Choosing the ideal length for box braids can be confusing for some, but one of the most popular decisions is around Waist length. Not short, and not too long, the waist length looks just perfect. If you want to know why you should consider waist length box braids and you want to find out more about the length of braids, this article is for you.
Why waist length box braids?
If you want to get braids that are long enough that you can play with them by trying a lot of styles, and at the same time, you don’t want them to be too heavy; Waist length can be the best choice. This is probably the reason why most braided hair extensions can be so long.
However, not all braided hair extensions may end up on everyone’s waistline. They usually end between the midsection and hips, depending on both the length of the insert and the height of the customer.
Waist length is usually a general term used along the lower back, above the butt, or even a “normal” length, which is about 20/24 inches.
So, if you don’t want to waste extensions, waist length is the best length.
Things to consider before choosing the length of your braids
Your natural hair length
If you use hair extensions, they must be at least 2cm longer than your natural hair, if you don’t want to cut your ends when removing them.
Anyway, you can’t choose a shorter length, can you? Not true, anything is possible. You can also get shorter braids, but you will need to install them using the crochet method.
Hair used for braiding
Braided hair extensions come in different lengths (you can check each one, as these details are written on the packaging), and you can cut them as you wish.
However, pay attention to what type of braid hair you choose, whether it is ombre or multi-colored, you will only cut from the last color, and if it is pre-stretched, you will have to stretch it again yourself after cutting it.
It’s often easier to work with the same size of hair extensions, so the braids don’t all end at the same point, just like the regular layers of naturally grown hair.
If you want all the braids to end at a certain point, you’ll have to cut or stretch any other extra for each top row, which will take time.
height
The same length of hair extensions will end at the waist line for some and at the waist for others, depending on their height.
budget
You might think that the shorter the braids, the lower the price, which is quite logical. This rule applies when you can cut all the braid hair at once; For example, you cut the expansion into two, three, or four (NB: don’t expect the price and time to be cut the same way). The lengths will usually be appreciated, and the braids will fall naturally in layers.
But there are certain cases where this law does not apply. For example, bob box braids can be rated at the same price as waist length box braids, due to the meticulous and time-consuming work of cutting each braid hair differently.
comfort
The longer the braids, the heavier it will be (assuming we’re talking about the same amount of braids). You need to know how much you can handle, so it’s best not to start with super long braids.
The second thing to think about when talking about comfort is how you are going to wear your braids. If you want to play with different styles, tie it in one second, it will be easier to do it with long braids.
determination
The most important thing to consider when choosing the length of your braids, in my opinion, is your desire. Your will is the only thing that matters after you are aware of everything related along the box braids.
If you take ownership of carrying, washing, paying for and wearing braids above the knee, and that’s your desire, then go for it.
In conclusion, choosing the length of your braids is an important fact, but don’t worry – the best choice is already at hand (already selected by most braiding hair suppliers). You just need to be sure that your hair is not longer, and your desire is not different.
I hope this article helps you with the length of box braids, and I hope you have a wonderful time wearing braids!
Common questions
In the box braids universe, the length of the waist, lower back and above the butt are often the same, being the general length of braided hair extensions.
The standard length of box braids is waist length, which can be anywhere below the bra strap and above the hips.
To get the best experience, which includes being able to style them, not be too heavy for you or difficult to manage, the best length for your first box braids will be anywhere between the upper back and the lower back.
Yes, you can trim your braids, or lengthen them after installing them, but it will be challenging. When you cut your braids, you’ll need to do it separately for each braid, thin out the end and re-braid it. Eventually, you will need to secure them in boiling water.
If you need to add length, it’s even trickier, as you’ll need to loosen the braid a bit, and add small pieces of hair extensions, so you can’t see where it’s been added.