The Best Summer Braided Hairstyles: Cosmo’s The Braid Up Guide
Your ultimate guide to the trendiest, most protective, and creative braided styles for every summer occasion.
Summer is the perfect season to refresh your hair routine, especially if you want to keep your strands neat, stylish, and protected from heat and humidity. The Braid Up, Cosmopolitan’s go-to series for the season’s top hair trends, showcases an array of creative and protective braided hairstyles ideal for warmer months. Whether you’re aiming to channel a celebrity-inspired look, experiment with updated classics, or try a totally new twist, there’s inspiration and expert advice for everyone.
Why Braids Are the Ultimate Summer Style
As temperatures soar, the idea of hair hanging loose—and, let’s be real, getting sweaty and frizzy—becomes less appealing. Braids make a convenient, versatile, and protective go-to. Not only do they take your hair off your face, but they also offer low maintenance and the ability to last for weeks with minimal daily styling. Plus, the current wave of social media trends and celebrity influences means creative braided styles are more accessible than ever.
Essential Tips for Prepping and Maintaining Braided Styles
Before diving into specific styles, set yourself up for long-lasting braids by following these core hair prep and aftercare steps:
- Deep Condition Before Braiding: Always apply a rich, nourishing mask to hydrated hair the day before your braiding session. This primes your strands and keeps them moisturized under extensions or intricate styles.
Expert tip: Choose masks with argan or jojoba oil for extra strength and softness. - Clean and Detangle: Clean scalp and thoroughly detangled hair prevent knots, tension, and breakage during braiding.
- Protect Your Edges: Use lightweight serums or gels around your hairline to reduce tension and maintain healthy, strong edges.
- Scalp Care During Wear: Continue to moisturize your scalp daily—even with extensions—using lightweight oils. This prevents dryness and flaking, especially during hot, sweaty days.
- Nighttime Maintenance: Keep styles fresh by wrapping braids in a silk or satin scarf at night, and use setting mousse every few days to reduce frizz and extend the life of your braids.
Top Braided Hairstyles To Try This Summer
Each style featured by The Braid Up is more than a trend—these are protective looks that help you slay all season, from beach days to brunch. Here are this summer’s standout styles, complete with tips, care notes, and creative twists.
Special Stitch Braid: A Summertime Masterpiece
Stitch braiding is a technique that uses the “stitching” method with a rat-tail comb to create perfectly spaced, geometric parts. The result is an impeccably clean, artistic look that stands out whether you keep it simple or add accessories. Ideal for making a statement at summer parties or festivals!
- How to Achieve: Start by parting hair into crisp, straight lines, then braid closely along the scalp in sections. Stylists often use the back-to-front parting method for consistent style.
- Pro Tip: Clean parts and a good edge control product are key. A finishing mousse tames flyaways and sets the look.
- Maintenance: Keep scalp nourished and touch up shine with lightweight oils. Refresh with mousse every few days.
Nicki Minaj’s Iconic Braided Ponytail
Channel pop culture royalty with a sleek, high braided ponytail inspired by Nicki Minaj’s signature style. This look is fierce, dramatic, and perfect for making an entrance.
- Step-by-Step: Secure hair into a high ponytail, then braid the length using pre-stretched extensions for maximum length. Finish with setting mousse and, for bonus points, wrap a section of braiding hair around the base.
- Style Upgrade: Add statement beads or neon hair wraps for a playful, summer-ready twist.
- Upkeep: Wrap your ponytail at night to preserve smoothness. Apply setting mousse and a hair wrap to maintain structure as needed.
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Stitch-and-Go Braids: Low Maintenance, High Impact
Merging the neatness of stitch braids with the convenience of a ready-to-wear look, stitch-and-go braids are perfect for busy summer schedules. They offer intricate style without the need for daily touch-ups.
- Essential Elements: Sharp parting, uniform braid size, and hydrated scalp are critical for the look’s longevity.
- Maintenance: Light oil mist and overnight wrapping will keep braids looking freshly done.
- Pro Suggestion: Try colored braid extensions for a subtle summer pop.
‘Knot Just a Heart’ Braids: Adding Fun to Protective Styles
Level up classic knotless braids with heart-shaped parts. This playful, unexpected twist has become a go-to for those who want to experiment with creative parting and accent shapes in their style.
- Prep Steps: As with other protective styles, deeply moisturize beforehand. When parting, begin at the back and move forward, using a rat-tail comb for precision.
- Styling Note: Incorporate colored or ombré extensions for added flair, and finish with mousse before bed to maintain hold and shine.
- Care Advice: Apply scalp oil regularly and wrap hair at night to keep parts sharp and minimize frizz.
Bantu Knot Style: The Ultimate Curl-Friendly Look
Bantu knots are a classic that have taken on a modern vibe thanks to creative partings, size variations, and decorative accessories. Not only is this look protective, it leaves you with beautiful curls once untwisted.
- How-To: Part hair evenly, twist and wrap small sections into mini knots, securing them at the scalp. Experiment with part shapes—for example, triangles or diamonds—for a unique pattern.
- Summer Bonus: Embellish with beads, cuffs, or colored elastics for festival energy.
- Maintenance: Mist with oil or conditioning spray to reduce tension and dryness, and always cover with a satin scarf at night.
Bubble Braids With Seashells: Mermaidcore Perfection
Inspired by all things aquatic, bubble braids adorned with shell and pearl accessories are the epitome of mermaidcore. This whimsical look is perfect for beach vacations and pool parties.
- Get the Look: Section hair into ponytails, then use clear elastics every 2–3 inches to create “bubbles.” Tuck seashells and beads between elastics for extra flair.
- Pro Tip: Add braid extensions if you want extra length or volume before forming bubbles.
- Care: Keep accessories clean, remove them gently, and refresh waves with mousse as needed.
Halle Bailey-Inspired Loc Pony: A Vision in Texture
Channeling Halle Bailey’s signature loc ponytail is all about texture, height, and a sleek finish. Faux locs or real ones are gathered into a high, flexible ponytail for maximum summer impact.
- Styling Steps: Pull locs up and secure at crown, then wrap with a silk scarf and apply a mousse for a polished look.
- Expert Hack: For added drama, add a “loc bow” or hair jewelry at the base of the ponytail.
- Aftercare: Sleep with a silk bonnet to minimize friction and keep locs neat.
Jumbo Invisible Locs: Effortless Volume
When it comes to making a statement this summer, jumbo invisible locs combine the fullness of traditional locs with a sleeker, lightweight feel. They mimic real locs without the long-term commitment.
- Technique: Invisible locs are created by flat-twisting hair with extensions, which are then wrapped to create a faux loc effect. Jumbo sizing equals more volume and faster styling time.
- Maintenance: Hydrate scalp with oils, keep frizz in check with mousse, and wrap at night.
- Style Tip: Add metallic threads or cuffs for festival-ready looks.
Triangle Butterfly Braids: Geometric Perfection
Twist up your routine with triangle parts and “butterfly” braiding techniques that create otherworldly volume and shape. Perfect for those seeking standout geometry and a little playful flair.
- How-To: Divide hair into triangular sections, braid tightly, then fluff and separate to form “butterfly” shapes along the length.
- Summer Twist: Play with pastel or UV-reactive braiding hair for vibrant poolside style.
- Upkeep: Use mousse and gentle detangling to maintain fullness. Preserve shape with a silk wrap at night.
Sleek High-Ponytail Braid: Bold, Clean, and Fresh
A high, slicked-back braid is simultaneously practical and brazenly stylish. Go for super-sleek edges, extra hair extensions, and an ultra-long finish for maximum drama.
- Style Steps: Apply edge control, pull hair tightly into a high ponytail, and braid (or twist) extensions into the ponytail.
- Upgrade: Weave colored string or add gold cuffs along the length for an elevated finish.
- Nighttime Care: Wrap with a satin scarf, and refresh with edge control and mousse as needed.
Wax Color Craze: Experiment Without Commitment
Coloring your hair for summer doesn’t have to mean permanent dye. Wax color lets you experiment with bright hues—blue, lavender, magenta—on top of your braids, locs, or twists. The color washes out easily and won’t damage your natural hair.
- How to Apply: Simply rub wax color between your palms and smooth it along braids or twists. Let dry before styling.
- Bonus: Safe for most hair types and perfect for those hesitant about a permanent change.
- Tip: Always follow product directions and protect clothing while applying.
Loc-Bow Style: Pretty Meets Playful
This whimsical twist on locs transforms your hair into a statement accessory by creating a large “bow” out of your faux or real locs. A perfect party or wedding look that radiates charm and personality.
- Styling Advice: Gather locs into a ponytail, split them, and shape each side into a “bow loop,” securing with pins or elastics.
- Final Touches: Finish with shine spray and a pretty pin at the center for extra polish.
Table: Quick-Guide to Summer Braided Styles
| Style Name | Main Feature | Best For | Signature Accessory |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stitch Braid | Sharp, geometric parts | Bold statement looks | Edge control gel |
| Nicki Minaj Ponytail | High, sleek braid | Event-ready glam | Beaded wrap and setting mousse |
| Knot Just a Heart Braids | Heart-shaped parts | Playful, creative styling | Colored extensions |
| Bantu Knots | Twisted mini-buns | Protective, natural curls | Hair cuffs and beads |
| Bubble Braids | Bubble-like sections | Beach & pool style | Shells and pearl charms |
| Jumbo Invisible Locs | Voluminous faux locs | Low-maintenance protection | Metallic threads |
| Sleek Ponytail Braid | Super-long, tight braid | All-occasion drama | Gold cuffs |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I keep braided styles neat and frizz-free in summer humidity?
A: Wrap hair nightly in a silk/satin scarf, regularly apply light mousse, and refresh the scalp with a moisturizing spray during the day.
Q: What can I do to prevent my natural hair from drying out under extensions?
A: Before braiding, use a hydrating mask. After styling, apply scalp oils daily and cleanse gently with a diluted shampoo every 7–10 days.
Q: Are these styles suitable for all hair textures?
A: Most featured braids are versatile but work best on medium to thick hair types. For fine or very delicate hair, consult with your stylist for tension-free adaptations.
Q: How long should summer braids typically last?
A: With proper care (covering at night, moisturizing, and minimizing manipulation), you can safely wear most braids for up to 4–6 weeks.
Quick Summer Haircare Do’s and Don’ts
- Do invest in a quality edge control and finishing mousse.
- Do use a heat protectant before blow-drying or stretching hair for braiding.
- Don’t skip routine scalp care just because hair is styled.
- Do remove accessories gently to avoid breakage.
- Don’t leave braids in longer than six weeks to avoid tension and matting.
Final Thoughts: Slay All Summer With The Braid Up
This summer, empower your look and your strands with one of Cosmo’s best braided styles. Whether you want to try out intricate parts, pop-of-color extensions, or a celebrity-inspired high pony, there’s a creation for every mood and occasion. Remember: the best braid is one that’s healthy, suits your personality, and helps you stay cool—both literally and metaphorically—all season long.
References
- https://kreyolessence.com/blogs/press/cosmopolitan-the-braid-up-how-to-create-these-knot-just-a-heart-braids
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a36954896/best-of-summer-styles-cosmo-the-braid-up/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a20108002/monica-braids-lemonade-braids-tutorial/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a44299151/nicki-minaj-braids-how-to/
- https://bglh-marketplace.com/2025/07/cosmopolitans-hot-new-braid-look-is-a-style-naptural85-did/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ilpvgo9joy0
- https://www.latchedandhooked.com/blogs/news/latched-and-hooked-named-best-braiding-hair-by-cosmopolitan-magazine
- https://maxinesalon.com/cosmopolitan_september_25_2023/
- https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrx4fxhgMUObLCxt_QbtT-1Qqx0oN2-EN
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