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Pop smoke braids are taking social media by storm in 2024. A quick search of the hashtag on both Instagram and TikTok will reveal so many stunning styles, looks, and quirks, making this style a must-have option for black men and women in 2024.
But what exactly are pop smoke braids? How do they work? And what different styles can you go for? Here, we explain everything you need to know about this hairstyle and introduce you to 6 pop smoke braid styles to try in 2024.
What are pop smoke braids?
Given their name after the legendary rapper Pop Smoke, who rocked this style, pop smoke braids are cornrow stitch braids. Though there are several variants of pop smoke braids, most styles begin with groups of 4 pop smoke braids on each side of the head.
This is a protective hairstyle that can be worn by both men and women, and it's popular with black people in the Americas and other parts of the world. If you're keen to try this signature look in 2024, below are 7 unique pop smoke braids styles you can ask your hair stylist to create this year.
Pop smoke braid ideas for men and women
From dreads to the classic look favored by the rapper, let's take a look at 6 awesome pop smoke braid ideas to rock in 2024:
1. Pop smoke braids with dreads
Braids and dreads can undoubtedly complement one another, and we have seen iconic pop smoke braids combined with shoulder-length or even back-length dreads. Though this is a confluence of styles, it's a particularly great look for men, and is a great way to wear your pop smoke braids in 2024 for something a little different.
2. Pop smoke braids for men
Classic pop smoke braids for males are a great choice for any guy with Afro-textured hair. Classic pop smoke braids can be created on all lengths of natural Afro hair, but medium-long hair works particularly well, and you can run the braids down to your shoulders.
For a slightly more daring look, consider pop smoke braids with a fade, which really accentuates the braided style with short hair beneath. This style is a great option for men, but some women also like to add a fade to their braids for something a little different.
3. Pop smoke braids with weave
If you want to add length and volume to your pop smoke braids, a weave is the best way to go about it. You can use your own hair or opt for extensions to create the weave, depending on how long and thick your hair is.
We also recommend adding color or beads to the weave for an awesome, inventive style. Though each look will appeal to different people, we recommend this style as the best pop smoke braids for females.
4. Pop smoke braids for short hair
One of the reasons that this look is so popular is that it is incredibly versatile, and classic pop smoke braids can work brilliantly for people with short hair. Pop Smoke himself showcased this style with short-medium hair, and it works great with the braids hanging down just over your ears.
Given that this is a protective style, pop smoke braids are excellent for reducing friction and breakage
5. Pop smoke braids with color
Instagram is full of posts from men and women with colorful pop smoke braids. We've seen everything from Valentine's red to sky blue, as there are so many ways to add your unique personality to this style through color.
The trick is to buy colored extensions for your pop smoke braids - this is something that your stylist can help you with if you're unsure of the color to go for.
6. Zig zag pop smoke braids
This look is actually a combination of two trending hairstyles right now - the zig zag and the braids. Zig Zag braids are distinguished by the clear middle parting, with 2 or even 3 zig zags running down your hair.
Your stylist achieves the zig zag look with a wide tooth comb, but it will take longer to achieve this look. Still, we think it's worth it, and it's a particularly great look for women looking for an iconic pop smoke braids look this year.
How long do pop smoke braids last?
For most people, pop smoke braids will last for at least 4 weeks, but if you look after them and maintain your braids, you can reasonably expect them to last for up to 6 weeks.
When it comes to protecting pop smoke braids, wrap them in a scarf or hat before you go to bed to reduce friction and prevent them from getting wet.
5 reasons to try pop smoke braids in 2024
✅ It's a protective hairstyle that helps to reduce friction and breakage.
✅ If you maintain your braids correctly, you can expect them to last for 4-6 weeks.
✅ Pop smoke braids are very much in style in 2024 and are a great choice for men and women.
✅ This is a very versatile look and is great for all lengths of hair.
✅ Provided that you wrap them at night, pop smoke braids require very little ongoing maintenance.
Do pop smoke braids to make you pop
So, what are you waiting for? 2024 is the perfect year to rock this iconic style, so choose your pop smoke braids style from above and ask your hair stylist to create your preferred look!
