Undeniably, the criss cross hairstyle is currently rocking the airwaves. This is not only for their stylish look but also for their protective nature.
You may not stay long with the hairdo, though you will surely turn heads for the few days you rock. It’ll serve you for about four weeks, and wearing it longer might break your hair roots.
Also, get a stylist who understands the style well or, better yet, do a DIY. Below we’ll show you how to plait them and give your 25 hairdos worth considering.
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How to Do Criss Cross Knotless Braids
What You Need
- Pre-stretched braiding hair
- Shine N Jam
- Stretchy Rubber bands
- Mousse
- A rat tail comb
- Edge control
Step-by-Step
- Partition ¼ of the hair at the front
- Create parts for crosses using the rat tail comb. You can start by subdividing the partitioned sections into two and then into 3s or 4s
- Apply shine and jam on each side of the parts.
- Start with one parted section. Subdivide it along the row into small parts and apply jam, then secure the roots with rubber bands. Dip rubber bands in oil to avoid hair breakages.
- Cross over to the newly parted section and attach it to the previous one using a rubber band.
- Continue crossing until you complete a row
- Repeat the same process for the parted sections
- Depending on the style, plait the back hair accordingly using the knotless technique. Then, feed in the braids gradually to protect the hair roots.
Pro Tip: You can start braiding the back ¾ of the hair, then finish with the front criss cross.
Below is a detailed video tutorial to help you out:
25 Cutest Criss Cross Knotless Braids Hairstyles
1. Criss Cross Knotless Braids With Curls
Every girl deserves a pretty look such as this. The criss cross in front and the curls at the ends of the braids are sure to turn heads. Of course, you can choose your preferred length, but the longer, the better.
2. Criss Cross Knotless Braids With Beads
Children love beads; why don’t you incorporate a criss cross design with braids at the back and finish up with the beads for your girl? They’ll surely look good. Knotless braids with beads are also perfect for adults who wouldn’t mind shorter braids.
3. Criss Cross Knotless Braids With Rubber Bands
In search of a hairstyle that won’t take long to plait and remove? This hairdo is the answer.
First, you should partition the front hair into triangles and secure them with bands. Then, connect the partitions diagonally to achieve the front crisscross pattern.
Finally, plait the rest of the hair and tie it into a puff or bun.
4. Criss Cross Knotless Braids With Color
This is your go-to hairstyle if you love showcasing your creativity in every aspect of your life. The light brown braids with a black base will look stunning.
The sides’ crosses are also clicked down nicely for a gorgeously smooth, flat appearance.
5. Long Criss Cross Knotless Braids
If you’re a fan of long braids, this is the best protective style to rock.
The classical black braids with black rubber bands and the criss cross design blends seamlessly for a calm but outstanding look.
You’ll also love the perfect sectioning of the hair.
6. Medium Criss Cross Knotless Braids
If you’re torn between large and medium braids, strike a balance by rocking medium knotless braids.
Go for a thigh length that fits the criss cross design, and choose your preferred braids color. You can opt for light brown, as in the picture, which is best for light-skinned.
7. Short Criss Cross Knotless Braids
If you love keeping your hair short, this is a perfect hairdo. The style is achieved by braiding properly and then cutting the braids to desired bob size.
You can complete the look by adding beads at the ends, highlighting the intricate criss cross pattern and bob shape.
8. Red Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Look at this style! These red braids will spice up your favorite hairdo and showcase your bold and daring personality.
Plus, you’ll look good as you protect your hairline with knotless braids.
9. Jumbo Criss Cross Knotless Braids
If you need a stylish quick-fix hairstyle, this is a perfect option. The hairdo is easy and faster to plait, and the look is out of the world.
The touch of red braids and slayed edges elevate your appearance.
10. Mixed Color Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Go for this hairdo if you want a colorful hairstyle. You can achieve it by combining different shades with a protective knotless design.
But pink plus purple and black ombre are sure to turn heads. The pink bands on the criss cross pattern pop it all.
11. Space Buns Criss Cross Knotless Braids
This is a hairstyle to go for if you don’t like hair disturbing you during your busy day. Style the back braids into space burns to highlight the front criss cross pattern and keep them out of your face.
But, of course, you can still leave some hair down for an elaborate design.
12. Blonde Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Blonde is a color to go for if you want to look younger. This protective style brings out your bold personality and sends positive vibes wherever you go.
The front criss cross pattern is also made nicely to blend well with the back braids. You can try the hairdo for any occasion.
13. Ombre Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Showcase your royalty by wearing these purple braids, perfect for special occasions. And instead of going all purple, incorporate an ombre style for a killer look.
The curly ends and the blue rubber bands on the criss cross pattern are phenomenal.
14. Kids Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Kids deserve gorgeous, protective hairstyles like this. The hairdo incorporates a front criss cross pattern and knotless braids with curls.
Your kid will also love a touch of pink at the end. Plus, you can opt for a color of your choice.
15. Half Stitch Half Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Do not always stick to one hairstyle. For example, if you love Criss cross design, go for this hairdo which combines the pattern with stitch braids for a more attractive look.
The style partings are done well with s-design on stitched braids for a defined, beautiful appearance.
16. Burgundy Criss Cross Knotless Braids
You’ll never run out of colors when it comes to braided hairdos. One such color that works well for all skin shades is burgundy.
Try this style with long braids and command attention wherever you go. You can finish off the braids with curls to add a touch of elegance.
17. Criss Cross Knotless Braids With a Heart on the Side
Incorporating a heart design into your hairstyle is perfect for sending love vibes wherever you go.
And that’s what this hairdo is all about. It gives you a gorgeous look that’s perfect for a date night.
18. Goddess Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Rock this goddess look with boho knotless braids and be ready for any occasion. The front criss cross pattern mixed with stitch braids adds a classy touch.
You’ll also love the curls alongside the braids.
19. Criss Cross Knotless Braids With Triple Buns
Step out of the normal criss cross design and wear this stylish hairdo with three buns. The beautiful box braids at the back meet the crisscrosses in the middle and are styled into buns.
With this, you achieve a playful look, and the slayed edges make it outstanding.
20. Half Up, Half Down+ Pony Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Rock this classical hairstyle to any special occasion, and watch as others look at you in awe. It is a somewhat messy design that it’s great for young people.
You’ll want to avoid it if you don’t like attracting attention. But if you do, why not!
21. Criss Cross With Box Braids & Bantu Knots
How about combining three different designs at a go? This is a daring style that draws attention wherever you go. Wear it for special occasions or when meeting your crush or better half.
22. Criss Cross Cornrow Knotless Braids
Rubber-banded braids are known to come out after a short time. So, try this hairdo if you want a criss cross style that will serve you longer.
The style features two jumbo crosses that take less time to braid and remove.
23. Criss Cross Knotless Braids With Rainbow Shades
You might be scared of how rainbow shades would look on your head. But look at this stylish hairdo that’s perfect for children and adults. Isn’t it worth a try? Plus, your kid will love it if they adore many shades.
24. Crisscross Knotlesss With Heart & Curls
Imagine a heart with curls on the same hairdo; isn’t it amazing? Try this design with peekaboo braids and rock it for any occasion.
You can plait your child the design too, and she’ll love the touch of color blue braids. Of course, you can opt for other colors as well.
25. Large Criss Cross Knotless Braids
Enjoy the vibrant look you get from these large protective braids. The butt length plus triangular partings give it a stunning appearance.
There’s also a touch of gold to depart from the traditional black hairdo.
How To Maintain Criss Cross Knotless Braids
The tips below will help you take care of your braided hair:
- Wash and moisturize regularly to protect the scalp
- Do not over-style, as the hair could tangle and easily break
- Prevent tangles and if it happens, detangle using a wide-tooth comb and spray with a detangling leave-in conditioner.
- Use satin or silk hair ties instead of traditional hair bands
- Cover your hair when sleeping with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Criss Cross Braids?
As the name suggests, criss cross braids are a protective hairdo that involves weaving the braids to form knotless crisscross patterns.
The idea is to weave the section strands over and under each other to create the crisscross design. Most use rubber bands to secure the sections, but you can achieve the pattern without them.
You can use rubber bands or Brazilian wool to twist the small parted section and do the criss cross as you braid.
Or, braid the sectioned part that would have been rubber banded and criss cross until you are done with the ¼ of the front hair. This lasts longer than rubber-banded sections.
How Long Do Criss Cross Knotless Braids Last?
Criss cross knotless braids can serve you for one month, but you might need to refresh the criss cross part after 2 weeks.
So it isn’t a long-lasting hairdo, but the stunning look is worth the short time it’ll serve you.
Do Criss Cross Knotless Braids Damage your Hair?
Criss cross won’t damage your hair if done well. However, it would help if you partitioned into mini sections with plenty of hair to avoid overstretching the hair roots. Also, oil the rubber band before using it so the hair doesn’t tangle and break.
Finally, put your pinky finger at the base when tying the front section. And, always pull on the hair if you feel they are overtightened.
Can I Wash My Criss Cross Knotless Braids?
You can always wash your braided hair, but it is best to avoid it when you have a rubber-banded design. The hair might be a bit messy after two weeks, and that is when to remove the criss cross section, wash then refresh.
The knotless at the back won’t be affected much by cleaning if you dry them well afterward. Remember to keep them moisturized to protect your scalp.
Final Thoughts
Criss cross knotless braids are a go-to comfortable and protective hairstyle. You can try any of the 25 designs discussed above for any occasion.
Of course, you’ll need to choose your preferred color, but always go to a hairstylist who understands the style well.
If the criss crosses aren’t done well, they can come off in one week. But, if well plaited, it’ll serve you for a month, during which you’ll be turning heads!
Remember to take care of the hairdo as advised to protect your scalp and hair roots.