8 Easy Braids That Take Next to No Time to Do

In an ideal world, we'd all have a full, unencumbered hour each morning to create magical braided updos (opens in new tab) with the precision of a trained hairstylist. (opens in new tab) Or, actually, in an ideal world, we'd just have our own team of hair minions, doing our bidding while we napped. But this is real life, we're too poor for minions, and intricate braids are hard. (opens in new tab) Which is why we've scoured the earth for braid ideas that are actually easy—like, do-them-while-you're-walking easy, or, at the very least, do-them-without-ripping-your-hair-out easy.

With summer around the corner, having hair that weighs on our necks and makes us hot and sweaty is starting to get old. Instead of throwing your hair in a boring bun or ponytail, get creative with your hair skills. The world of braids is vast, and it feels like everyone stopped experimenting after middle school. But these styles are fresh, stylish, and definitely fun. Yes, it might take a few tries to perfect your skills, but we promise you these tutorials make the task fully doable. So scroll down and watch 'em all to have your beginner mind blown, and then get your braid on.

1. The Half-Up Crown Braid

Skip the blowout. The triple braids in the middle of this tutorial to make the style even faster to do.

2. The Crown Braid

You'll feel like a queen in this updo.

3. The Classic Dutch Braid

Two inverted French braids? Easy peasy.

4. The Braided Bangs

Perfect for that awkward stage with grown-out bangs, or for when you just really want your hair off your face.

5. The Side Rope Braid

You'll fit right in as a Game of Thrones extra with this power-braid.

6. The Milkmaid Braids

You'll look cute as a button with these milkmaid braids.

7. The Thick-Hair Fishtail Braid

The messier the fishtail, the better—don't worry about getting it perfect.

8. The Waterfall Braid

If you can do a regular French braid, you can easily do a waterfall braid.

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