9 Stunning Flower Braids Pretty Enough to Wear to Your Wedding

That music festival staple, the flower crown, isn’t the only way to sport flowers in your hair; this season’s hottest hair trend is all about tucking blooms into your summer braids. The ethereal style can be worn loose for a pretty everyday ‘do, but it’s fancy enough for walking down the aisle too. Brides (and just plain goddesses), take note of these nine dreamy #hairspiration ideas for making summer occasions look Pinterest-perfect.

1. Dutch Flower Braid: After creating your Dutch braid, add flowers throughout the pretty plait. Soften the look by leaving out face-framing pieces and loosening the braid by gently tugging on the loops. (via Stacy Keck/Green Wedding Shoes)

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2. Rainbow Flower Braid: Incorporate a variety of different-colored blooms for a whimsical effect. Think: Rapunzel’s magical flower-embedded braid in Tangled.

3. Pops of Bold Color: Create a dramatic look with a bold pop of color surrounded by neutrals. The deep burgundy flower braid adds glamour to any special occasion. (via Honey Honey Photography/Style Me Pretty)

4. Floral Fishtail: You can’t go wrong with bright white and yellow daisies. The cheery flowers exude a happy feeling that’s perfect for summer — and a good background vibe for a joyous wedding. (via Kassinka)

5. Flower Fishtail Braid: The fishtail style is all about the luscious look, so keep your braiding on the looser side. Place large blooms near the top where the braid begins, leaving the lower end of the ‘do unadorned so everyone can admire the fancy details. (via Stacy Keck/Green Wedding Shoes)

6. Double Fishtail Braid: Though the blooms in the braid featured above are actually embedded in a hair extension, you can achieve a similar look by pinning flowers into your hair after finishing the braid. Or you can experiment with other accent strands, such as ribbons, metallic string and hair jewels. (via Kassinka)

7. White Flowers: Evoke the spirit of a Grecian goddess with white flowers against an all-white ensemble. The cascade of leaves provides a touch of woodland beauty. (via Honey Honey Photography/Style Me Pretty)

8. Boho Chic Braid: Inspired by seasonal plants, this bride’s braid incorporated tiny waxflower blooms and pink pepper berries. For a similarly effortless look, keep the braid fairly loose and randomly place your flowers into it. (via Anna Roussos Photography/Style Me Pretty)

9. Dutch Braids With Flowers: On the other hand, if you appreciate a cleaner look, consider this meticulously braided hairstyle. To create this refined ‘do, make tight Dutch braids and equally space out your choice of flowers.

Which style of floral braid inspires you? For more beauty trends, be sure to check us out on Pinterest!

Heatless hairstyles, like boho knotless braids, are a must for me during summer. We've been stuck in continual heat waves in Georgia, so the last thing my natural hair needs is to feel dehydrated.

Braids have always been my go-to hairstyle anyway, but this boho style has summer written all over it. Whenever I see anyone with it, they look like they're on a permanent vacation — and I love that! But, some people may not know what boho knotless braids are or how to care for them.

I spoke with The Doux's CEO and Co-Founder Maya Smith as well as Marquita Lynch, Celebrity Hairstylist at 4U by Tia, to break down every question you've ever had about boho knotless braids.

What are boho knotless braids?

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Tia Mowry at 2023 Essence Black Women in Hollywood

Boho knotless braids are all over TikTok, but you may still be wondering what this style actually means.

"Boho knotless braids are a trendy, versatile hairstyle that combines classic knotless braids with curly or wavy hair extensions that give the braids a relaxed, free-spirited appearance. The style is named for its full and flowy bohemian aesthetic," Marquita Lynch explains.

Maya smith adds, "Unlike traditional box braids, knotless braids start with your natural hair and gradually incorporate additional hair."

How long does it take to install boho knotless braids?

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Zoe Kravitz At The "Big Little Lies" Season 2 Premiere

I've gotten styles that only take two hours, but I always advise people to be prepared to sit for several hours. Every stylist has their own technique, and there are plenty of other factors that can determine how long it'll take to install your braids.

"The installation time for boho knotless braids can vary depending on the desired length and thickness, as well as the skill level of the braider. Generally, it is not a quick style and can take anywhere between 5 to 10 hours – combining the braided hair with the wavy/curly pieces can be a meticulous process," says Lynch.

Jasmine Williams

I decided to get knotless braids for the first time last winter and immediately fell in love with them! It was a process getting them installed, but I decided to trust it. Needless to say, knotless braids have been one of my go-to styles when I'm too busy to style my natural hair daily!

And since I loved the style so much, I wanted to figure out how to achieve the look at home! I watched a few YouTube videos so I could install my own braids and realized just how tedious this hairstyle is. My respect for hairstylists has tripled because it took me 2.5 days to add in the synthetic and wavy hair.

While I don't mind doing this hairstyle again, I think I'll go to a skilled professional to give my neck and shoulders a break!

What type of hair is used to install the braids and boho appearance?

Jasmine Williams

Whether you're going to install your own braids or go to a salon, it's important to know what kind of hair is used for boho knotless braids.

Lynch says, "Stylists typically use synthetic braiding hair for the main braids and add curly or wavy human hair or high-quality synthetic hair for the boho effect."

She and Smith agree that using human hair can make this style look more natural and it'll also last a little longer.

How long can this hairstyle be worn?

Love Island/Peacock

Serena Page On Love Island

As cute as this style is, it's not meant to be worn indefinitely. Lynch says, "Boho knotless braids can be worn for 4 to 6 weeks with proper care and are a go-to when you need a style that will last. Her example of how long this style can last is Serena from Love Island. "She's kept her's [boho knotless braids] for nearly 2 months on screen," she said.

That being said, Smith wants you to be aware that the style won't maintain it's freshness by itself. "Keep in mind that as your natural hair grows, the braids may start to loosen, so timely maintenance is essential to keep them looking fresh."

Is this a high-maintenance hairstyle?

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Gabrielle Union On The 2023 Met Gala Red Carpet

This question depends on who you ask. It could be considered high-maintenance because it takes a while to get them installed, but some people may think it's easy to care for because you don't have to style your real hair for a couple of months. But like Smith said, you still have to maintain the braids.

"Boho knotless braids can be high-maintenance, depending on how much of the human hair you add in for the wispy boho look. The more loose wavy/curly pieces you add into the braids, the higher the upkeep," Lynch comments.

She also advises that you'll have to keep your natural hair healthy and hydrated by "regularly keeping your scalp clean and moisturized." Also, don't forget to keep the braids protected with a satin or silk scarf!

How can one maintain their boho knotless braids at home?

Love Island/Peacock

I've been wearing braids in general off and on for years, so caring for them is something that feels second nature. But it doesn't hurt to have a reminder, especially if you're getting this style for the first time.

Below, Smith outlines how to properly care for boho knotless braids at home:

  • Cleansing: Wash your scalp every 1-2 weeks with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Dilute the shampoo with water and use a spray bottle to apply it directly to your scalp for easy rinsing.
  • Moisturizing: To prevent dryness, apply a leave-in conditioner or lightweight hair oil to your scalp and braids. Focus on your natural hair and the ends to keep them hydrated.
  • Scalp Care: Use a nourishing scalp oil or serum to maintain scalp health and alleviate itching. A gentle massage will promote circulation and moisture retention.
  • Night Care: Protect your braids while you sleep by wrapping them in a satin or silk scarf, or using a satin or silk pillowcase. This helps reduce friction and maintain the style.
  • Frizz Control: Use a styling mousse or gel to tame frizz and flyaways. For a sleek finish around the hairline, a touch of edge control will do the trick.

Do you have product recommendations for washing, styling, and maintaining this style?

Love Island/Peacock

Both Smith and Lynch have a few product recommendations that you should consider when caring for boho knotless braids! Plus, I'm sharing some of the things I use to maintain my braids at home!

Wal-Mart

4U by Tia Clarifying Shampoo

Lynch suggests, "Wash your hair with a gentle product that provides a deep cleanse, like the 4U by Tia Clarifying Shampoo. It's made with apple cider vinegar to remove buildup while preserving moisture."

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The Doux SUCKA FREE Moisturizing Shampoo and FRESH RINSE Moisturizing Conditioner Bundle

Smith says, "This gentle cleanser refreshes your braids and scalp without stripping moisture."

Wal-Mart

TPH BY Taraji Honey Fresh Clarifying Shampoo With Moisture

I started using this clarifying shampoo the first time I had my knotless braids installed and loved how clean my braids as well as my scalp felt.

It removes hard buildup while keeping your braids and hair hydrated. It also has aloe vera, honey, and willow bark extract in it!

Wal-Mart

4U by Tia Curl Refresher Mist

"Maintain your style with 4U by Tia Curl Refresher Mist, perfect for revitalizing and hydrating your braids between washes. It helps to reduce frizz and can maintain the bounce and shape of the curly/wavy human hair pieces," Lynch says.

Sephora

Sienna Naturals Dream Curl Mousse

I've been using the Sienna Naturals Dream Curl Mousse to keep my boho knotless braids fresh and it works like a charm! It refreshes my braids without weighing them down and keeps my scalp looking healthy too! It's geared towards enhancing one's curls, but it also helps combat frizz and will hold your style in place!

The ingredients in this mousse are aloe vera juice, Baobab protein, and a nice curl shield complex that protects your hair from damage.

Wal-Mart

The Doux PUSH IT! Edge Control

Smith says this edge control "provides a polished finish around the hairline."

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Header image via Arnold Turner/Getty Images for ESSENCE

Christmas has come early for two reasons: Carpool Karaoke is back — and so is Lady Gaga! Wondering what they have in common? Everything!

The 2010's sensation gave us amazing celebrity appearances with James Corden as driver extraordinaire, and stars like Harry Styles, Katy Perry, and Selena Gomez. Lady Gaga joined the carpool in 2016 — with over 88 million views on Youtube — singing songs like "Million Reasons" and "Bad Romance" to her heart's content.

Finally, the pop star — and the show itself, TBH — made a return this week! And more than that? Lady Gaga even debuted her new Christmas song. I've already played it multiple times, so I know it's about to top my most-played Christmas songs. Excited? Here's everything you need to know about the surprise song drop, the return of Carpool Karaoke, and more!

See how Carpool Karaoke gave us the biggest surprise of 2024 — a new Lady Gaga Christmas song!

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- YouTube

In an unexpected trailer for A Carpool Karaoke Christmas, Zane Lowe can be seen accepting a phone call from the one and only James Corden who has a huge favor to ask. The first passenger Lowe picks up is the "Bad Romance" songstress herself — followed by Chappelle Roan and Dua Lipa's own individual appearances.

The car's decked out in green wreaths and festive red bows which adds to the Christmas spirit as everyone sings along to famous holiday songs. Lady Gaga can also be heard singing "Christmas Tree" which has fans in the trailer's comment section besides themselves with glee!

According to Deadline, the special premiered on Apple TV+ December 15, so it's not too late to watch it if you're just as excited as we are. But that's not all!

The outlet also reported Lady Gaga and Lowe released a new version of "Santa Claus Is Comin' To Town" on all streaming music platforms! This means you get to hear the pop star give the nostalgic song a punk rock vibe that's now stuck in our heads.

If Lady Gaga tells us not to pout or cry, we're going to listen! (And sing along while we're at it 😉)

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Dreamy flower fields are popping up in our feeds this spring, making us excited for the warm weather and happy blooms coming our way. I recently road-tripped to one of the best in the country: the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, just a 45-min drive north of San Diego. This sea of fresh and colorful ranunculus not only offers the perfect photo opp, there are also plenty of events throughout the season to make the trip worthwhile. Here’s the perfect weekend stay in the area, plus more beautiful flower fields around the U.S. to pop by this season.

Image viaFlower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch is 50 acres with millions of vibrant flowers in a rainbow of colors. Head to the fields through May 31 for more than just flowers. There are live music events, creative workshops like Flower Flow Yoga, Charcuterie Workshop, a flower crown-making workshop, a sweet pea maze, tractor rides, picnics, wine tastings, meditation, tea in the garden, food trucks, and more.

Image via FlyBy Photography

Plan to stay the day and bring home beautiful flowers and/or inspo for your own garden. Carlsbad itself is a stunning coastal escape, with seven miles of pristine SoCal beaches, amazing restaurants, and hotels + spas (girls trip, anyone?). Choose your fun of choice: surfing, biking, hiking, sunbathing, or massaging. From a floral-infused spa treatment or sipping on a botanical cocktail, the sleepy town of Carlsbad is actually the perfect year-round getaway.

Where To Stay

Image via Westin Carlsbad Resort and Spa

It was my daughter’s spring break, so after some fun in LA checking out the Tar Pits, California Science Center, Griffith Park, and more, we headed down to Carlsbad for the Flower Fields, Legoland, and a visit with family. We spent a night at the Westin Carlsbad Resort and Spa, a vast resort with fire pits, a spacious pool and jacuzzi so you’re not piling on top of other guests, ping pong and pool table poolside, and a cozy brunch-friendly restaurant.

Image via Westin Carlsbad Resort and Spa

Bonus: if you’re traveling with kids, the Westin offers a private entrance right into the Legoland Park. We had stayed at the Legoland Hotel before, which is fun for kids but not my ideal stay. The Westin was fun for me, my partner, my 9 year old daughter, and our dog!

Image via Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

In celebration of flower field season, the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa nearby has a Petals, Candles & Craft Workshop and a Power of Flowers kids program each Sunday; plus floral-inspired bites at the resort’s Test Kitchen Series. The Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, a Hilton Resort & Spa also offers a seasonal Red Flower Fields Scrub & Massage at its spa and Floral Infusions cocktails at their bar.

Image via The Beach Terrace

The Beach Terrace also offers a Bloom Bliss Package, which includes accommodations, two tickets to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, farm-to-bakery cookies from a local baker, and a donation to The Flower Fields Foundation.

Where To Eat

Image via Jeune et Jolie

Outside of the Flower Fields and resorts, there are some amazing restaurants and cafes in Carlsbad too. We especially enjoyed Harumama Noodles + Buns, which creates adorable animal-themed sticky buns. All of the food was delicious for kids and adults! Other places to try: Jeune et Jolie, a beautiful French spot with SoCal influence, Campfire for comfort food and creative cocktails in an outdoor setting, and Handel's or Jeni's for homemade ice cream.

For Parents

My 9 year old daughter loves Legoland and this was our third time going. Beyond the build sessions and incredible Lego sculptures of our favorite cities, we did a few new things, like saw a fun extreme sports performance, a boat ride in their new dino exhibit, and a submarine ride with an aquarium of sharks, sting rays, and more.

More Flower Fields In The U.S. To See

Image via Shutterstock

Purple Haze Lavender Farm

Purple Haze Lavender is a 7-acre farm located in Sequim-Dungeness Valley of the northern Olympic Peninsula of Washington State. The town was rated one of the best small towns in the northwest by Sunset Magazine. The farm has a gift shop, ice cream stand with lavender ice cream and lavender lemonade (yum!), picnic area and you can pick the lavender from mid-June through early August.

PELINDABA LAVENDER FARM on the San Juan Islands is also worth a visit.

Image via Shutterstock

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Nothing says spring more than the arrival of the tulip. The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in Mt. Vernon, Washington offers four stunning tulip gardens. Find breweries and wineries nearby, museums, tea houses, and more nearby. Here are some recommended stays in the area.

Image via Tabitha Mort

Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival

This family farm in Woodburn, OR has been growing tulips since the 70s. Visit now through the first week of May. Find fresh cut flowers, gift shop items, and all sorts of food and activities on weekends.

Crested Butte Wildflower Festival

This festival celebrates the wildflowers blooming in one of the most picturesque valleys in Colorado. It goes all summer long with hundreds of events and program. The festival takes place July 12-21.

Image via Janice Carriger

Bluebonnets superbloom

You can find bluebonnets growing all over Texas this season, but one of the best places to spot the state flower is at The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at University of Texas, Austin. Explore nearly 900 different species of plants, including a great view of beautiful bluebonnets.

Find more travel inspiration on our Travel page!

Header image by Josh Hild

I knew beauty trends were officially headed in a different direction when latte makeup dominated social media last year. Everything about it gave the appearance of soft features, making this millennial appreciate the ‘no makeup’ look more and more. And while I'm working on staying up-to-date on all the latest makeup trends, it also reminded me there are outdated trends that unintentionally age people...and definitelyneedto go.

Wanna look younger and more on-trend, too? From super metallic eyeshadow to contour that dominates your face, here are the 8 outdate makeup trends to leave in the early ‘90s to mid-2000s.

The 8 outdated makeup trends you need to stop ASAP!

1. Full Coverage Foundation

KoolShooters

There was a time where wearing full-coverage foundation was all the rage. From drugstore to high-end brands, it seems like they were consistently shoved in consumers’ faces to help us achieve a ‘full beat’ without sitting in a makeup artist’s chair. Also, those of us with dark spots or hyperpigmentation may have relied on them when we were in the thick of our skincare woes.

But these days, wearing too much foundation isn’t as popular as natural and skincare makeup are prioritized. If anything, more people are interested in wearing light-to-medium coverage foundation, skin tints, or tinted moisturizers.

2. Too Much Concealer

George Milton

It wasn’t until I watched this video by makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes that I realized some of us have been too heavy-handed with our concealers. There’s no reason we should be slapping products under the thinnest parts of our face, but we didn’t know any better!

Now that you know you can still get the desired effect with a minimal amount of concealer, don’t revert back to painting your under eyes!

3. 'Baking' Your Setting Powder

Chidi Young

Before you throw away your setting powders, step away from your makeup drawer and have a sit-down chat with me. There isn’t anything wrong with applying them to your face to help ‘set’ your foundation and concealer. However, spending over 10 minutes ‘baking’ your powder (AKA letting it sit untouched) doesn’t work for everyone.

It can lead to creased makeup which can derail your look, plus it’s a pain to correct when you’re halfway through your routine!

4. Overlining Lips

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I love a good lip liner, especially if it mirrors my favorite ‘90s makeup look. But, there’s such a thing as overdoing it. The key to lining your lips is following the natural flow of them. Going out of your way to draw above and under your lips’ lines comes off as comical and exaggerated. If anything, use a lip plumping gloss to help your lips look fuller.

5. Overtweezing Your Eyebrows

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I don’t even have the words for this outdated makeup look besides wanting to say “no” 20 times in a row. But, I’ll bite and say why this shouldn’t be on your 2025 beauty moodboard.

Some people naturally have thinner eyebrows which is A-okay! However, purposely tweezing your eyebrows to smithereens is cringey. If you truly want to wear this look, here’s what you can do instead of tweezing:

  • Create a faux bleached look by applying a skin tone colored setting powder all over your brows.
  • Once they’ve ‘disappeared,’ take an eyebrow pencil or eyeliner to draw a thin line over them.

I’m…wondering what the ramifications of telling you how to do this will be, but only use go for this look if it’s a part of a themed party…like Halloween.

6. Exaggerated Highlighter On Cheeks

Milad Farhani

The shimmery look is in since it’s winter, but please don’t make it look like you dipped your cheeks into a vat of glitter. You can lightly dust highlighter onto your cheeks for a more natural glow that flows with the rest of your look. Otherwise you’ll look like a walking disco ball which could be the opposite of what you were going for.

7. Heavy Contour Or Bronzer

Laura Garcia

I know the ‘sculpted’ look is popular, but too much contour or bronzer can overpower the rest of your makeup and face. While it’s not impossible to fix if you do it by mistake, using the wrong shade of contour or bronzer may still peep through no matter how much you try to buff it out.

When in doubt, be gentle with your contour or bronzer application!

8. Incredibly Matte Makeup

Nataliia Yatsiuk

Matte makeup that didn’t budge was the ‘It Girl’ look for oily and combination skin girls! We thought it was the answer to our skin’s incessant need to hydrate our faces instead of actually using skincare products that focused on combatting that issue (psst…Vitamin C serums help!).

But now’s the time to break up with this look for good for one reason: dewy skin looks healthier.

While we have you here, learn about the outdated shoe trends you shouldn't be wearing in 2025 either.

As much as I love the wholesome parts of the holidays (like decorating Christmas cookies and opening gifts in the morning), one of my absolute favorite parts about the end of the year is ringing in a new one. 2025 is on its way, baby, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already scheming up a New Year's party plan. The key to a good time is definitely having a great outfit – and these 12 Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses are actually perfect for the occasion. I’m talkin’ sequins, mesh, and even leopard print.

Get ready to stand out this season in these drop-dead gorgeous Abercrombie & Fitch party dresses!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Drop-Waist Maxi Dress

Drop waists will always get me. Plus, they're so flattering! This flowy maxi can be conveniently worn with or without straps to suit your personal style.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Sheer Hem Mini Dress

The scooped neckline on this stunning mini dress is mirrored along the back, which dips a bit lower for a sultry vibe. Pair with some basic heels, and your 'fit is complete.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Collared Zip-Up Midi Dress

The ruching along the front of this zip-up dress is super flattering, drawing eyes to your waistline. The high leg slit feels flirtatious as ever, which could be just the vibe you're needing for your New Year's plans.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Slip Maxi Dress

Slip dresses are simply timeless and so easy to style. Lean more '90s with this foxy leopard print. I'd def wear it with some black boots and a black faux fur jacket for the drama (and more importantly, the warmth).

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Mesh Maxi Dress

This meshy maxi comes with a mini-length slip along the inside so you won't have to constantly worry about coverage. The material still shows your skin in all the right places!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Strapless Pleated Skort Dress

This preppy piece can easily be played up for a party – if anything, I think the tailored look gives the impression that you're super polished. Slip into this strapless skort dress (yep, there's built-ini shorts!), step into some cute kitten heels, throw on a shaggy coat, and you're set!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Long-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Satin Mini Dress

I could see this one working just as well for a Christmas dinner as it would for a rather lit New Year's get-together. The off-the-shoulder look is simply so sweet!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Straight Neck Sequin Midi Dress

Sequins. Need I say more?! You'll immediately stand out among the crazy New Year's crowds in this fancy, disco ball-esque frock.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Off-The-Shoulder Rhinestone Maxi Dress

If full-on sequins aren't quite your thing, you can still put on a bit of shimmer with this dress that's dotted in tiny rhinestones. It comes in this amazing nude color or black to best suit your style!

Abercrombie & Fitch

High-Neck Satin Sculpt Midi Dress

While the front of this sleek midi is more modest, the back features an open design that lets you show some more skin. It's definitely on the elegant side, so I'd advise wearing it to a fancy cocktail hour or more low-key NYE party this year.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Emerson Off-The-Shoulder Skort Dress

Polka dots always feel super energetic to me, so if you want to be the one to get the party started, this is the dress for you! Plus, it'll make for some super cute Instagram pics. The design includes some built-in shorts, so coverage won't be an issue throughout the night.

Abercrombie & Fitch

Satin Embellished Strapless Mini Dress

Oh, this one is perfect. The tiny rhinestone embellishments will certainly have heads tuning your way.

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