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Black women's hairstyles are some of the most diverse I've seen — we're known for wearing our natural hair one week only to show up to work with braids the next. As one of my former hairstylists told me as a pre-teen, "You have to keep them guessing!" And while it's always fun to switch it up, it also a great way to experiment and find a summer look that feels effortless. With that in mind, here are six Black hairstyles that I think we'll see a lot of this year, regardless of hair texture. Here's to finding your own next look, ladies!
Image via Theo Wargo/Getty Images
Goddess Knotless Braids
Braided hairstyles are by far one of the go-to styles for summer. They help keep hair protected from the heat and other elements that may cause dryness or frizz while creating a cute style that lasts anywhere from 4-6 weeks.
While knotless braids have become a lot more popular, more people are opting to wear 'Goddess' knotless braids which includes an unfinished look or an addition of wavy or curly human hair extensions in between the braids. It's the perfect style for a summer vacation that includes a ton of beach or water park days.
Image via Amy Sussman/Getty Images
Short and Sweet Bob
Admit it — you've lowkey always envied Edna's luscious bob in The Incredibles. It makes sense because she is a succinct fashion designer that knows how to create looks. Even if your inspiration isn't Edna, chin-length bobs scream sophistication and can make any casual outfit look like a 90s off-duty model look.
Image via Rebecca Sapp/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
Classic Updo
Women can't get enough of classic updos, and I don't blame them. I have very fond memories of seeing older Black women wear them to special events so I have a soft spot for them.
If you're trying to figure out what what kind of updo you want to wear, take a cue from Keke Palmer! Her sleek updo manages to look soft as well as voluminous and it also frames her face.
Image via Theo Wargo/Getty Images
Cute Pixie Haircut
Short haircuts are here to stay, especially when we know it's going to be hot during summer! Since I've cut my hair on three separate occasions, I know a few tricks that make sure my hair was razor sharp and shiny every time I stepped out. One of them is making sure I used a moisturizing shampoo and conditionerduring each wash day. This help me set the tone for styling.
Next, I recommend using a heat protectant spray that won't dry your hair out if you plan to use a blow dryer and curling iron. If you plan to let your hair air dry, you could also mold and set your hair using a good foaming mousse!
No matter how you choose to wear your pixie haircut, it's sure to look glorious when you properly prep your hair.
Image via Rob Kim/Getty Images
Middle Part Sew-In
It wouldn't be right if I didn't refer to this look the way the TikTok and Instagram girlies do. Known as one of the most popular Black women's hairstyles, this is actually referred to as a 'bussdown' middle part — and it looks fabulous on Ciara. Truthfully, anyone can wear this style because it's universal (love it) and isn't specific to one group of women. I mean, even Law Roach has been know to wear a good bussdown middle part, and we love him even more for it!
Image via Frazer Harrison/Getty Images
Curls Out
Not everyone will reach for braids, short hairstyles, or extensions though. Some women will be rocking their natural curls, allowing them to be on full display this summer. If you plan to be one of them, make sure you try Beyonce's Cécredline to give your curls the volume and shine they deserve!
Black women's hairstyles should be fun and look carefree during summer even if the process of achieving certain looks takes a while!
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Lead image via Rebecca Sapp/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
10 Things I Hate About You and The Office fans listen up! There's a new project coming to Netflix from Kate Hudson and Mindy Kaling, and you NEED to know about it. Just like the best female-led TV shows, Running Point promises to be empowering, hilarious, and just a lot of fun. Keep reading for everything you need to know about the new TV show.
What is Running Point about?
Image via Netflix
This new TV show follows Isla Gordon (played by Kate Hudson), who becomes President of the Los Angeles Waves basketball team after a scandal means her brother has to retire. In the male-dominated world of sports, Isla will have to prove to everyone around her — her brothers, the board, and the fans — that she can balance work AND play.
When does Running Point come out?
Image via Netflix
Running Point is coming to Netflix in 2025.
Who's in the Running Point cast?
Image via Netflix
Running Point stars Kate Hudson, Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, Fabrizio Guido, Toby Sandeman, Chet Hanks, Max Greenfield, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Roberto Sanchez, Uche Agada, and Dane DiLiegro.
I am so excited to see another show written by Mindy Kaling, especially one that stars Brenda Song and Kate Hudson! Let us know what you're currently binge watching on Facebook.
Lead image via Netflix
Browsing through Pinterest for hairstyle inspo is honestly a favorite pastime of mine. Lately, I've had braids on the brain, scrolling through summer-inspired styles, and I'm kind of obsessed. So many celebs have been spotted in braids recently — especially our fave Taylor Swift who sports the style almost every time she's papped as of late. And while the tried-and-true simple braid is always a smooth move, there are so many different ways to incorporate braids into your hair for summer! We chatted with braids specialist, Ellie Mulqueen and founder of The Roslyn, Katelyn Ellsworth to learn more about these sweet styles. So keep scrolling for even more ways to add a little flair to your hair with our favorite braided hairstyles!
Half-Up Braided Crown
Photo via Ellie Mulqueen
This is a super simple style that we'd love to see you rock! And we have all the details on how you can achieve it! Our hair expert, Mulqueen, says, "Take two small sections of hair from each side of your head, braid them, and secure them at the back of your head to create a braided crown effect while leaving the rest of your hair down. You can dress this style up or down, it’s perfect for summer!" And voila, it's as easy as that! We can not wait to try this one. It's perfect for weddings or any events where you want to dress up your hair a little bit!
Bubble Braids
Photo via Getty
One of our favorite looks for summer are forever and always bubble braids! To achieve this, you simply need colorful hair bands and lots of braided sections to add texture.
Ellsworth says, "Braids are amazing for the summer and can be worn in so many different ways. Styling, even the most basic of braids can be fun. Using glitter, earrings, or even pops color with string or extensions is always a fun way to dress up a basic “B” braid. Using multiple braid techniques on one style is going to be seen a lot this year in festivals and in the wild." She adds, "Taking it back to Brittany style with crimps/waves and micro braids will be making it back into 2024 summertime. So get your accessories and your braid guides ready to the room with your style and accessorized braids."
Bubble braids are definitely the perfect way to standout and add some statement pieces to your hairstyle! Throw in some butterfly clips, and you're a Y2K goddess for sure!
Fishtail braid
Photo via Ellie Mulqueen
One bonus about this braid? It keeps your hair out of your face and from getting knotted. Mulqueen says, "Adding braids into your hairstyles for summer is a great way to keep your hair healthy and tangle free!" And this fishtail braid is sure to protect your hair in such a cute way! Simply take a piece from either side and tuck it in-between; just repeat this until you get the braid you want!
Ponytail Braid
Photo by Lia Toby/Getty Images
We simply adore this look on Zendaya, and we definitely think this style will will pop up more and more with the rise of tenniscore and impending beach days! It's so simple that all you need to do is put your hair in a slicked-back ponytail, braid the ponytail like you would normally, then put in a bow for added effect! And there you have a chic, fun hairstyle for the summer!
Floral Fun
Photo via Ellie Mulqueen
I absolutely love this braid hairstyle for summer! You can find some flowers (fresh or fake) and pin them to your hair with either clips or bobby-pins and there you have it; a fresh bouquet braid! However, if you're less interested in (or don't have time for) the DIY of it all, you can also just buy clips that have these details on them already at Target or Amazon. I love how elegant this style looks, especially for the upcoming wedding season! This looks straight from our Pinterest board and I need to try it so don't mind me running to Trader Joe's for some fresh flowers immediately...
Braided Bun
Photo via Ellie Mulqueen
For this style, it may seem complicated, but it's actually quite simple! You braid a tiny section of hair (like the small, center braid above) and then do a very loose fishtail braid underneath it. For a fishtail, all you do is divided the hair into two sections and take pieces from the outer edges of either side and drag them to the middle one at a time. Then put your hair into a messy, chic bun like so! We love this fun style for wedding season, too!
Which variation of the modern shag would you try? Follow us on Pinterest for more hair inspo!
Header image via Getty
Memorial Day weekend is nigh, and in the midst of planning your epic BBQ spread and a slew of themed cocktails, it's also time to start noting the Memorial Day sales you'll be shopping for a much-needed summer refresh. We've got the scoop on savings in just about every category – from beauty to home decor to fashion – so you know exactly when and where to save big.
Scroll on for the Memorial Day sales we're most excited about for 2024, and make sure to come back here for additional sale info!
KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer
Amazon
What: Deals on everything from home goods to decor
When: Now through Memorial Day
Sherpa Deluxe Black Guarenteed On Board Soft Sided Dog & Cat Carrier
Petco
What: BOGO 50% off select summer products and 20% off select sherpa carriersWhen: May 24-27
CZ Crescent with Stars Necklace
Sterling Forever
What: 20% off sitewide with code SUMMER20
When: May 24-28
Carve Designs Zella Mesh Pullover
Carve Designs
What: BOGO red, white, and blue swim; buy 1 swimsuit, get one swimsuit 50% off
When: May 23-27
Essentia Stratami Organic Mattress
Essentia
What: 25% off sitewide, plus receive free GOTS Certified Organic Cotton Sheets with qualifying mattress purchases
When: May 13-31
Pura
What: 25% off sitewide through code only (subscriber early access: May 23-27), 25% off sitewide, plus subscribe to the Pura V4 and get a free car set
When: May 21-22
Vacation
What: 20% off sitewide, plus get a free boat keychain or pen on orders over $65 (while supplies last)
When: May 24-27
Hutch
What: Additional 35% off all final sale styles. (No returns or exchanges with discounts automatically applied at checkout.)
When: May 23-27
Blush & Bronze Hydro-Blur Cheek Duo
Stila Cosmetics
What: 20% off orders $0 to $49 with code MDAY20, 25% off orders $50 to $99 with code MDAY25, 30% off orders of $100+ with code MDAY30
When: May 27
Allbirds
What: 20% off select styles online
- Tree Lounger $80 (was $100)
- Tree Piper $84 (was $105)
- Tree Flyer 2 $128 (was $160)
- Tree Breezer $80 (was $100)
When: May 13-20
Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on these Memorial Day sales + all the best deals!
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
Just like fantasy stories can transport us to new worlds, period dramas are one way to get a whole new (er, old) glimpse of the world you wouldn't see otherwise. Just like contemporary films, period dramas have their fair share of relationship drama and scandal, with some amazing outfits to boot. After you've watched (and rewatched) season 3 of Bridgerton, add one — or better yet, all — of these picks to your watchlist! Once you've figured out what you're pressing play on first, read up on why The Bridgerton Cast Is “Obsessed” With Claudia Jessie.
Atonement — Stream on Prime Video
Image via Universal Pictures
Every time I talk to my team here at Brit + Co about their favorite period dramas, Atonement always makes the list. And for good reason! It's an emotional, sweeping piece that feels like different genres as it moves from family drama to romance to a war epic. The cast includes names like Saoirse Ronan, James McAvoy, and Keira Knightley.
Little Women — Stream on Hulu
Image via Sony Pictures
Everyone can love this story, even if you don't have sisters — although being a sister has definitely made me love it even more. There are two versions I recommend: the 1994 version with Winona Ryder, Christian Bale, and Kirsten Dunst, or Greta Gerwig's 2019 version with Saoirse Ronan, Timothée Chalamet, and Emma Watson.
In my opinion, Greta's version is a little bit more thought-provoking for the viewer, but between both film's arcs, I prefer the 1994 film's linear structure. You can't go wrong with either movie, so why not watch both?
Emily — Stream on Paramount+ With Showtime
Image via Bleecker Street
My Letterboxd review after seeing Emily in theaters basically called this family the English, more tragic version of Little Women's March sisters. The celebration of creativity and identity feel even more powerful against the darker aesthetic and all of the painful experiences Emily Brontë lives through. Plus, it has one of the most emotional scores of 2023 that I've had on repeat ever since I watched it!
Mr. Malcolm's List — Stream on Paramount+ With Showtime
Image via Bleecker Street
When Julia Thistlewaite gets rejected by London's most eligible bachelor (the titular Mr. Malcolm), she decides to turn her friend into his ideal match, and get a little bit of revenge while she's at it. Anyone who loves Bridgerton's costumes (and Princess Diana's revenge dress) is gonna want to add this to their queue.
Pride & Prejudice — Rent on Amazon Prime
Image via Focus Features
Avid fans of Jane Austen's book (including yours truly) will likely give you two recommendations that each have their own viral scene: Colin Firth's lake diving in the 1995 BBC mini series or Matthew MacFadyen's hand flex after helping Keira Knightley into a carriage in the 2005 film. All jokes aside, both titles are wonderful celebrations of the story!
Belle — Stream on Max
Image via Searchlight Pictures
In this political, historical romance, Belle is the illegitimate, biracial daughter of a British admiral who's raised by her uncle. As she grows up alongside her cousin, Belle questions her identity as she realizes she belongs with neither the servants nor the family. And when she meets John, she becomes in integral part of the abolitionist movement in England.
Downton Abbey — Stream on Peacock
Image via PBS/NBC
If you love period pieces but prefer a slower pace, I'd recommend Downton Abbey. The stakes are high and some viewers still haven't gotten over the death of their favorite character (I'm talking about myself here), but I don't think it's as overstimulating as a lot of other dramas involving war, death, and relationships. Plus you literally CANNOT go wrong with Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess. The studio just announced a third movie, so now is the perfect time to start the series!
Becoming Jane — Rent on Amazon Prime
Image via Disney/Miramax
James McAvoy makes the list again with this semi-biographical film on Jane Austen's life. One of the best parts of any historical drama is when the main couple dances at a ball, and Becoming Jane has one of my favorite dances of all time. Fans of the author criticized the film when it came out, but if you go into it with an open mind, it's very enjoyable (and might just make you cry, too).
Marie Antoinette — Stream on Max
Image via Columbia Pictures
I finally watched Sofia Coppola's iconic film for the first time, and it was as much a feast for the eyes as I'd hoped. Kirsten Dunst stuns as the infamous queen, and in addition to the textured, maximalist visuals, the story did make me think about Marie Antoinette in a new way. Considering I've been obsessed with her since middle school, that's saying something!
Emma — Stream on Prime Video
Image via Focus Features
If you love the visuals in Marie Antoinette, then I'm pretty sure you'll love this 2020 Jane Austen retelling. Every detail of the movie feels like its own piece of art (even the physical blocking and movements of the actors feels like a dance), and they all come together to create something cohesive, beautiful, and fun. You can also go for Gwyneth Paltrow's 1996 version or Clueless, which was inspired by Austen's book.
Sense and Sensibility — Rent on Amazon Prime
Image via Columbia Pictures
With names like Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, and Hugh Grant, this movie has always felt wildly underrated, so consider this my official plea asking you to watch it. It's got everything: Family! Drama! True love! Taylor Swift also said during her Tribeca Film Festival talk in 2022 that it inspired her album Evermore, so there's that.
Why Didn't They Ask Evans? — Stream on BritBox
Image via BritBox
I love this miniseries so much that I watch it every year. At this point, it's a tradition! Lucy Boynton and Will Poulter are so fun together, and their banter will leave rom-com lovers giggling and kicking their feet. Plus the 1930s fashions are just SO good.
Let us know what your favorite period dramas are in the comments, and check out the 2024 Movies you can look forward to this year!
Lead image via Sony Pictures
This post has been updated.