10 Easy Summer Braids

The simplest way to get your hair off your face is also the prettiest.

The simplest way to get your hair off your face is also the prettiest.

By Christa Joanna Lee, SELF

For a cute summer hairstyle that takes you from the office to happy hour or the gym to the beach, a cool braid will never let you down. And just when we thought we've seen every braid idea possible, leave it to hair wizards of Pinterest to dream up fresh interpretations to send us on a pinning frenzy. We've highlighted some of our latest favorites below—along with the products that make each possible. Whether you're pinning these 10 amazing styles along with us or you're on the hunt for even more hair inspiration, follow SELF on Pinterest for countless idea

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The Rose Braid

This gorgeous updo is simple in the front, and party in the back. First, rake strands with a styling oil like Marula Light Hair Treatment & Styling Oil to give hair shine and control. Start by making a Dutch braid from one ear and along the hairline. Once you get to the opposite ear, start curving the braid back towards the side you started on, but this time, only feeding sections of hair to the top part of the braid rather than both sides. Braid all the way down to the ends and secure with a clear elastic. Create a classic three-strand braid with any remaining hair left out of your first braid and also secure with a clear elastic. Twist the second braid you made into a swirly, rose-shaped bun and pin into the place. Lastly, wrap the larger Dutch braid around the bun to finish off the look. Check out this nifty video for a thorough step-by-step. While it's certainly not a beginner's braid, the results are so worth it.

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The Milkmaid Braids

A strong center part juxtaposed with wispy, face-framing pieces make this milkmaid hairstyle instantly classic. Separate hair into two sections, create traditional three-strand braids and secure with clear elastics. After taking a minute to admire your Pippi Longstocking look, pull one of the braids over the crown of your head and pin in place. Do the same with the other side and tuck in the ends with bobby pins so they don't stick out. Give it a generous blast of Extra Hold L'Oréal Elnett Hairspray to lock it in place.

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The Ribbon Braid

Since you've already had some practice with milkmaid braids, amp up the style with a texturizing dry shampoo like Sally Hershberger 24K Supreme Stylist Voluminous Dry Shampoo ($32) and a subtle piece of ribbon incorporated within your look. Pastel and neon ribbons are spot-on for your next outdoor concert, while a neutral color like black is more work appropriate.

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The Undone French Braid

The coolest braids are textured, loose and not even close to being perfect (unlike you!). Case in point: this haphazard half-up hairstyle which is basically a French braid, but it pulls in pieces from every other section. Scrunch the ends with your hands after spritzing it with a volumizer like Klorane Leave-In Spray with Flax Fiber 

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