‘Tis the season for protective styling and braids are definitely on the menu. We’re constantly screenshotting styles on the fly and more often than not, celebrities are the source of inspiration.
And thanks to the ever evolving creativity of Black women, there are always a myriad of variations to choose from, as evidenced by Alicia Keys and Mila J. Both songtresses are serving summer hair inspo in two braid styles that we’d happily copy for the upcoming season.
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Keys, who typically fashions her curls into an afro or under a headwrap, is coveting a more intricate look these days. Showing off her new ‘do in a series of side profile shots on Instagram, Keys is the definition of effortless in a pair of thick braids, accented with gold hair charms down either side of her head.
Accessorized tresses are a common theme during festival season, so we’re bookmarking this one for this year’s ESSENCE Fest. Mila J. on the otherhand, is giving us dramatic length and color with her floorswept braids.
In the midst of a fast paced press run, the singer appears to be having a great time with her pretty plaits, which she’s rocked in both orange and green shades.
We’ve seen other beauty chameleons, such as Nicki Minaj and Justine Skye, take on rapunzel hair, too, which means it’s bound to be a top trend this summer.
Would you rock either of these looks? See more of this year’s best celebrity braid moments here.