37+ Stunning Short Box Braids Hairstyles to Try Now

Looking for a fresh protective style that’s both versatile and low-maintenance? Short Box Braids Hairstyles might just be your answer. These stunning styles have been gaining momentum among celebs and everyday trendsetters alike. Short Box Braids Hairstyles are perfect for those wanting the beauty of braids without the heavy weight or commitment of longer styles.

I’ve been styling and wearing box braids for years, and lemme tell you – the short versions are having quite the moment right now. Not only do they require less installation time, but they’re easier to manage in your day-to-day life.

What Are Box Braids?

Box braids get their name from the square-shaped parts created on the scalp before braiding. These protective styles involve sectioning the hair into square patterns, then braiding with added extensions. The result? Neat, uniform braids that protect your natural hair while giving you endless styling options.

Short box braids typically fall at or above shoulder length. This length offers the perfect balance between versatility and convenience. You’ll still enjoy all the styling benefits of braids without the extra weight or time commitment.

Why Choose Short Box Braids?

Let’s be real – not everyone has the patience for waist-length braids. Short box braids are lightweight and dont strain your neck or scalp like longer versions might. This makes them ideal for active lifestyles or those new to protective styling.

The installation process is significantly quicker too. While traditional long box braids might keep you in the salon chair for 6+ hours, shorter versions can often be completed in half that time. Your stylist will thank you, and so will your schedule!

Another major perk? Maintenance becomes way easier. Washing, drying, and styling short box braids is less time-consuming and physical effort. For busy professionals or parents always on the go, this advantage can’t be overstated.

Stunning Short Box Braids Styles to Try

1. Classic Bob Box Braids

The bob never goes out of style, and box braids in this classic cut offer timeless elegance. A chin-length cut with sharp ends creates a sophisticated frame for your face. This style works beautifully for both professional settings and casual outings.

For added dimension, ask your stylist to incorporate subtle color highlights. A few caramel or honey-colored braids can elevate this look without being too dramatic. This is perfect for those dipping their toes into the world of colored braids.

2. Layered Short Box Braids

Why settle for one length when layers add so much movement? Layered short box braids create a dynamic, textured look that appears more voluminous. The different lengths create a cascading effect that’s visually interesting.

This style is particularly flattering if you have a round face shape, as the layers can help elongate your appearance. Have your stylist cut the front pieces slightly shorter to frame your face beautifully.

3. Asymmetrical Bob Braids

For the fashion-forward, an asymmetrical cut makes a bold statement. Longer on one side and gradually shorter on the other, this modern take on box braids is sure to turn heads. It’s edgy yet sophisticated.

The beauty of this style lays in its versatility. You can part it differently or tuck one side behind your ear for various looks throughout the week. It’s like getting multiple styles in one!

4. Micro Short Box Braids

Tiny braids create a incredibly detailed look that’s worth the extra installation time. Micro box braids in a short style offer the intricate beauty of small braids without the excessive weight or installation time of longer versions.

The smaller size allows for more precise styling and can last longer than larger braids. However, be prepared for a slightly longer appointment – the detail work takes time, but the results are stunning and long-lasting.

5. Blunt Cut Box Braids

There’s something striking about a precise, blunt cut. This no-nonsense style features box braids cut at exactly the same length all around, creating a bold, geometric look. The clean lines offer a modern, architectural feel.

This style works particularly well with medium-sized braids and looks amazing when styled with a center part. For maximum impact, keep the ends perfectly even and avoid too many flyaways. A quality braid spray will help maintain that freshly-done look.

6. Pixie Cut Box Braids

Yes, you can combine the convenience of a pixie cut with the protection of box braids! This ultra-short style features braids that are just a few inches long, creating a pixie-like silhouette. It’s perfect for summer or active individuals.

The pixie box braid style frames your face beautifully and highlights your features. Plus, the maintenance is practically non-existent – just spray with braid spray occasionally and you’re good to go. Talk about low-maintenance glamour!

7. Colored Short Box Braids

Life’s too short for boring hair! Short box braids provide the perfect canvas for experimenting with color. From bold primary colors to subtle pastel hues, the possibilities are endless and less committal than coloring your natural hair.

For a subtle approach, try ombré braids that transition from your natural color to a complementary shade. Alternatively, go full vibrance with a complete color like burgundy, purple, or even blue. The shorter length makes even the boldest colors feel wearable.

8. Side-Swept Box Braids

This romantic style features short box braids styled primarily to one side. The asymmetrical part and swept direction creates a soft, elegant look thats perfect for special occasions or adding a touch of femininity to your everyday style.

To achieve this look, have your braids installed with a deep side part. Once complete, train the braids to fall in your desired direction using bobby pins or hair clips overnight. After a few days, they’ll naturally fall in that flattering side-swept pattern.

9. Undercut Box Braids

For the bold and adventurous, combining an undercut with short box braids creates an edgy, fashion-forward look. The contrast between the shaved portions and the braided sections creates visual interest and endless styling options.

You can choose to shave just one side, both sides, or the nape of your neck. The braided portions can be styled up to reveal the undercut or down to conceal it, essentially giving you two styles in one. This is definitely for those who love making a statement!

10. Tapered Box Braids

Similar to a tapered natural cut, these box braids are longer on top and gradually become shorter toward the nape and sides. This creates a flattering shape that works well with many face types and adds a modern twist to traditional box braids.

The graduated length provides versatility in styling – you can push the longer top braids forward for a fringe effect or back for a sleeker look. It’s a style that grows out beautifully too, maintaining its shape even as weeks pass.

11. Half-Up Box Braids

Even with shorter braids, you can still create gorgeous updo variations. The half-up style involves pulling the upper portion of your box braids into a bun or ponytail while leaving the lower section loose. It’s the perfect balance between polished and relaxed.

This style works particularly well for transitioning from day to evening looks. Wear it loose during the day, then quickly transform it into a half-up style for dinner or events. The shorter length makes creating the updo portion much easier than with longer braids.

12. Box Braids with Beads

Add some cultural flair and personal expression with beaded box braids. Traditional wooden beads or modern acrylic ones can be added to the ends or throughout your short box braids, creating movement and subtle music as you move.

The sound of clicking beads has been associated with braided styles across African cultures for centuries. Embrace this heritage with strategic bead placement – perhaps just framing your face or randomly throughout for a more playful effect.

13. Short Box Braids with Curled Ends

For a softer look, consider having your stylist curl the ends of your short box braids. This can be done using hot water and flexirods or by installing the braids with pre-curled extension hair. The result is bouncy, romantic ends that soften the overall look.

This style looks especially beautiful with shoulder-length box braids, as the curls will rest gracefully on your shoulders. The curled ends add volume and dimension, making this an excellent choice for those with narrow face shapes.

14. Short Knotless Box Braids

Knotless braiding technique has become increasingly popular due to its natural-looking results and reduced tension on the scalp. This method starts with your natural hair and gradually feeds in the extensions, eliminating the bulky knot at the root.

Short knotless box braids offer all the benefits of traditional box braids with added comfort and a more natural appearance where the braids meet your scalp. They’re ideal for those with sensitive scalps or anyone who prioritizes a seamless, natural look.

15. Ombré Short Box Braids

The gradient effect of ombré coloring pairs beautifully with short box braids. This style features braids that transition from your natural hair color at the roots to a lighter or completely different shade at the ends. The shorter length makes the color transition more noticeable and impactful.

One popular option is the black-to-blonde ombré, but don’t be afraid to experiment with unnatural colors like purple, blue, or even pink for the ends. The color placement creates visual interest without requiring full commitment to a single bold shade.

16. Braided Bang Box Braids

Frame your face beautifully with short box braids featuring a braided bang. This style incorporates shorter braids in the front that act as a fringe, while the rest remain at a uniform shorter length. It’s particularly flattering for those wanting to highlight their eyes or soften a high forehead.

The braided bangs can be styled straight across or swept to the side depending on your preference. This versatile element allows you to change up your look without redoing your entire protective style.

17. Triangle Part Box Braids

While traditional box braids use square partings, triangle parts create a unique and eye-catching pattern. These geometric parts are visible when you style your hair up or pulled back, adding an interesting element to even the simplest box braid styles.

Triangle parts can actually accommodate more braids than square parts, potentially giving you a fuller-looking style. The unique parting pattern also creates different styling possibilities when you wear your braids half-up or in updos.

18. Jumbo Short Box Braids

For a bolder statement and quicker installation time, jumbo short box braids are an excellent option. These thicker braids make a dramatic impact while requiring fewer individual braids overall. The chunkier texture creates an interesting contrast when cut in shorter styles.

Because of their size, jumbo box braids show off color and highlights beautifully. Consider adding a few highlighted pieces throughout for dimension that really stands out. The best part? You might be in and out of the salon in just 2-3 hours!

19. Box Braids with Accessories

Elevate your short box braids with tasteful accessories like metallic cuffs, decorative thread wraps, or even delicate jewelry designed specifically for braids. These small additions can transform a simple style into something truly special.

Gold or silver cuffs placed strategically near your face can highlight your features, while colorful thread wraps create custom color patterns without committing to dyed extensions. This is a great way to customize your style for special events or seasonal changes.

20. Short Box Braids with Shaved Sides

For the ultimate edgy look, combine short box braids with precisely shaved sides. This bold combination offers the protection of braids on top with the cooling convenience of shaved sides. It’s a style that makes a strong fashion statement.

The contrast between the textured braids and smooth shaved sections creates visual interest from every angle. This style works particularly well with colored braids on top to really highlight the artistic nature of the look.

21. Fulani-Inspired Short Box Braids

Drawing inspiration from traditional Fulani styles, these box braids typically include specific elements like a center part, braids wrapped with thread or gold accessories, and sometimes beads. Adapting this to a shorter length creates a culturally rich yet contemporary look.

The distinct center part with braids flowing away from the face is both flattering and culturally significant. Consider adding authentic accessories like cowrie shells for an even more traditional nod to these historically important styles.

22. Short Box Braids with Defined Edges

Pay special attention to your edges when getting short box braids. Well-defined baby hairs styled artistically around your hairline can elevate your entire look. This detail work frames your face beautifully and adds a polished finish.

Your natural edges can be styled with edge control products to create swoops, swirls, or other decorative patterns. Just remember to be gentle with this delicate hair to maintain the health of your hairline throughout the duration of your protective style.

23. Two-Toned Short Box Braids

Can’t decide between two colors? Don’t! Two-toned box braids alternate between two complementary or contrasting colors for a playful, eye-catching effect. The shorter length makes this bold choice more wearable for everyday settings.

Popular combinations include black and burgundy, natural brown and honey blonde, or for the adventurous, black and a vibrant color like purple or blue. The alternating colors create texture and dimension that looks stunning even in the simplest styles.

24. Angled Bob Box Braids

This sophisticated style features box braids that are shorter at the back and gradually lengthen toward the front. The angled cut creates a sleek, professional look that’s still full of personality. It’s perfect for those wanting short braids with a bit of length around the face.

The angled bob works with various braid sizes, though medium to small braids tend to show off the precision of the cut best. For added dimension, consider incorporating subtle highlights in the front sections where the braids are longest.

25. Goddess Short Box Braids

Goddess braids combine the structure of box braids with softer, curly ends or curly extensions woven throughout. Adapting this to a shorter length creates a gorgeous, feminine style that offers the best of both worlds – protection and softness.

The juxtaposition of neat braids transitioning to free-flowing curls creates a romantic look that’s perfect for special occasions. Even in shorter lengths, the curly portions add volume and movement that’s undeniably beautiful.

26. Mohawk-Inspired Box Braids

Create a bold statement with short box braids styled into a mohawk silhouette. The sides are kept sleek and flat against your head while the center section is volumized and stands taller. No need to actually shave anything – just style strategically!

This edgy look can be dressed up for special occasions or toned down for everyday wear. Use bobby pins to secure the sides and a bit of holding spray to maintain the height in the center. It’s punk rock meets protective styling at its finest.

27. Waterfall Box Braids

This beautiful style features braids of slightly different lengths arranged to create a cascading effect, similar to a waterfall. The graduated lengths flow naturally, typically from shorter at the front to slightly longer at the back.

The subtle variation in length creates movement and dimension that’s incredibly flattering. This style works particularly well with smaller box braids, as the detailed texture enhances the waterfall effect.

28. Crown Braid with Box Braids

Transform your short box braids into royalty-worthy style by creating a braided crown along your hairline. Take several front braids and weave them together, pinning them securely to form a crown or tiara effect while leaving the rest hanging.

This elegant style keeps hair off your face while creating a sophisticated focal point. It’s perfect for formal events or when you want to feel a bit regal during your everyday activities. The shorter length of the braids makes this style much easier to achieve than with longer box braids.

29. Half-Shaved Box Braids

For the truly adventurous, try a dramatic half-shaved look with box braids. One side of the head is braided normally, while the other side is either completely or partially shaved. This creates a stunning asymmetrical style that’s both edgy and artistic.

The versatility of this style is remarkable – you can part your hair to show the shaved portion when you’re feeling bold, or cover it for more conservative settings. It’s like having two completely different hairstyles in one!

30. Geometric Part Box Braids

Move beyond basic square or triangle parts with intricate geometric parting patterns. Think zigzags, diamonds, curves, or even custom designs that create a striking visual effect when styled up or pulled back.

These artistic partings add another dimension to your box braids, effectively turning your scalp into a canvas. While they require a skilled braider, the result is a truly personalized style that showcases remarkable attention to detail.

31. Braided Topknot with Hanging Box Braids

Create a stylish hybrid by gathering just the top section of your short box braids into a neat topknot while leaving the lower sections hanging free. This half-up style offers the best of both worlds – the sophistication of an updo with the playful movement of loose braids.

This versatile style works beautifully for transitioning from day to night and keeps hair off your face during activities. For added flair, wrap one of your braids around the base of the topknot to conceal any hair ties.

32. Zig-Zag Part Box Braids

Make a statement with a bold zig-zag part running from your forehead to the nape of your neck. This distinctive parting creates visual interest and transforms even the simplest short box braids into something extraordinary.

The zig-zag pattern is particularly striking with two-toned braids, as the alternating colors emphasize the angular parting. It’s an easy way to elevate your style without changing the braids themselves.

33. Yarn-Wrapped Box Braids

Incorporate colorful yarn wrappings around select braids for a unique textile element. This technique involves wrapping portions of certain braids with vibrant yarn, creating pops of color and texture throughout your style.

The contrast between the smooth braids and the textured yarn creates visual interest that’s both playful and artistic. You can coordinate the yarn colors with your outfits or choose a signature color that becomes part of your personal style statement.

34. Disconnected Undercut Box Braids

Take the undercut concept further with a disconnected undercut featuring short box braids. This style features a distinct line separating the longer braided top from the closely shaved sides and back, creating a dramatic contrast.

The clean line of demarcation gives this style a polished, intentional look that’s both edgy and sophisticated. For added impact, consider incorporating a design element in the shaved portion through precision cutting or even temporary color.

35. Braided Bantu Knots with Box Braids

Combine two protective styles by arranging some of your short box braids into Bantu knots while leaving others hanging free. This fusion creates a textural playground with structured knots contrasting against the linear braids.

This style works particularly well by placing the Bantu knots on top or at the crown while leaving braids hanging around the perimeter. The dynamic between the two different styling techniques creates a sophisticated look that’s full of cultural pride.

36. Faux Hawk Box Braids

Create the illusion of a mohawk without any shaving by styling your short box braids into a faux hawk. The sides are slicked down and pinned while the center strip is teased for height and volume, creating a dramatic silhouette.

This adaptable style can be as subtle or dramatic as you prefer – from a slight elevation in the center to a bold, high-rising crest. The shorter length makes it easier to achieve significant height without excessive weight or tension.

37. Box Braids with Ribbon Weave

Thread colorful ribbons through select braids for a romantic, whimsical touch. Choose satin or velvet ribbons that coordinate with your wardrobe and weave them through braids scattered throughout your hair or concentrated in one section.

The flowing ribbon ends create beautiful movement and can be changed to match different outfits or occasions. This temporary embellishment allows you to refresh your look without redoing your entire protective style.

38. Halo Braid with Box Braids

Create an ethereal look by arranging your short box braids into a halo or crown braid that circles your entire head. This elegant style keeps all hair off your neck and face while creating a sophisticated silhouette that’s perfect for special occasions.

The shorter length makes this style more manageable to achieve than with longer box braids. Secure with discreet pins and a light holding spray for an angelic look that will last all day or night.

39. Heart-Shaped Undercut Box Braids

For a truly unique style, try a heart-shaped undercut beneath your short box braids. This playful design features a heart pattern shaved into an undercut section, typically at the nape of the neck or behind one ear.

The beauty of this style is that it can be either revealed or concealed depending on how you style your braids. It’s like having a secret design that you can show off when you’re feeling bold or keep hidden in more conservative settings.

40. Braided Side Swoop Box Braids

Create elegant asymmetry with short box braids styled with a dramatic side swoop. A deep side part allows a cascade of braids to elegantly swoop across the forehead, creating a soft frame for your face and a touch of old Hollywood glamour.

This sophisticated style can be secured with discreet pins to maintain the swoop shape. It’s particularly flattering for highlighting your cheekbones and drawing attention to your eyes.

41. Short Box Braids with Metallic Thread

Add subtle sparkle to your short box braids by incorporating metallic thread throughout the braiding process. Gold, silver, or colored metallic threads are braided in with your hair and extensions, creating a shimmering effect that catches the light as you move.

This technique adds dimension and interest without being overwhelming. The metallic elements create a magical quality that’s perfect for festival season or holiday celebrations, yet subtle enough for everyday wear.

42. Cornrow-Box Braid Combination

Get the best of both worlds by combining cornrows and box braids in one style. Typically, the front or sides feature sleek cornrows that transition into box braids at the crown or back of the head, creating a textural contrast that’s visually striking.

This hybrid style offers versatility in styling while keeping the convenience of shorter lengths. The cornrowed sections help keep hair off your face while the box braids provide fullness and movement where desired.

Final Thoughts

Short box braids offer the perfect combination of protection, style, and convenience. With endless variations and customization options, there’s a short box braid style for every preference and occasion. Whether you’re looking for something bold and edgy or classic and professional, these 25 styles demonstrate the incredible versatility of shorter braided looks.

Remember that the health of your natural hair should always be the priority. Choose a skilled stylist who specializes in braided styles and doesn’t braid too tightly at the roots. With proper installation and maintenance, your short box braids can protect and nurture your natural hair while looking absolutely stunning.

Which of these 25 styles will you try first? The beauty of short box braids is that you can experiment more frequently and with less commitment than longer protective styles. Embrace the versatility and enjoy the confidence that comes with rocking a fresh, head-turning look!