Boho Braids vs Box Braids (block braids): What Fits Busy East Memphis Life?
By Besties beauty bar braiding | July 9, 2026
One of our clients told us, “She started my hair at 0820 and I was out the door at 0117, ” and that speed matters when you’re balancing work, kids, and Memphis traffic. Here’s the bottom line: pick boho braids when you want a relaxed, textured look that’s usually lower-tension and great for short-term wear, weekends, and photos. Pick box braids when you need longer-lasting protective wear that cuts down your day-to-day styling, but you’re ready for a longer install time and higher cost.
Quick decision helper: If you want a soft, lived-in braid boho look for the next couple weeks, boho usually wins. If you want “set it and forget it” block braids for the long haul, box braids usually win.
Boho braids vs box braids: what you’re actually wearing
Boho braids are braids with a more relaxed finish and intentional texture. You’ll usually see curly or wavy pieces left out through the braid or at the ends, which gives that soft, “undone” look people love for events and pictures. In our chair, boho braids are about keeping the look pretty and wearable, not fighting your hair all day.
Box braids are the classic, structured protective style. They’re typically more uniform and tucked, which is why they tend to last longer. If you’re going for neat, consistent braids that can handle weeks of ponytails, buns, and busy mornings, box braids make a strong case.
And yes, we do both styles here in Memphis. One reviewer came in for “smedium mix back box braids” and raved about how thorough the work was. That’s the energy we bring to boho too: clean parting, neat braidwork, and a finish that matches what you asked for.
The trade-offs that decide it in real life: time, comfort, upkeep, longevity
Longevity (this is where box braids win)
Box braids usually last 6 to 10+ weeks depending on size, your new growth, and how you care for your scalp. Boho braids usually last 2 to 6 weeks. That’s not a flaw, it’s the nature of the style. The loose pieces that make boho pretty can frizz sooner, especially with hot, humid Memphis summers.
Maintenance (boho needs more hands-on love)
Boho braids ask for a little daily attention. Think gentle separating, light anti-frizz care, and being mindful around the loose hair. Box braids are easier for quick mornings. Pull them up, wrap at night, keep your scalp happy, and you’re usually good.
Comfort and tension (don’t ignore this)
If you’re tender-headed, you’re not being “extra.” You just need the right hands. People regularly tell us their braids are “not too heavy or tight”, and one client loved that her hair wasn’t tight and she could lay on her pillow that night. That matters for boho and for box braids, because comfort is what keeps you from ripping your style out early.
Time and cost (boho usually wins up front, box wins over weeks)
Our Boho Braids service is planned at about 215 minutes and starts at $150. Box braids often take longer and cost more, especially as you go smaller or longer. But box braids can save you time week-to-week because you’re not styling as much day to day.
Memphis humidity tip: For boho, keep a lightweight mousse or anti-frizz product for the loose pieces, and sleep with a bonnet or scarf to reduce tangling. For box braids, focus on scalp moisture and keeping your parts clean so the style stays fresh longer.
“When I tell this has been the best experience I ever had with getting my hair braided. When I say it only took them 4 hours to do my Boho braids!!!!”
one of our regulars
If your calendar is packed, here’s the style match
Boho braids fit you if:
- You want that softer, textured finish that looks great in photos and feels a little more “effortless.”
- You’re okay doing a bit of fluffing and frizz control, especially in East Memphis summer heat.
- You want a style that often feels lower-tension on the scalp.
Box braids fit you if:
- You want longer wear time and fewer salon visits.
- You prefer a neat, uniform look that’s easy to bun up for work, school runs, or the gym.
- You’re fine committing to a longer appointment for a style that lasts.
If you’re stuck between the two, we’ll talk it out before we start. Bring a couple inspo pictures and be honest about your routine. That’s how you end up with hair braiding you actually enjoy living in.
Why boho braids at Besties in East Memphis feel different (and a simple next step)
We’re in East Memphis (White Station / Waring Road area), and a lot of our clients come in off Poplar or I-240 because they need braids that look good fast and still feel comfortable days later. People talk about us being quick without compromising quality, about neat parting, and about getting the exact look they asked for.
And we’re used to real-life needs. Some clients bring their own hair because of allergies, and we’ll work with that. We also hear the same thing again and again: the braids are neat, not overly tight, and the shop feels small, welcoming, and professional.
If you want to compare more braid styles before you decide, read our Memphis braid styles guide. If boho is calling your name, our first-time boho braids tips will help you show up ready.
Ready to book in Memphis? Send us the style photo you’re aiming for, tell us your preferred length, and let us know if you have a sensitive scalp or plan to bring your own hair.
Serving clients who drive in from Germantown, Cordova, Bartlett, Collierville, Olive Branch, and Lakeland.
Visit us: 700A Waring Road, Memphis, TN 38122
Call: +16467533027 | Email: yacinesamb15@gmail.com
You can also browse our braids gallery or check our braiding services list before you decide.
Quick FAQs for boho braids, box braids, and Memphis humidity
How long do Boho Braids typically last on natural hair?
Most people get about 2 to 6 weeks. The loose pieces that create the boho look can frizz sooner, especially with sweat and humidity, so upkeep matters.
Are Boho Braids a protective style for hair growth?
They can be a lower-tension option, which some people love for comfort. For long-term protective wear, box braids usually do better because the hair is more tucked and the finish is more structured. Growth still comes down to healthy scalp care and not wearing a style too tight.
Which handles Memphis humidity better: Boho Braids or Box Braids?
Box braids usually handle humidity better because there’s less loose hair to frizz. Boho braids can still look amazing in Memphis, you’ll just want to protect the loose pieces at night and use light anti-frizz products when needed.
How much should I expect to pay for Boho Braids in East Memphis?
Our Boho Braids start at $150. Your final price depends on details like length and size, so bring your inspo photo and be clear about what you want.
Can I swim, sweat, or wash my hair with Boho Braids?
Yes, but plan for extra upkeep. Sweat and water can increase frizz in the loose pieces, so focus on drying your scalp well and refreshing the texture gently instead of over-manipulating it.
What does “braid boho” mean when I’m booking?
It’s a braid style with intentional texture, usually created by leaving curly or wavy pieces out for a softer, more relaxed finish than traditional box braids.
What prep do you recommend for hair and braiding?
We recommend arriving with clean and dry hair for the best results in any of our braiding services, including Passion Braids and Boho Braids.
How long do Boho Braids take at your Memphis location?
Plan for about 215 minutes for Boho Braids at our Memphis location. This service gives you a trendy, laid-back look that complements any outfit.