Have you scrolled through your Instagram lately and wondered, “Which hairstyle is making everyone stare?” Well, the answer’s dancing across timelines, from Lagos all the way to Durban: the **Tyla braids**. It’s the inside story behind the most unexpected beauty shakeup of 2024, and the African social sphere is buzzing louder than a danfo conductor at rush hour.
The explosive interest in Tyla braids isn’t just about being trendy; it’s about embracing a look that captures both tradition and modernity, blending our “homegrown” cornrows with global flair. While Tyla herself may not have invented this eye-catching style, she reportedly wove a whole new chapter for African protective hairstyles—one braid at a time.
But what truly sets the “Tyla braids” apart from the crowd? Let’s take a short journey through the details that have both Nigerian stylists and global influencers saying, “E choke!” Tyla braids remixed the classic doll braids—think sleeker, more defined lines, and a pristine side part. In front, cornrows snake neatly along the scalp, while the back transforms into a masterpiece of flowing sew-in hair. Imagine walking into a Lagos salon and seeing bouncy bobs, soft curls, or those playful dolly ends—just like in Tyla’s music videos—gracing every seat.
The Secret Sauce
Unlike standard braiding styles that rely solely on extensions, Tyla braids cleverly fuse natural hair with a skillful sew-in at the back. According to multiple Lagos-based hairdressers, this technique uses the best of both our Nigerian hair culture and international trends: braids at the hairline for structure, and weaves for volume and movement. You get this bombshell combo that’s easy to maintain, versatile, and gentle on natural hair.
The process itself isn’t complicated, but the effect can be downright magical. Simply part your hair—go demure with a middle part or a little razzle-dazzle with a side swoop—braid the front sections tightly with your natural hair, then finish off with a neat sew-in at the back. The result? Braids that bounce to Afrobeats on the dancefloor and slay at board meetings.
Tyla’s Signature Statement
If you ever doubted that a simple bob could shake the industry, Tyla’s look this year will convince you. That side-parted braided bob has become her calling card, echoing African elegance with just enough pop-star drama to turn heads from Victoria Island to Bloemfontein.
How Tyla Braids Became Africa’s “Next Big Thing”
The inside gist? Tyla catapulted her braids onto the world stage during the H&M Fashion Launch in Brazil on August 25, 2025 (according to event coverage and social clips). Under the glimmering lights, her slicked side-parted cornrows melted seamlessly into a lively bob that exclaimed, “African hair no dey carry last.” Her bold embrace of protective hairstyles at such a high-profile event reportedly sent a bold message—our own styles belong on global runways.
That moment wasn’t an isolated stroke of genius. When Tyla showcased the same sleek look on the poster for her single “Chanel,” it was clear: she’s not just riding the wave; she’s steering it. While some trends flash and fizzle, Tyla’s looks reportedly simmer under the surface, awaiting the right moment to explode across the continent. From a quick selfie post to a red carpet twirl, her hair frequently triggers what social media users describe as a trend avalanche.
It’s that slow-burn magic—one expressive hairstyle at a time, Tyla’s evolving looks are offering fresh blueprints for African stars and fans alike.
Why Tyla Braids Are a Game-Changer for Nigerian Women
So, why has Nigeria in particular fallen hand over fist for Tyla braids? The answer goes deeper than “fine girl no pimple.”
- Low Maintenance, High Impact: Unlike full-head braids, Tyla’s combination approach makes for easier daily upkeep—a lifesaver when you’re facing the “go-slow” of Lagos mornings.
- Protective Yet Flirty: The front is braided snug with minimal tension, shielding your natural edges from breakage. The weave at the back brings playful movement, letting you switch from market errand to wedding guest without batting an eyelid.
- Versatility: You can rock Tyla braids as a polished bob, stretch them into shoulder-length waves, or curl the ends for that juicy, “just-did-my-hair” bounce.
According to Adanna Okechukwu, a hairstylist based in Surulere, “This style fits everyone, from students to working-class women. It’s easy, stylish, and doesn’t require sitting for hours.” Her clients reportedly request Tyla braids for their exams, job interviews, and even owambe parties, proof of its growing appeal.
A Timeline of Tyla’s Most Unforgettable Hairstyles
Tyla’s hair journey reads like a highlight reel of African creativity—each look, a confident nod to our continental diversity. Here’s a snapshot of her headline styles, according to fashion experts and international campaign visuals:
Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards
She stepped out in show-stopping side cornrows that tumbled past her waist. It was playful, energetic, and matched her star power—proof that braids don’t have to be boring.
GAP Fashion Campaign
For GAP, Tyla switched things up with wavy braids. The top section was woven tight, transforming into feathery waves that whispered fashion-forward confidence—a risk, but one that paid off.
Beats x ALO Campaign
Here, simplicity took center stage. Tyla’s neat, all-back cornrows framed her features, proving that in a world of “loud” looks, sometimes less truly is more.
The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
This occasion might be her most memorable TV transformation. With braids up front and sew-in curls at the back, she dropped the first hint of what would morph into the Tyla braid sensation. According to show stylists, the blend stunned both fans and hair experts alike.
The Jennifer Hudson Show
Tyla’s early experimentation was on display here—halfway cornrows met with long, flowing curls, teasing her now-signature hybrid look. That willingness to experiment is reportedly what makes her such a hair icon for African women navigating both culture and modernity.
Her ever-evolving stylebook of bobs, weaves, and bold hybrids is sparking inspiration from market women in Balogun to hairstyling entrepreneurs across the continent. Local stylists are quick to note that Tyla braids are a true “come as you are” look, inviting everyone—regardless of hair length or texture—to find their own spin.
But let’s not deceive ourselves—every beauty trend carries unique challenges. Tyla braids are no different. They require a stylist with nimble hands and an eye for blending, and some clients may face challenges with sourcing quality extensions or keeping the look “fresh” in Nigeria’s humid climate. Still, the consensus among beauty enthusiasts suggests the positives far outweigh the rest, especially for those seeking protective looks that double as red-carpet ready.
Are Tyla Braids the “Holiday Hair” of 2024?
It’s been said that in Nigeria, “Follow who know road.” With Tyla braids picking up steam and lighting up timelines, don’t be surprised if you see this look at every end-of-year celebration, from Abuja weddings to December beach hangs in Lekki.
Tyla’s style journey is far from over, and her latest trend is sparking a nationwide love for stylistic experimentation among young Nigerians. Who knows? The next great African hairstyle innovation could be brewing right now in the small salons and university hostels that made Tyla braids go viral in the first place.
Do you think Tyla braids are about to take over Nigerian “hair game” for good, or will another trend knock it off soon? Drop your thoughts in the comments section below and tell us which Tyla look you’re keen to try this season!
