Update posts like some hair days

Every Black girl knows the joy of a great protective hairstyle. Not only do they shield your hair from damage, but they also let you look fabulous while doing it! Choosing the right protective style is a big deal because you’ll likely wear it for a couple of months. So, finding a style that’s both stunning and practical is essential.

This post highlights some fantastic protective hairstyle ideas for summer that are light, low-maintenance, and easy to handle. When the weather heats up, you don’t want a style that requires too much fuss, which is why I’m a huge fan of protective styles for the season!

CHUNKY BUTTERFLY LOCS

Butterfly twists really have been gaining popularity! It’s great how styles can grow on you—sometimes it just takes a bit of time to appreciate their unique charm. They’re definitely a fresh and fun option for protecting your hair while staying stylish. Have you tried them out yourself, or are you still contemplating?

STITCH TRIBAL BRAIDS

Absolutely, cornrows and stitch braids are both such powerful styles! And that’s a great tip about protecting those baby hairs—keeping your edges intact is crucial for long-term hair health. Do you have a favorite way to style your cornrows or stitch braids?

CORNROWS WITH A FAUX PONY

Braiding cornrows into a faux ponytail offers the perfect blend of intricate detail and voluminous style. If you’re ready to play with color, you can weave it into the cornrows or add a vibrant ponytail for a chic color-block effect. Either way, you’re sure to turn heads!

PASSION TWIST

Passion twists definitely add a fresh and vibrant twist to traditional styles! They have that perfect blend of texture and movement that makes them stand out. Have you tried them out or are you planning to?

FAUX FISHTAIL BRAID

Not all faux ponytails are the same, and Tracee Ellis Ross took it to the next level with this stunning fishtail braid, adding both length and texture. For an ultra-sleek, shiny look, use a hair pomade like Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey. It’ll tame flyaways effortlessly and leave your hair looking radiant.

KNOTLESS BOX BRAIDS

Knotless box braids are such a game-changer! They’re definitely a more comfortable and gentle option for your hair. Plus, they look great and can be styled in so many ways. Have you found any particular styles or variations of knotless braids that you love?

FULANI BRAIDS

Enhance the texture of your Fulani braids by styling them with defined baby hairs. With endless parting options—like overlapping braids or geometric patterns—the beauty of this protective style is that you can keep returning to it for a fresh, glowing look without ever feeling repetitive.

JUMBO BRAIDS

Jumbo braids are so popular because they let you spend less time in the salon and require less hair! Plus, they’re absolutely adorable and give off major summer vibes—or is that just me?

BOX BRAIDS

Box braids are a top pick for protective styles for a reason. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they’re also incredibly versatile and never dull. For added flair, try larger sections—this amps up the drama, reduces braiding time, and keeps upkeep simple.

CURLY CORNROWS

This layered cornrow style by celebrity stylist Susy Oludele and Aeon Elliott is anything but ordinary. The curl pattern adds a fun and elegant twist to the classic straight-back cornrows, while the red highlights give it a vibrant pop of color.

FAUX LOCS

“Another great way to put a cool spin on box braids or faux locs is combining textures and curl patterns with extension hair,” says Brown. If you’re looking to elevate your look, try incorporating different colors—don’t shy away from bold contrasts—for a modern twist on this classic protective style.

FULANI BRAIDS WITH BEADS

Solange elevated her Fulani braids by adding beads that nearly cover the entire length. Channel her iconic style by coordinating your accessories—like a statement mask—with your braids for a bold, futuristic vibe. “Shook” doesn’t even begin to describe it!

FINGER-WAVE CORNROWS

Koudou drew inspiration from Beyoncé’s Lion King red-carpet look to craft these striking finger waves. Typically ending at the nape, the added extension offers extra length and the versatility to drape over your shoulder or wrap into a low ponytail or bun. Versatility is always a win!

FLAT TWISTS

This style combines flat twists and Bantu knots, showcasing that there’s no single way to rock protective styles. It’s ideal for when you’re torn between styles. Choose twists laid to the side like these, or go for a straight-back approach.

PLAITED UPDO

Elevate your braids with this stunning updo, crafted by Koudou. Inspired by Yoruba royalty, this look not only leaves you in awe but also honors the ancestors who pioneered intricate, innovative patterns to care for their natural hair. It’s a true celebration of heritage and beauty.

WAVY BANTU KNOTS

These Bantu knots strike the perfect balance between playful and chic with their curved parts and chunky, braided knots. It’s a great reminder that changing up your parting can instantly reinvent a timeless classic.

LOCS WITH HIGHLIGHTS

“Color is such a great way to give your box braids or faux locs a fresh look,” says hairstylist Cristiana Cassell, Chloe Bailey’s warm, highlighted locs were created in collaboration with hairstylist Sparkle. The neutral tones are ideal for fall but can effortlessly transition into winter months.

LONG PONY

Not all protective styles need braids—sometimes the simplest options, like a low bun or a long ponytail, can be just as effective. Elaine Welteroth shows that adding a touch of volume can elevate these go-to looks, turning a standard ponytail into something extraordinary.

FLORAL BOX BRAIDS

Combine box braids into larger sections and add floral accents for an instant update to your protective style. This look is great for fall, but you can easily transition it to winter by swapping the florals for golden rings. The beauty of this style lies in its limitless versatility.

HAIR WRAP

“An overlooked protective style is wearing a scarf,” says Lindsey. “Pulling your hair back into a loose ponytail or plaiting your hair, then wrapping a scarf in a chic style, is definitely an easy protective style that can be worn all year round.” The best part is that you can effortlessly switch up your look by experimenting with different colors and patterns based on your mood.

BRAIDED HEADBAND

Yvonne Orji from Insecure adds a touch of regal elegance to protective braid styles by draping one braid across the forehead like a crown.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, cute low-maintenance protective hairstyles offer both style and practicality, making them perfect for busy days or just keeping your hair healthy and protected. From jumbo braids and versatile box braids to chic Bantu knots and sleek faux ponies, there’s a range of options to fit every mood and occasion. Experimenting with colors, patterns, and accessories can add a personalized touch, ensuring your look remains fresh and exciting.

Vikings were more than just fierce warriors. They were also known for their meticulous appearance, with a particular fondness for well-groomed hair. Archaeological finds, such as ornate hair combs and figurines depicting both Viking men and women with intricate braids, attest to their dedication to grooming.

While some Viking hairstyles may require the expertise of a professional, many of these braiding styles can be achieved at home. However, longer hair is essential to fully express the Viking aesthetic.

Whether you’re a man or woman, these Viking-inspired hairstyles can help you channel your inner Valkyrie. Prepare to conquer lands and hearts with these captivating looks.

Scroll down to explore these luxurious styles and share your favorites in the comments!

1. THIS BRAID TOOK ME TWO HOURS TO DO, SO I’LL PROBABLY BE ROCKING IT FOR THE NEXT FEW DAYS.

Vikings, both men and women, were renowned for their long, well-maintained hair. Their manes often featured deep red or fair hues, adding to their formidable appearance.

2. I ADDED A TOUCH OF VIKING AUTHENTICITY WITH SOME NEW LEATHER BEADS DURING MY PHOTOSHOOT.

While it’s challenging to definitively prove the use of beads and leather slips in Viking braids, the abundance of these trinkets in gravesites suggests they were often used to secure the ends of braids.

3. SO IMPRESSIVE

While simple Viking hairstyles can be achieved at home, intricate braids like this one often require the expertise of a professional. Despite their high hygiene standards for the time, Vikings typically washed their hair only once a week. This influenced their hairstyles, which were often designed to minimize the need for frequent styling.

4. BRAIDING MY HAIR IS MY GO-TO STYLE FOR EVERYTHING FROM REENACTMENTS TO PHOTOSHOOTS AND EVERYDAY LIFE.

Over 40 Viking reenactment festivals and markets are scheduled to take place across Europe this year alone. Enthusiasts of Viking tradition strive for historical accuracy in their costumes and styles, and intricate hair braids are an essential component of any authentic Viking reenactment outfit.

5. VIKING HAIRSTYLE FROM A DRESS UP EVENT LAST WEEK

6. SIMPLE BUT POWERFUL HAIRSTYLE

Viking men were renowned not only for their bravery and ferocity but also for their meticulous appearance. Their long, often braided hair and well-groomed beards contributed to their reputation as charming and attractive individuals, which could sometimes provoke jealousy and bewilderment among their rivals.

7. HAIRSTYLE FOR TONSBERG VIKING FESTIVAL

8. CHANNELED MY INNER VIKING

9. LOVING THIS VIKING HAIRBUN AND THE UNIQUE BONE OSEBERG HAIRPIN

10. THIS HAIRSTYLE LOOKS INCREDIBLE ON AN 8-YEAR-OLD!

In the Viking period, children were not treated as drastically different from adults. While they did enjoy playing with wooden toys, they were also expected to contribute to household chores. Engaging with toys like wooden swords not only provided entertainment but also helped develop valuable swordfighting skills as they grew older.

11. MODERN ADAPTATION TO VIKING HAIRSTYLES

12. ROCKING THE BRAIDS TODAY

13. VIKING INSPIRED HAIRSTYLE

Viking women were not confined to domestic roles. The recent discovery of a female Viking warrior grave has challenged the traditional perception of Norse women, demonstrating their strength and courage.

14. EVEN THE VIKING MEN ARE DRESSING UP FOR SANKTHANS

Sankthans, or summer solstice, is a celebration held annually after sunset on June 23rd. Bonfires are lit, and people stay awake throughout the shortest night of summer. While it’s now associated with the birth of Saint John, its origins trace back to a pre-Christian tradition.

15. SIMPLE VIKING HAIRSTYLE

Viking hair combs were not only functional household items but also exquisite pieces of jewelry. Often crafted from ivory, whalebone, or deer antlers, these combs featured intricate Norse ornaments.