Braiding is the quickest and most effective technique to make hair look instantly fantastic. Braids are super versatile and, imo, look particularly majestic in the summer sun.

Here are five easy and quick braided hairstyle tutorials that will give you summer-ready hair in minutes.

Side Note: While these hairstyles will work for any hair color and length, I deliberately chose people with light brown/blonde hair because A) it makes it easier for you to follow the tutorial and B) it’s easy to see the final look!

Related reading: The All-Time Cutest Summer Hairstyles We Love

Table of Contents

1. Kayley Melissa’s Khaleesi-inspired Elegant Braid

Kayley Melissa, a.k.a. my personal hair queen, created this Khaleesi-inspired braid that’s incredibly easy to recreate.

To do this khaleesi braid hairstyle (yes, we know her name is actually Daenerys), braid a thin front section of hair back normally towards the crown of the head and leave a little portion of it unbraided, then make two thin braids on both sides. Keep everything in place with clear elastic (like these from Goody).

Repeat the same process for the second layer. Braid the remaining hair down your back for a truly awesome hairstyle. No french or dutch braiding needed! 

2. Ashley Bloomfield’s Double Waterfall Braid

Ashley Bloomfield’s double waterfall braids add some extra intrigue to this classic style.

To get this double waterfall braid hairstyle, make two braids down both sides of the face, leaving a good inch of hair in front of each braid. Carefully widen the links of the braid and thread small pieces of hair from this 1 inch section through the braid. Secure each piece with bobby pins.