There are few things as drop-dead gorgeous as crochet braids. The best part is ladies don’t have to spend hours getting their braids done. Crochet braids offer a better and faster way for women to enjoy their favorite hairstyles.
Even better, with crochet braids, women can now style their hair without the help of professionals or leaving their homes. Ready to add this fantastic hair trend to your inventory? Keep reading to discover seven types consumers can use for attractive hairstyles and how to choose them in 2025.
Table of Contents
A brief look at the hair braiding market
What are crochet braids, and why do women love them?
7 types of crochet braids to consider in 2025
2 things to look at before stocking crochet braids
Wrapping up
A brief look at the hair braiding market
Experts from the CMI team say the hair braiding market will grow to US$ 625.30 million in 2032 from US$ 529.3 billion in 2022. They also predict it will achieve the new value at a 3% comound annual growth rate (CAGR). The global market owes its growth to increasing cultural/fashion trends, celebrity/social media influence, and the rise of multicultural societies.
What are crochet braids, and why do women love them?
The 90s was a fantastic era that popularized many trendy things today, including crochet braids. These hair extensions are making a massive comeback in the 2020s but with a modern twist.
Crochet braids are hair extensions consumers can easily attach to enjoy their favorite looks. They eliminate the need to spend precious hours sitting in a saloon. Whether ladies want a different look with waves, loose curls, straights, twists, or braids, crochet braids can make it happen.
Crochet braids are popular enough to attract searches in the thousands. According to Google data, their keyword consistently raked in 9,900 searches in the last five months (March to July 2024). Here’s why many people are searching for crochet braids:
I. Protective style
Some popular hair styling methods are notorious for damaging natural hair. Women often use hot tools, weaves, relaxers, and harsh chemicals excessively, leading to those unwanted adverse effects. However, crochet braids don’t damage the user’s natural hair.
In truth, crochet braids can protect human hair from harsh conditions and remain incredibly breathable. That’s why many call them the “protective style.”
II. Quick application
As mentioned earlier, crochet braids have a shorter application time and need fewer accessories. Women only need two-and-a-half-hour sessions to get their perfect crochet braid looks ready. For this reason, ladies will have more time to show off their new look and less time sitting in a saloon.
III. Easy maintenance and affordable
Crochet braids can last up to eight weeks, especially if women care for them properly. The good news is that they don’t need as much maintenance as other hairstyles to maintain their fabulous looks. These hair extensions are affordable because they require less hair than other braids (like box braids).
7 types of crochet braids to consider in 2025
1. Twist out crochet braids
This type combines crochet braids with a twist-out technique for more textured styles. Twist-out crochet braids are voluminous and soft, making them perfect for an effortless and stylish look. Ladies can play around with colors to add a bold statement or go for more natural looks with ombre shades.
2. Faux locs
Faux locs are crochet braids that mimic dreadlocks. Made from synthetic hair in various textures, lengths, and colors, they offer a commitment-free way for ladies to enjoy various dreadlock styles, from classic straight to bohemian waves.
3. Goddess locs
These crochet braids get inspiration from faux locs. Instead of classic dreadlocks, this aesthetic is more relaxed and flowy. Manufacturers also make them from thinner synthetic hair strands, allowing women to create looser locs with beautiful drapes.
Additionally, goddess locs are more feminine than traditional faux variants, appealing to women looking for lightweight and comfortable styles.
4. Marley twists
Unlike other types, these crochet braids use Marley hair, a popular synthetic option that resembles natural textures. Marley twists are coarse and thicker than other synthetic hairs, making them perfect for women who like lush and kinky looks.
5. Passion twists
Passion twists are similar to Marley styles but with looser curl patterns. They have water wave textures, meaning consumers can create voluminous braids with more defined twists. This crochet braid offers a more romantic look with plenty of bounce and movement.
6. Box braids crochet
When ladies want the classic box braid look without the time-consuming process, they will love box braid crochet. These pre-braided extensions come in various lengths, thicknesses, and colors. Women can choose jumbo braids for bolder looks or thinner braids for more natural styles.
7. Butterfly locs
Butterfly locs are a unique crochet braid style that stands out for its layered “butterfly wing” effect. These locs use two pre-braided sections to create dimension looks. Many women love butterfly locs for their beautiful, cascading effects that add movement and depth to their hairstyles. Plus, this style is more eye-catching than traditional faux locs.
2 things to look at before stocking crochet braids
1. Hair health and scalp sensitivity
Another thing women consider when choosing crochet braids is hair health. Some hair types may lose integrity when adding crochet braids. For example, ladies with fine or damaged hair can only use lighter styles, like passion twists, while those with healthier manes can enjoy more detailed looks.
Remember scalp sensitivity. A more sensitive scalp will be weak to heavy braids, leading to irritation and rashes. Hence, most women prefer looser braid patterns to reduce the chances of feeling uncomfortable.
2. Length and color
This factor is not just about aesthetics. Braid length can impact weight and comfort, with shorter options being the most versatile. Women also see color as a fun way to express personality, with choices ranging from natural shades to vibrant colors or even ombre blends. Here’s a table with more info on hair length.
| Length | Description | Ideal for |
| Short (up to shoulder length) | This length is versatile and easy to manage. Ladies can style them in various ways, like bobs, pixies, or updos. | – Busy women – Active lifestyles – Those who prefer a more relaxed style in hot weather – Women with fine or thin hair |
| Mid-length (shoulder to mid-back length) | This option offers a good balance between length and manageability. Women can style them in updos, braids, or loose with waves or curls. | – Women who want a stylish and versatile look – Consumers who appreciate comfort – All hair types |
| Long (mid-back to waist) | Long crochet braids are the go-to for more dramatic and glamorous looks. They are perfect for special occasions or those who love long hair. | – Women who want a statement piece – Those with strong, healthy hair |
| Extra long (waist and below) | These braids are the most dramatic and voluminous options. However, they require extra maintenance and may add weight to the scalp. | – Confident women looking for a show-stopping look – Those with robust and healthy hair |
Wrapping up
Some women want a break from high-maintenance styles and are ready to explore different and exciting options. Thankfully, crochet braids are among the few excellent options catering to these consumers. They are versatile, protective, and time-saving, giving ladies everything they need for that low-effort, eye-catching look.
Furthermore, women have so many crochet braid styles to choose from. Still, retailers can offer any of the seven options discussed in this article as they appeal to a wide range of female consumers in 2025.
