Picking out the color of your next set of braids is a major decision. It’s beyond just a fashion statement; it determines the era you’re entering and the season of life you’re in. The color of your braids directly impacts how you see yourself and how the world sees you. This is why referring to a braiding hair color chart is so crucial.
A braiding hair color chart is a visual guide that helps identify specific colors of braiding hair, using a numerical or letter system to differentiate shades. Braiding hair color charts typically use a system of numbers and letters to categorize different shades. This includes “1” for black, “27” for honey blonde, or “30” for light brown.
Here’s a deconstructed braiding hair color chart, as well as some insight on how to pick a hair color that matches your skin tone and the season.
Blonde
Best For: Medium to light skin tones (cool or warm undertones), warm weather seasons (spring and summer).
Blonde braids, especially honey, golden, or platinum shades, complement lighter to medium skin tones. They contribute to a radiant and fresh look. For lighter skin tones, a soft, honey blonde can bring out warmth, while cooler platinum blonde looks great with fair, cool undertones. On darker skin tones, blonde creates a striking contrast. Shades like caramel or sandy blonde can provide a balanced and glowing look.
Blonde braids work wonderfully with styles that allow the color to shine, like box braids, crochet braids, or Senegalese twists. Their bold yet soft appearance makes them perfect for full-bodied styles like chunky braids, or even with simple, sleek braids for a more chic, minimal look. During the warmer seasons, blonde braids give off a sunny vibe that will perfectly match your inner glow.
Brown
Best For: All skin tones (especially medium to dark skin tones), year-round.
Brown braids suit everyone. From deep chocolate to light caramel, brown braids are universally flattering. For lighter skin tones, warm brown shades like caramel or chestnut can add dimension and complement the skin beautifully. On medium to dark skin tones, dark brown or rich espresso braids can enhance your natural undertones and give a sleek, polished look. Brown is also very versatile for all seasons, making it a go-to shade for any time of the year.
Brown braids suit a variety of styles, from the classic box braids and feed-in braids to intricate cornrows and Marley twists. Their neutral tone works well with different braid thicknesses, and brown braids are ideal for both natural, understated looks and bolder, chunky braids. Brown is perfect for everyday wear, but it also pairs well with professional styles, offering a timeless, sophisticated vibe.
Red
Best For: Medium to deep skin tones (especially with warm undertones), fall and winter seasons.
Red braids are absolutely stunning, especially on medium to dark skin tones. Rich shades like auburn, burgundy, or fiery red create a bold contrast against deeper skin tones and enhance the warmth of the undertones. For lighter skin tones, fiery red or copper braids add an eye-catching pop of color. Red is also perfect for the fall and winter seasons, blending with the vibrant hues of autumn and complementing the cozy vibes of cooler months.
Red braids shine in voluminous or long styles. Try them in chunky box braids, goddess braids, or chunky twists for maximum impact. Ombre red braids, starting with darker roots and transitioning to fiery ends, can also add an extra layer of depth and style. The intensity of red makes it ideal for making a bold statement, so it’s best worn when you’re feeling confident and ready to stand out.
Black
Best For: All skin tones, all seasons.
Black braids are a timeless, classic option that work beautifully for all skin tones, whether you have fair, medium, or deep skin. They offer a sleek and bold look, enhancing the natural richness of dark skin tones, and providing a striking contrast to lighter skin tones. Black is versatile and complements any season, from the sunny days to the chilly nights.
Black braids are perfect for any style, whether you’re going for a chic and sophisticated look or something more playful. They are ideal for everyday styles like box braids or twist-outs but can also work well with more intricate braids like goddess braids or passion twists. Black braids look elegant in sleek, long styles, but they’re also great in shorter, trendy styles like bob braids.
Ombre
Best For: All skin tones, especially medium to dark skin, year-round.
Why choose one color when you can have two? The best of both worlds, ombre braids combine two shades for a gradient effect, typically starting with a darker color at the roots and transitioning to a lighter shade at the ends. This look is incredibly flattering because it adds dimension and texture to your braids, making them appear fuller and more dynamic. Ombre braids work well with any skin tone, but they’re especially eye-catching on medium to dark skin tones. Depending on the gradient, you can go for a natural, sun-kissed look with shades like black to brown. You can also do something more vibrant, like dark purple to lavender.
Ombre braids look amazing in long, flowing styles where the color transition can be showcased. This includes box braids, jumbo twists, or even in braided buns or ponytails. Because of the color gradient, ombre braids create a beautiful effect when styled in intricate ways like fishtail braids or crown braids. The ombre effect adds dimension and texture, making it a versatile option for both casual and formal looks.
Bold Color
Best For: Medium to deep skin tones, spring and summer seasons.
Ready for your fiercest era yet? Bold colors like blue, purple, green, and other vibrant hues are perfect for those looking to make a statement. These colors tend to pop on medium to dark skin tones, providing a striking contrast. Bold colors also work beautifully on lighter skin tones, especially if you choose jewel tones or pastel versions. These colors are often associated with fun, creativity, and boldness, making them perfect for warmer seasons and festivals.
Bold-colored braids work best in styles that allow the color to take center stage. Jumbo box braids, crochet braids, or even knotless braids look incredible in vibrant hues. The boldness of the colors adds a playful, edgy vibe. You can even mix colors (like blue and purple ombre or multi-colored braids) for a truly unique look. Bold colors are especially fun in chunky braids or braids. You can even add accessories like beads or cuffs to emphasize the color.
