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If you're looking for a protective style to give your natural hair a break, box braids are a great solution. With so much versatility, it's easy to see they are a go-to, timeless style. "You can style box braids in so many ways and they are suitable for different occasions," says Tamara Albertini, holistic expert braider and founder of Ancestral Strands. "You can wear them to work, out on the town, or even in a beautiful updo for a wedding."

Below, we asked Albertini and other expert braiders to share some box braid styles that are worth trying.

Beaded Box Braids

The color you add to your braids doesn't have to come from hair extensions. Give your braids an old-school '80s vibe by stacking beads at the ends.

If you want to color-coordinate your beads with your outfits, opt for clear or wooden ones — they go with everything.

Ombré Box Braids

Ombré styles aren't exclusively for loose hair — they can look great on braids, too. Here, varying shades of blonde lend dimension and interest to this style.

Half-Up, Half-Down Box Braids

Gabrielle Union's stunning half-up, half-down braided style is perfect for a girls night out or a romantic date night. While the actress has dressed it up here, we can also see it serving a casual look.

Cornrows and Box Braids

You don't have to choose between cornrows and box braids — Storm Reid shows us how we can do both. For a bit of visual contrast, cornrow your hair in a fun pattern on the crown and let the rest go free.

Goddess Box Braids

After a chic, boho look? This protective style is the way to go. "The curly ends add a little flavor to the simple individual braids," says Erinn Courtney, StyleSeat hairstylist. "Curls allow me to be more creative while styling and they add volume to this look," adds Pearl Ransome, expert braider and founder of Pearl The Stylist Studio.

Box Braid Space Buns

If you want to keep your long braids out of your face but don't like to deal with the (literal) headache of wearing your braids in a big top bun, opt for adorable space buns. Don't forget to lay down the baby hairs to complete the look. We like Pattern Edge Control, in case you're looking for product recommendations.

Bohemian Box Braids

These bohemian box braids showcase a mix of curly and straight braids and provide an effortlessly chic vibe. "The long braids with flowing body waves are great for hanging out at the beach or lounging by the pool," says Marlisha Lofton, expert braider and hair extension specialist.

Colorful Box Braids

If you want box braids that will make you stand out in a crowd, look no further. "Colorful braids with extensions are perfect if you're looking to test hair colors on your skin tone without the major commitment of permanently dying your natural hair," says Courtney. For this style, Lofton recommends using the knotless braiding technique, which gives the braids more flexibility and creates less tension on the scalp.

Glossy Box Braids

Zendaya's box braids are perfect for when you want to really go for a *look.* To get her lustrous, frizz-free finish, style with Sheamoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Frizz-Free Curl Mousse ($13).

Box Braid Bob

No one said braids have to be long. The great thing about box braids is that you can experiment with colors, styles, and lengths. This pink box braid bob is swoon-worthy.

Box Braid Bun

Putting your box braids up in a bun is an easy way to create a glamorous look for a special occasion. Wrap the braids around the bun for a soft, elegant look. That's what Jhené Aiko did here for a Coachella look.

Box Braid Bantu Knots

Why have one protective style when you can have two? Lizzo's box braid Bantu knots read as playful and practical.

Jumbo Box Braids

Although medium-sized box braids look fabulous, it's completely understandable if you don't want to sit still for five hours braiding your hair. Jumbo box braids often take less than half the time to install and you still get a sleek look with just as much versatility. Exhibit A: Ciara.

Jumbo Blond Braid Extensions

Want to change up your look but also don't want to sit in the stylist chair for hours? Get inspiration from Amandla Stenberg's jumbo blonde box braids. This look is so simple you could do it yourself. Get a rattail comb, a pack of blonde Kanekalon braiding hair, edge control, and a mirror to see the back.

Braided High Ponytail

Update your basic braided high ponytail like Janet Jackson and opt to braid your box braids into larger sections. This creates more volume and adds a bit of visual contrast. Just make sure you don't keep this style in for too long — the constant pulling and the heaviness of the braids can potentially lead to traction alopecia.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much do box braids cost?

  The cost of box braids will depend on a number of factors — thickness, length, the type of hair you'll use, plus your location and stylist. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100-$600 depending on the style and stylist.

• How do I maintain box braids?

  After getting box braids, you'll want to make sure to sleep with a satin bonnet or scarf to prevent your edges and scalp from frizzing. And yes, you do still need to wash your hair about every two to three weeks when you have braids to maintain scalp health. Make sure to fully dry them — mildew can grow if you're not careful!

• When should I take out my box braids?

  As with most hair care tips, deciding when to take out your box braids largely has to do with your hair type. Usually, though, you'll take out your braids after six weeks. If you have thicker hair, you can stretch out that time. If you have thin hair, try taking them out right at six weeks.

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