Boho bob braids are a popular style, blending structured braids with loose curls and waves for a polished yet effortless look. The bob length offers easier wearability than longer braids while still allowing for versatile styling with texture, parts, and accessories. With options ranging from knotless and goddess styles to curly ends and statement beads, there are numerous ways to personalize this trendy hairstyle. Explore these 15 boho bob braid inspirations for your next braided look.
Knotless Bob Boho Braids
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If you love the look of lightweight, clean braids, then knotless boho bob braids are a great option. These braids are created without the traditional knot at the root. This allows for a flatter root and still a clean look.
This style requires the most effort and the least maintenance, making it ideal for everyday use. Therefore, this style is also the safest for workdays and for those with sensitive scalps.
Micro Bob Boho Braids
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Micro braids are the next best thing to natural hair in a protective style. Since the individual braids are so fine, the bob can be parted any way desired, can be pulled into a low pony, or one side can be tucked behind the ear, and the style will not fall apart.
When using micro braids, go for a loose wavy curl instead of a tight curl. Tight curls in micro braids will appear busy. Micro braids take the longest to sit, so they are best suited for Black girls who intend to keep the style for 2 months or longer and frequently restyle their hair without it appearing tired.
Jumbo Boho Bob Braids
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If you can't sit still for six hours, then jumbo boho bob braids are for you. Jumbo braids take less time to install and still have that loose, soft texture. Just larger pieces of curls.
Keep the curls proportionate to the jumbo. Skinny curls with jumbo braids look out of place. It makes a bold statement from a distance, and the texture looks great in photos. Request it when you receive the invitations, two days before the event.
Fulani Boho Bob Braids
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Want your bob to appear to have been around the block? Fulani braids incorporate the classic front section with a center cornrow and side braids, as well as beads. The boho style adds curly pieces to the length.
The front section creates a sculpted face that straight braids cannot achieve. This style is the most recognizable from our list and also holds up the best in photos. Because of this, it is great for weddings, cultural events, or any event where you want to appear intentional.
Half Cornrow, Half Boho Bob Braids
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Cornrow lovers, this one's for you. This style combines the best of both worlds: cornrows on top for a face-lifting effect, and loose, curly boho braids underneath for a relaxed, carefree finish.
Keep the lines straight and slightly spaced, since tight zigzags fight with the loose curls underneath. Due to the more refined appearance in comparison to a fully boho bob, this style would be great for more conservative work environments and can be worn from Monday to the weekend.
Water Wave Curls Boho Bob Braids
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If you're looking for curls that appear created rather than loose from sleeping, try water wave. This style has a loose, shiny, and precise curl. Ideal if you want the 'I got out of the salon this morning' look rather than 'I just woke up.'
Water waves will not add much volume to the bob length, as the braids will provide the shape and the curls will soften the edges. Refresh with a light mousse and a little serum on the ends, since water wave loses definition faster than tighter patterns.
Loose Curls Boho Bob Braids
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Boho braids are associated with tightly coiled, springy curls, but this isn't the style everyone desires. Loose curls offer the same softness but in a softer style. They are less bouncy and more romantic.
Opt for loose curls boho bob braids if tightly coiled curls seem too young, or if you don't wish to re-separate and re-wet curls every few days. Loose curls tend to last longer. Request the curl to begin around the shoulder so the braid design is still visible and not completely covered by the curls.
Butterfly Boho Bob Braids
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If you love boho curls but are tired of refreshing them once a week, try butterfly braids. The curls are in the hair and do not need to be refreshed. The style looks full and airy.
Butterfly braids only require a satin bonnet to be worn at night. This is ideal for travel, busy mornings, and people who desire the style but do not wish to have a routine associated with it.
French Curl Bob Boho Braids
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French curl boho bob braids are loose curls that add a soft and romantic element to a bob with braids. The curls are defined but not loose waves, yet they still have enough movement to allow the style to remain relaxed.
French curl braids work particularly well around the face. A few longer strands can create a soft facial frame. Pairing the French curl with an elegant middle part creates an elegant style. A side part will create more volume. This style works well for both vintage styles and more dressy looks.
Blunt Cut Boho Bob Braids
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Blunt cut boho bob braids have the structure of a blunt bob layered over the softness of boho curls. The blunt cut bob provides a neat appearance to the hairstyle, while the soft curls provide movement and prevent the style from appearing too straight.
This combination of structured cut and loose texture allows for various styling options. The style can appear sleek and elegant with minimal additions or can be styled with full curls for a more fun look.
Layered Boho Bob Braids
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Layered boho bob braids add movement to the bob by incorporating various lengths into the style. Rather than cutting all the way to one even length, the braids gradually change in length, giving the bob a softer and more dimensional look.
Layered boho bobs work well for those who love the shape of a bob but do not desire an all-even cut. The variation in length gives the style a more relaxed and effortless appearance.
Side-Swept Boho Bob Braids
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This is a great way to transform a bob with braids. Instead of splitting the hair in the middle, side-sweep the braids to create an asymmetrical style that is also fuller than a traditional bob.
A deeper side part will create a more dramatic style, whereas a more subtle side part will create a style closer to a bob. To create a softer look, add some loose curls across the cheek and jaw. This style works well for those looking to try something new but who don’t want to alter their braiding technique or add accessories.
Half-Up Half-Down Boho Bob Braids
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Half-up half-down boho bob braids allow for the texture of a bob to be maintained while also allowing some hair to be removed from the face. This style would work great with shoulder-length boho bobs, as there is sufficient length to create a half-up style.
Add some curly hair in the front to give a softer style. Optional: add a few beads, a bow, or a cuff to the half-up section for an additional detail.
Blonde Boho Bob Braids
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If you love the textured bob style but are looking for something a bit brighter, try blonde boho bob braids. A bold look can be achieved in a lighter blonde, or a softer blonde will give a more subtle transformation. A loosely curled braid adds dimension to the short bob style.
A middle or side part can also be used depending on how the curls and color should complement your face. Blonde boho bob braids are perfect for parties, summer events, vacations, and other fun events.
Two-Tone Boho Bob Braids
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This style uses two colors to create contrast within the bob. The colors may be blended or divided into sections depending on the level of contrast desired.
To achieve a stronger color-emphasized style, keep the bob blunt. For a softer appearance, layer the ends of the bob. Because the color contrast serves to create visual interest, this style is great for concerts, festivals, vacations, parties, and any event in which you desire a more elaborate style.
How to Choose the Right Boho Bob Braids?
Boho bob braids can be styled in many different ways. When picking out a style, look beyond the braid type.
Braid Size Matters
Small braids will give you a more defined and detailed look, whereas medium or jumbo braids will give you a bolder style. If you desire a more intricate look, then micro or small boho braids may be best for you. Larger braids will give you a more simplified appearance and allow your style to appear more carefree.
Pick a Curl Pattern
The type of curls you choose will impact the style of your bob. Water waves create a more relaxed, beachy style while French curls give a more put-together appearance. Loose curls are a middle ground and are good if you desire movement but not a very defined curl.
Think About the Bob Shape
A blunt bob will give you a neat and put-together style, while layered bobs create more movement. A chin-length bob is classic and small, while a slightly longer bob will allow more movement for the curls. Choose the bob that best suits your style preference before selecting the braid length.
Play With Color
Natural colors will give you a more subtle and simple look, while blonde or two-tone colors will give a greater contrast. If you want to try a bold color for the first time, using a shorter bob will allow you to make a noticeable change without committing to a longer bob.
How to Take Care of Boho Bob Braids?
With proper care, your boho bob braids will stay in great shape, and the loose curls will stay looking fresh.
- Wash and gently clean your scalp as needed.
- Handle your braids and curls as little as possible.
- Use a light product to refresh curls instead of re-styling them.
- Sleep with a silk or satin bonnet or scarf to reduce friction.
- Do not pull braids too tight when creating a half-up style.
- Moisturize your scalp but do not use too much heavy product.
- Gently separate any tangles using your fingers rather than by vigorously brushing.
Frequently Asked Questions about Boho Bob Braids
What are Boho Bob Braids?
Boho bob braids are short protective hair that incorporate braided sections (box braids or knotless braids) with loose curly pieces that extend down the length. They sit between the collarbone and the jaw and offer the same loose, natural look as boho braids but in a shorter length.
How Long Do Boho Bob Braids Last?
With good maintenance, they can last six to eight weeks. The braided sections will last the entire time, and the loose curly hair can typically be refreshed every three to four weeks with mousse and water.
Can I Wear Boho Braids on Short Natural Hair?
Yes. Since boho braids are extensions, short natural hair is perfectly fine. However, most stylists prefer two to three inches of natural hair to secure the placement. If less than this, it is recommended to use a pre-braided wig.
Do Boho Bob Braids Work on Fine or Thin Hair?
Yes, but there are two things to keep in mind. First, ask for lighter tension and smaller braids. Secondly, try to avoid heavy beads. Jumbo braids put more tension on fewer strands. Micro or small knotless braids are safer for fine or thin hair.
How Much Do Boho Bob Braids Cost?
DIY boho bob braids typically cost between $40 and $60 for materials. Salon services can range anywhere from $200 to $400 depending on the size, design complexity, and location. Pre-braided wigs will vary based on length and lace type.
Can I Wash My Hair with Boho Bob Braids in?
You can, but be gentle. Mix shampoo with water in a spray bottle and spray it onto the top of your head. Use your fingertips to gently wash between the braids. Do not use your nails. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the shampoo out and completely dry your scalp. Moisture buildup tends to lead to irritation and odor.
Conclusion
Here are 15 boho bob braid hairstyles that you can try today! Once you’ve chosen your base style, there are so many possibilities for customization - curl type, parting, beads, color. Add your own creativity, and you’ll create something that no one else will!
Which boho bob was your top pick? Let us know in the comments.
