The ‘90s are calling on a boxy flip phone—& they’re here to tell you that one of the most iconic protective styles is back & bolder than ever. Enter the braided bob: a stylish, low-maintenance look that’s lightweight & endlessly cool.
If the braided bob is news to you, no worries—we’ve got you. Here’s everything you need to know about how to rock a braided bob that protects your strands & turns heads.
What Is a Braided Bob?
Let’s start with the basics. A braided bob is a short chin- or shoulder-length hairstyle that puts a protective twist on the classic bob silhouette. But instead of blunt cuts or layered curls, bob braids feature box braids, knotless braids or other braid types that keep your natural hair tucked & thriving.
& like any protective style, there’s plenty of room to make it your own.
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Go bold with beads, cuffs or pops of color—try auburn for a natural glow, blonde for a sun-kissed vibe or dip-dyed ends for a playful twist.
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Opt for blunt ends or slightly angled tips for that signature bob shape.
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Choose braid sizes that fit your mood—micro & sleek, chunky & dramatic or something in between.
Want something softer? Try a curly braided bob. Adding loose curls at the ends or incorporating curly extensions can give your braided bob with curly hair a romantic, lived-in finish.
Why Braided Bobs Are Perfect for Natural Hair
Curlies & coilies know the deal—preserving our texture means keeping it protected. & braided bob styles are a low-manipulation dream. Because they’re shorter & lighter than longer braid styles, they create less tension on your strands & scalp.
That reduced weight helps minimize natural hair breakage, retain your length & promote healthy hair growth (all while serving style).
Here’s what else makes bob braids a natural-hair favorite:
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Protection from the elements – With your strands safely braided, there’s less exposure to sun, wind & other environmental stressors.
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Style versatility – Whether you're at the gym or brunching with your girls, the braided bob adapts to every scene.
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Let your hair rest – Giving your curls a break from constant manipulation means healthier growth in the long run.
Do You Need to Cut Your Hair for a Braided Bob?
Nope! You don’t need to cut your hair to get that sculpted, chin-length look. Most braided bob styles are created using extensions that are folded & sealed to your desired length. It's all in the technique, not the scissors.
Stylists often use methods like rubber band tucking or hot water sealing to shape the braids & lock them in place. That way, your strands stay protected inside while you get all the aesthetic impact of a bob. But if you're craving a bold change, no one’s stopping you from going for the chop.
How to Get the Braided Bob Look
Ready to channel your inner ‘90s icon? Here’s how to make a modern braided bob your own:
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Choose your braid type – Box braids, cornrows, crochet or knotless? Your braid base sets the vibe. The options are truly endless.
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Customize your shape – Do you want jaw-skimming, chin-length or something just past the shoulders? Middle part, deep side part or asymmetrical drama? This is where you define your silhouette.
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Decide on braid size – Micro for a sleek finish, medium for that classic look or jumbo for a bold statement. Add accessories like cuffs or beads to take it up a notch.
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Book a pro – A stylist who specializes in natural hair & protective styles can bring your vision to life while protecting your texture underneath.
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Prep your hair – Wash with the PATTERN Cleansing Shampoo to remove buildup, then apply the Intensive Conditioner to hydrate & strengthen strands before installation.
Tips to Keep Your Braided Bob Looking Fresh
Once you’ve nailed the look, it’s all about keeping it polished. Try these tips to help your bob braids stay photo-ready from week one to week four:
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Wrap it up – Sleep in a silk or satin bonnet to reduce frizz & keep your style smooth.
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Hydrate your roots – Use a lightweight, yet ultra-nourishing product like the PATTERN Moisture Milk to keep your scalp happy.
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Refresh daily – Smooth edges & tame flyaways with the PATTERN Curl Mousse & Edge Control.
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Cleanse with care – Use a co-wash or gentle scalp treatment, such as the PATTERN Revitalizing Scalp Scrub, weekly to keep things fresh without disrupting your style.
Must-Have PATTERN Products to Care for Your Braided Bob
Protective styles still need protection & hydration! These PATTERN must-haves will help maintain both your braids & your natural hair underneath:
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Hydration Shampoo – It gently cleanses your scalp while respecting your natural oils. Perfect for those in-between refreshes.
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Scalp Serum – Say goodbye to itching & dryness. This soothing formula delivers hydration & nourishment straight to your roots.
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Leave-In Conditioner – Your braids may be sealed, but your curls underneath still crave moisture. The PATTERN Leave-In Conditioner helps keep your strands soft & supported throughout your style.
Go Bobbed & Beautiful with PATTERN
Whether you’re drawn to the clean structure of a braided bob or the playful flair of a curly braided bob, this timeless look is guaranteed to make a statement.
Ready to put your own signature on the style? PATTERN’s got you covered with the essentials to prep your hair before installation & care for it afterward so you can enjoy your bob for as long as possible while your natural hair thrives underneath.
Your best bob yet is just a braid away. Make it iconic with PATTERN.
Sources:
Glamour UK. The braided bob combines two of the most in-demand hair trends of 2021, so here's all the style inspo you need. https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/braided-bob
