21 Trendy Summer Hairstyles for Black Women in 2024: Braids & Chic Looks to Try!

As the summer of 2024 approaches, it's time to refresh your look with some of the trendiest hairstyles tailored specifically for Black women. From protective styles that keep your hair healthy to chic and stylish looks perfect for any occasion, this guide will inspire your next hair transformation. Whether you’re into bold braids or prefer low-maintenance chic, here are the top 21 summer hairstyles to rock in 2024.

#### **1. Knotless Box Braids**
Knotless box braids are a go-to for summer, offering a lightweight and tension-free alternative to traditional braids. They’re versatile, easy to style, and perfect for hot weather.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Comfortable* No heavy roots pulling on your scalp.
- **Low Maintenance* Lasts for weeks with minimal upkeep.
- **Versatile* Style them in ponytails, buns, or let them flow freely.

#### **2. Bohemian Braids**
Bohemian braids, with their carefree waves and relaxed vibe, are perfect for those looking to embrace a more laid-back summer style. These braids often incorporate loose curls and wavy strands for a more natural look.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Relaxed Style* Perfect for beach days and summer festivals.
- **Texture Mix* Combines braids with waves for a soft, romantic feel.
- **Customizable* Add beads, shells, or accessories for a boho-chic touch.

#### **3. Cornrow Bun**
A high cornrow bun is both elegant and practical, keeping your hair off your neck during the sweltering summer months. This style is sleek, chic, and perfect for any occasion.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Sophisticated* Ideal for both casual outings and formal events.
- **Protective* Keeps your hair protected and tangle-free.
- **Elegant* A polished look that’s perfect for the office or a night out.

#### **4. Lemonade Braids**
Popularized by Beyoncé, lemonade braids are a trendy and stylish choice. These side-swept braids add an edge to your summer look and can be customized in length and thickness.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Celebrity-Inspired* Channel your inner Beyoncé with this iconic style.
- **Flattering* The side-swept design suits all face shapes.
- **Versatile* Wear them long and dramatic or short and sweet.

#### **5. Faux Locs**
Faux locs are a fantastic option if you’re looking for a protective style with a bit of edge. These locs give you the look of traditional locs without the commitment, and they’re perfect for summer.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Protective* Shields your natural hair from the elements.
- **Edgy* Gives you a bold, statement-making look.
- **Low Maintenance* Minimal upkeep required.

#### **6. Bantu Knots**
Bantu knots are a playful and protective style that’s perfect for summer. This look involves sectioning your hair into small parts and twisting them into knots, creating a fun and unique style.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Playful* A fun, youthful style that stands out.
- **Versatile* Wear them as is or unravel them for bouncy curls.
- **Protective* Keeps your ends tucked away and safe from damage.

#### **7. Fulani Braids**
Fulani braids, with their intricate patterns and bead embellishments, are both culturally significant and stylish. This traditional African hairstyle has made a big comeback and is perfect for summer.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Cultural Significance* Connects you to your roots.
- **Intricate Designs* Customize with beads, rings, and other accessories.
- **Versatile* Can be styled in various patterns and lengths.

#### **8. Braided Ponytail**
A sleek braided ponytail is the epitome of summer chic. This style pulls your hair back, keeping it out of your face, while the braid adds an element of sophistication.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Chic and Sleek* Perfect for a polished, put-together look.
- **Easy to Maintain* Simple to style and maintain throughout the summer.
- **Versatile* Wear it high for a sporty look or low for a more elegant vibe.

#### **9. Tribal Braids**
Tribal braids are all about celebrating African heritage with intricate designs and patterns. These braids are perfect for those looking to make a bold statement.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Culturally Rich* Embrace your heritage with these intricate designs.
- **Customizable* Tailor the patterns to reflect your personal style.
- **Bold* Make a strong fashion statement.

#### **10. Goddess Braids**
Goddess braids are large, thick braids that are both elegant and protective. This style is perfect for those who want a regal, yet low-maintenance look.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Elegant* Exudes a regal and sophisticated vibe.
- **Quick to Style* Takes less time to install than smaller braids.
- **Protective* Keeps your hair safe from summer heat and humidity.

#### **11. Passion Twists**
Passion twists are a beautiful alternative to traditional twists, offering a more textured, bohemian look. These twists are perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight, carefree style.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Textured* Adds a unique twist (literally) to your summer style.
- **Lightweight* Perfect for keeping cool in hot weather.
- **Versatile* Can be worn long or short, depending on your preference.

#### **12. Marley Twists**
Marley twists are thicker than traditional twists and offer a fuller, more voluminous look. They’re great for those who want a protective style with a bit of extra drama.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Volume* Creates a fuller, more dramatic look.
- **Protective* Keeps your hair safe while looking stylish.
- **Customizable* Choose different lengths and thicknesses to suit your style.

#### **13. Crochet Braids**
Crochet braids are a great way to switch up your style without too much commitment. They offer the look of traditional braids but are quicker to install and easier to remove.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Quick Installation* Faster to install than traditional braids.
- **Versatile* Can mimic various styles, from curls to locs.
- **Low Commitment* Easy to change up without long-term commitment.

#### **14. TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro)**
For those embracing their natural texture, a Teeny Weeny Afro (TWA) is a stylish and low-maintenance option. This look is perfect for summer, keeping you cool while showing off your curls.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Natural Beauty* Embrace your natural texture.
- **Low Maintenance* Minimal styling required.
- **Versatile* Can be accessorized with headbands, clips, or scarves.

#### **15. Twisted Updo**
A twisted updo is both elegant and practical, perfect for formal events or simply keeping your hair off your neck during the summer heat. This style combines twists and braids for a sophisticated look.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Elegant* Ideal for weddings, parties, or formal events.
- **Practical* Keeps your hair up and out of the way.
- **Versatile* Can be styled in various ways to suit any occasion.

#### **16. Side-Swept Braids**
Side-swept braids are a simple yet chic way to style your hair. This look involves braiding your hair to one side, creating a relaxed, asymmetrical style that’s perfect for summer.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Effortlessly Chic* A simple style that looks polished.
- **Easy to Do* Quick and easy to braid yourself.
- **Perfect for Any Occasion* Suitable for both casual and formal settings.

#### **17. Jumbo Box Braids**
Jumbo box braids are large, chunky braids that offer a bold, dramatic look. They’re perfect for making a statement while keeping your hair protected during the summer.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Bold* A statement-making style that’s sure to turn heads.
- **Quick to Install* Less time-consuming than smaller braids.
- **Protective* Keeps your hair safe from the summer sun and humidity.

#### **18. Curly Braids**
Curly braids combine the best of both worlds: the sleek look of braids with the soft, romantic feel of curls. This style is perfect for those who want a little extra volume and texture.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Textured* Adds volume and a soft, romantic feel.
- **Versatile* Can be worn in various styles, from updos to loose waves.
- **Chic* A sophisticated look that’s perfect for any occasion.

#### **19. Box Braids Bob**
The box braids bob is a shorter version of traditional box braids, offering a chic and modern take on this classic style. It’s perfect for those who want a fresh, trendy look for summer.

**Why You’ll Love It*
- **Modern* A fresh twist on classic box braids.
- **Lightweight* Perfect for keeping cool in the summer heat.
- **Chic* A stylish look that’s easy to maintain.

#### **20. Halo Braid**
The halo braid is an elegant and ethereal style that involves braiding your hair around your head like a crown. This look is perfect for summer weddings or any event where you want to feel like a queen.

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