2. Bun Braids with Extensions

Source: @braid_vixen via Instagram

As mentioned earlier, hair extensions are an effective way to add length and size to your braids. If you have a short haircut that is not long enough for the braided style you are going for, this creates the illusion of long hair that will make the style easier to attain. This can either be done by adding hair extensions from the beginning of braiding each braid, or starting out the braid with your own hair, then gradually adding pieces of hair while braiding.

The difference between the appearance of these two methods is that adding hair from the beginning of the braid will give the appearance of a looped knob at the front and can allow the color of the added hair to show up from the beginning if it is different from the color of the attached hair. While adding hair gradually allows for a more seamless look. The two methods can be used together as well.

3. Stitch Braided Bun

Source: @hairtech_nique via Instagram

This type of braided bun adds an additional element to the aforementioned methods of styling braids, where each section of hair to be braided is tied tightly with hair elastics in the intended braid pattern before braiding.This creates tight braids that have defined sections and neater lines running perpendicularly under each braid, which is what brings out the appearances of stiches. This braid style is also helpful to those who would like an easier time maintaining sections when braiding the hair.

However, it is important to be aware of how tolerant your scalp is with tight braids, as this style can increase the risk of traction alopecia or hair loss resulting from tight pulling and styling of hair for a long period of time. To minimize risks, make sure the braids are firm but not uncomfortably tight.