This Miss France hairstylist reveals the 8 tresses on trend for summer 2026 and how to achieve them at home
This summer of 2026, braids are back in the spotlight. Practical and stylish, they protect hair from the sun, chlorine and salt. Between bohemian inspirations and nods to the 2000s, these hairstyles come in 8 easy-to-reproduce versions.
Why braids will dominate hair trends for summer 2026
When temperatures rise, the braided hairstyle becomes a precious ally. It keeps hair in place all day long, even after a swim. What’s more, it’s effortless to style.
For spring/summer 2026, twisted versions and soft ties are making a comeback. Movement and texture are at the heart of this trend. Naturalness remains the watchword, but with a sophisticated touch.
Red carpets and fashion shows confirm this craze. Diane Kruger caused a sensation with her braided pigtails when she walked the steps of the film “Fatherland” at the Cannes Film Festival on May 14.
Braided quilts and plaited braids: two must-haves
Braided pigtails are seductive for their easy-to-wear aesthetic. To achieve them, simply part your hair down the middle, then tie it into two low braids. Each bun then divides into three strands to form classic braids all the way to the ends.
“For summer, the ideal style is the plated braid, which is very popular on social networks. They’re perfect for summer and the beach, because they let you keep your hair done all day, even after a swim.”
The plated version requires a hair oil or protective mist before starting. This preparation preserves the fiber while creating a beautiful natural texture when the hairstyle is detangled. The beach waves effect is guaranteed.
Four braid styles for a variety of pleasures
The herringbone version seduces with its bohemian, romantic allure. The secret lies in tightening the start. For a more relaxed look, simply stretch the strands slightly at the end.
- The wheat ear braid for a bohemian style
- Braid and scarf for a colorful touch
- The twisted bun for a graphic look
- The braided double bun for a Y2K wink
- Feather braid for discreet refinement
The scarf instantly transforms a classic hairstyle into a fashionable creation. Colorful or printed, this accessory adds an instant summer touch. It is integrated into one of the strands before braiding begins.
The twisted bun is inspired by the ballerina chignon. Its look is both graphic and romantic. Loose, it’s perfect for everyday wear. Tighter and more structured, it becomes a ceremonial hairstyle.
Double bun and pipe braid: graphic options
The braided double bun is the fun hairstyle of the summer, ideal for festivals. This 2000s-inspired style is achieved by parting the hair into two equal sections. Each section is then braided to form a bun.
Pipe braid is all about precision and shine. This sculptural hairstyle offers clean, satiny lines. It involves tightly braiding two sections before connecting them with invisible elastics.
How to choose the right hairstyle for your hair type
Fine hair requires special attention to maintain maximum density. Wheat-herring or length-only versions are best suited to this texture. Starting braiding from the nape of the neck after a ponytail preserves visual thickness.
Thick hair offers more freedom. From plated hairstyles to African versions, anything goes. These styles structure the hair and enhance natural volumes.
On curly hair, a light oil or wax helps to discipline the material. This step defines curls for a clean, frizz-free finish. Straight hair, on the other hand, is the ideal terrain for graphic creations, where the precision of the line makes all the difference.
The most common mistake is the wrong balance of volume. A hairstyle that’s too high or too tight can also harden features. The finishing touches make all the difference: the point of attachment and the way certain strands are loosened make it possible to adapt the desired style.
