Wait: I've Just Pinpointed the Chicest Low-Maintenance Braid Hairstyles to Copy This Summer
Braids not only look great but are incredibly easy to maintain. Here are 19 low-maintenance braided hairstyles to opt for this summer.
The weather is finally starting to warm up here in the UK, and to me, this only means one thing: braids season is upon us! Not only does this protective hairstyle reduce the risk of heat-related breakage, but it's also a foolproof way to look put-together and polished, even in extreme heat.
However, the most compelling aspect of braids, in my opinion? As an extremely low-effort, high-reward girlie, I love the fact that I don’t have to wake up and do my hair every morning when I have them in. I mean, sure, they can take a few hours to get them in, but after that, you’re good to go.
Who What Wear UK's junior writer, Brittany Davy wearing French-curl braids.
As someone who’d much rather spend my time enjoying the summer, I definitely think the few hours every couple of months spent installing them are well worth it. And I’m not trying to brag, but as someone who’s tried many different braid hairstyles over the years (and who works in beauty), I have a pretty good idea of which braid styles are actually low-maintenance. The kind that are easy to wear, last for ages and go with every outfit. Not to mention that many styles can grow out as much as you’d like without constantly having to visit a salon for upkeep.
Who What Wear UK's junior fashion editor, Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolakis wearing boho braids.
So, if you’re over the countless time spent styling your hair every morning and are looking for a hassle-free braid hairstyle that will look incredibly chic with minimal upkeep, keep scrolling to discover the best low-maintenance braided hairstyles to see you through the summer season and beyond.
The Best Low-Maintenance Braid Hairstyles
1. Classic Box Braids
Classic box braids are an undefeated hairstyle that will give your hair a break from heat and over-manipulation.
2. Boho Braids
Boho braids look elegant at any time of the year, but they especially come into their own on summer.
3. Classic French-Curl Braids
Classic French-curl braids are my go-to for a low-upkeep hairstyle in the summer.
4. Pick and Drop Braids
Pick and Drop braids offer a versatile, lightweight protective style that will last you for weeks on end.
5. Classic Stitch Braids
It doesn't get more classic than stitch braids. They're quick to install, look polished and with a little oil and hair mousse, can last for a very long time.
6. Fulani Braids
Fulani braids is one of my favourite hairstyles to opt for in summer, due to how versatile they are.
7. Mermaid Braids
These pretty mermaid braids are easy to wear and will give you 1-2 months of mornings free-from styling.
8. Braided Bob
If you have shorter hair, a braided bob is a great choice that requires minimal time in the salon chair.
9. Goddess Box Braids
Braids are the easiest way to experiment with blonde as there doesn't have to be any bleach in sight.
10. Sculpted Stitch Braids
Sculpted stitch braids will have everyone thinking you spend hours on your hair in the morning.
11. Jumbo Twists
If braids still feel too high-maintenance for you, let me introduce you its cooler younger sister, the jumbo twists.
12. Braided Bun with Beads
A braided low bun screams laid-back elegance.
13. Ginger French-Curl Braids
Dyeing Afro hair can require a lot of maintenance, so adding colour in your braids is an easy way to experiment.
14. Stitch Braids with Curls
If stitch braids feel too simple. adding curls is an easy way to elevate the style.
15. Micro French-Curl Braids
These micro French-curl braids will allow your hair to grow out without looking "undone".
16. Fulani Braids with Feather Crochet Hair
Opting for feather crochet hair at the back is a streamlined way of wearing braids that are quick to install.
17. Braided Bun
A braided high bun is a way to take your look to new heights (no pun intended!).
18. Curved Cornrows
I had curved cornrows last summer and this pic is very much tempting me to get them again.
19. Jumbo Knotless Braids
Going XXL on the braids will require the least amount of time in the salon chair.
Best Products for Low-Maintenance Braid Hairstyles
Keep your scalp safe with this UV Protection spray.
A good gel will help you to keep your braids neat between salon visits.
Every makeup bag needs a good edge control brush.
A mousse will help to reduce frizz. Simply apply to your hair and tie it up with silk headscarf before bed.
I swear by this hair oil.
What Braid Hairstyles Are the Least Damaging?
When looking for a low-maintenance braid style that will cause the least damage to your hair, knotless braids and feed-in cornrows are regarded by hairstylists and professional braiders as one of the safest, due to the fact that they create less tension on the scalp.
However, every braid hairstyle can be done so long as you go to a trusted hair professional who knows how to install braids with minimal manipulation that reduces the chances of breakage, minimises hair tangling, and promotes hair growth.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including haircare, makeup, skincare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.
