Braids by Summer

- 2860 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657

For residents of Illinois, particularly those in the dynamic Chicago area, finding a dedicated specialist for protective hair styling is essential. Braids by Summer stands out as a premier destination, focusing entirely on high-quality, expert braiding services. This business is not just a hair salon; it is a highly specialized studio committed to the art and technique of traditional and contemporary braiding. The focus here is on providing stunning, long-lasting protective styles that are both beautiful and beneficial for hair health.

Located in one of Chicago's bustling North Side neighborhoods, Braids by Summer has established a strong reputation built on precision, efficiency, and a deep understanding of protective styling. It is proudly identified as a Black-owned and women-owned establishment, contributing to the rich diversity of small businesses in the city. The professional ethos emphasizes a focused, individualized experience where client time is respected, and high standards of work are consistently maintained. Clients seeking specific, expertly crafted braided looks—from classic Box Braids to trendy Knotless styles—will find a focused and skilled approach here.

Prospective clients should be aware that the business operates on a strict appointment-only basis and maintains a cash-only payment policy for the remaining balance of the service, following the initial deposit, to ensure streamlined and efficient transactions. This focus on operational clarity allows the team to dedicate their energy to the craft, delivering the exceptional results their Chicago clientele expects.

Location and Accessibility

Braids by Summer is conveniently located at 2860 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657, USA. This address places the salon in the lively Lakeview neighborhood, an area well-known for its dense commercial activity, accessibility, and proximity to various Chicago landmarks.

The North Broadway corridor is a major thoroughfare, making the salon easily accessible via personal vehicle and public transit. For those traveling from various parts of Illinois, the location is served by multiple CTA bus routes, and the area is relatively close to the Red, Brown, and Purple 'L' lines, which is a significant advantage for Chicago commuters. The accessibility of the location allows clients from downtown to the northern suburbs to schedule their appointments with relative ease. As is typical for a busy Chicago neighborhood like Lakeview, clients driving should plan their trip to allow time for navigating local street parking options. The central location in a high-traffic retail area adds to the convenience, placing the salon near many other shopping and dining options.

Services Offered

Braids by Summer specializes exclusively in professional hair braiding, focusing on several of the most popular and complex protective styles. The salon's dedicated service menu ensures that the focus and expertise remain highly refined, promising exceptional results in these specific areas. The core services provided are:

• Box Braids: The classic, versatile protective style, consisting of box-shaped hair parts and three-strand braids that can be done in various sizes and lengths.
• Knotless Braids: A modern and increasingly popular technique where the braiding hair is fed into the natural hair, creating less tension at the root and a more natural, flexible look.
• Stitch Braids: A technique often used in cornrow patterns, characterized by defined, horizontal part lines that give a "stitched" or segmented appearance, prized for their clean and sharp aesthetic.
• Tribal Braids: Often a combination of various braiding techniques, including cornrows and individual braids, typically featuring intricate patterns around the perimeter or scalp, frequently styled with beads or cuffs.

It is common for dedicated braiding specialists to include the braiding hair (usually in the color black) in the service price, often with the hair provided at waist length, though specific details should always be confirmed at the time of booking. The highly specialized nature of these offerings ensures that clients receive service from true experts in the braiding field.

Features / Highlights

Braids by Summer offers a set of distinct features that appeal strongly to local clientele seeking specialized services and a commitment to professional standards:

• Highly Specialized Focus: The exclusive dedication to Box, Knotless, Stitch, and Tribal Braids ensures a level of mastery and efficiency in these protective styles.
• Black-Owned and Women-Owned: Identifying as both Black-owned and women-owned, the business supports diversity within the Chicago small business community and often provides a culturally aware and welcoming environment for its clientele.
• Strict Appointment Required Policy: This feature benefits clients by guaranteeing dedicated service time, minimizing wait times, and allowing the braider to focus fully on the booked style. Appointments are mandatory for service.
• Cash-Only Payment Policy: The requirement for the remaining balance to be paid in cash streamlines the checkout process, which is a common practice among independent and specialized stylists. Debit or credit cards are not accepted for the balance due.
• Convenient Amenity: A restroom is available on the premises for client comfort during the typically lengthy braiding process.
• Prime Chicago Location: Situated in the accessible and popular Lakeview neighborhood, making it easy for clients across the Chicagoland area to reach.
• Focus on Protective Styling: The core service portfolio is centered around protective hairstyles, catering to clients who prioritize hair health and low-maintenance styling.

Contact Information

For Illinois residents interested in booking an appointment with this highly specialized braiding salon, here is the essential contact and location information:

Address: 2860 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657, USA

Phone: (773) 366-1825

Given the strict "Appointment required" policy, clients are strongly advised to call the number provided or use any available online booking platform to secure their slot. The phone number is the primary method for initial contact and appointment inquiries.

What is Worth Choosing Braids by Summer

For anyone in the Illinois region prioritizing authentic, high-quality, and reliable protective braiding, Braids by Summer is a superior choice. The primary factor making this salon worth choosing is the high level of specialization. In the vast Chicago hair market, finding a business that focuses intensely on one category, such as advanced braiding techniques like Knotless and Tribal styles, often translates directly into superior craftsmanship and expertise. The stylists here are dedicated masters of their niche.

Beyond the technical skill, the professional structure of the business—the appointment-only rule and the efficiency of the cash-only policy—ensures a predictable and smooth client experience. Clients know exactly what to expect: a dedicated service slot without unnecessary waiting, and a clear payment structure. Furthermore, supporting a Black-owned and women-owned small business is a compelling factor for many conscious consumers in the Chicago community. When you choose Braids by Summer, you are selecting professionalism, expertise in protective hair care, and a focused, respectful client environment in one of Chicago's most accessible neighborhoods. This focus on specialization and client management makes Braids by Summer a standout option for those seeking the very best in braided hairstyles in Illinois.

Braids by Summer

2860 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657, USA