Easy Summer Braided Hairstyles for Black Hair
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with fun, stylish, and easy hairstyles that keep you cool while looking fabulous. For those with black hair, braids offer an excellent way to manage and style your hair effortlessly. From protective styles to trendy looks, braided hairstyles can be versatile and low-maintenance. Here's a guide to some easy summer braided hairstyles for black hair that will keep you looking chic and feeling comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
1. Classic Box Braids
Box braids are a timeless choice that works well for any season but are particularly great for summer. They are easy to maintain, provide excellent protection for your natural hair, and can be styled in various ways.
How to Achieve Classic Box Braids:
Prep Your Hair: Cleanse and condition your hair. Detangle it thoroughly to make braiding easier.
Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into small sections using a rat-tail comb.
Add Extensions: If you want extra length or thickness, add braiding hair extensions. Secure the extensions at the root of each section.
Braid: Braid each section from the root to the tip. Make sure the braids are even for a uniform look.
Seal the Ends: Dip the ends of the braids in hot water to seal them and prevent unraveling.
Styling Tips: You can accessorize your box braids with beads, cuffs, or colorful thread. They can also be styled into a high bun, ponytail, or half-up, half-down look for a fresh twist.
2. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are a type of large, chunky braid that offers a bold and stylish look. They are perfect for those who want to make a statement while keeping their hair manageable.
How to Achieve Goddess Braids:
Prepare Your Hair: Wash, condition, and detangle your hair.
Section Your Hair: Part your hair into large sections where you want the braids to be.
Add Extensions: Incorporate braiding hair for added length and volume.
Braid: Braid each section tightly, but not too tight to avoid tension on your scalp.
Secure: Use hair ties or bobby pins to secure the braids if needed.
Styling Tips: Goddess braids look great when styled into a high ponytail or bun. You can also add some decorative hairpins or jewelry for extra flair.
3. Lemonade Braids
Lemonade braids, made famous by Beyoncé, are side braids that have a sleek and edgy appearance. They are perfect for a stylish, low-maintenance look.
How to Achieve Lemonade Braids:
Prep Your Hair: Wash and condition your hair, then detangle it.
Section Your Hair: Create a side part and divide your hair into sections.
Add Extensions: Use braiding hair for added length and fullness.
Braid: Begin braiding from the side of your head and work your way down. Secure the end with a small elastic band.
Finish: Repeat the process for the remaining sections.
Styling Tips: Lemonade braids are versatile and can be styled in a side bun or ponytail. They look great with accessories like gold cuffs or colorful threads.
4. Cornrows
Cornrows are a classic braided hairstyle that is not only chic but also highly practical. They can be styled in various patterns and designs, making them perfect for summer.
How to Achieve Cornrows:
Prep Your Hair: Wash and condition your hair, then detangle it.
Section Your Hair: Part your hair into small, even sections using a rat-tail comb.
Braid: Begin braiding close to the scalp, adding small sections of hair as you go. Continue braiding until you reach the end.
Secure: Use a small elastic band or braid sealant to secure the ends.
Styling Tips: Cornrows can be styled into updos or left loose. They also look great when accessorized with beads or colorful thread.
5. Faux Locs
Faux locs are a stylish and protective option for summer. They mimic the look of dreadlocks but can be easily removed when you're ready for a change.
How to Achieve Faux Locs:
Prepare Your Hair: Wash and condition your hair thoroughly.
Add Extensions: Install hair extensions to create the faux locs.
Wrap: Wrap the extensions around your natural hair, starting from the root and working your way down.
Seal: Use a hot water method to seal the ends and set the style.
Styling Tips: Faux locs can be styled in various ways, including updos and side buns. They are perfect for adding a bohemian touch to your summer look.
6. Twist Out Braids
Twist out braids combine the ease of twists with the versatility of braids, creating a relaxed yet stylish look.
How to Achieve Twist Out Braids:
Prep Your Hair: Cleanse and condition your hair. Detangle it thoroughly.
Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into sections.
Twist: Twist each section of hair and secure with small elastic bands.
Braid: Braid the twisted sections together for a combined style.
Styling Tips: Twist out braids can be worn loose or styled into a high ponytail or bun. They are great for adding texture and volume to your hair.
7. Havana Twists
Havana twists are similar to Marley twists but are larger and softer. They provide a relaxed, bohemian look that's perfect for summer.
How to Achieve Havana Twists:
Prepare Your Hair: Wash and condition your hair, then detangle it.
Add Extensions: Use Havana twist extensions for added length and volume.
Twist: Begin twisting sections of hair with the extensions, making sure to secure the ends.
Finish: Use a small elastic band to secure the ends of the twists.
Styling Tips: Havana twists can be worn loose or styled into updos and buns. They are great for a laid-back summer look.
Conclusion
Braided hairstyles offer a fantastic way to keep your black hair stylish and manageable during the summer months. Whether you opt for classic box braids, bold goddess braids, or trendy lemonade braids, there’s a braided style to suit every preference. These easy-to-achieve hairstyles not only provide a chic appearance but also help protect your natural hair from the summer heat. Experiment with different styles, add accessories, and enjoy a season of beautiful, low-maintenance hair!
