An under braid is created by crossing strands beneath the centre rather than over it, which pushes the plait up so it sits raised on the head. This is the technique behind Dutch braids, most cornrows and many goddess braid designs, and it gives a bold, three-dimensional look. The styles gathered here include raised burgundy braids, thick-and-thin goddess braid updos, a mohawk braid feeding into a ponytail, swirling and U-shaped designs, ombre fishtail pigtails, heart-shaped fishtails, a crown braid and parallel braids ending in a low bun.
Under braids are a favourite protective option for natural and textured hair because they keep ends tucked away and need little daily styling. Adding extensions in burgundy, purple or white is an easy way to try colour without dyeing your own hair. Simpler designs with a few large braids can be done at home once you learn the technique; intricate patterns usually call for a professional braider.
Consider weight and tension, especially around the hairline, and choose sizes that feel comfortable on your scalp.
1. Red Inward Braids for Rocking Queens
Three raised braids in a rich burgundy shade look striking against deeper skin tones. Glossy, well-moisturized hair makes the red colour gleam, and the inverted technique lifts each braid off the scalp for a bold, regal effect.
Inspiration: @kersti.pitre
2. Lovely Black Braided Updo
Large curving goddess braids are mixed with smaller plaits in between for an intricate black updo. Basic French or Dutch braids can be done quickly at home, but a curved, multi-size design like this usually needs a professional braider.
Inspiration: @hairprincessss
3. Casual Braid for Long-Haired Goddess
A mohawk-style braid down the centre is paired with a sew-in weave at the back. The braid can lead into a ponytail or a braided bun, and the rest of the long hair leaves room for curls, waves or sleek straight styling.
Inspiration: @the_rose_affect
4. Impressive Colorful Cornrows
Four big burgundy under braids look bold thanks to their size, height and colour. The pattern is relatively simple to create; gather extensions in your chosen shade, sectioning clips and elastics before you begin. Large braids also install faster.
Inspiration: @phenomenal_braider
5. Mohawk Braid and a Ponytail
A single braid runs back from the hairline into a ponytail, a polished yet easy style for African American hair. The ponytail can be left loose or braided too, depending on whether you prefer a sleeker or more textured finish.
Inspiration: @jay_diddathair
6. Ultra Modern U-Shaped Braid
An under braid curves in a U shape around the head and ends in a curly side ponytail. Once you master the basic technique, experimenting with unusual shapes and finishing with a pony or top knot keeps the style interesting.
Inspiration: @the_difference_is
7. Tight Black Swirling Braid
Hair sections are picked up from one side of the head and braided tightly in a swirling path that ends in a bun. Keeping the strands taut as you work is key to the neat, sculpted spiral.
Inspiration: @tiffanyyyy_j
8. Cornrows and a Tight Bun
Neat cornrows lead into a tight bun for a precise, fashionable updo. The clean partings and symmetry take practice to achieve, so do not be discouraged if the first attempts are less tidy. A braiding gel helps smooth flyaways.
Inspiration: @tiff_styles
9. Afro Style Braiding Idea
Two under braids with crisp outer edges and softly blended inner sections meet in a puffy curly ponytail. The pony is optional, but it adds volume and drama to the finished look. Fluff the puff with a pick for maximum size.
Inspiration: @chermikamichelle
10. Two Ombre Braids
Three-strand under braids shift into two-strand fishtails, with colour moving from black through purple to white. The playful ombre pigtails make a fun choice for a night out or a festival weekend. Coloured extensions create the gradient without bleach.
Inspiration: @kersti.pitre
11. Spiral Braid with a Straight Ponytail
A spiral under braid is combined with a sleek straight ponytail for a fresh update on a familiar style. Edges are laid in soft waves, a creative detail that frames the face and completes the polished look.
Inspiration: @the_difference_is
12. Braided Headband for Curly Hair
Curly natural hair is tamed in seconds by braiding a section at the front into a headband. It keeps curls off the face on busy mornings and turns a messy day into a pretty, put-together style.
Inspiration: @izzabellaaa___
13. “Black Crown” Braid
What starts as standard braiding develops into a crown design ideal for special events. Extensions do not need to match your natural colour; a two-tone mix lets you enjoy a pop of shade without dyeing your own hair.
Inspiration: @tiffanyyyy_j
14. Extravagant Braid in Action
A tall mohawk under braid stands out against a long, sleek ponytail. The combination is glamorous and feminine, and the height of the braid adds a dramatic touch to an otherwise smooth style. A shine spray finishes the ponytail.
Inspiration: @redd_divine
15. Thin and Thick Cornrows
Thin and thick braids are mixed for a neat yet modern pattern. Finish them in a low braided bun or a ponytail; combining sizes adds visual interest while keeping natural hair protected. Oil the partings weekly.
Inspiration: @izzabellaaa___
16. Easy Casual Braided Updo
A braid and bun combination is quick to create and designed to show off an undercut. It looks trendy but remains practical for everyday wear, keeping the longer hair tidy while the shaved sections stay visible.
Inspiration: @the_rose_affect
17. Heart-Shaped Fishtail Braids
Fishtail pigtails are pulled apart and then brought back together to form heart shapes on natural hair. The playful design feels creative and grown-up rather than childish. Pin the meeting points discreetly so the hearts keep their outline, and finish with a light mousse to calm frizz.
Inspiration: @luscioushairbraiding
18. Triple Braid with a Bun
Three simple braids run in parallel lines toward the nape. Leave the ends hanging as a braided ponytail or wrap them into an elegant low bun, depending on the occasion. It is one of the easiest designs to learn at home.
Inspiration: @tiff_styles
19. Long and Big Cornrows
Four thick burgundy cornrows decorated with beads create a subtle yet noticeable look that can be worn for weeks. The braids can be wrapped into a low bun or plaited together into one big four-strand braid down the back.
Inspiration: @stylz_by_trudy
Learning the Dutch under braid technique
The motion is the same as a French braid, but each outer strand passes under the middle strand instead of over it. A few pointers make it easier:
- Work with damp or lightly moisturized hair and a small amount of braiding gel for grip and neatness.
- Use a rat-tail comb to create clean, straight partings before you start each braid.
- Keep consistent tension, firm enough to look neat but not so tight that the scalp feels sore.
- Watch a slow video tutorial and practise on a mannequin head or a friend before braiding your own hair.
Caring for raised braids and edges
Protect the braids at night with a satin scarf or bonnet. Massage a light oil into the partings every few days, and avoid restyling the edges with heavy gel every day. Most braided styles should come out within four to six weeks to prevent buildup and strain at the roots.