How to Do Bubble Braids: Your Go-To Summer Styling Guide

*Taps mic* Ahem, is this thing on? Yes, hi ladies, WE HAVE AN ANNOUNCEMENT. The search is over – we’ve found it. The easiest… the sweetest… the most foolproof, simple braids style that even the most braid-challenged of us all can master: bubble braids!

No lie, this super easy braid hairstyle is what braid inspiration (braid-spiration?) dreams are made of. All you need is a texture spray, a serum, clear elastics, bobby pins, and 10 minutes of your time.

No need to kill your shoulders trying some double French braid into a fishtail ponytail… I mean, that was exhausting just to type. Our point is, you don’t need complicated in order to pull off that hot girl summer vibe.

So whether you’re hitting up the beach, sunbathing by the pool, or you know, just want to look cute AF, try these bubble braids courtesy of our friend @xomissdanielle.

What are bubble braids?

Bubble braids are a trendy hairstyle where sections of hair are tied off with hair ties at regular intervals, creating a series of "bubbles" along the length of the braid. This style adds volume and a playful look to your hair, perfect for any casual or fun occasion.

How to do bubble braids

Prep for success


Keeping braids in place all day can be tricky for those of us with finer hair types or lots of layers. So to give your hair grit and hold (plus some va-va-volume for those bubbles), try spritzing on a texture spray, like Color Wow Style on Steroids Texturizing Spray.

Its lightweight feel and flexible hold will be super handy when braiding. Feel free to tease the base of your hair with a brush for extra volume.

Another key step for braiding success is creating easy-to-grip strands. You can do this by using a serum, like Color Wow Pop & Lock Glossing Serum, which slicks down your hair, preventing flyaways or short layers from sticking out.

It also gives your hair incredible shine and protects it from harmful UV rays. Because if your hair’s gonna sparkle in the sun, it might as well be protected, right?

Create two braids

1. Separate your hair into two sections on either side of your head. Secure both with clear elastics to create your pigtails. For a messier, boho style, pull out a few strands around your face.

2. Focusing on one side, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it. Secure with a bobby pin in the back.

3. To create your first bubble, lightly tease the hair, then grab another clear elastic and place it a few inches down from your first elastic.

Remember, you need enough room for two bubbles, so judge accordingly. Gently pull on your bubble until you reach your desired fullness (this is a technique called pancaking – learn more about it here).

Then, taking another small section of hair, hide the elastic as you did in Step 2. Repeat all of this again to create your second bubble.

4. Repeat Steps 2 to 4 on your other side, and you’re done!

woman with red hair attempting bubble braids

Now that you know how to do bubble braids, you’re ready to rock this fun and stylish look all summer long. This easy hairstyle adds volume and flair, perfect for any casual outing or special event.

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Read more summer styling and hair care inspo on the Color Wow Blog:

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