Braids have been one of the trendiest hairstyles for the past few seasons. I love the look of a romantic and rustic inspired braid but between you and me...braids are hard! I don't know about you but while I can check out photos of gorgeous braids all day, I will never actually try them out because they're always way too difficult. I mean, just check out this tutorial on a 5 strand braid or this one that details a mermaid-esque braid. I would love to have these brilliant braids in my hair, but I'm all thumbs when it comes to hairstyles and braiding. 

That's why we did a little searching and we came up with three (actually) easy braiding hairstyles. They're cute and chic without the challenge! 

Braid #1


This look is the simplest and can be done without any on your own. First, part your hair with a deep side part. Next, on the same side, section off a piece of your hair, including your side part. From this section, separate it into a top and bottom section. First, braid the top section, tying it off with a clear elastic. Take the bottom next and braid it, incorporating the top braid, again tying it off with an elastic.

Braid #2


On the side, towards the back of your head, take a section of hair. Separate this section into two, braiding each one. Tie each one with a clear elastic. Cross the two braids, bringing them across to the other side of your head. I decided to incorporate (and hide) the two braid ends into one braid on the side of my head. If you wanted, you could simply tie off and use bobby pins underneath hair to end the ends. You can also add some interest by doing the same thing on the opposite side of our head to create a larger more elaborate braided crown. 

Braid #3


This braid is a fishtail with a twist. First, tie a ponytail. Then, just above your hair elastic, make a small opening and push your ponytail through it. Next, it's time to do your fishtail. Check out this tutorial on a fishtail here, or this one here. After you're finished the braid, gently pull it apart to loosen your hairstyle. 

Tips! When braiding, stock up on small, clear elastics and bobby pins to ensure a smooth hairstyle and to hide obvious ends. Use hairspray and smoothing serums to tame flyaways and to keep your style all day long. And of course, practice makes perfect so if you're having trouble creating a braid, keep trying and get some assistance from a friend. 

I seriously mean it when I say that these hairstyles are easy-peasy! Remember when it comes to braids, they can be polished for a formal look or messy for an organic look. Of course, when it comes to braiding, it's always fun to play around and try something new.  

Here's a little hairspiration to get you started on your own summer braids:
 

(images via abeautifulmess.typepad.com, beautylish.com, abeautifulmess.typepad.com, beautylish.com, refinery29.com, polyvore.com) 

Do you have any go-to braided summer styles?