20 Summer Braid Hairstyles: Top Trends for Long, Medium & Short Hair

Are you searching for the perfect braid hairstyles for the summer? With the sun shining brightly, it’s the perfect time to explore fun and chic braid summer hairstyles that not only keep your hair away from your face but also enhance your summer style. Whether you have long hair, medium hair, or short hair, there’s a braid for every length and occasion. From the effortless French braid summer hairstyles to intricate summer box braid hairstyles, this guide will walk you through some of the most sought-after styles this season. Ready to twist and twirl your locks into something magical?

Classic French Braid

A timeless choice among braid hairstyles for the summer, the Classic French Braid is elegant yet simple. Ideal for those with long hair or medium hair, this style pulls hair back from the face, making it perfect for a beach day or an outdoor camp adventure. It suits almost everyone and is particularly flattering for those with oval or longer face shapes.

For maintaining a sleek look, use a smoothing serum or a lightweight mousse before braiding to control frizz and add shine. Brands like L’Oreal Paris and TRESemmé offer excellent products for braid maintenance. This hairstyle not only keeps you cool but also transitions beautifully from a casual daytime look to a chic evening style.

Fishtail Braid

The Fishtail Braid, known for its intricate and detailed appearance, looks elaborate but is surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it. It’s perfect for summer braid hairstyles for long hair and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. This style is best suited for those with long, smooth hair as it displays the intricacy of the braid more clearly.

To enhance the texture and grip of your hair, apply a texturizing spray before starting the braid. Brands like Bumble and Bumble or Oribe offer excellent sprays that prep your hair for braiding. The Fishtail Braid is not only beautiful but also a practical choice for keeping your hair controlled during breezy beach days.

Box Braids

Summer box braid hairstyles are not only a fashion statement but also a superb protective style, especially for black hair. They are versatile and can be styled in numerous ways, from buns to ponytails, making them perfect for hot and humid conditions. Box braids are particularly flattering for braid hairstyles for black women summer, providing both style and ease.

To keep your box braids looking fresh, use a spray leave-in conditioner and regularly oil your scalp with products from brands like Shea Moisture or Cantu. These steps help maintain moisture and prevent your scalp from drying out.

Crown Braid

The Crown Braid wraps around the head offering a regal and elegant look, perfect for both day and evening summer events. This style works well with medium hair and long hair and is particularly attractive on women with heart-shaped faces. It’s a great way to elevate your summer style while keeping hair neatly out of the way.

To ensure your crown braid holds well throughout the day, consider using a flexible-hair spray. Brands like Paul Mitchell and Garnier provide excellent products that offer hold without stiffness. The Crown Braid is not just beautiful but also practical for hot summer days, keeping your neck cool and your hair tidy.

Milkmaid Braid

The Milkmaid Braid is a quintessential braid summer hairstyle that wraps around the head creating a crown-like effect. This style is especially suited for those with medium hair to long hair and offers a charming and romantic look. It’s perfect for outdoor summer weddings or picnics and works well for those who enjoy a classic, feminine style.

To ensure your Milkmaid Braid stays in place from day to night, use bobby pins that match your hair color and apply a light mist of hairspray to tame any flyaways. Opt for brands like Dove or Pantene for sprays that offer hold without stiffness. This braid not only keeps you cool but also adds a touch of elegance to any summer outfit.

Waterfall Braid

Aptly named for its cascading effect, the Waterfall Braid is a beautifully intricate style that lets strands of hair flow freely in a braid pattern. This braid is perfect for those with long hair looking for a braid hairstyle that’s both whimsical and functional. It works best for casual and semi-formal summer gatherings.

To keep your Waterfall Braid looking its best, consider using a serum to add shine and reduce frizz. Brands like John Frieda or MoroccanOil offer products that can help enhance the smoothness and sheen of your braids. This hairstyle is particularly charming for those long, dreamy summer evenings.

Mermaid Braid

The Mermaid Braid is an elaborate and fuller version of the classic braid, incorporating small strands from the sides into the braid to create a thick, woven look. This style is perfect for those with long hair who enjoy a more dramatic, eye-catching hairstyle. It’s particularly popular at summer festivals or beach parties.

For added texture and volume, spritz your hair with a sea salt spray before braiding. Brands like Bumble and bumble or Sea Breeze are excellent for giving your hair that perfect beachy texture. The Mermaid Braid is a fun and flirty style that screams summer fun.

Lace Braid

The Lace Braid is similar to a French braid but adds strands to one side only, which creates a delicate, lace-like appearance on the side of the head. It’s an ideal choice for those with medium to long hair who want a subtle yet pretty braid. This braid is versatile for both daytime and evening events during the summer.

Maintaining a Lace Braid’s neat appearance can be achieved with a smoothing brush and a bit of styling cream to control flyaways. Products from TIGI or Redken can offer a polished look while keeping the braid intact. This hairstyle is perfect for those looking to add a gentle, refined touch to their summer wardrobe.

Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch Braids are energetic and youthful, offering a secure and sporty way to manage your hair during active summer days. This style is perfect for medium to long hair and is particularly popular among those who participate in summer sports or festivals.

To keep these braids tight and neat all day, use a gel or mousse that provides extra hold. Look for products from brands like Schwarzkopf or American Crew that are formulated to withstand humidity and activity. Double Dutch Braids are not just practical; they’re also stylish and fun, making them a top choice for a summer full of adventure.

Side Braid

The Side Braid is a versatile and easy hairstyle, ideal for those with medium hair to long hair. It’s perfect for both casual and formal events, making it a great choice for all summer activities. This style is particularly flattering for women with round or square face shapes as it elongates the face, providing a soft, feminine look.

For a long-lasting hold, especially when attending beach events or when you need something easy for an active day, opt for a lightweight styling cream that will maintain the braid’s shape without weighing it down. Brands like Aveda and Living Proof offer excellent products that ensure your braid remains neat and tidy all day.

Lemonade Braids

Lemonade Braids, famously worn by Beyoncé, are a bold and artistic style of summer braid hairstyles for black women. These tightly woven braids sweep to one side, usually starting from the front and tapering down. They are perfect for any hair type but are particularly striking on black hair.

To keep your Lemonade Braids looking fresh and to reduce itchiness, use a scalp oil that moisturizes and soothes. Brands like Carol’s Daughter and Mielle Organics provide excellent options that are specifically formulated for braided hairstyles. Lemonade Braids not only look stunning but are also practical for keeping your hair away from your face on windy beach days.

Pull-Through Braid

The Pull-Through Braid is an innovative twist on traditional braids, resembling a series of ponytails that create a voluminous, braided effect. This style is fantastic for those with medium to long hair and provides a robust, sporty look that’s perfect for active summer days or when you need a style that stays in place.

To ensure your Pull-Through Braid holds up throughout the day, use elastics that match your hair color and apply a firm-hold hairspray to keep everything secure. Products from brands like Schwarzkopf and Hask are ideal for adding the necessary hold and shine, making this style both practical and attractive for any summer outing.

Braid into Bun

A summer braid bun hairstyle combines the comfort of a braid with the elegance of a bun. This hybrid style is especially suited for those with long hair who want to keep their locks up and off their necks during hot days. It’s elegant enough for evening events yet casual enough for day wear.

To maintain the style’s integrity, especially in humid conditions, use a strong hold gel or mousse before styling. Brands like Got2b and Tigi Bed Head provide excellent products that ensure your braid and bun stay intact. This hairstyle is a perfect solution for a chic, no-fuss summer look that keeps you cool and stylish.

Cornrows

Cornrows are a classic and low-maintenance braid hairstyle for black women summer option that can be dressed up or down. They are tightly braided to the scalp and can be worn in simple straight lines or in intricate designs, making them both a practical and artistic choice for the summer.

To keep your Cornrows looking neat and to prevent scalp dryness, regularly apply a light scalp oil or spray. Brands like Shea Moisture and As I Am offer products designed to nourish both the scalp and hair. Cornrows are not only a protective style but also keep you looking exceptionally stylish throughout the season.

Bohemian Braid

The Bohemian Braid, often characterized by its loose, undone look, is perfect for those who prefer a laid-back and romantic style. Ideal for long hair or medium hair, this braid incorporates small braids and twists, often embellished with small flowers or ribbons, making it a favorite for easy beach outings and music festivals.

People with wavy or curly hair will find this style particularly flattering, as the natural texture adds to the boho-chic vibe. To keep your Bohemian Braid looking effortlessly beautiful, use a flexible hold hairspray or a texturizing spray like those from Bumble and Bumble or MoroccanOil, which provide hold without sacrificing the natural, flowy feel of the hairstyle.

Infinity Braid

The Infinity Braid, known for its intricate and continuous pattern, is a sophisticated choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their summer wardrobe. Best suited for long hair, this style wraps strands in a figure-eight pattern, creating a sleek, infinite loop effect that is both eye-catching and refined.

This braid is particularly appealing for formal summer events or evenings out. To ensure longevity and to tame flyaways, use a smoothing serum or gloss from high-quality brands like Kerastase or GHD. These products help maintain the sleekness and shine of the braid throughout any summer activity.

Butterfly Braid

The Butterfly Braid is a large and intricate braid, often incorporating loops or sections that resemble the wings of a butterfly. This dramatic style is best for medium to long hair and is perfect for those looking to make a statement at summer gatherings.

To ensure your Butterfly Braid stands out, use accessories like gold cuffs or threads, and keep the hair polished with a high-shine pomade from brands like SheaMoisture or Cantu. This hairstyle not only adds drama to your summer look but also keeps hair securely styled in hot weather.

Faux Hawk Braid

The Faux Hawk Braid combines elements of punk and sophistication, featuring braids that converge into a mohawk-style crest down the center of the head. This edgy style is suitable for medium to long hair and is a fantastic choice for those looking to showcase their bold personality at concerts or casual outings.

Maintaining the structure of a Faux Hawk Braid involves using a firm-hold gel or mousse, especially on the sides to keep the hair smooth and in place. Products from TIGI or American Crew are excellent for crafting a sharp, lasting hold that will keep your hair stylish and manageable no matter the summer heat.

Topsy Tail Braid

The Topsy Tail Braid, known for its playful twist on the classic ponytail, is perfect for those with medium hair or long hair seeking a simple yet charming look. This style effortlessly transitions from a casual day at the park to an evening out, making it a versatile choice for summer activities.

Suitable for almost any face shape, the Topsy Tail Braid adds a touch of whimsy to your style. To keep your braid looking its best all day, use lightweight styling products like sea salt spray or texturizing spray from brands like Not Your Mother’s or Ouai. These products add volume and grip, making styling easier and ensuring your braid holds up against summer breezes.

Chain Link Braid

The Chain Link Braid is an innovative and stylish option for those with long hair. It involves interlocking loops of hair that resemble a chain, making it a standout choice for summer festivals or a night out. This braid is best suited for individuals with thicker hair as it showcases the intricate weaving of the strands.

For maintenance, apply a smoothing serum before styling to reduce frizz and add shine. Brands like Paul Mitchell and Living Proof offer products that provide a sleek finish while protecting your hair from humidity. The Chain Link Braid not only turns heads but also keeps your hair neatly styled and out of your face during those hot summer days.

Which of these braid hairstyles will you try this summer? Each style offers a unique blend of beauty, comfort, and practicality, making them perfect for your summer adventures. Try one or try them all and transform your look this season. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let us know your favorite summer braid style!