There is something especially appealing about a bob - when done with box braids. The shorter length lends itself to a particularly clean and sculptural style, yet the braids add texture and movement and plenty of personality to the look. This is all very polished but without an overly styled impression - which is probably why this style continues to show up in so many different variations.
The beauty of bob box braids provides much flexibility here. Below are 13 bob box braid ideas - each genuinely different from the next. Some take more subtle approaches to the classic bob, while others make for more prominent braid elements.
Shoulder-Length Bob Box Braids
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If you love the bob but would like something that's not too short, this shoulder-length bob is very accessible. The added length gives some movement while maintaining the iconic look of a bob.
This style has an effortless feel. The braids can be worn loose across the shoulders, one side tucked behind the ear, or over one shoulder for a slightly more styled alternative.
Chin-Length Bob Box Braids
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This particular style offers a different attitude altogether - shorter, with a degree of sharpness and drawing attention to the face.
Perhaps this is one of the nicest choices for those seeking a bob that works more like a haircut than a shorter take on long box braids. The sections can either remain relatively even or the parting can be played up for a more relaxed aspect of this style.
Small Bob Box Braids
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Small braids lend the bob a more intricate and refined appearance. There’s plenty of detail without needing any additional accessories.
Small bob box braids also make for a great choice if you want to experiment with styles later on. The finer braids provide more individual pieces, a change of part or tuck can make for a more subtle new look.
Jumbo Bob Box Braids
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And then there is the complete opposite: jumbo braids! Such large and chunky braids give the bob an immediate sense of boldness. With fewer individual braids, each contributes to the shape of the overall hairstyle, giving it a strong and confident appearance.
Knotless Bob Box Braids
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Knotless bob box braids will give your bob a more natural and softer start at the roots. Rather than a knot securing the extension, the extension is gradually added into the braid. This will create a flatter result at the roots.
This is especially effective in a bob as the short length naturally directs attention to the hairline and face. A clean root will allow the style to appear more put together.
Boho Bob Box Braids
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Want a bit more texture than a classic braided bob? Try boho bob box braids. These incorporate the structure of braids with loose waves or curls for a looser and softer style. What makes boho bob box braids effective is that the roots and braid structure are still present, while the loose texture allows the style to not appear too uniform.
Bob Box Braids with Curls
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These work especially well on a bob. The curls are incorporated into the style. Rather than a hard, straight end, this style finishes with some movement and bounce.
For bob box braids with curls, I would keep the rest of the style fairly basic. A middle or side part allows the curly ends to be the star of the style without overcomplicating the style.
Asymmetrical Bob Box Braids
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An asymmetrical bob simply has one side slightly angled or longer than the other. This adds a small amount of movement to the face. This style takes the bob and gives it a more fashionable twist.
This style works well when the braids themselves are relatively tidy. There is already enough visual interest created by the asymmetry, so extra styling is not necessary.
Side-Parted Bob Box Braids
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Parting the bob is an excellent way to alter the appearance of box braided bobs. A side part creates a softer shape to the face and adds weight to one side of the bob. This style appears slightly more glamorous and more relaxed in comparison to a centered part.
Bob Box Braids with Bangs
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The fringe can be created either by cutting or manipulating the front braids to fall across the forehead. This creates a youthful and slightly playful appearance to the bob. This style also helps to create the appearance that the bob is a styled cut, rather than a series of braids all cut to the same length.
Triangle-Part Bob Box Braids
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The most interesting part may just be at the roots. Triangle partings use triangle shapes instead of the traditional square shape. They look very similar when the hair is long, but when you move the braids or turn them behind the ears or up, you can start to notice the difference.
Triangle-part bob box braids are a great option for someone looking to get something unique, but still maintaining the bob style.
Bob Box Braids with Beads
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Beads add a whole new flair to the bob. A few strategically placed beads can add personality and playfulness to otherwise basic box braids, particularly if placed at the ends. The rest of the bob can remain straight while the beads add the extra embellishment.
Metal beads pair well with a more dressed-up look, while wooden or brightly colored beads pair well with a bohemian and loose look. Just keep in mind that the beads should be treated as part of the overall look and not an afterthought.
Highlighted Bob Box Braids
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You don't have to go crazy with the color to add dimension to a bob. With highlighted bob box braids, some lighter pieces are used throughout the style to add movement and contrast. The level of visibility will depend on the desired color, but the highlights add dimension to each individual braid.
FAQs about Bob Box Braids
What Are Bob Box Braids?
Bob box braids are box braids in a shorter bob style. They typically fall around the shoulders, neck, or chin. Because they are shorter, bob box braids have a more set finish and appear lighter.
This type of style is so great because it can be so customized. Using a different part, size of braids, loose curls, accessories, dimensional coloring, or a different braid style on the same bob can completely change the style.
How long should bob box braids be?
Bob box braids can fall at the shoulders, neck, or even the chin. The ideal length really just comes down to the look you desire and the amount of movement you desire.
Are bob box braids easy to style?
Yes, they are. Since bob box braids already have a style to them, they can be easily altered by using a few face-framing braids, a side part, a half-up style, hair accessories, or the like.
What is the difference between knotless bob braids and regular bob box braids?
The difference lies in the application at the roots. With knotless braids, the extension hair is gradually incorporated into the natural hair rather than starting with a knot at the roots. This results in flatter roots.
Final Thoughts
Bob box braids can give a familiar protective style a new look. The best part is that there is no one ideal bob box braid. There is only the silhouette to begin with. If you are looking to save some hairstyle inspiration for your next visit, these bob box braids are a great place to begin.
