respective cultural origins. 

The following brief analysis outlines the differences between the two styles: Both styles often use cornrow braids as a foundational technique.

Tribal braids 

A broad term referring to various traditional braid styles from different African tribes, such as the Yoruba, Igbo and Zulu.This term encompasses a complex array of braids that vary by region and culture, and is somewhat vague. 

Tribal braids have also been embraced and adapted by African American communities, contributing to their popularity in the United States.

Fulani braids

These braids originate specifically from the Fulani people (also known as the Peul or Fulani) of West Africa, and are primarily found in countries such as Senegal, Mali, and Nigeria.

This distinctive style is closely tied to the cultural identity of the Fulani people.

Tribal braids

They include a variety of patterns, such as sawtooth, triangular or swirling shapes, and are often accompanied by cornrows or other scalp braids. This category includes a wide range of braid styles.

Accessories such as hair extensions, loose strands or beads may be incorporated, but styles vary greatly depending on the tribe or region.

They can be thick or thin with no fixed structure, allowing for creative freedom.

Fulani braids

They have a distinctive appearance consisting of fine to medium-sized cornrows woven in straight or gentle curves. They typically begin at the top of the head and extend backwards or outwards.

A central braid or several prominent braids are typically included along the scalp, accompanied by loose, curly or wavy hair on the sides or ends.

They are often adorned with beads, shells or metal cuffs, and are carefully designed to reflect cultural and aesthetic significance.

Tribal braids

They represent a broad African cultural tradition, with patterns and decorations that symbolise tribal identity, social status, and rituals depending on the specific culture. These styles help preserve and celebrate cultural heritage.

Fulani braids

They are closely associated with Fulani identity and were historically used to symbolise beauty, status, and community belonging. The beads and shells often have spiritual or ancestral significance.

Tribal braids

A modern term used to describe any complex braided hairstyle inspired by African traditions. They are popular for their bold designs and versatility. They are also valued as protective braid styles for natural hair.

Fulani braids

Made popular worldwide by celebrities such as Alicia Keys and Beyoncé, these braids are known for their unique and elegant appearance. 

Modern versions often incorporate colourful hair extensions or creative beadwork.

If you can’t choose between the two, Fulani braids offer a more defined look, whereas tribal braids allow for greater creative freedom. 

Both styles are considered protective braids that help maintain healthy hair.

The jagged corn braids resemble winding mountain ranges or fingers encircling your head. They are neat and eye-catching — perfect for millennials looking to express their individuality.

When it comes to versatile braided hairstyles, the tribal braid is the ultimate classic. It complements different outfits and provides simple yet diverse options for various occasions.

The distinctive feature of Fulani tribal braids is the square shape of the cornrows on the forehead. 

Resembling a maze of interlocking circles, they are intriguing and evoke a sense of history.

Clean, bright, three-strand braids are a classic, traditional style. Adding human hair strands will relax your scalp, reduce the likelihood of loosening and extend the lifespan of your braids. 

IPF's human bulk hair is an excellent choice, offering double-drawn thickness at an affordable price to ensure no short hairs peek through.

When Queens add human hair to a tribal braid, IPF crochet hair is the perfect solution. It has a lightweight, natural texture and is heat-resistant, soft and anti-tangle.

Tribal braids are formed from fine cornrows and loose, curly waves. 

Using pre-parted, human hair crochet from IPF at the back can save you at least half the time, and the hair can be detangled and reused for a more natural look.

Add some color to your boho tribal braids with blonde highlights, the most popular choice among black girls. 

Not only do they complement healthy skin tones, they also preserve the integrity of the hair cuticles during the dyeing process, leaving hair healthy and smooth.

Traditional tribal braid jewelry often features beads and shells. 

The colors and patterns of these beads may hold symbolic significance, representing family or personal narratives.

Side-parted braids flow down the face. Curly crocheted hair is woven into the braids to make them fuller, framing the face and creating a 'half-covered' look.

The ombre colors create a sense of transition, like walking from autumn maple leaves to white snow, embodying new inspiration in old stories.

Add natural human hair to the back of the tribal braids. This can be achieved by sewing on a hair bundle, using clip-in hair extensions or crocheting human hair. 

These methods are all convenient ways of creating a voluminous, natural-looking hairstyle that complements the cornrows at the front of the head.

This intricate, highly stylised hairstyle features centre-parted tribal braids, triangular sections, box braids and cornrows, all adorned with coloured strands, to create a complex, eye-catching design.

Gather the cornrows at the forehead and comb them into a bun at the top of the head, then add appropriate norbu and metal decorations. 

This style can suit women from their teens to their forties, from campus to the workplace, allowing them to adapt it to their own style.

Deep and light blue braids intertwine like a starry sky, flowing gently through the dark ones like water in a lake. The curly strands are evenly spaced, as if gently caressed by a sea breeze.

This fashionable hairstyle incorporates cultural elements. The asymmetrical design creates a striking side parting, with clear, artistic, tribal-style braids that stand out. 

The combination of braids of different thicknesses adds depth to the style, making it bold and distinctive.

The short tribal braids that fall to the shoulders are light and airy, ensuring breathability and comfort. 

You don't need much hair to create this style — just two to three packs are enough. It's the perfect choice for those who are sensitive to heat but still want to look polished!

Flaming red braids intertwined with curly red locks cascade down like a burst of red fireworks, captivating hearts without the need for heavy makeup. 

This style is ideal for those who want to express their individuality and fashion sense.

Puerto Rican braids are a mix of traditional braids of the Taíno indigenous people, African Americans and Hispanics. 

This has resulted in a wide variety of styles that go beyond cornrows, box braids, passion twists and dreadlocks, and which often incorporate modern decorations or patterns. 

In 2024, Puerto Rico passed a law to stop employers discriminating against employees' hairstyles, and Puerto Rican braids have become even more popular thanks to social media（Pinterest）.