Why Braids Are So Much More Than Just a Protective Style

Writer Julee Wilson explores why getting braided up can feel so emotional.

If you have trouble viewing this email, view it in a browser.  BOOKS FOLLOW SUBSCRIBE A ‘Love Island’ contestant is reflecting on the backlash surrounding her “mean girl” behavior, admitting that parts of what viewers saw onscreen were “ugly.” Meanwhile, Cosmo's Julee Wilson is exploring why braids can feel like so much more than a hairstyle, from ritual to emotional reset. Plus, the surprisingly moving ending of 'The Devil Wears Prada 2,' the $7 stick-on nails changing our beauty routines, and the Zara dress trend quietly taking over spring. —The Cosmo Team Julee Wilson on Why Fresh Braids Feel Like Therapy, Tradition, and a Reset All in One From vacation prep to major life milestones, let’s explore why getting braided up is so important. READ MORE ‘Love Island: Beyond the Villa’ Contestant Issues Apology for “Mean Girl” Behavior “A lot of what was shown of me was ugly.” READ MORE These $7 Stick-On Nails Have Changed My Manicure Game And they lasted almost two whole weeks. READ MORE The Hopeful Ending of ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’, Unpacked That’s all. READ MORE Directional Stripe Dresses Are Taking Over Spring Style, and This $60 Zara Look Is Proof Make way, polka dots! READ MORE 8 of Veronika Slowikowska’s Funniest 'SNL' Sketches I’m a “Boys Podcast” girl myself. READ MORE Follow Us Unsubscribe | Manage Preferences | Privacy Notice | CA Notice at Collection Cosmopolitan is a publication of Hearst Magazines. ©2026 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This email was sent by Hearst Magazines, 300 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019-3779