If you’re planning your next look for summer 2025, look no further than braided hairstyles. Not only do they protect your natural hair from heat and humidity, but they also come with endless options for self-expression.
We absolutely love the versatility of braided hairstyles on black women, you can wear them for just about any occasion, whether you’re heading to the beach, brunch, or the boardroom, braids will hold you down and have you looking bomb.
This year, Pinterest and TikTok are overflowing with trending braids — from the classic knotless to freestyle cornrows and boho curls. Ready to switch it up? Here are 25 braided hairstyles for Black women that are everything summer needs.
Trending Braided Hairstyles for Summer 2025
1. Knotless Box Braids
Lightweight, scalp-friendly, and versatile. These protective styles for natural hair are a summer must-do.
2. Fulani Braids
From tribal roots to runway-ready, these braids mix cornrows and beads for a bold statement
3. Stitch Cornrow Ponytail
Sleek, sharp, and stitch-perfect. A 2025 favorite for structure and neatness.
4. Medium Box Braids
Classic and wearable. Not too bulky, not too slim — the perfect in-between.
5. Boho Braids with Curls
Add curls to your box braids for a goddess braids effect. Soft, flirty, and festival-ready.
6. Triangle Part Braids
Give your knotless braids a twist with triangle parts that add texture and edge.
7. Braided Ponytail
Whether high and snatched or low and sleek, ponytail braids always give face.
8. Jumbo Tribal Braids
Go big or go home. These chunky protective styles are low maintenance and bold.
9. Criss-Cross Cornrows
2025’s most creative twist. Criss-cross parting makes your cornrow style unforgettable.
10. Small Knotless Braids
Perfect for longevity and movement. Looks best waist-length with layers.
11. Braided Bob
Short and stylish. This braided hairstyle is lightweight and screams effortless beauty.
12. Braids with Curly Ends
Tuck in curls at the tips for a boho feel. Works great with box braids or twists.
13. Blonde Box Braids
From honey blonde to icy 613, these braids for Black women pop in the sun.
14. Half-Up Half-Down Braids
Gives you the best of both worlds. Can be formal or playful.
15. Heart-Shaped Braids
Why not wear your heart in your hair? A cute design detail that gets compliments.
16. Feed-In Cornrows
Low tension and sleek. Perfect for active girls and protective styling.
17. Braided Space Buns
Fun and youthful. Add beads or color for personality.
18. Goddess Braids
Thick, luxurious, and regal. Truly a crown for summer.
19. Braided Crown
Wrap your head in royalty. This braid style gives ethereal vibes.
20. Updo with Loose Braids
Formal with a twist. Perfect for summer weddings and events.
21. Ombre Braids
Blend two or more colors for a unique summer slay.
22. Peekaboo Color Braids
Keep it classy outside, spicy underneath. Add red, green, or blonde.
23. Braids with Cowrie Shells
Cowries bring a cultural finish to your summer braid look.
24. Beaded Ends
From clear to wood to gold beads — let them swing with your braids.
25. Braided Bangs
Fringe meets function. Add bangs to your braids for something bold.
Quick Haircare Tips for Summer Braids:
- Moisturize your scalp every 2–3 days
- Use a satin scarf or a breathable hair net to cover your braids at night. This keeps your style intact while allowing airflow so your scalp doesn’t get sweaty or smelly. Your braids need to breathe too, sis!
- Don’t keep your braids in for more than 6 weeks
- Spritz with braid spray to keep hair fresh and itch free
