Alicia Keys took the Peul braid – a style with cornrows at the front with box braids on the back – and made them his own. The complex and often pearl plateaus dominated the looks of the keys throughout the early 2000s. It is therefore not surprising that its name becomes synonymous with the magnificent style. And thanks to the current resurgence of Y2K, the Alicia Keys braids are back in a major way.
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But what defines this style of fashionable protective because it is fashionable now? The upper section is braided directly against the scalp, while the sides are tilted towards the ear to create a distinct contrast and shape. The Alicia Keys braids by standing now mix the Pelani style with a curved cornrow and endless ends. The braids themselves start with an average cornrow with a distinct “whirlwind” which recalls a geometric pattern, before loosening in the back with box braids.
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If you are thinking of opting for this classic look the next time you finish your hair, we have gathered braid looks inspired by Alicia Keys. Whether you want to follow the path of traditional Fulani or a more modern iteration (hello, Boho Braids!) We have an option for you.
Pearl peels
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Doechii rocks a look similar to the Alicia Keys style during a pre-grammy performance, with wooden pearls to collect everything.
Smooth bun
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Alicia’s hair for Tony Awards 2024 can be pulled in a bun, but the two braids on each side of its head are a perfect nod to the signature shape of its brand style.
Cutting cornrows
@narahairbraiding
This magnificent Cornrow style has a mixture of whirlwind and zig-zag parts which continue to the base of its head before giving way to large boxes in the box.
Ombred boho
@narahairbraiding
While this style leaves the ends by carefree curls and Boho braids, the front of his hair is separated and cut in braids of larger keys, creating a half -lower effect. The hair gradually fades from an average brown to a hot caramel at the ends for even more interest.
Festive pony
@ shei.sfaith
This style has a slight adjustment of the original, with the ends of the hairless hair but pulled in a curved pony. The tight braids along its scalp follow the motif of the classic braid Alicia Keys, clearly separated to follow the hair line above the ear.
Sharp angles, sweet curls
@stormreid
The style of Storm Reid mixes geometric cornrows juxtaposed with inflatable curls, creating a delicious combination of softness. The cornrows continue in large box braids which beautifully frame the loose curls at the back of his head.
Swirling side part
@ liv.didmyhair
While this style follows a plane of Alicia Signature keys, its distinction is in its cornrows smaller than usual – the motif curves and the twists and turns with clean and tight braids which highlight the details which lend themselves to the trend as a whole.
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