Cover Photo: Jason Lloyd-Evans

There’s no better time to get creative with effortless braids than the arrival of summer

Polished blowouts and artistic top knots may dominate street style during the warmer months, but the dog days of summer warrant a no-fuss approach that will stay put throughout the day until night.

Enter this season’s hair-do staple: the braid.

Play with ribbon-woven twists for that much-needed dip in the water or textured plaits for your last-minute European getaway. Forget about romantic Rapunzel-esque locks and instead embrace full-on combatant style.

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This season it’s all about the tough and sleek, and braids should be worn long and low, with super shine. Recreate the runway-approved wet look by working a gel or serum through the lengths of damp hair.

Here's our edit of the best hair products you need to champion the trend:

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Photo 1 of 11 Work Rossano Ferretti Parma's Favoloso Natural Defining Mousse through damp hair for added volume and hold
Photo 2 of 11 Philip Kingsley's soothing Flaky Itchy Scalp Toner provides immediate relief from irritation that's caused by styling
Photo 3 of 11 Repair your hair with Intensive Hair Oil by Sachajuan. This leave-in treatment doesn't leave residue and will strengthen locks before styling
Photo 4 of 11 An easy-to-use everyday conditioner, Masque Quintessence by Leonor Greyl Paris detangles tresses
Photo 5 of 11 With a little help from Lux Volume Lotion by Show Beauty, your braids will be fuller and thicker
Photo 6 of 11 Densely packed with natural boar bristles, the Medium Mixed Bristle Flat Brush by Oribe is a must-have
Photo 7 of 11 These Overnight Repair Treatment Oils by Vernon François do exactly what their name suggests
Photo 8 of 11 Christophe Robin's Pre-curved Blowdry Boar Bristle Hairbrush works well for those with curls
Photo 9 of 11 Ouai Haircare's Scalp & Body Scrub is deep-cleansing and gentle
Photo 10 of 11 Styling Powder by Balmain Paris Hair Couture is an easy way to add volume
Photo 11 of 11 Apply a small amount of Volume Powder by David Mallett onto the roots of dry hair for more texture

(All product images courtesy of the brands)

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