Inspired by Beyonce’s trendsetting hairstyle in her music videos from the album Lemonade. Lemonade braids are simply long cornrows, styled side-swept to make you feel like royalty. I have seen lots of amazing variations of this trendy protective style – from jumbo braids to dyed and decorated ones.
The versatility of this African-American hairstyle will allow you to add a touch of your unique personality to your own hair! These sexy side-braids were invented to make black women feel confident and proud of their natural textured hair. Plus, you can always add on some baby hair to soften the look. The key is to never forget to condition your hair for a long-lasting and healthy result! When life gives you lemons, opt for these yummy braids!
Before your next hair appointment, check out these inspiring photos of lemonade braids hairstyle ideas.
Jumbo Lemonade Braids
Super low-upkeep and easy to manage, these beautiful thick and large lemonade braids look even better with super-thin ones for a contrasting effect.
Swirl Lemonade Braids
Swirl lemonade braids with creative partings can gradually get larger at the end. Sweep to the side or center for your signature style. Lemonade braids can be styled to suit any face shape but are perfect for women with round faces as it frames and elongates the face.
Half-Up, Half-Down Lemonade Braid Style
Try a half-up, half-down lemonade braid style and show off some cheekbones. With tons of options to choose from one thing that remains the same with lemonade braids is its elegance.
Zig Zag Lemonade Braids
One of the benefits of having cornrows is that you get to have any intricate design you want, such as these zig zag lemonade braids! Be sure to have yours done by a professional braider if you want the best results.
Thin Lemonade Braid Style with Pink Ombre
Cute long and small side braids are perfect when you aim to show off a mermaid fashion color like this pastel pink ombre! Use strings to transition from one color to another.
Burgundy Red Braids
Burgundy box braids suit any black woman brave enough to wear them. These braids also have triangle parts for a more unique root design.
Lemonade Braided Style with a Ponytail Updo
Feel like a princess warrior with this iconic lemonade braid updo! Put on some golden metallic cuffs, add in those thin flawless braids beside your face, and finish with an edgy high ponytail to rock this style.
Lemonade Braided Hair with a Side Part
A neat side part on classic lemonade braids gives you balanced volume on both sides of your head. Keep it naturally black for that added classic sensation.
Long Lemonade Braids with Blonde Highlights
Highlight your gorgeous long lemonade braids when you let warm honey blonde tones run through them. With a warm shade on these center part lemonade braids, you can brighten and frame your face for spring or summer!
Lemonade Twists with a Bun
Get edgy with these lemonade braids topknot, paired with a neat undercut. The purple ombre looks as fashionable in a high bun as it is when worn straight down.
Braided Hair with Strings and Accessories
If vibrant colors and dazzling accessories are your thing, try combining these rose gold strings and green ombre on your braids for contrast!
Lemonade Braids with Beads
Level up the classic lemonade braids with beads and cuffs to finish the look with a more stylish vibe. Just use your creativity and you’ll end up with a unique design that shows your fun personality.
Small Lemonade Braids
These carefully done small lemonade braids don’t need anything else to make them look stunning! You can style it any way you want – straight back, in a bun, or with accessories.
Lemonade Purple Braids
Tired of your simple black long braids? Have a magical effect by trying this blend of purple and blue ombre! Decorate your braids with gold cuffs and yarn to finish the hairstyle.
Low Ponytail and a Lemonade Braided Style
If you’re considering these lovely medium lemonade braids – start with a unique intricate pattern on your head and transition it smoothly into a high ponytail to give you a cool yet feminine look!
Chunky Braids
A super manageable style are these chunky and jumbo lemonade braids. Simply style your chunky braids with a solid golden shade and wrap your hair around with two pieces so you can flaunt your lovely face!
Big Lemonade Braids
Super glam, thick and big lemonade braids can be styled with gold accessories to make it look more fabulous. Jumbo braids are low-maintenance and ideal for women who are on-the-go.
These side lemonade braids, created by braiding expert Stephanie Odia Kalonji of France, are one of the best protective styles for summer. They look edgy and classic at the same time! Perfect to take a dip in the pool with and still look good coming out of the water!
Kalonji states, “I think anybody can rock this braided style. It goes well with everyday women who work and want to save time in the morning. Also, they’re perfect for the active girl who goes to the gym and is always on the run.”
Cornrow Braids
A combo of thin and thick braids with highlights can give you that sexy Beyonce vibe. A pro braider can recreate this combination with any braid size as long as you have some length to work with.
This look is “stitch braids” or as some would like to call it “railroad tracks.” Designed by braider Nari of Georgia, this isn’t the average cornrow style but is achieved by adding small pieces of extensions to the natural hair so that it gradually goes up in size. The thicker the hair is, the less hair you add.
“I love how this lemonade braid is very quick, convenient, and simple, but still shows so much detail in the braids,” Nari explains.
This style can last 2 weeks or more depending on the hair type. If you’re looking for a side braid that can last over 3 weeks, Nari doesn’t suggest this braided hairstyle.
