17 Incredible Braided Hairstyles for Summer

We can officially say we’re counting down to summer. And what better way to prepare than by having a bank of braided hairstyles to try out during the season?

If you’re planning to rock braids this summer, you’re in the right place. With many events in full swing, you’ll need hairstyles that match the occasion while keeping you cool in the heat.

Braids are generally low-maintenance and super comfortable, making them a perfect choice for the season. I’ve gathered 17 styles for you, from easy-going looks to more sophisticated ones. See some trendy braided hairstyles for summer below.

1. Short Box Braids

Stay cool this summer with a short box braid hairstyle. This is a simple and cool look that offers style without causing any discomfort. It’s also perfect as you won’t have to style often.

Just like any other braid look, it is low-maintenance yet completely changes your look.

2. Braided Ponytail

Braided ponytails have taken over our feed once again. It’s coming back as one of the fashionable looks this season, and we’re all for it. It is an amazing, simple, and stunning style to try out during summer.

You can keep all your strands protected and look good at the same time with the hairstyle. This is one of those styles to opt for if you want an effortlessly chic appearance. Not to mention that it won’t stress you or require lots of time daily for maintenance.

3. Natural Hair All Back Cornrows

I absolutely adore a simple braided style for summer. While they may be minimal, they allow your scalp to breathe and maintain a neat appearance.

Pair this with nice accessories, and it will take your style up a notch. Also, get an edge control. It will be your best friend if you’re styling this. You can simply just brush your edges for a clean look, and you’ll be ready to go.

4. Long Twisted Boho Braids

Want some color and length? The long, twisted boho braids are a great option.

It’s colorful, effortless, and cool. This is a trendy style you've probably seen everywhere on social media. I bet it will come up once if you search for braids on Instagram. Yep, that’s how popular it is. Hop on the trend this summer and enjoy a refreshing look.

The loose, wavy curls make the style effortless and unique. To create this, get bulk human hair extensions for the curls and braids. They won't weigh you down and will last longer.

5. Braids with Bantu Knots

Another short look that’s always chic and cool is the braids with bantu knots.

This one is for ladies who love an aesthetic look. However, it also goes beyond that; it protects your hair and allows your scalp to breathe.

It is just the ideal style for a nice summer vacation or a getaway. You can even switch it up a little by adding curls or accessories to the Bantu Knots.

6. Bubble Braids

Want to make a statement? You can always count on bubble braids. It’s a cool-girl hairstyle with no hint of mediocrity.

With just gel, a wide-tooth comb, a rattail comb, hair extensions, hair ties, hairspray, and moisturizer, you can achieve it.

- First, gather your tools, then comb your natural hair properly to remove any knots.

- Divide the front part in the middle using the rattail comb and brush each part to the side before joining them together around the crown of your head.

- Attach your hair extensions tightly to your hair with some hair ties.

- Hold different parts of the hair extensions to form the bubble braid.

- Finish it up with hairspray and gel your edges.

Although this style doesn’t last long, it is a flawless braid. And you can recreate it as many times as you want.

7. Knotless Braids with Curls

During summer, knotless braids with curls stand out among other braiding styles.

To elevate this style, you can go for a different hair color or add another into the mix. A brighter color will enhance the look, as it adds definition and switches up everything. The curls also bring in the juice to keep it really stylish.

8. Baldhead Braids

I’ve seen a lot of the baldie braids on my feed, and it’s just right for summer. This braid is styled close to the scalp to make it resemble a bald head. It became really trendy last year, and it is still going strong this year.

If you’re searching for an easy, yet gorgeous summer style, this is one you shouldn’t miss. It's an easy, yet eye-catching style.  Plus, you don’t need a lot of time to style it or a lot of time to maintain it.

9. Fulani Braids with Curls

Go for a funali braid style with lots of curls. It is a classic style that can be customized to suit your taste. You can go for a short style, a long style, or keep it somewhere in between.

You’ve likely seen this hairstyle on many women going on vacation, it's that popular! So, get your hair extensions and take the inspo to your stylist. You're going to love it.

You can create this style by yourself. Match Fulani braids with sew-ins or quick weave, even a half wig. Super easy!

10. Natural Hair Braided Bun

Looking for something shorter? A simple, natural braided bun style gives you a sophisticated and put-together look.

It is a well-suited hairstyle that’s great for the hottest summer days. You can show off your natural hair while keeping it protected and tucked away, and avoid using heat tools on your hair. For styles like this, it is perfect for the beach and casual brunch outings.  

11. Koroba Braids

This is a traditional hairstyle from Nigeria. It’s one of the hottest styles in town at the moment and unique, too. The style suits any occasion and would go well with summer outfits.

Simply part your hair into different sections, then braid with hair extensions. Once you’re done, roll the ends to form a bowl-like shape, and there you have it.

There are also longer versions of it, but a short hairstyle won’t cause heat in the hot weather.

12. Braided Mohawk

Braided Mohawk is one of the edgiest styles you can try. And this version has to be one of my favorites so far. It’s trendy and super stylish.

The braided parts that frame the face in the front, the hair extensions creatively done for a beautiful ‘do, and the French braids are simply magical. I also love how the style keeps all your hair away from your body, which is exactly what you need during summer.

13. French Curls

Let your hairstylist create some fashionable French curl braids for a fun, stunning summer style.

I know many would love to rock long hairstyles in the summer season, so why not consider French curls? They are a bit high-maintenance due to the curls, but they are an amazing style if you want to explore a bouncy and protective look.

14. Braided Cornrows with Curly Bun

For a style that gives a simple but classy look, look no further. The braided cornrows with bun style is here for you. The stitch braids give the style a clean look, and the curly bun perfects the overall appearance.

You can get your natural hair braided, then simply buy an attachable bun you can remove whenever. Or you could also get a curly bun and sew it with a thread and needle. This will be undetachable until you cut off the thread.

15. Short Blonde Braids

With blonde roots and braids, this is naturally a style that will turn heads. It is a bold, effortless hairstyle that’s great for those who want to stand out from the crowd. You can switch things up from your regular black hairstyles by going for blonde hair this summer.

16. Braided Pigtails

Pigtail braids might take you back to your younger days, but we’re absolutely loving that.

It is an adorable style to rock if you're looking to add a touch of playfulness. You will need a pack of hair extensions for this style, then divide your hair into two, put them in a ponytail, and braid the ends to whatever length you want. Simple!

17. Fulani Braids with Beads

This is an OG look that goes hard back in the day. It is still quite the look even today.

The hair involves braiding any intricate or creative pattern cornrows at the front, then going for single braids at the back. Next, beads are added to each of the braids for a stunning finish. I like to go with different colors of beads to match my overall vibe of the summer. You can do that as well.

Now you have 17 braided summer looks to choose from. Go ahead and make your selection and switch between styles. With this comprehensive braided hairstyles for summer list, you won’t search for inspiration anymore.

These hairstyles are beautiful, but the braiding hair you use makes a difference in the general appearance of the hairstyle.

Using high-quality 100% human braiding hair makes every braid hairstyle look really beautiful.

I hope you enjoy your summer!