The late rapper Pop Smoke was known for his unique signature braided hairstyle. This eye-catching braided look, nicknamed “Pop Smoke braids,” became an iconic part of his image. Though Pop Smoke did not invent this braiding technique, his widespread popularity helped popularize it. This hairstyle is also called zig-zag or stitch braids due to its distinctive crisscross pattern.
We have researched and created a list of 101 Trending Pop Smoke Braids for women in 2024, including common questions like the cost, how long pop smoke braids last, step-by-step tutorials to try them yourself, and maintenance tips to keep them frizz-free and neat.
Get ready to turn heads! Check out and find the perfect style for you!
Cost of Pop Smoke Braids
The cost of getting Pop Smoke braids can vary depending on several factors:
- Hair length – Longer hair takes more time and effort, and hair extensions to braid increase cost. Short styles are quicker and use less hair.
- Braid size – Small micro braids cost more labor and materials than thicker braids.
- The intricacy of style – Complex, detailed patterns are more expensive than basic braiding.
- Location – Braiding costs more in major cities in high-end salons than local neighborhood braiders.
- DIY vs professional – Doing it yourself costs less than paying a stylist but requires practice.
- Hair extensions – High-quality human hair extensions are pricier than synthetic braiding hair—more packs are needed for longer styles.
- Additional costs – Products for pre-braiding hair prep, accessories like beads, and tipping your braider should be budgeted for.
So, you can expect to spend $50-150+ for professional Pop Smoke braids, depending on the factors above. DIY options at home can cost $20-50 or even less with practice. Be sure to account for all potential expenses when planning your Pop Smoke braids budget.
How many packs of Hair do I Need For Pop Smoke Braids?
It depends on your desired length and fullness. For shorter styles, 2-3 packs of braiding hair should suffice. Medium shoulder-length braids may require 5-8 packs. Long waist-length styles can use 10+ packs to achieve volume and thickness throughout the braids. Go for high-quality human hair over synthetic hair extensions for the most natural blend with your natural hair.
How long Pop Smoke Braids Last?
The longevity of Pop Smoke braids depends on factors like hair growth and maintenance. Typically, they can last 2-4 weeks. Regular care, gentle washing, and avoiding excessive tension prolong the style. Consult your stylist for personalized advice based on your hair type and lifestyle.
How Do You Sleep With Pop Smoke Braids
To help your Pop Smoke braids last longer and stay neat while sleeping, it’s best to protect them and avoid friction that can cause frizz. Some tips for sleeping with Pop Smoke braids include:
- Wear a soft satin silk bonnet or wrap a satin scarf around your head to minimize friction on the braids. Satin pillowcases also work.
- Gently tie your braids into a loose ponytail on your head or loosely braid/twist the ends together before bed. This prevents the weight of the braids from pulling while you sleep.
- For long braids, divide and tie the ends in two sections before bed to reduce tension on the roots.
- Avoid tight ties, bands, or clips on the braids that could pull on the scalp and cause breakage overnight.
- Let braids fall freely around your shoulders/back if possible. Avoid sleeping on the braids directly.
Do Pop Smoke Braids Damage Your Edges?
Pop Smoke braids, when done correctly, should not cause damage to your edges. Choosing an experienced stylist who avoids excessive tension and tightness is crucial. Prioritize communication with your stylist to ensure a safe and comfortable braiding process, promoting overall hair health.
Do I Need To Straighten My Hair Before Getting Pop Smoke Braids?
To achieve Pop Smoke braids, it’s not mandatory to straighten your hair beforehand. Pop Smoke’s iconic hairstyle typically involves cornrows or braids with a raised, sculpted appearance. The texture of your natural hair can add a unique and authentic touch to the style.
However, straightening may make the braiding process more manageable if you desire a smoother look or have tightly coiled hair. Ultimately, deciding to straighten your hair before getting Pop Smoke braids depends on your preference and the desired outcome.
101 Trending Pop Smoke Braids For Women
Pop Smoke Braids Short Hair
Short Pop Smoke braids are a fun, modern option for a playful design. With less length to braid, the zig-zag parts can be customized to frame the face. The shorter length is also great for highlighting natural curls or waves. Easy maintenance is a plus.
4 Pop Smoke Braids
Just four neat Pop Smoke braids starting along the front hairline provide a cute, girly take on the look. Keeping it minimal allows versatility to wear hair down or up. The four braids elegantly swoop back and are great for showing off curly or colored tresses.
Pop Smoke Braids Long Hair
Extra long waist-skimming Pop Smoke braids make a significant style statement. All that length allows for very defined zig-zag braiding across the head and incredible fullness throughout the braids. Go for dramatic thickness and volume by adding more hair extensions. The longer length keeps the geometric pattern very visible.
Pop Smoke Braids Front and Back
Get the best of both worlds with this style featuring Pop Smoke braids in the front and loose curls left free in the back. The zig-zag braids frame the face while leaving some textured length loose for volume and versatility. This hybrid look is great for easing into the technique without fully committing.
Chunky Pop Smoke Braids
Thick, chunky Pop Smoke braids make the geometric zig-zag pattern stand out. The extra volume adds eye-catching texture and dimension. Braiding with fewer, larger sections is also faster. Chunky braids modernize the style with a bold, edgy vibe.
Stitch Braids Pop Smoke Braids
The extra definition is created by incorporating horizontal stitch braids between the zig-zag parts of Pop Smoke’s signature style. The result is very structured, geometric braids, almost like stitches across the head. Great for artistic expression.
Zig Zag Purple Pop Smoke Cornrows
Vibrant purple zig zag cornrows accessorized with beads give these Pop Smoke braids a 90’s style flair. The purple color makes a fun statement. Go for an ombre look by fading to a lighter purple.
Zig Zag Or Straight Pop Smoke Braids
Customize your Pop Smoke braids by mixing zig-zag parts with straight-back braids in one head-turning style. This adds excellent variety within the technique, so not every braid matches. Show off your creativity by combining patterns.
Tribal Feed-In Cornrows
This style features tribal cornrow feed-ins that lead back to flat zig-zag braids inspired by Pop Smoke. The two braiding techniques beautifully merge into one gorgeous look. It is excellent for showing off the scalp and face before transitioning to Pop Smoke’s iconic geometry.
Stitch Braids Cornrows With A Bohemian Finish
Get a boho Pop Smoke fusion by pairing cornrow stitch braids with free-flowing curly ends. Tight braiding on top leads to loose, romantic curls halfway down. Perfect for festivals or vacations when you want a detailed braided style that still moves with you.
Side Parted Pop Smoke Braids
A deep side part on otherwise conventional Pop Smoke zig-zag braids makes the style feel extra sleek and polished. Sweeping the braids to one side creates dimension. This elegant take on Pop Smoke’s braids works for any hair length or thickness.
Three Layers Pop Smoke Braids
Cascading three layers of Pop Smoke braids increases the volume, texture, and interest of this head-turning style made for photos. The multiple layers create extra dimension. For dramatic height, increase the size of each layer.
Eight Pop Smoke Braids
Keep it simple with eight neat micro Pop Smoke braids evenly spaced if rocking a shorter hairstyle. So precise and polished. Part hair evenly down the center and middle for symmetry, as shown in the image.
Jumbo Pop Smoke On Women
Large, chunky, jumbo Pop Smoke braids make a gorgeous statement, especially accessorized with gold cuffs or beads. The larger braid size takes the style to a whole new level. Feel regal and powerful with these stunning shoulder-grazing braids.
Light Brown Pop Smoke Braids
A soft, medium brown braiding hair provides a pretty pop of color on otherwise light Pop Smoke braids. The light brown blends and accents subtly without being too bold. Perfect for enhancing blonde or lighter brown hair.
Curvy Pop Smoke Braids
Try curvy S-shaped parts rather than straight zig-zags on these Pop Smoke braids for an inventive twist. The curves add a girly vibe that is on-trend. This unique take stands out from standard zig-zags with feminine flair.
Medium-Sized Pop Smoke Braids
Mid-size Pop Smoke braids are a versatile go-to option for any hair length. Not too slim but not overly chunky, this balanced braid size is easy to maintain and won’t weigh hair down. The eye-catching zig-zags are still defined without overpowering your style.
Two-Steps Pop Smoke Braids
This creative two-step style starts with small braids along the root that transition halfway down into thicker braids using more hair. This inventive technique adds interest and dimension to the conventional Pop Smoke look.
Multilayered Pop Smoke Braids
Take Pop Smoke braids to the next level by stacking and layering them on each other. This creates showstopping dimension and texture for a standout artistic style. Various sizes and shapes are braided together to make a work of art.
Four-Layers Jumbo Pop Smoke Braids
Four stacked rows of chunky, jumbo Pop Smoke braids are eye-catching and make a bold style statement from every angle. Each layer can incorporate a braid of a different size for added interest. Feel powerful and stylish.
Banana Style Pop Smoke Braids
Mix it up by combining banana braids that lead back into Pop Smoke’s signature zig-zag braids along the scalp. The banana braids add some extra flair before transitioning into the geometric pattern.
Touch Of Gold Pop Smoke Braids
Add subtle glam to your Pop Smoke braids by incorporating gold beads, cuffs, or wire. This elevates the look without overpowering it. A touch of shine and sparkle accentuates those unforgettable zig-zags.
Pop Smoke Braids With Beaded Ends
Add flair by capping off your Pop Smoke braids with bright, fun beaded ends. This is a great way to accessorize the look with your personal touch. Choose beads that align with your style – gold for glam, neon for funky.
Micro-Jumbo Pop Smoke Braids Combo
Mix up your braid sizes with this inventive combo of slim micro braids and chunky jumbo braids. The contrast makes for an edgy, dynamic Pop Smoke fusion style. Play with patterns and placement for custom creativity.
Mid-Length Pop Smoke Braids
Mid-length Pop Smoke braids hitting just past the shoulders are versatile for hair thickness or density. This classic length lets the zig-zags shine while leaving hair long enough for styling options. Easy to maintain.
Black And Blonde Pop Smoke Braids
Show off an eye-catching color combo by braiding black extensions into blonde hair or vice versa. The two-tone Pop Smoke braids create a cool dimension. Use ombre hair for a blended look.
Loose Pop Smoke Braids
Keep your Pop Smoke braids looser and more relaxed for an intentionally undone vibe. The slightly messy, imperfect look has a relaxed, casual vibe. It is more straightforward to achieve on your own.
Ombre Pop Smoke Braids
Use ombre extensions that gradually fade from dark roots to light ends. Or create a bold color-melting effect by braiding differently hued hair into black braids. Make a statement.
Center Parted Pop Smoke Braids
Sometimes simple is best – try a classic center part on your Pop Smoke braids for symmetry and sleekness. This polished look lets the zig-zags pop as the focal point.
Tribal Pop Smoke Braids With Hair Rings
This Pop Smoke meets tribal fusion incorporates hair rings or cuffs around each braid. The gold accessories nod to traditional African threading hairstyles for a modern twist.
Chunky Brown Pop Smoke Braids
Rich chocolate brown makes a gorgeous color for chunky Pop Smoke braids. The dark hue contrasts beautifully with black hair for dimensionality. Feel powerful.
Side Part Pop Smoke Braids
Switch up your part from the usual center by sweeping your Pop Smoke braids to one side. This creates an elegant directional look and great height. Flatter your features.
S-Pattern Pop Smoke Braids
Put a feminine twist on the classic zig-zags by parting your Pop Smoke braids in curvy S-shapes instead of straight lines. The sensual curves add a modern flair to this iconic look. Feel girly and on-trend.
Pop Smoke Braids With Mini Triangles
Enhance your Pop Smoke braids by carving small triangular or pyramid shapes along the zig-zag partings. This three-dimensional, geometric detail creates an eye-catching optical illusion effect. Show off your bold sense of style.
Fiery Red Pop Smoke Braids
Make a dramatic impact with fiery orange-red Pop Smoke braids. These bold and lively braids elevate your attitude and will grab your attention. The fiery hue is perfect for making a bold statement and showing off your trendsetting personality.
Copper Pop Smoke Braids
Rich, warm copper is a sophisticated alternative to bare blonde for your Pop Smoke braids. The shining metallic copper finish brings a touch of glamour and looks stunning on all skin tones. Embrace a regal feel with this majestic braid color.
Purple Low Lights Pop Smoke Braids
Add an unexpected pop of color to your Pop Smoke braids by coloring just the underside sections with vivid purple low lights. When hair flips or lifts, the bright purple makes your braids much more exciting.
Intricate Pop Smoke Braid
Take Pop Smoke braids to the next level for an unforgettable look with extra details and sharply angled zig-zag patterns across your whole head. The mesmerizing optical illusion style is a labor of love, resulting in an actual work of art.
Long Pop Smoke Braid
Go for high-impact drama with a single ultra-long waist-length Pop Smoke braid complete with clearly defined zig-zags from root to tip. This larger-than-life braid is guaranteed to grab the attention wherever you go.
Jazzy Pop Smoke Braid
Put your creative spin on the iconic Pop Smoke braids by decorating them with abstract shapes, curves, and color blocking instead of straight lines—the spontaneous flair results in a one-of-a-kind jazzy Pop Smoke braid.
Colorful Pop Smoke Braid
Make your Pop Smoke braids pop by braiding in a fun rainbow array of bright, vivid hair extensions. The vibrant color shows off your playful side—the perfect way to incorporate your favorite vivid hues.
Medium Length Hair Classic Pop Smoke Braids
Shoulder-grazing Pop Smoke braids on medium-length hair strike the ideal balance between allowing for visible zig-zag definition and leaving length for versatile styling options—the classic go-to look.
Pop Smoke Braids With Extensions
Add long hair extensions to make your Pop Smoke braids look fresh and exciting. The added length and thickness allow for dramatically longer, fuller statement braids. Make your iconic zig-zags larger than life.
Pop Smoke Braids With Weave
Get the two in one by pairing a weave install underneath your Pop Smoke braids. Enjoy the versatility to switch up lengths and patterns while protecting your natural hair as it grows.
Pop Smoke + Tribal Jumbo Braids
Combine Pop Smoke’s signature zig-zags with bold triangular tribal braids in this edgy jumbo braid hybrid. Then elevate the style by accessorizing with attention-grabbing gold beads, cuffs, and wire for a standout fusion statement.
Gorgeous Brown Pop Smoke Style Braids
Saturated chocolate and caramel hues make for dimensional, gorgeous brown Pop Smoke braids that pop beautifully against black hair. Feel like royalty with these stunning brown braids inspired by Pop Smoke’s iconic style.
Pop Smoke Braids Hairstyle With Water Waves
Channel desirable mermaid vibes by pairing your Pop Smoke braids with loose, beachy waves on the bottom. The playful mix of textures and movement creates an effortlessly chic style.
Cornrow Pop Smoke Braids Hairstyle
Flat cornrow braids meet pop smoke braids in this inventive, eye-catching merged hairstyle. The linear cornrows provide an edgy contrast to the crisscross Pop Smoke pattern for added visual interest.
Medium Pop Smoke Braids With A Touch Of Blue
Give your medium-length Pop Smoke braids extra personality by braiding in a few vibrant electric blue extensions—this subtle mix of blue color levels ups the look.
Large Knotless Pop Smoke Braids Hairstyle
By braiding your Pop Smoke style using the knotless technique, get a smooth, sleek finish. No bumps or knots, just clean lines, and definition. Looks cool and formal.
Traditional Pop Smoke Hair
Pay tribute to Pop Smoke’s signature ’90s look with slightly messy shoulder-length zig-zag braids in his classic style that started it all. Traditional and iconic.
Short And Thick Pop Smoke Braids
Mix up the thick, short hair and turn the head back wherever you go. These braids are designed to complement your face without being too overpowering. The appealing increase in braid size adds a striking contrast to the length.
Golden Pop Smoke Hairstyle
Make your Pop Smoke braids shine by weaving in gold beads, wires, and elastics. This glam hip-hop emphasizes the braids with regal undertones.
Side Part Pop Smoke Braids Zig Zag
Increase the beauty by parting your Pop Smoke braids in a deep side part so the sculptural zig-zags sweep to one side—sleek, sophisticated directional style.
Jumbo Pop Smoke Braids Hairstyle
Go big and make a seriously eye-catching statement with chunky, ultrathick jumbo Pop Smoke braids. Take this trend to new heights by supersizing your braids.
Burgundy Pop Smoke Braids
Rich wine-colored burgundy hair extensions give your Pop Smoke braids a sophisticated, powerful twist with dimension. Vibrant while still refined.
Heart Pop Smoke Braids
Make your zig-zags uniquely you by customizing them into heart shapes or your initials. This thoughtful touch personalizes your Pop Smoke braids.
Pop Smoke Braids With Dreads
Combine Pop Smoke’s signature zig-zags with free-flowing goddess locs or faux dreads. This edgy duo seamlessly blends cultures and textures in a modern way.
Pink Pop Smoke Braids
Show off your energetic, playful side by braiding in bold, hot pink extensions. Vivid fuchsia Pop Smoke braids let your fun, trendy style stand out.
Diamond-Shaped Pop Smoke Braid
Elevate your Pop Smoke braids with an eye-catching optical illusion effect by angling your zig-zag parts into the shape of geometric diamonds instead of straight lines. This detailed braiding technique imitates the sparkling surfaces of diamonds and is a stylish statement that shows off your edgy sense of style.
Straight-Back Pop Smoke Braid
Simplify your Pop Smoke braids by eliminating the signature zig-zags and doing all straight-back braids instead. This simple, smoothed-out take on Pop Smoke’s iconic crisscross braids has a sleek and polished vibe. Perfect if you want to honor Pop Smoke’s influence in a stylish, understated way.
Wavy Pop Smoke Braid
Make your Pop Smoke braids fun and feminine by braiding in loose, beachy waves instead of straight braiding hair. Get creative with mermaid-like curves, shapes, and patterns. The playful waves contrast Pop Smoke’s signature structured zig-zags for a unique hybrid style.
Long And Bold Pop Smoke Braids
Make a sophisticated statement with extra-long Pop Smoke braids featuring clearly defined zig-zags from root to tip. Feel powerful and commanding with these larger-than-life braids that will turn heads and capture attention.
Statement Green Pop Smoke Braids
Get noticed by braiding in vivid, neon green extensions for an unexpected pop of color. Show off your bold, creative side by deviating from conventional hues. The eye-catching green is perfect for making your Pop Smoke braids pop while showcasing your trendsetting personality.
Short Pop Smoke Braids With Highlights
Subtly lighten your dark hair with blonde highlighted short Pop Smoke braids. Trying out the zig-zag look without a significant commitment is fun. The highlights contrast and highlight the shape beautifully. Low maintenance but still eye-catching.
Pop Smoke Braids With A Braided Ponytail
Incorporate your Pop Smoke braids into a sleek, high-braided ponytail for an elevated protective style that’s both chic and versatile. This lets you show off the detailed braiding while neatly pulling your hair back for your active days.
Pop Smoke Braids With A Braided Updo
Get creative for formal events by elegantly styling your Pop Smoke braids into a tidy braided updo like a regal crown or intricate knot. Show off the braids’ gorgeous dimensions before styling them into a tidy updo perfect for special occasions.
Pop Smoke Braids With Bangs
Effortlessly soften the look of your Pop Smoke braids by pairing them with straight-across blunt fringe or playful curly bangs. Bangs frame your face beautifully, adding an easy chic vibe to offset the braids’ structure.
Hot Pop Smoke Braids
Turn up the heat and the attitude by braiding fiery hot red extensions from root to tip. Make a bold statement with these vibrant Pop Smoke braids in a spicy, head-turning hue.
Pop Smoke Box Braids
Neat, thin box braids transition halfway down the length into Pop Smoke’s signature zig-zag braids in this genius mashup style. Crisp-defined angles and clean zig-zags create visual interest.
Tribal Pop Smoke Braids
Combine Pop Smoke’s iconic zig-zags with bold triangular tribal braids to create an edgy, geometric hybrid look. Then elevate the style by accessorizing with attention-grabbing gold beads, cuffs, or wire for a luxurious feel.
Pop Smoke Braids With Curly Ends
Keep your Pop Smoke braids sleek and structured on top, then allow them to flow gracefully into soft, bouncy curls on the bottom. This feminine contrast of textures looks carefree yet put together.
6 Pop Smoke Braids
Keep it elegantly simple but still eye-catching with just six jumbo Pop Smoke braids evenly spaced across your head. It is quick but still visually impactful and defined.
Pop Smoke Braids With Feather Accent
Make your Pop Smoke braids uniquely you by accenting them with fun, boho faux feather accessories. The whimsical feathers add a playful, personalized touch.
Pop Smoke Braids With Tapered Ends
Give your Pop Smoke braids an extended effect by tapering them to a chic point at the ends. This sleek take on the zig-zags is polished and runway-inspired.
Pop Smoke Braids With Zigzag Hairline
Design the edges to match your Pop Smoke braids for a unique look by cutting them into defined zigzags or geometric shapes—customized flair.
Pop Smoke Braids With Bun hawk
Incorporate your sculptural Pop Smoke braids into an edgy bun hawk updo, exposing the geometric braids just along the crest of your head. Urban meets elegant.
Pop Smoke Braids With Side Swept Bangs
Pair your Pop Smoke braids with a soft side-swept fringe to offset the braids’ structure with a romantic vibe—the perfect fusion of sweet yet modern.
Pop Smoke Braids With Geometric Patterns
Take your Pop Smoke braids to the next level by drawing in or braiding geometric shapes like lines, hearts, and diamonds. Make a statement with this eye-catching detail work.
Braided Crown
Design the Pop Smoke zig-zags into a regal crown fit for royalty. Stunning for formal events when you want to look like hip-hop royalty.
Double Dutch Braids With A Twist
Start with two Dutch braids down the center, then artfully twist them into Pop Smoke’s signature crisscross zig-zag pattern—a clever, inventive combo.
Pop Smoke Fulani Braids
Reimagine Fulani braids with zig-zag parts and glam decor inspired by Pop Smoke’s urban braiding style. It is the perfect fusion for lovers of culture and style.
Pop Smoke Goddess Braids
Incorporate Pop Smoke’s iconic zig-zags into bohemian goddess braids for an edgy protective style fusion—effortlessly cool contrast.
Pop Smoke Side Braids
Show off the dimension of your Pop Smoke braids by sweeping them into a polished side braid tail. Sophisticated and chic for an evening out.
Pop Smoke Mermaid Braids
Make your Pop Smoke braids lively by braiding in playful waves, curls, or crimps. Have fun with this feminine, whimsical mermaid flair.
Pop Smoke Micro Braid
Slim, micro Pop Smoke braids offer an understated definition in a sweet, short size if you don’t want ultra-noticeable braids. It’s cute and simple.
Pop Smoke Bantu Knot Braids
Style your Pop Smoke braids into pretty Bantu knots for a versatile stretched style. Transition your look seamlessly from daytime to night.
Jumbo Mid Back Pop Smoke Braids
Make your Pop Smoke braids extra plush and defined with jumbo braids hitting mid-back for the perfect medium length. Achieve volume while keeping your neck free.
Extra Large Pop Smoke Braids
Go super-sized and make an ultra-dramatic statement with chunky, extra-large Pop Smoke braids. For those who want to amplify and maximize this attention-grabbing zig-zag look.
Short Jumbo Pop Smoke Braids
Keep your Pop Smoke braids close-cropped and low maintenance while playing with fun jumbo sizes. Shorter braids let the exaggerated zig-zags pop as the focal point.
Bohemian Pop Smoke Braids
Incorporate loose, undone waves into your Pop Smoke braids for a boho fusion style. Effortless and free-spirited while still nodding to Pop Smoke’s signature geometric braiding.
Ginger Pop Smoke Braids
Warm up your look with rich ginger-hued extensions. The ginger color unexpectedly twists standard Pop Smoke braids for an edgy vibe.
Freestyle Parts Pop Smoke Braids
Make your Pop Smoke braids unique by improvising the zig-zag parts into abstract lines and shapes. Get creative with this free-form style.
Criss Cross Pop Smoke Braids Into Twists
Start with Pop Smoke’s iconic zig-zag pattern, then braid the ends into carefree twists or coils—the perfect mix of textures.
Large Stitch Pop Smoke Braids
Add extra definition by making your Pop Smoke braids larger in a stacked stitch technique—a detailed and eye-catching textured style.
Red Pop Smoke Braids
Get noticed with rich crimson red Pop Smoke braids—an elegant way to incorporate bold color into this iconic braided style.
Blonde Pop Smoke Braids
Bright blonde extensions contrast and highlight the zig-zag shape of your Pop Smoke braids. Make the pattern stand out and pop.
Peekaboo Pop Smoke Braids
Only braid hidden zig-zags on the underside of your style so they peek out when hair is lifted. Fun, colorful surprise!
Tribal Feed-In With Ginger Hair
Warm up your look by pairing tribal feed-in braids with rich ginger extensions that transition into Pop Smoke’s zig-zags. The ginger hair color puts a fun twist on this fusion.
Fiery Red Design
Get noticed by crisscrossing fiery red extensions over your natural hair to mimic Pop Smoke’s zig-zag effect—a vibrant, head-turning way to rock his iconic style.
Pop Smoke Feed-In Braids
Lead into Pop Smoke’s signature zig-zags with straight-back feed-in cornrows. This natural progression lets you rock two iconic braided styles in one.
How to Do Pop Smoke Braids Yourself Step-by-Step
Doing Pop Smoke braids yourself takes time and practice, but the cost savings and sense of accomplishment make it worthwhile. Follow these steps:
- Prep your hair. Deep condition, detangle and straighten or blow out for a stretch. Part hair cleanly into sections using clips.
- Add hair extensions. Take a small section of your natural hair and attach a piece of braiding hair, securing it tightly with a knot.
- Begin braiding. Do a simple 3-strand braid, incorporating the braiding hair as you braid down the section.
- Create the zig-zag pattern. Once you reach the end of the section, start a new braid going in the opposite direction, crisscrossing over the previous braid.
- Continue crisscrossing. Work row by row, alternating the direction of each braid to create the zig-zag look.
- Sealing braid ends. Dip ends of braids in boiling water or use seam sealant to prevent unraveling.
- Style as desired. Carefully trim braids to the desired length. Add beads or cuffs if wanted.
- Maintain your braids. Follow tips on moisturizing, protecting edges, and reducing friction on braids.
How to Maintain Pop Smoke Braids
Caring for your Pop Smoke braids properly will help them last longer, stay neat, and prevent damage to your natural hair. Here are some tips:
- Moisturize braids and natural hair underneath at least twice weekly, using leave-in conditioners and oils focused on the roots and scalp. This promotes growth and reduces strain.
- Gently shampoo braids weekly with a mild cleanser. Use cool water, work shampoo through gently, and rinse thoroughly. Repeat as needed for buildup.
- After washing, pat braids dry with an old t-shirt or microfiber towel. Let air dry thoroughly before restyling. Avoid harsh rubbing.
- Sleep with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, or tie braids into a loose ponytail. Reduce friction that can frizz braids.
- For itching or tightness, apply aloe vera gel or diluted tea tree oil along the braided edges for relief.
- Cover braids with a scarf outdoors to protect them from wind, humidity, and harmful UV rays.
- Get braids redone or removed after 6-8 weeks max. Leaving braids too long risks matting, excess buildup, and traction damage.
- When removing braids, gradually clip the extensions rather than ripping hair out. Be extremely gentle.
Proper maintenance keeps your Pop Smoke braids looking fresh and longer while avoiding damage to the hair and scalp. Be diligent about moisturizing, protecting, and not overkeeping the style.
Final Thought
Pop Smoke’s signature braided hairstyle made a lasting impact on hip-hop culture and beyond. His eye-catching zig-zag cornrows became an iconic part of his image, influencing hair trends even after his tragic passing. The zig-zag cornrows come in many shapes and sizes to match anyone’s personal style. Getting the look professionally or DIY has its trade-offs in cost, convenience, and hair health.
Properly maintain your Pop Smoke braids to help them look neat for 4-8 weeks. When cared for properly, Pop Smoke braids allow you to honor the late great artist through your fabulous hair.
FAQs
What are Pop Smoke braids?
Pop Smoke braids are a hairstyle characterized by raised, sculpted cornrows, offering a distinctive and trendy look that became synonymous with the late artist.
What are Pop Smoke braids called?
Pop Smoke braids are often called “cornrows with a twist,” a unique style that blends traditional braiding techniques with a contemporary touch.
What do Pop Smoke braids look like?
Pop Smoke braids are raised, sculpted cornrows known for a distinct and iconic appearance, combining traditional braids with a modern twist.
How much for Pop Smoke braids?
Prices for Pop Smoke braids vary. It’s advisable to consult with a stylist for an accurate quote based on factors like hair length, thickness, and location.
How long does it take to do Pop Smoke braids?
The duration to complete Pop Smoke braids depends on factors like hair length and thickness. Consult with a stylist for a personalized estimate.
What kind of braids did Pop Smoke have?
Pop Smoke had distinctly raised cornrows, creating a raised and sculpted pattern that contributed to his signature and recognizable hairstyle.
How long do Pop Smoke braids take?
The time to complete Pop Smoke braids varies. Discuss with a stylist for an estimate based on your hair type, length, and the intricacy of the desired braiding pattern.
I am Maya Davis and I’m the stylist behind BelleTressTales. With over 10 years as a specialist in braids and locs, I bring expertise and creativity to my hairstyling tutorials and guides.
My passion for creative protective styling began early on, practicing techniques on friends and family. After beautician training and working in top salons, I opened my own braid studio catering to all hair types and occasions.
When not installing the latest colorful braids or neat sisterlocs in the salon, you can find me at home with my two kids, experimenting with fun new stylistic twists on classic looks. As a working mom, I know the importance of chic and convenient braided styles from school to weekends out.
At BelleTressTales, I combine my professional braiding skills with an artistic flair to provide styling inspiration specifically for braids, sisterlocs, and locs. I cover everything from elegant updos to funky color patterns, by hair type, event, and technique. My goal is to educate and empower women to creatively embrace their own unique hair texture in braided protective styles.