Happy 4th of July Sweets!  As you are getting ready today for the barbecue’s, beaches and parties the last thing you want to be worried about is your hair.  Today you should choose an easy hairstyle that still looks sexy and will make a statement wherever you go.  Try the side-slung braid that so many people are wearing.  This style works great on messy, dirty hair as well so its easy and requires no flat or curling irons.

Tools needed: Comb, brush, shine serum, small rubber band

Step 1

Comb and brush your hair to get all the tangles out.  You don’t have to have  your hair perfectly combed or brushed because the messier it looks the better!

Step 2

Apply some type of shine serum to your hair.  We recommend Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum.  This will help keep your hair shiny and smooth while it’s in the braid.

Step 3

Get to braiding.  You can either braid your hair straight back or braid it on the side.  If your hair is really long, you can braid it straight back and just sling it to the side over your shoulder.  Braid your hair about half way down and secure the end with the rubber band.  It’s best to leave as much hair out at the end of your braid as possible.  It looks more stylish and less like a little toddler .

As your day goes on, the braid will get messier and look even better.  Its fine if your hair at the top starts to come loose as the day goes on.

Check out some varieties of the braid!

Audrina Patridge wears this style often

Try this variety if you want to leave some of your hair down

Check out Lauren Conrad’s sleeker side braid

Of course we love Roxy Olin’s  signature side braid

Have a fabulous safe 4th of July everyone!