Pop smoke braids have been making waves everywhere, and you’re bound to fall in love with this style that effortlessly mixes edge and elegance. Named after the late rapper Pop Smoke, these braids are as iconic as he was. They blend an intricate design with a street-smart look that’s both striking and meaningful.
Pop smoke braids are the ultimate homage to urban culture, pushing the boundaries of style and self-expression while making a bold statement wherever you go. You can see them everywhere you go, from the fashion runways to New York streets. These hairstyles have become a celebration of individuality, giving you a modern and timeless look.
This blog provides a comprehensive look at trendy pop smoke braids and tips on how to make them.
Table of Contents
What are pop smoke braids?
How to do pop smoke braids
5 Trendy pop smoke braid styles
Key takeaway
What are pop smoke braids?
Pop Smoke had a very bright rapping career. Although it was brief, his signature hairstyle blending his African and Caribbean styles significantly impacted the hairstyling world. It became easily recognizable due to the chunky cornrows, defined and symmetrical sections, and overall clean rows.
Pop smoke braiding style usually features four to six chunky braids running from the front of the scalp to the back, giving you a powerful and refined look. What sets them apart is their signature center part and the way they sit slightly elevated off the scalp.
How to do pop smoke braids
To get started with pop smoke braids, it’s important to prepare and section your hair properly to achieve a smooth and polished finish.
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by thoroughly washing and conditioning your hair to ensure it’s clean and free from any product buildup. This sets a strong foundation, keeping your hair healthy and making the braiding process much smoother.
Step 2: Sectioning
Use a comb or your fingers to divide your hair into neat, evenly-sized sections. Depending on the thickness of your hair and the braiding pattern you want, adjust the size of each section to create the clean lines typical of Pop Smoke braids.
Step 3: Braiding technique
Start braiding at the roots, working down to the ends with consistent tension. To achieve the sleek, precise look that defines Pop Smoke braids, ensure each braid is firm and secure but not too tight to avoid tension on the scalp.
Step 4: Add extensions (optional)
If you’d like added length or volume, consider incorporating hair extensions. For a natural blend, choose extensions that closely match the color and texture of your hair. Adding them gradually as you braid will give you a seamless, fuller look.
Step 5: Time for the final touches
Once the braiding is done, smooth out any flyaways and add shine by applying a lightweight gel or edge control. If you want to personalize your style, add accessories like cuffs, beads, or hair jewelry for a unique touch that reflects your personality.
5 Trendy pop smoke braid styles
1. Criss-crossed stitch braids
This twist on the classic pop smoke braid adds a criss-cross pattern for extra flair. The hair is parted and braided into intersecting sections, creating a bold, geometric look that’s hard to miss. The crisscrossing pattern also makes the hairstyle more visually appealing.
These stitch braids add depth to the traditional style, giving your look an intricate, edgy detail that’s ideal if you are looking to stand out.
2. Zig-zag pop smoke braids
If you are looking for a playful and unique look, try zig-zag pop smoke braids. This style adds a zig-zag pattern to the parts, giving your braids a dynamic, eye-catching vibe. It’s a great option if you love pushing the envelope with your style since these braids combine the traditional center-part pop smoke braid with unexpected angles.
3. Pop smoke feed-in braids
Feed-in braids add an extra dimension to pop smoke braids by gradually introducing more hair extensions as you braid. This method creates a fuller, more voluminous look without any noticeable “bumps” where extensions begin. Pop smoke feed-in braids are ideal if you are aiming for a style with lots of length and thickness, giving you that effortlessly dramatic effect.
The feed-in technique also helps minimize scalp tension. This makes them more comfortable to wear and is especially ideal for people with sensitive scalps.
4. Two-tier pop smoke braids
Two-tier pop smoke braids feature two levels of braids layered on top of each other, creating a stunning, three-dimensional effect. This style is perfect if you want maximum volume and a distinct look that blends the feel of a traditional pop smoke braid with a unique structure that’s all your own.
5. Pop smoke braids with a fade
Pairing pop smoke braids with a fade adds a clean, fresh edge to the look. With this style, the braids start at the top and gradually taper down, fading into a clean shave at the sides. The fade gives you a more defined, polished look and makes the braids stand out even more. It’s a great choice if you want a modern, crisp style that’s easy to maintain.
Key takeaway
Pop smoke braids are a powerful, stylish way to showcase your personality and embrace a style that’s both contemporary and rooted in cultural influence. With endless customization options, from intricate patterns to added volume, you can find a version of pop smoke braids that’s just right for you.
Whether you’re looking for a bold, everyday style or a runway-ready statement, these braids are sure to keep you looking fresh, unique, and confident. So go ahead, find your favorite, and rock those pop smoke braids your way.
