While we love the challenge of an intricate updo, summer is all about comfort and ease. After all, less time styling our hair means more time at the beach. But just because a hairstyle requires minimal effort doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish too. on the contrary. For us, summer hairstyles are as functional as they are stylish. That means a look that not only withstands the heat and humidity, but also keeps you looking and feeling as fresh and cool as a summer breeze. To prove it to you, we rounded up our favorite summer hairstyles and styling tips from experts Giovanni Vaccaro and Ryan Richman.
Smooth ponytail
Summer is the perfect time to wear a sleek ponytail that keeps your hair in place, minus the flyaways! Best of all, your hair will look straight even when you’re sweating. Spritz on some Toni&Guy Finishing Shine Spray to keep your makeup looking.
Textured bob
You’ve heard it before and you’ll hear it again: Use your natural hair texture. While this is good advice any time of year, it’s even more so in the summer, when the first sign of humidity can hinder an hour of hot styling. sigh. So if you have curly or wavy hair, accentuate your texture with a cut and style that suits it. According to Vaccaro, you might want to rock a shaggy short bob, or throw off your length with a chic blunt cut. Layered and tousled, Jennifer Hudson’s chin-length bob achieves #shorthairdontcare goals in every detail.
Starting with damp hair, comb through hair with a wide-toothed comb, then run your fingers through hair.
“Let it air dry and spray with sea salt for a natural finish that’s durable,” says Vaccaro.
Messy bun
We’ve already brought you messy bun tutorials for every day of the week, but this natural hairstyle version brings something extra. Curls add natural texture, movement, and even killer bangs to this simple style. To style, start by prepping hair with Tgin Coconut Oil and Vitamin E-rich Twist and Define Cream ($13). Then tuck hair into a messy bun—your curls will do the rest.
Rope Ponytail
What would we be without ponytails? You help us get so much done! But it’s summer, and if you don’t want your hair sticking to your back, opt for a rope braid and wear it in style.
Space bun
Space buns are having a moment. The ’90s hair trend is having a revival in the fashion world and is a popular summer hairstyle trend for the holiday season. Janelle Monáe adorns her with floral barrettes. “Elevate your image in a warm and practical way,” explains Vaccaro. “Use cool, modern styling to curl your hair out of the way.”
Create a side part two inches back, create a gentle drop on the face frame, then a center part, and part your hair into two sections.
Take a section and create a ponytail secured with an elastic. Wrap the end of the ponytail around the elastic and secure with a pin. Repeat for another section.
Then swoop and brush lightly to one side, securing the ends at the bottom of the bun with Barbie pins. Provides you with easy face framing.
Now: accessories. Add sparkly bobby pins, hair stickers or sequins to elevate the look.
Beach waves
Beach waves are naturally summer. But if you can’t dock, you can take home this visually effortless style. Thanks to their texture, these thin, straight strands benefit from the extra dimension and movement they create.
Use a mousse like Sexy Hair Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Plus Moisture Volumizing Spray Mousse ($20) on blow-dried or damp hair. Let air dry.
Using the 0.75″ roller, start curling 1″ of hair.
Spritz a soft hold hairspray on your brush and let the heat dissipate to detangle the curls.
When all the hair is curled, finger comb the waves one last time.
Pompadour
Naturally textured hair brings a fresh feel to the pompadour. It’s a low-maintenance style that starts with the right cut and ends with the right product. Hair should be cut short on the sides and longer on top.
Wash your hair and let it air dry.
Apply a small amount of pomade, like Cantu Shea Butter Styling Pomade ($4), and work it through the tops of your hair.
Use bobby pins—we like the Pattern Hair Pick ($9)—to tease and style hair for added height and volume.
Finish with TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Extend Hold Level 4 Hairspray ($9).
