5 Best Braids for a Cool Summer Look

June 29, 2017

It’s not as hard as you think to achieve Insta-worthy braids. Dry, winter hair is long gone and it’s time to show off those healthy, shiny locks in your envy-inducing summer vacay posts. Here are our top 5 braided hairstyles to perfect your summer look:

Boho Side Braid

For this hippie-chic hair style, tease your hair at the crown with a bit of texturizing spray if needed. Then, gather all your hair to one side and style into one classic braid. The looser each plait, the softer your look. Leave a few strands loose around your face for an added romantic effect.

Braided Buns

This one may look difficult, but it’s easier than you think! You’ll make 2 french braids, but start them at the bottom of your head rather than the crown - this is easiest if you flip your head over. Work your way up and finish with messy buns.

Short French Braids

Even if you weren’t blessed with long, flowing locks, you can still pull off braids. Try this shorter hair style by creating two french braids down each side of your head, and securing with elastic bands at the ends. This style can take you from barre class to music festival and everywhere in between. Quick tip: if you happened to have missed the day of recess in 3rd grade when everyone learned to french braid, here is a quick refresher.

French Messy Bun

Start by creating a loose french braid on the top of your head, and stop when you reach just below your ear level. Tie it off with a clear elastic band, then loop the rest of your hair into a messy bun using another elastic. For a more polished look, you can wrap your hair around and use bobby pins to secure smaller sections.

Waterfall Braid

This is one waterfall we’re sure TLC wouldn’t mind us chasing. Start with 2 small (1-inch) sections of hair near your hairline, and cross the front section over the other. Then take a third section from the top of your head and let it fall on top of the section you just pulled away from your face. Take the bottom section and cross it over the waterfall. Take another piece from the top of your head to create another waterfall, and repeat above steps until you’ve reached the desired look. If you’re still not sure how to pull this one off, here’s an easy video tutorial.

Which braided hairstyle is your favorite?