Stunning Summer Braids for Black Women 2025: Trendy & Protective Styles to Try Now

Doesn’t summer always have a touch of magic about it for changing things? The sun is out, the vibes are high, and we are all of a sudden craving something fresh, especially when it comes to our hair. This year, the summer braids for black women 2025 are all about combining tradition with daring, joyful freedom. Visualize sculptural cornrows, cascading curls, sun-kissed color, and fun textures that shout, “I’m showing up for me.”

But which braid style will keep you cool, confident, and totally unstoppable at all rooftop parties, beach trips, and lazy brunch dates? I’m taking you through actual looks that incorporate style and comfort – and yes, they will definitely turn heads.

Side-Part Cornrows with Loose Spiral Ends

Let’s begin with a style that’s a classic put-together, but still laid back. These neat side-parted cornrows blend effortlessly into thin box braids that blend into loose spiral curls. The color? A warm chocolate brown that is positively glowing in golden summer light. What I love the most is the balance between precision and movement. It’s structured up top, then soft and full of life when it falls. A perfect combination for summer days that begin with errands and end up at a pop-up wine bar.

With a style like this, moisture is everything. The smooth roots require constant hydration without making the curls at the bottom heavy. I always go for the Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner to detangle and revitalize without buildup. And honestly? A satin scarf at night is a no-brainer if you want that smooth scalp look to stay.

Putting on this style immediately puts me in that place of control – like I’ve got my life and my edges together. And, let’s face it, summer requires a look that can keep up with humidity, beach naps, and impromptu day parties.

It would be so easy to take this look to the next level with a few simple gold cuffs or bright rubber bands that are woven into a braid or two. Just a little detail and you’re all of a sudden giving festival queen energy, even on a Tuesday.

Boho Knotless Braids with Golden Spirals

This one? She’s a moment. The braids are small and tight at the root but they loosen up into full, golden spirals that bounce with each step. The base color is a deep brunette with warm caramel highlights that shine from the inside. The overall vibe is on purpose casual – like you didn’t try too hard but got the vibe right. That’s the summer braids magic for the Black women 2025 – easy and unforgettable.

The highlight here (literally) is the color blend. To maintain that brightness, I suggest alternating between a sulfate-free shampoo and a co-wash, especially if you’re in and out of the sun. Camille Rose’s sweet ginger cleansing rinse has been a game-changer for me- gentle, smells like heaven and keeps my scalp happy.

This look takes me back to the summer when I finally managed to book that solo trip to Puerto Rico. I wore something similar and got compliments everywhere starting from the airport to the beach bar. There is something about the movement in those curls that just shouts confidence without being loud.

I would love to see this one half up with a claw clip or even a few little braids pulled back with shells woven in. It’s giving goddess energy, no crown required.

Thick Chunky Braids with Wand-Like Texture

There is something about jumbo braids with defined curl ends that has a certain softness to it, and this style does it perfectly. The braids are thick but consistent, almost wand-like, and they flow into gorgeous coiled tips that are touchable and airy. With baby hair swirls and a middle part, the whole look is grounded and chic. It’s ideal for those days when you want your hair to do all the heavy lifting – literally.

The thickness means that you will need to pay more attention to the scalp care. I use TPH by Taraji’s Master Cleanse- the targeted applicator gets in between the parts without messing with the braid pattern and cools my scalp like minty magic! Light oils such as jojoba or sweet almond help too – just a little on your fingertips and rub in.

This is the kind of braid style that is both dressed up and down, something you’d wear with gold hoops and a casual jumpsuit. It’s commanding, but is still very wearable poolside or on a date night.

If you’re feeling like you need to switch it up mid-week, put it in a high bun and leave a few tendrils out – instant flair, no heat required.

Honey Blonde and Brown Microbraids with Loose Waves

Soft, sunny, and seriously stylish – this braid look combines microbraids with loose waves for a look that is flirty without trying. The combination of honey blonde and light brown tones gives dimension, which glows in natural sunlight. It’s breezy, it’s beachy, and it’s definitely one of the standout summer braids for Black women 2025 that’s perfect for long weekends or road trips with your besties.

For such styles, a braid refresher spray is your BFF. I’ve used The Doux Braid Releaser not only for take-downs but to soften and revive older braids that still have a life in them. It gives just the right amount of slip and shine without making your roots greasy.

I love how youthful this one feels. The warm tones are very forgiving on sun-kissed skin and the thinner braids move well when styled into ponytails or half-up knots. I dressed up in a similar shade combo to a rooftop movie night and the way the light hit the color? Chef’s kiss.

Honestly, I wouldn’t change a thing here—unless you’re tempted to add a few face-framing braid rings for a little extra dazzle.

Cornrow Ponytail with Mixed Textures

If you are looking for sleek and sculpted but still summer-ready, a cornrow ponytail like this one may be just the right one for you. The cornrows are tight and geometric, leading everything to a full, coily ponytail with a combination of braid sizes and textures. It’s sharp up top and free-flowing down below. It’s basically the hair version of business in the front, party in the back.

This style will stand up to heat, particularly if you mist a little Aunt Jackie’s Grapeseed Style & Shine Mist onto your hair every morning. It holds the braids in place and the curls bouncy even after a whole day of running errands or dancing at a block party.

This is a go-to for me when I need a style that can survive a busy week – appointments, workouts, and a little fun in between. I feel smooth but never stiff, which is everything in hot weather.

Would I wear this with statement earrings and a bodycon dress? Absolutely. Would I also rock it with joggers and slides? Yup. It’s that versatile.

Long Straight Box Braids with Wet Curls

This style is everything I ever want when I need something ultra-low-maintenance but still looks like I planned it. These box braids are super uniform and sleek, falling all the way down the back into loose, wet-look curls for the perfect dose of drama. The precision parting and length give it a polished feel, but those curls soften the look so it never looks stiff. It’s sleek but chilled out, and that’s a hard combination to find in the braid universe.

The length means you will have to take care of your ends, particularly on sweaty days or when the humidity is high. I swear by the Multi-Use Softening Leave In Conditioner by Melanin Haircare. It doesn’t just hydrate – it gives the curls life again when they get a little thirsty.

This style makes me feel so put together. Even if I’m in a hoodie and sneakers, my hair is saying, “She’s got it”. In addition, I am a fan of how it immediately lengthens your silhouette – there is something about that length that just feels different.

Add a twist by wearing it tied up with a silk scarf for weekend errands or wear it down with oversized hoops for nights out. No matter what, it works.

Chin-Length Box Braids with Gold Beads

Short braids are having their time this summer, and this look is here to show that you don’t need length to make an impression. These chin-length box braids are a bit chunky and decorated with glimmering gold beads that reflect the light just right. With swooped baby hairs and a crisp middle part, the look is ultra-sculpted and all glam. I love the way it combines edgy with elegant – Cleopatra meets streetwear.

What’s great here is how lightweight it is. It makes your scalp breathe, which is important for those hot August days. Just keep the scalp clean and moisturized with Taliah Waajid’s Protective Styles Healthy Hair Under There Bamboo, Avocado & Peppermint Conditioner — it’s light, cooling, and doesn’t slide product all over your face when you’ve got beaded styles on.

Wearing this brings me back to summer concerts and rooftop brunches – it is dressy enough for a function, but casual enough to wear every day. In addition, it frames the face beautifully, which is always a confidence meter booster.

If you’re feeling daring, trade in silver or colored beads, or even do without beads for a more casual vibe. It’s a small change that totally reshapes the vibe.

Brick-Lane Pattern Fulani Braids

Fulani braids are back and they’ve leveled up. This version is a combination of a zig-zagged parting base and narrow braids that fall down cleanly and symmetrically. It’s a braided masterpiece, honestly. The neat sections and the soft wave-like rows are what make this style charming, and the center-parted braids in the front frame the face subtly. There’s history in this look, but it feels super current.

As this style exposes your scalp in the open, you must keep it clean and moisturized. African Pride’s Braid Sheen Spray is a must-have for keeping things fresh, itch-free and flake-less. I also suggest doing a mild scalp cleanse with witch hazel and water in between styles.

This is one of those styles that I always end up advising my friends on. It’s classic, yet trend-forward. And it’s so flattering on all face shapes – I mean, all of them. I wore something similar for a wedding last summer and received compliments before I even entered the place.

If you are a lover of soft embellishments, a few threaded wraps or cuffs would provide even more dimension without messing up the clean layout.

High-Definition Box Braids with Baby Hairs

Neat, defined, and summer-proof – this braid style is for the perfectionist in us. These medium-sized box braids are divided with razor-sharp parts and pulled back just enough to show off that meticulous baby hair swirl pattern. The warm-toned brown shade gives depth and harmonizes with golden undertones in the skin perfectly. It’s giving organized, intentional, and totally hot-weather ready.

Keeping the crispness of this look, edge control is your holy grail. I always use Ebin 24 Hour Edge Tamer Extreme Firm Hold. It sticks on even under the scorching sun or at midnight when I am dancing. Combine it with a fine tooth brush and a stable hand and you’re golden.

This is my default when I am in my “clean girl” summer phase. When the fit is monochrome, the lip gloss is popping and I want my hair to reflect that conscious aesthetic. Braids like this never let you down.

Want to make it feel more undone? Make a few front braids into a mini knot or loop them back with gold pins. Simple moves, big payoffs.

Mid-Length Loose Box Braids with Defined Curls

Bringing up the rear in this quartet, but definitely not least — we have this dreamy combination of defined box braids and loose, flowing curls at the ends. The braid pattern is natural and imperfect in a wonderful manner. It exudes that slept-in, sea salt kind of vibe that is just perfect for vacation days or relaxed hangouts. The combination of straight lines on top and loose waves down below makes it feel balanced and super current.

This style goes best with minimal styling – refresh the curls with Maui Moisture Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Smoothie. It defines, hydrates, and smells like a beach vacation in a jar.

When I put looser braid patterns such as this, I feel as if I am embracing softness. Similar, yes I can be powerful, but I can also be chill, feminine, and breezy.

Want a little edge? Go for a half-up pony with a scrunchie or let the front sections frame your face for a boho effect. Either way, the energy is effortless and totally in season.

Half-Up Spiral Curls with Tiny Braids

This is what elegance meets edge. Long microbraids in cinnamon tones are pulled into a half-up twist that falls down in bouncy spiral curls. There’s motion, fullness, and loads of dimension in the color — it’s laying down the full glam with zero effort. This natural face-framing contour is achieved through the styling of the front braids and that is why it is one of my favorites for casual and dressed-up summer looks.

To keep the curls, I’d mist every few days with SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Hold & Shine Moisture Mist. It gives the bounce without the crunch or frizz, which is imperative for summer textures such as this.

I wore something similar to a dinner party where I barely had time to get ready – and let me tell you, the hair did all the talking. It’s that nonchalant and “done” that makes you feel extra even in basics.

If you want to take it a notch higher, twist the half-up section into a rosette bun. A couple of pinned tendrils and you’re wedding guest in seconds.

Bronzed Box Braids with Spiral Blonde Highlights

This braided beauty is a sunshine anthem. Bronzed roots and golden blonde spirals intertwined throughout, the color gradient works beautifully with natural light. The braids are little but distinct, and the combination of tighter coils and fluffier curls gives it so much texture. It shouts “beach day turned night out” and doesn’t take itself too seriously – that’s the exact vibe I want from summer braids for Black women 2025.

Color treated styles such as this can dry out quick, especially under direct heat. My recommendation is to seal the length with Creme of Nature Argan Oil Treatment. It enhances shine, guards the vibrancy, and makes the hair soft to touch.

This one is like vacation – playful, laid-back but still edited. I love how it adds warmth to the skin and makes minimal makeup completely pop. It’s a color story that works across the board, whether you’re fair or deep-toned.

Mix it up with a couple of silver cuffs or twist the front sections back for a festival feel. It’s so versatile that it could be your summer signature.

Loose Rope Twists with Center Part

Here’s something refreshing: thick, rope-style twists with a super simple center part. It is the kind of look that makes you feel powerful once it is done – thick, juicy twists that hang as statement pieces on their own. There’s nothing fussy about it. It’s clean, grounding, and gives serious goddess-core energy.

I am a fan of misting rope twists with rose water for hydration. It keeps them looking fresh without loosening the tension. Alikay Naturals Lemongrass Leave-In is also awesome to keep them soft and fragrant on-the-go.

This style gives me main character energy. It’s perfect when you want your face to shine — no exaggerated baby hairs and distractions, but bold simplicity.

If you want to make it fancy, a few metallic string wraps or beads at the end can give it a soft sparkle without losing the clean look.

Symmetrical Jumbo Feed-In Braids

Neatness has never looked this cool. These symmetrical jumbo feed-in braids have a crisp middle part and blend into silky lengths that are light but full. The baby hairs tighten the front, which balances the geometric rows. This is one of those summer braids for black women 2025 that simply makes sense – reliable, flattering and heat-proof.

Maintain this look fresh with a daily scalp oil like Scalp Bliss by Girl+Hair — it is a peppermint-based dropper oil that keeps flakes and buildup away, especially in the summer.

This is my favorite style when I want that just got my hair done look to last. It keeps tight for longer than smaller braids and remains sleek even if you’re in week four.

Style-wise? Go all the way back and decorate it with colorful elastics, or wrap it in a printed scarf and make your outfit complete summer nostalgia.

Box Braids with Ombre Blonde Ends

Last but not least — these mid-sized box braids blend into ombré blonde ends that almost flow into soft waves. The top is a deep brown and by the time you get to the ends, it’s a creamy golden colour. It’s the type of braid that is like the beach — sun-kissed, natural and easy. The length gives it drama but it is light enough for everyday.

I would advise using Mizani 25 Miracle Milk to prevent this color blend from turning brassy in the sun. It’s light, hydrating and works like an invisible UV shield for braids and curls.

This is personal to me – it’s like a love letter to hot weather. I wore a similar style last July and it was ideal for long walks, iced coffee runs, and all those spontaneous plans summer throws at you.

Put it in a bubble ponytail for a Y2K reference, or pin one side back for a flirty touch. This style can change with your mood – and that is the beauty of it.

Chestnut Brown Microbraids with Wand Curls

These microbraids are buttery soft and perfectly layered, going from tight braid bases to wand-like spiral curls that feel like air. The chestnut color gives richness and warmth that works beautifully against bronzed or deep skin. I love the way this style adds volume gradually, so the whole silhouette is full, but not heavy.

This look calls for a delicate touch when refreshing. I use Pattern Beauty Hydrating Mist to refresh curl ends without destroying the braid structure. It provides a nice satin-like finish and gives a little hold.

To me, this is the sort of style I would wear on a long weekend getaway; something romantic but practical. You achieve that volume and movement without having to be in front of a mirror all the time.

One detail I’d love to see more often? Some face-framing braids dipped in gold or copper thread. It gives this mermaid-y vibe that is so “2025 summer muse”.

Angular Cornrow Pattern with Scalp Definition

If you are a fan of sharp, geometric beauty, this one’s for you. The cornrows are sewn in an angular chevron design that comes together at the crown to provide high impact structure without adding bulk. The braids hang naturally on the sides, long and tight – little styling needed. It’s a cool-girl twist on a traditional protective style.

To keep that clean parting, a small amount of Scalp Oil by Melanin Haircare does a lot. I pat it on with a cotton pad to prevent flakes and irritation without messing up the pattern.

This is the braid style I would use if I have to look put-together and edgy. It says something in a quiet way — sort of like a power suit in braid form.

You can add a little personality with triangle parting or contrasting colored rubber bands if you want to break the symmetry. It’s all in the details.

Glossy Classic Box Braids with Middle Part

There are some styles that are never out of style and this one is a staple for a reason. These glossy box braids are shoulder length and are uniform in width, neat at the root and free flowing through the length. The middle part gives it balance and it becomes one of the most flattering summer braids for Black women 2025 – regardless of your face shape and vibe.

The gloss is the accent here, and I always keep it with ORS Olive Oil Nourishing Sheen Spray. A few mists in the morning, and your braids look as if they were just done – no dullness, no dust.

To me, this is an ageless choice for anyone who wants low maintenance but maximum polish. I’ve worn such styles for job interviews, vacations, and even weddings — it really works everywhere.

It’s also a blank canvas. Throw in a bold lip or statement earrings, and you’ve got instant glam without changing anything about your hair.

Thick Center-Part Jumbo Braids by the Water

Here’s a dreamy lakeside moment turned style inspiration. These jumbo braids are thick, ropey, and luxuriously soft. They’re divided right down the middle and tucked just behind the ears, giving the whole thing a relaxed, serene, ultra-summery feel. The fullness gives a halo effect, particularly if worn with natural glam.

Larger braids are more prone to frizzing, so I normally start with Design Essentials Anti-Frizz Foam Wrap Lotion – just a little bit down the length of the braid to smooth it all out.

This is providing me with barefoot walks, vintage sunglasses, and that time when you are finally at peace on a solo journey. It is easy, breathable, and durable enough to survive a dip in the water.

For a little more flair, wrap a few front braids in gold wire or use clear beads at the ends. Instant boho elegance.

Dark Classic Box Braids with Baby Hairs

Let’s end with a good old classic – dark box braids, middle part, thick, but not bulky, with clean baby hairs, creating the perfect hairline softness. The total length is medium to long and it is manageable and statement-worthy. There is an easy empowerment about this style, particularly when worn with confidence.

Edge taming is essential for a look such as this and I always suggest Ebin’s Edge Tamer in Extra Mega Hold. With a little brush and a satin scarf overnight? Flawless all week.

There’s something deeply grounding about going back to basics. This style makes me feel that it reminds me to be in the moment, particularly in a busy summer.

Want to soften it up? Tie half of the braids and leave some at the sides. Want structure? Braid two front pieces into a crown knot. The versatility is endless.

Textured Boho Fusion Braids

There is something so magnetizing about this combination of complex braids and unruly curls. The look has a texture-rich cascade that is both structured and carefree – like summer should be. The pattern of tight cornrows at the scalp runs into chunky twists and spirals that cascade at the back, kissed with warm honey tones for that subtle sunlit vibe. This isn’t just a protective style—it’s a whole mood.

To maintain those curls soft and the braids neat, I would definitely recommend a lightweight hydrating mist – try Camille Rose’s “Curl Love Moisture Milk”. And for the curly ends? A little of Eco Style Olive Oil Gel will take you a long way in sealing definition without crunch. This style thrives with moisture and low manipulation.

I did something like this a few summers back when I was touring the Southwest – dry heat all around, but my hair never felt brittle. Women kept on stopping me to ask who did my hair. This is the ideal choice for a person who is looking for something fresh but flexible.

If you have been rocking box braids or twists and you want a style that has more volume and texture play, then this fusion look is your next go-to. This one is ethereal and there is no way to avoid feeling that way.

Classic Medium Box Braids with Beads

This style never misses. These medium box braids drop with stunning uniformity to give a clean silhouette with natural movement. The center parting is a perfect framing for the face and what makes it summer braids for Black women 2025 is the sparkling touch of beads, cuffs, and rings scattered about. These tiny accessories catch the light—and catch compliments.

Maintaining a clean scalp is key with this look. I keep a dry shampoo foam like Cantu’s Refresh Apple Cider Vinegar Root Rinse on hand—it keeps buildup at bay without unraveling your hard-earned parts. Just rub it in gently along the lines and rinse lightly if required.

What I love most? It’s the balance. The length gives you the drama but the beads give it personality. You can dress this up or keep it chill. It’s youthful without trying too hard – that one playlist you play at a cookout and everyone is like “yeah this is good”.

Whether you’re headed to a festival or a rooftop brunch, these braids offer a polished base you can play with. Flip it, pin it, bun it—options for days.

Multi-Toned Knotless Braids with Loose Ends

Okay—this is the showstopper. These knotless braids are sleek at the scalp but come exploding into textured ringlets halfway down, displaying a dreamy palette of blonde, copper, and espresso strands. It’s not just the color that catches you. It’s the play of tight against loose, the surprise softness, the way the curls swoosh around the shoulders. This style practically demands sunlight.

These ends require some extra attention than full braids. I always apply a curl-refresh spray with glycerin before I go out. The Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Curl Refreshing Spray is now my staple because it makes the loose ends springy and defined throughout the day – even if I am out dancing in the heat.

For me, this is the braid style that is all grown-woman glam without the high-maintenance. I wore something like this last summer in Miami and the bounce? Unreal. It gave me an immediate boost of confidence – the “I know I look good” type of power.

It is the ideal summer look if you are looking for color and shape versatility. It stands out, but it’s not shouting—it’s singing.

Chunky Braided Rows with Defined Parts

There is an element of simplicity and symmetry here that is almost architectural. The thick, high-shine braids are laid with perfect parting that gives a clean and geometric appearance. The scalp is visible in between each section which gives this style a breathable and purposefully bold feel. It’s strong. It’s sleek. And it’s giving serious energy.

This is a look that keeps its shape perfectly with just a little oil. Give a try to the TGIN’s Argan Replenishing Hair & Body Serum, it’s silicone-free and provides shine without weighing the style down. Pay attention to the scalp and edges and keep those baby hairs brushed back to keep the crispness.

Honestly, this one reminds me of the times when I used to sit on the porch in late July, listening to old-school R&B and getting braided up. There is nostalgia in this look but it is also very modern.

This is the braid style for women who like bold beauty but also like precision. It’s neat, it’s strong, and it works whether you are beach-bound, or boardroom-bound.

Side-Swept Cornrows with Baby Hair Detail

This final look feels editorial. The cornrows curve gently on the scalp, with purpose and art. They sweep sideways, adding to facial structure and directing the eye right to that swooped baby hair perfection. It’s not only braids, it is architecture and softness in one.

This style needs edge control, period. I swear by The Doux’s Swag Goo Gel – it provides hold without the crunch and layers without flaking. And yes, an itty-bitty toothbrush for sculpting is still unbeatable.

This is that braid style I can picture myself wearing to an opening at a gallery, or even just doing errands, feeling a little more put together. It gives “cool-girl summer in the city”—that kind of silent confidence that speaks volumes.

If you are looking for an elegance that is not uptight, this design is your golden ticket. And yes, it goes perfectly with big hoops and bare shoulder.

Golden Brown Feed-In Braids with Baby Hair Art

This braid style is giving golden hour glam. With warm, golden-brown feed-in braids that are tightly rooted and flow effortlessly down, it’s a great mix of polish and playfulness. The scalp is laid clean with sharp parts and those delicate baby hairs swirl at the edge like a finishing touch on a masterpiece. It is that kind of style that defines cheekbones, earrings and attitude.

When rocking a lighter braid color, hydration is non-negotiable. I would recommend using the Melanin Haircare Multi-Use Softening Leave-In Conditioner to ensure that your natural hair is protected under the braids. It hydrates without frizz or buildup, even in the heat of August.

This is the sort of look I would go for if I want to feel totally pulled together – with no additional styling. It’s the kind of braid pattern that looks expensive even if your stylist is your bestie and she does it in her living room.

Great for holidays, brunches or even a summer wedding, this look is full of softness and structure in the best way.

Geometric Tribal Box Braids

Symmetry meets style in this next-level braid design. These jumbo tribal box braids are arranged in a geometric pattern that immediately draws the attention. Clean lines zigzag between parts, adding that edge-of-art feel. The braids themselves are thick and defined, which equals less time in the chair and more time serving looks.

For the maintenance, a dry scalp spray such as Taliah Waajid’s Stimulating Herbal Cleanser is a lifesaver. It maintains your roots fresh and itch-free in between wash days, and that is important when your braids are this structured and supposed to last.

There’s something deeply empowering about wearing this pattern. It feels cultural, intentional, and powerful. Just like your hair is saying something without you opening your mouth. I love that about it.

This is a braid style that stands out from the crowd. It owns space. It makes a statement. It shows up.

Honey-Bronze Waist-Length Box Braids

This braid style is sunshine in hair form. The honey-bronze tone provides that beach-babe energy and the ultra-long length provides drama. With sharp, small-to-medium braids neatly parted across the crown and reaching the waist, this is glow-up material. It’s giving goddess energy—and she knows it.

Long braids like these need regular TLC. I always sleep with a satin bonnet or use a satin pillowcase. And to maintain the luster, I use a little of Mielle’s Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil on the scalp every few days. A little goes a long way.

This was the same shade of blonde that I wore last summer, when I was in and out of the pool all the time – and it surprisingly didn’t wash out at all. There’s a vibe that comes with long, light braids: you just feel free and glowing.

If your vibe is golden, length-loving, “where’s the sunlight?”, this one will speak your language.

Short Bob Twists with Center Part

Chic, clean, and so very cool. These shoulder-grazing twists are the laziest, most stylish choice for summer. The middle part maintains the symmetry, while the medium sized twists add just the right amount of volume without looking bulky. It’s an easy-breezy option that’s stylish whether you’re heading to the market or a gallery opening.

What I truly love about this style is how little effort it takes. There is hardly any daily maintenance other than keeping the edges neat – try the Moco de Gorila Gorilla Snot Gel for sleek baby hairs that do not move. And yes, it holds even in 90-degree heat.

There was a moment I swore I could never rock short braided styles until I tried a bob twist like this and never looked back. It was very flattering to my face and made my collarbones stand out. Plus, it made hot summer days way more bearable.

This is your sign to go short. Elegant, easy, and endlessly wearable – what else is there to wish for?

Half-Up, Half-Down Black Braids

A little edge, a little flirt. This is the epitome of versatile half-up, half-down braids. The top is braided into tidy rows, drawing away from the face to accentuate your features, and the rest falls down in full, dark strands. It provides you that freedom to flip, toss and style as you go. The energy? Effortlessly magnetic.

This style is easy to switch up. I love to put the top into a high pony for beach days or twist it into a bun for something more glam. Maintain your braids glossy with a shine mist – ORS Olive Oil Nourishing Sheen Spray is light and manages frizz.

This look takes me back to my last girls’ trip, green dresses, long lashes, and laughter all day. This hair survived rooftop drinks and a shocker pool party. No regrets, just memories.

If you are a person who needs to adjust their style depending on their mood, then this half-up braid situation is it. It’s cute. It’s carefree. It’s very much you.