When it comes to effortless style and relaxation, few hairstyles can compare to the appeal of braids. Universally adored across cultures, braids hold particular significance for Black women, blending elegance with practicality. For many, braids serve as a year-round staple, offering a versatile and low-maintenance solution to various hair textures and lengths. And when it’s time to unwind on vacation, braids are often the go-to style—eliminating the stress of hair care while providing a chic, expressive look.
For me, braids have always been a part of my life. From childhood, when I would sit between my cousin’s legs as she effortlessly created cornrows, to the busy days spent in a braiding salon—braids have been an integral part of our culture, a symbol of community and creativity. In my family, they were especially essential for summer vacations in Myrtle Beach, and as I entered my teenage years, waist-length cornrows were my choice for the season, offering a functional yet stylish way to embrace the warmth of summer.
Braids have always been more than just a way to protect my natural curls; they represent creativity, convenience, and self-expression. On vacation, they give me the freedom to fully immerse myself in new experiences—whether swimming, exploring, or simply enjoying some much-needed relaxation—without a second thought about my hair. And once the vacation ends, braids continue to serve as a low-maintenance, long-lasting style that can last for weeks.
But this love for braids is not mine alone; it resonates with Black women worldwide, each with their own relationship to the style, and with good reason. Braids represent a blend of ancient artistry and modern ease. From their historical significance to their function as a protective style, they offer a versatile way to express identity and creativity. There’s no need to repeat the same style twice, as the range of possibilities is vast, and every braid style tells a different story.
To dive deeper into the allure of vacation braids, I spoke with three Black women about their own experiences, and how this beloved hairstyle has shaped their lives.
Thandi Maqubela
Legal Director & Co-Founder of Lawyer’s Dining Club
On her first formative memory of braids and how her relationship to them has changed:
“I remember getting braids as a teenager during the summer because of all the swimming I did. I wore them intermittently throughout the year. After a period of experimenting with different looks during university and my early work years, I reintroduced braids into my life a year or two before having my son—and I haven’t looked back since. The convenience is unmatched.”
On her favorite braid style for vacation and thoughts on braider loyalty:
“I’m a die-hard box braid girl. I love medium-sized, waist-length box braids, though I’ve experimented with beads at the ends, which was fun, but not practical for working out. I have an amazing woman who comes to my home to braid my hair, which is incredibly convenient as I can work while she’s braiding.”
On wearing braids to the workplace:
“I got back into braids during the lockdown, so the transition was smoother with everyone working from home. At first, there were a few awkward in-person interactions, but now, my colleagues are used to my ever-changing hairstyles. I’d love to see more senior women in my industry, which is predominantly white and male, wear braids too.”
On her favorite thing about vacation braids and the style she wants to try next:
“I love the convenience, ease of swimming, and how they give my edges a break. Plus, having my face fully exposed makes me look younger. As for future styles, I’ve always wanted to try goddess braids, though I’m not sure if they’d be too high-maintenance for me.”
Jessica Andrews
Senior Content Director
On her first formative memory of braids and how her relationship to them has changed:
“My first memory of braids is learning how to braid as a child from my grandmother, who braided grass stalks on her family farm in Georgia. Growing up, braids were a regular feature for special occasions and summer activities. Today, I gravitate toward box braids, which offer a perfect blend of functionality and heritage.”
On her favorite braid style for vacation and thoughts on braider loyalty:
“I switch it up regularly. Right now, I have micro braids around my crown with sew-in extensions in the back, but I’ve also rocked jumbo box braids for Fashion Week. For vacation, I prefer boho braids for their effortless, breezy vibe. I’m loyal to Ricky Davii, who does wonders for my braids while keeping my hair healthy.”
On wearing braids to the workplace:
“I’ve never had an issue with wearing braids to work. I’ve worn them to events like the Met Gala, and I love how they can be fancy, breezy, professional, and effortless all at once.”
On her favorite thing about braids and the style she wants to try next:
“I love how braids are a celebration of creativity. The possibilities are endless, and I get excited about seeing new variations, from beads to intricate designs. I’m intrigued by the Gemini box braid trend, with contrasting colors like red and black or complementary shades like brown and blonde.”
Shanika Hillocks
Brand Strategy & Marketing Consultant
On how her relationship to braids began in adulthood:
“I didn’t start wearing braids until I moved to Harlem in my early twenties after my big chop. I found a spot on 125th Street and got hooked. What began as a seasonal style evolved into a year-round part of my routine, especially for vacations. I’ve since experimented with twists, cornrows, braided bobs, and different colors like auburn and blonde.”
On her favorite braid style for vacation and thoughts on braider loyalty:
“I feel most beautiful with simple cornrows and neatly laid baby hairs. Sometimes, I tuck the ends into buns or braid them over my shoulders. I’m loyal to several stylists, each for different reasons—Aminata Hair Braiding, Dre Sanders for intricate bobs, and Trenae for freeform braids.”
On wearing braids to the workplace:
“I’ve never had an issue with how my braids are received at work. I wear my hair confidently, whether I’m on a set, in a meeting, or working with clients. Braids allow me to show up as my whole self.”
On her favorite thing about braids and the style she wants to try next:
“Braids add ease to my everyday life. As a makeup minimalist, I appreciate the versatility of braids—they seamlessly transition from workouts to the ocean to dinner plans. I’d love to try long cornrows adorned with Cowrie shells for a future vacation.”
For Black women, braids are much more than just a hairstyle—they are a symbol of culture, creativity, and confidence. Whether you’re rocking box braids, cornrows, or boho braids, this beloved style remains a timeless favorite that effortlessly combines beauty with ease, making it the perfect choice for vacations and beyond.
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