30 Best Ghana Braids Hairstyles for Women in 2022 (With Images)

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Ghana braids are one of the most versatile and protective hairstyles for natural hair, perfect for safeguarding your precious curls while looking absolutely stunning.

These traditional African braids are also known as Banana cornrows or Invisible cornrows and have a rich history dating back to 500 BC! These iconic braids can be seen in ancient sculptures, hieroglyphs, and even on the Sphinx, showing their cultural significance throughout history.

Originally meant to honor women’s social status, ethnicity, age, religion, and race, Ghana braids are one hairstyle that has survived through the millennia.

Ready to transform your look with these beautiful protective styles? Scroll through our collection of 30 stunning Ghana braids designs that combine traditional techniques with modern trends for head-turning results!

1. Simple and Decorated Ghana Braids

Simple decorated thick Ghana braids with hair elastics - protective hairstyle — Source

If you are a newbie at this game, then the first type of Ghana braids you should try are, of course, the classic ones. However, to keep things spicy, you can decorate them with some straightforward hair elastics.

2. The Comb Over Ghana Braids

Comb over Ghana braids with diagonal pattern - protective black hairstyle — Source

Here is another way to rock classic braids. Instead of braiding your hair from your forehead to the back of the head, you can always start on one side of your head and braid them diagonally.

3. Bohemian Braids

Bohemian Ghana braids with golden embellishments - protective natural hairstyle — Source

If you have thin hair, you can use Ghana braids to protect it. Moreover, you can also decorate them, to create the illusion of more voluminous hair.

Go for golden embellishments, as well as some blonde peekaboos on chocolate-colored hair.

4. Bejeweled Ghana Braids

Bejeweled Ghana braids with luxury embellishments - elegant protective style — Source

Add a touch of luxury to your braids with some simple embellishments. It will make you look both classy and cool, at the same time. Ghana braids rock!

5. Zig Zag Braids

Zig zag pattern Ghana braids with mixed thickness - creative protective hairstyle — Source

Divide your hair into strands of different thickness. The thicker ones are to be braided straight, from the front to the back while the thinner ones can be done in a zig zag pattern. The effect is so impressive!

6. Golden Ghana Braids

There is nothing that says luxury more than golden Ghana Braids. You can achieve this effect by dyeing your hair before you braid it or by using some golden weaves or hairpieces which go over your natural hair.

7. Black and White Braids

It looks simple enough to pull off, and it is, for that matter. But it is also an incredibly spectacular hairstyle.

Divide your hair into three or four large strands, start with some cornrows at skin level, and then add white or platinum blonde weaves.

8. Black and Purple Braids

Since most Ghana braids are done with extensions for added thickness, you can use that in your favor and flavor things up a bit.

For example, you can also go ombre on your hair. This lovely lady has black and bright purple hair styled in braids.

9. Black and Red Braids

To copy this look, you need to part your hair into five large strands. Braid them using red or scarlet extensions over your naturally dark hair.

Afterward, in the tiny space of your hair partings, braid four thin braids between the large ones.

10. Blonde Ghana Braids

This type of weave combines blonde extensions on dark hair and the comb over. The result is spectacular, looking like sun rays in the early morning.

Talk about style!

11. Fiery Red Ghana Braids

Take a cue from Rihanna and her legions of followers by donning these amazingly red and fiery Ghana braids. It takes a lady with a real edge to sport these beauties, but we know you have it in you, so go for it!

12. Mini and Maxi Ghana Braids

This one is a version of the style above where you had to intertwine big and small Ghana braids. However, the only difference is that, instead of one mini braid, you have to intertwine three.

13. Mermaid Braids

One way in which you can protect your hair and still jump on the latest trends is by combining your braids with mermaid hair. All you need are the right type of extensions and you’re good to go!

14. Back to the 90s

Everyone knows that 2016 was the year in which the 90s saw a major comeback.

Make that style your own by sporting some zig zag Ghana braids, combined with a denim jacket and large, golden earrings.

15. Braids in a Bun

Tie your braids neatly in a low chignon at the back of the head and use a small diamond embellishment for a touch of class.

16. Goddess (Golden) Ghana Braids

You’ve got golden Ghana braids and then you’ve got golden goddess. They will complement your skin and highlight your eyes as well as your cheekbones. Oversized jewelry is a must in this case.

17. Curvy Braids

curvy ghana braids blonde extensions — Source

If you’re curvy and you like it, raise your hand. If your Ghana braids are curvy and you like it, raise both hands! This type of braiding is a true architectural work of art, which you get to wear on your head every day.

18. Multicolored Braids

What does getting ready for the summer mean? Getting ready for music festivals, of course!

You can start with your hair. Use multiple colored extensions to make it look like you have a rainbow in your tresses!

19. The Faux Mohawk Ghana Braids

This is such a versatile hairstyle that you can even turn it into a faux mohawk, if you want to.

Use a handful of bobby pins as well as hairspray to keep everything in place and make sure you get the shape you want.

20. Milk Chocolate Braids

Another color which you can choose when thinking about your extensions is milk chocolate.

If you’re like this lady above, you don’t even need to dye your natural hair because this amazing brown shade will compliment it perfectly!

21. Roman Style Ghana Braids

Combine Ghana braids with the old Roman style to get a very interesting looking hairdo. All you need to do is choose the right golden embellishments.

If you can find some with laurel leaves, that’s even better!

22. Mixing It Up

This hairstyle brings together almost everything that we’ve pointed out in other ideas above. You have both thick and thin braids, multicolored extensions for some extra jazz, and golden embellishments.

23. Purple Braids

Here are some oversized Ghana braids, constructed using large batches of plum purple extensions.

The golden statement earrings are another great touch as they add a bit of luxury to the whole look.

24. Black and Blue Braids

When you’re in the mood for a little change to your hair but you don’t want to go overboard, you can definitely go for the style in the photo above!

While braiding your Ghanas, use brightly colored thin extensions. One example is this pretty blue.

25. Metallic Silver Braids

If you want to look like a heroine from a Sci-Fi movie, this is definitely the style for you.

These amazing cornrows have braids both from left to right and front to back.

Apart from that, the hanging tresses have been braided with silver extensions.

26. Stars and Ghana Braids

What a wonderful idea for a special holiday such as the 4^th of July. Celebrate America’s most special day with a very distinctive hairdo of your own.

Wearing stars in your hair has taken a whole new meaning now!

27. Scarlet Braids

These wine-colored braids have an amazing way of coiling on top of the head.

To get that nice shine and to protect your locks, use some hair care products or some coconut or olive oil.

28. The Creative Vibe

If you want, you can always give your hair stylist free hand to do what he or she sees fit. We’re willing to bet that, once their creative juices get flowing, the result will be a spectacular one.

29. Intricate Braids

Even though it is a protective style more than anything else, Ghanas don’t have to be boring or overly simple. You can play around with length, sizes, and thickness until you get the result you desire!

30. Ghana Braids for Children

Protective Ghana braids hairstyle for children - gentle hair care for kids — Source

We saved the sweetest of them all for last. Ghana braids are a great way to give your little girl a cool hairstyle as well as protect her precious tresses. Don’t forget to ask her what kind of Ghana braids and embellishments she wants!

Don’t forget to ask her what kind of Ghana braids and embellishments she wants!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Ghana braids last?

Ghana braids typically last between 2-8 weeks depending on how well they are maintained and your hair growth rate. To maximize their longevity, sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, keep your scalp moisturized, and avoid excessive manipulation of the style.

Are Ghana braids good for hair growth?

Yes, Ghana braids are excellent for promoting hair growth. As a protective style, they keep your natural hair tucked away and protected from environmental damage, manipulation, and breakage. This protection allows your hair to retain length and grow with minimal interruption.

What’s the difference between Ghana braids and cornrows?

While both styles involve braiding close to the scalp, Ghana braids are typically thicker and more raised than traditional cornrows. Ghana braids often incorporate hair extensions and can feature more complex patterns, curves, and designs. They’re also known for their seamless feed-in technique that creates a natural-looking transition from the scalp.

How should I prepare my hair for Ghana braids?

Before getting Ghana braids, thoroughly wash and deep condition your hair. Make sure your hair is completely detangled and moisturized. Some stylists recommend stretching natural hair through blow-drying or banding to make the braiding process easier and reduce tension on the scalp.

How do I maintain Ghana braids?

To maintain Ghana braids, spray a mixture of water and leave-in conditioner on your hair every few days. Apply a lightweight oil to your scalp and braids to prevent dryness. Wrap your hair in a satin scarf or bonnet at night to reduce frizz and preserve the style. Avoid applying heavy products that can cause buildup.

Ready to Change Your Look?

Ghana braids offer endless possibilities for expressing your style while keeping your natural hair protected. From classic designs to bold colors and innovative patterns, these traditional braids have evolved into a versatile protective style that celebrates both heritage and modern fashion.

Which of these Ghana braid styles caught your eye? Whether you’re drawn to the colorful options or prefer classic designs, these protective styles offer both beauty and hair health benefits. Share your experience with Ghana braids in the comments below!

Betty Molland

Betty has over 15 years of experience in writing and editing for hairstyle publications. Her career started soon after graduating, leading her to winning many awards and opening her own salon at a very young age. She specializes in hair coloring techniques and hair care. In her spare time, Betty enjoys running outdoors, learning new languages, and occasionally binging a Netflix series.