Alicia Keys has long been admired not just for her incredible talent as a singer and songwriter with multiple Grammy Awards under her belt, but also for her distinctive personal style.
When I think about style icons, Alicia also comes to mind with her signature braided hairstyles that have inspired many.
Her braids have been more than a hairstyle; they’ve been a statement of elegance, culture, and personal identity. The beauty of her braids stretches from the visual appeal to the meaningful cultural representation they hold.
Exploring Alicia Keys’ variety of braided looks is like taking a dive into a pool of creativity and innovation.
For me, as someone passionate about both music and style, Alicia’s hairstyling choices are fascinating.
From cornrows to box braids, she has worn them all, often embellishing them with beads and other accessories.
The versatility and artistry of her braids are almost as captivating as her music.
Beyond the aesthetics, however, she also embodies the ethos of her brand, Keys Soulcare, promoting both inner and outer wellbeing.
Reader's Roadmap
Key Takeaways
- Alicia Keys’ hairstyles are as impactful as her music, becoming a part of her signature style.
- Her braided hairstyles not only showcase creativity but also underscore cultural significance.
- Maintaining such iconic braids requires specific care that aligns with Alicia’s emphasis on wellbeing through Keys Soulcare.
Zig-Zag Cornrows with beads
Fulani Braids
Fishbone Braids With Beads
Jumbo Twist Braids With Loose Tips
Ethiopian Braids
Zig Zag Parted Straight Cornrows
Chunky Halo French Braid
Twisted Ponytail Braid With Side Cornrow
Straight Back Cornrows With Beads
Slicked Back Braid In a Bun With Hanging Loop Side Braids
Micro Side Parted Cornrows With High Bun and Loose Hair At The Nape
Cornrows With Micro Braids In A Long Wrap-Around Ponytail
Side Cornrows With Slick Back Hair And Twisted Bun
Swirling Cornrows
Straight Cornrows With Beads And Loose Curly High Ponytail
Side Cornrows With Chunky Fauxhawk Braid
Micro Braids Into Braided Pigtails
Goddess Braids Tied Back In Ponytail
Jumbo Two Strand Twist Braids
Braided Space Buns With Ponytails
Braided High Ponytails Connected In A Loop
Alicia Keys Side Parted Cornrow Braids With beads
Beaded Box Braids
Iconic Alicia Keys Braid Hairstyles
Alicia Keys’ braided hairstyles are emblematic of her personal brand, expertly blending fashion with a commitment to natural hair care.
These braids aren’t just a style statement; they often serve as a protective style, safeguarding her hair from styling stress.
Cornrows and Their Evolution
When I think of Alicia Keys, her cornrows come to mind immediately.
They are no ordinary braids; over the years, they’ve morphed from straightforward patterns to intricate works of art featuring zig-zag partings and feed-in techniques.
I’ve seen her flaunt these cornrows on Instagram, inspiring many to adopt this Los Angeles-inspired aesthetic that resonates with natural hair enthusiasts everywhere.
Braided Ponytails and Buns
Alicia Keys often elevates her braids into luscious ponytails and buns that embody both grace and practicality.
These aren’t just any ponytails; her braided ponytail often ascends into a meta braid while her bun can be described as a braided masterpiece.
As someone who appreciates protective hairstyles, I admire how these styles maintain the health of her hair while rocking the fashion world.
Signature Decorative Touches
Her braids are never bland. Alicia Keys punctuates her signature hairstyle with beads, twine, or even the sparkle of rhinestones.
It’s not uncommon to spot wooden beads woven into her Fulani braids, or delicate patterns adorned with accessories that make each hairstyle a statement in texture and pattern.
These decorative touches are a testament to the endless possibilities braids can offer in terms of personal expression and aesthetic appeal.
Creating and Maintaining Alicia Keys’ Braids
Alicia Keys’ braided hairstyles are as iconic as her album “Songs in A Minor,” reflecting both an homage to her West African heritage and a personal self-expression.
I’ll break down the key aspects of preparing, styling, and adding a unique touch to these braids.
Hair Preparation and Parting Techniques
Getting my hair ready for braids starts with ensuring it’s thoroughly washed and moisturized.
A hairstylist typically uses a rat tail comb for precision parting, which is crucial for getting those clean, sharp lines that are synonymous with Alicia Keys’ signature braids.
Whether working with straight hair or textured hair, it’s vital to begin with detangled, smooth roots.
Parting Steps:
- Divide Hair: Initial sectioning into four parts—front to back, ear to ear.
- Choose Style: Decision on the type of braid pattern, aligning with the desired final look.
- Parting Technique: Use of a rat tail comb for accurate and fine lines, ensuring even sections.
Styles and Protective Measures
When I think of Alicia Keys’ hair, box braids and knotless braids often come to mind.
These styles aren’t just trendy; they’re protective, safeguarding natural hair from the elements and reducing everyday styling damage.
Installing long braids, stitch braids, or even an elegant braided updo like Bantu knots involves weaving in extensions for added length and volume.
Taking care of these braids is straightforward, as they need to be kept clean and the roots moisturized.
- Protective Styles to Consider:
- Knotless Braids: Reduces tension at the roots.
- Stitch Braids: Offers a flat and polished look.
- Box Braids: Classic style providing versatility.
Maintenance Tips:
- Nightly Care: Wrap braids in a silk scarf before bed to prevent frizz and maintain smoothness.
- Edge Care: Apply edge control to lay down baby hairs and edges, enhancing the style’s neatness.
Incorporating Personal Flair
For me, the fun part is making the style my own.
Alicia Keys often accentuates her braids with unique touches like beads or gold thread.
I can express my creativity using accessories or experimenting with different braided patterns.
Each addition I make transforms my braids into a statement of individuality and personality.
- Adding Personal Touches:
- Beads and Charms: Introduce beads at the end of braids for a playful element.
- Braid Sizes and Colors: Combine different braid sizes and hair colors for a unique twist.
