10 Layered Braided Hairstyles For Your Summer Cruise

Summer is here, and so is the need for hairstyles that are not just stylish but also practical.

Between the rising heat and the calendar packed with outdoor events, beach trips, weddings, and brunches, your hair needs to do two things: look good and stay out of your way. That’s where layered braids come in.

Layered braids are taking over Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok feeds this summer, and for good reason. These protective hairstyles are trendy, versatile, and flatter just about every face shape and hair length. Whether you love a goddess aesthetic, edgy cornrows, or colorful statement looks, there’s a layered braid style that suits your vibe.

Plus, the hairstyles are low-maintenance, protect your natural hair, and give you the “I woke up like this” kind of glam. Ready to find your signature braid style for the season? Let’s dive into what layered braids are all about and the top 10 covetable styles to try this summer.

What are layered braids, and why are they trending this summer?

Layered braids are a type of protective hairstyle where braids are installed in different lengths, creating a cascading or tiered effect. Instead of all your braids ending at the same point, layered braids fall at multiple lengths; some short, some medium, some long, which adds volume, movement, and a unique layered look.

Layered braids are trending this summer for a few key reasons:

• The hairstyles are cooler in the heat: Shorter layers mean less weight on your neck and shoulders.
  
• Layered braids offer variety: You can mix short and long braids, bangs, curls, beads, or even color in one style.
  
• Layered braids are also fashion-forward: Whether you’re headed to a music festival or a beach wedding, they give that easy, stylish look.
  
• And of course, these types of braids are protective: Like all braids, layered braids help retain length and shield natural hair from breakage and environmental stress.
  

How to Make Layered Braids

Creating layered braids takes both planning and technique. The beauty of this hairstyle lies in how the braids fall at different lengths to create a flowing, voluminous look. It’s not something you rush, especially if you want a neat finish and clean layers. Here’s a step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire process, from prepping your hair to finishing with the perfect detail.

1. Start with clean, stretched hair

Your first step is to wash your hair thoroughly. Use a gentle shampoo to cleanse your scalp and remove any product buildup, oils, or dirt. After rinsing, follow up with a moisturizing conditioner to keep your hair soft and manageable.

Once your hair is clean, towel-dry gently and apply a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant. Then stretch your hair. This can be done using a blow-dryer on medium heat if you’re comfortable with heat styling. Use a comb attachment or stretch your hair section by section using the tension method. If you prefer to avoid heat, use African threading, banding, or braid your hair loosely overnight to stretch it.

Stretched hair is important because it makes parting cleaner, helps the braids lie flatter, and gives the overall style a more polished finish.

2. Section your hair according to your desired layers

Deciding how you want your layers to fall is key. Layered braids work because of how the different lengths complement each other, so you’ll need to think about your desired shape before you start parting.

Some women prefer shorter braids in the front to frame the face, medium lengths on the sides for balance, and longer ones at the back for drama. Others might want a diagonal or asymmetrical effect, with one side longer than the other.

Use a rat-tail comb to create clean lines. Part your hair into rows or boxes depending on the style you’re going for: box braids, triangle parts, or feed-in cornrows. Clip each section out of the way as you go, and try to keep your parts even and symmetrical for the best result.

3. Install the braids layer by layer

Once your parts are done, begin braiding. Most people start at the back and work their way forward. For the back rows, use longer braiding extensions to create long braids that will fall over the shoulders or down the back. These form the base layer.

As you move to the middle sections of your head, switch to medium-length extensions. These will form the mid-layer and should be slightly shorter than the ones at the back.

When you get to the front or crown area, use shorter extensions to create the top layer. This gives you the layered effect where the braids fall in steps or tiers. The different lengths give volume and movement to the hair, and they help frame the face nicely without needing to trim or cut the braids.

If you’re planning to add bangs or face-framing pieces, make those braids even shorter than the rest. Use a mirror or ask for help to make sure both sides are even and well-balanced.

4. Customize your style with extra elements

One of the best things about layered braids is how customizable they are. You can stop at just the layered braids, or you can add elements that suit your personality or the occasion.

Some people choose to add curly or wavy tips by using curly extension hair or curling the ends with perm rods before dipping them in hot water. This creates that signature goddess braid look. Other threads in beads or cuffs at the ends or along the length of the braids for a traditional or playful touch.

You can also incorporate cornrow patterns in the front or sides and blend them into the rest of the braids. If you want a bold summer look, consider adding colored extensions—either in one solid shade, in a two-tone ombré, or in streaks spread throughout the hair.

5. Seal the ends to prevent unraveling

Once you’ve finished braiding, it’s important to seal the ends properly so the braids don’t loosen or unravel. If you’ve used synthetic braiding hair, the most common method is to dip the ends into hot water.

Boil water, pour it into a heat-safe bowl, and dip small sections of the braids into the water for a few seconds. Make sure to blot them dry with a towel right after dipping to avoid burns. This method softens the ends and helps them stay together.

If you’ve used curly or textured extensions at the tips, you can seal those ends using perm rods or flexi rods, then dip them in hot water to set the curls.

Another option is to tie rubber bands at the tips of each braid if you want a blunt, straight finish or if you’re adding beads.

Final notes

Layered braids look their best when done neatly and with attention to detail. Parting cleanly, selecting the right braid lengths, and maintaining symmetry make a big difference in the final result.

If you’re new to braiding or not confident in your skills, it’s always a good idea to visit a professional hairstylist. A good hairstylist can achieve the precision needed for layered braids, ensuring that each section falls where it should and the overall style looks seamless.

10 Layered Braided Styles to Try This Summer

These are the ultimate summer dreams. Think loose, boho-chic curls woven into thick, layered braids that fall at various lengths. Goddess braids typically use curly extensions at the ends or mid-braid for a romantic, soft finish.

Why we love it: It gives volume, movement, and a pretty look that’s perfect for festivals or date nights.

Simple, clean, and elegant. Straight layered braids are your regular knotless braids done in layers without curls or beads. The ends fall at different points, creating that trendy, tapered look.

Why we love it: It’s a go-to everyday look that’s sleek and sophisticated yet laid-back.

Who said you need waist-length braids to make a statement? Short layered braids, ending around your shoulders or neck, are lightweight, edgy, and perfect for high temperatures.

Why we love it: They’re low-maintenance, super breathable, and ideal for active lifestyles.

Add a playful twist to your summer hair with short braids and fringe-like bangs. This hairstyle frames your face beautifully and brings a youthful, trendy vibe.

Why we love it: It’s giving “cool girl energy” all summer long.

This is for women who still want that dramatic length but with some extra flair. Side bangs add softness around the face while the layered back gives a full, cascading effect.

Why we love it: It’s feminine, classy, and perfect for weddings or evening events.

Layered braids plus beads? Now we’re talking! Whether you go minimalist with a few wooden beads or full-on Fulani hairstyle with bold, colorful beads, this is the style that never fails to make a statement.

Why we love it: The sound, the sparkle, the cultural roots; it’s all a vibe.

This is a fusion of traditional Fulani braiding patterns and the trendy Koroba style (basket-shaped) with a layered twist. Usually features cornrows going back or around the head with braids of varying lengths cascading down.

Why we love it: It blends cultural heritage with a modern, fashion-forward look.

Cornrows at the front or sides with long, layered box braids at the back? Yes, please. This combo gives structure and edge while still delivering volume and movement.

Why we love it: It’s protective, stylish, and keeps your hair off your face; ideal for hot summer days.

The half-up, half-down hairstyle is cute and functional. Pull the top section into a bun, ponytail, or knot, and let the rest of your layered braids fall free.

Why we love it: It gives you two looks in one and works great for both casual and formal events.

This summer, don’t shy away from bold colors. Whether you go with fiery reds, honey blondes, cool blues, or ombré tips, adding color to your layered braids elevates the entire look.

Why we love it: It’s bold, expressive, and the ultimate summer flex.

How to Maintain Layered Braids

To keep your layered braids looking fresh all summer long, here’s what to do:

• Wrap at night: Use a satin bonnet or scarf to protect your braids while you sleep.
  
• Moisturize your scalp: Use braid sprays or light oils like tea tree, jojoba, or coconut oil 2–3 times a week.
  
• Keep your edges tidy: Use edge control gel and a soft brush to lay your baby hairs.
  
• Cleanse your scalp: Use a braid-friendly scalp shampoo or diluted apple cider vinegar to remove buildup.
  
• Avoid heavy styles: Don’t pull your braids too tight into ponytails or buns to avoid breakage at the roots.
  

Pro tip: Your layered braids can last 4 to 6 weeks with proper care. Just remember not to leave them in for too long to avoid matting or hair damage.

Photo: Instagram/southwestsixsalon