When life gives you lemons, make braids. Formerly referred to as side braids, lemonade braids have always been around in different cultures. However, Beyoncé brought them back in a big way by rocking the cornrow hairstyle in the film clip to her 2016 smash hit in the album titled Lemonade. This is where the braids received their new name coupled with their new status as one of the biggest hair trends. So, to help you let everyone know that you’re the Beyonce of the group we have rounded up the best lemonade braids you’ll want to copy.
RELATED: 30 Best Braided Hairstyles for Women
1. Beyonce Lemonade Braids
Possibly the most iconic braids of all time, Queen B rocks super long mini lemonade braids with touches of gold throughout her locks.
2. Classic Lemonade Braids
Having fun with your lemonade braids is fine, but you cannot beat the classic look. These micro braids feature traditional cornrows with long locks swept to one side. This subtle style won’t date and will serve you season after season.
3. Small Lemonade Braids
If you have thin hair or are just after a more delicate look, these small lemonade braids will make the cutest summer style.
4. Pulled Back
This sexy pulled back style is a stunning way to get your features to stand out. Instead of having your braids swept to one side, pull them backward. Let your locks fall naturally down your back.
5. Jumbo Lemonade Braids
Jumbo lemonade braids are the perfect style to protect and tame your thick mane. This statement-making style is a dream come true for ladies with thick, curly hair, keeping your locks in check and looking great at the same time.
6. Big Lemonade Braids
If jumbo braids aren’t for you but you still want to make an impact go for these big braids instead. They are large enough to stand out but small enough to be subtle. The perfect in-between and pretty style.
7. Center Part
Though traditionally lemonade braids are swept to one side, you can also wear them with a center part. This style is flattering for ladies with round face shape, it will visually elongate the features and create symmetry.
8. Medium Lemonade Braids
This look is ideal for ladies with thin hair who want to make it look a bit thicker. Add hair extensions to create slightly fuller, more luscious looking locks.
9. Topknot
A topknot is a quick and cute way to get your hair out of your face on those hot days. Leave a strand out at the front of your face and a few at the back and twist the rest of your braids into a bun on top of your head. Secure any loose strands with bobby pins.
10. Lemonade Braids To The Side
Lemonade braids are typically styled to one side. However, how far over they are braided is up to you. Here the hair is braided entirely to the opposite of the head with a stunning geometric patterned part.
11. Large Lemonade Braids
Try these large lemonade braids with super-long locks. Apply a styling product on the baby hairs around the face and shape the curls to soften the look.
12. Lemonade Braids With Beads
For some boho vibes add a few beads to the ends of your braids. From girly to punk, bohemian or simple styles, there are plenty of beads out there to suit whatever look you like. Whatever your style, just make sure you chose a size that will glide seamlessly over your locks.
13. Jumbo Triangle Part
This edgy style is about as far from traditional as lemonade braids get. If you want to stand out, definitely give this triangle part with jumbo braids a try.
14. Long Lemonade Braids
Lemonade braids are known for their length. But, if you don’t have naturally long locks fear not, you can always fake it. Any weave or hair extensions can be easily incorporated into your lemonade braids.
15. Ponytail
Pull your hair up into a high ponytail, leaving a small section out. Wrap this section around the base of your ponytail and secure it with a bobby pin. Leave a few of your locks out around your face as well to get this cool laid back look.
16. Pink Lemonade Braids
This hot pink is more refreshing than a glass of pink lemonade on a warm summer day. Brighten up your look with this cool shade just in time for the hotter months.
17. Updo
Just because you are rocking braids doesn’t mean you can’t glam things up with a sleek updo. Pull all of your hair up into a tight ballerina bun and complete your look with some statement earrings.
18. Lemonade Braids With Color
Can’t choose just one color? Why not try this unicorn-inspired look instead. These rainbow braids are what summer hair dreams are made of.
19. Nicki Minaj Lemonade Braids
Nicki Minaj can also be credited with bringing back the lemonade braids. The rap star rocked these fairy floss floor-length locks in her 2018 film clip for MotorSport. You may need a few extensions if you want to steal her style.
20. Burgundy Lemonade Braids
Edge up your boho look with this deep burgundy color. Add extensions in this shade for a statement hairstyle that will turn heads.
21. Zig Zag
You can choose a standard cornrow style, or you can have a little more fun with the hair parting. If you’re adventures at heart, go for this mesmerizing zig-zag part.
22. Blonde Lemonade Braids
Lemonade braids and blonde hair are a match made in heaven. Braids protect the hair and help to restore bleached locks to their former glory.
23. Half up Half Down
Half up half down hairstyles are a cute and effortless way to change up your lemonade braids. Simply pull the top section of your hair into a bun and leave the bottom part of the braids out.
24. Lemonade Braids With Wraps
Get creative and add a few wraps to your lemonade braids. You can experiment with different patterns and thicknesses. This look is perfect for the festival season.
25. Swirl Lemonade Braids
Mix up your part with this hypnotizing swirl pattern. This is a great alternative to traditional cornrows and is perfect for kids or grown-ups alike. Rock this swirly style for the festival season too.
26. Ombre Lemonade Braids
Spring is the perfect time to lighten up your hair, so why not add some fun colors to your lemonade braids? Fresh pinks, striking silvers, summery blondes, or playful purples are the shades of the season. But, the key is to go for a color that will suit your complexion.
27. Two-Tone Lemonade Braids
Freshen up your locks with a few highlights. A few blonde strands will create a stunning contrast throughout your lemonade braids.
How to Do Lemonade Braids
Check out this tutorial to teach you how to recreate these badass braids. Also, keep reading to find out how you can add your own take to the lemonade braids.
FAQs
How long do lemonade braids take?
It can typically take anywhere from three to six hours to create lemonade braids. This depends on the size of the braid, as well as the length of your hair. If you are working with length down to your waist, it may take a bit longer to finish, as the tips of the hair become quite fine.
Why are lemonade braids called lemonade braids?
Lemonade braids got their name thanks to Beyonce and her iconic 2016 visual album Lemonade. This is the style of hair Queen Bey wore in the film clips, which reignited a trend. The braids themselves have been around for years and were previously called side braids.
How many packs of hair do you need for lemonade braids?
This style features a lot of hair, so you must provide your stylist with enough for maximum impact. For lemonade braids, you will need five to six packs of hair to complete this look. Choose ombre shades in burgundy or honey, classic black, or keep it Beyonce-inspired with touches of gold throughout.
How do you freshen up lemonade braids?
You can wash your lemonade braids in the shower. Use a mixture of clarifying shampoo diluted with water and massaged into your scalp. Then rinse it out in the shower, letting the shampoo flow through to the ends. Use the same method with your conditioner. Once your hair is air-dried, you can then make sure everything is looking neat and sleek. Start by applying hair and scalp treatment in between your braids, massaging it into your scalp. Then, use a moisturizing mousse to smooth down any flyaways and set it with low heat on your blow dryer. Next, use a styling gel and toothbrush to lay your edges before finishing with an all-over shine spray. When you're finished, you'll be looking like you've just stepped fresh out of the salon.
How much do lemonade braids cost?
There is a lot of work that goes into creating lemonade braids. The price for the style can vary dramatically, depending on the type of braids you wish to make. For small braids to your tailbone, prices can begin at $270, and for traditional lemonade braids, you expect to pay anywhere from $50 up to $300. You may need to provide your own packs of hair, depending on the salon you select.
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