With warm weather expected to hit London this weekend, it has got me thinking about the best hair trends to wear in the sunshine. I have a lot of hair—thick, naturally curly and pretty long at the moment—so I already know that wearing it down will probably be something I regret. However, I also do not want to spend hours creating a complicated updo when I would rather be outside enjoying the weather.
So, I decided it was time to speak to an expert and get their opinion on the best hot-weather hairstyles that do not take hours in front of the mirror. I spoke to Tina Farey, editorial director at RUSH Hair, and asked her to share her top recommendations.
Below, I have rounded up Farey’s favourite summer hairstyles, along with a few of my own picks that I have been seeing all over Instagram. These styles are chic, simple and the perfect finishing touch for your new-season wardrobe. So, what are you waiting for? Keep scrolling and get inspired. And if you are heading on holiday this summer, we also have hairstyles for long-haul flights. You are welcome.
15 Easy Hairstyles to Beat the Summer Heat
1. The Chignon
First up is the classic French-girl hairstyle: the chignon. “The ultra-chic chignon screams Parisian cool – renowned for its sophisticated, sleek approach to the trending ‘undone’ look,” says Farey. “The word chignon originates from the French phrase ‘chignon du cou’, which translates to nape of the neck, where this hairstyle tends to sit. This low-maintenance style is perfect for those warmer days when you need your hair out of your face, working on a range of different hair types and textures – as long as your hair is collarbone length, then you can rock this refined, structured silhouette.”
2. Beachy Texture
If you do want to wear your hair down in the heat, why not embrace a beautifully relaxed beachy texture? The secret to this look is all in the products. I recommend applying a good texture spray or salt spray through the ends of your hair to create that tousled finish.
3. Slick-Back Bun
In between wash days? Do not worry, because the slicked-back bun is here to save the day. “The classic slick-back bun is the perfect style to keep your hair out of your face – especially if you’re short on time,” explains Farey. “I’d recommend using a strong hold hairspray to keep your style looking sleek all day long.”
4. Top Knot
If a slicked-back bun feels a little too polished for you, go for a more relaxed top knot instead. This style is simple to recreate and is another easy way to keep your hair away from your face while still looking chic. You can also leave a few strands loose around the front of your face for a more lived-in finish.
5. Pigtail Braids
“Braids are the perfect option for all hair types and lengths on those warmer days – especially if you have wavy or curly hair,” says Farey. There are so many pretty braid styles to choose from, but I am especially loving this cute pigtail braid hairstyle for summer.
6. Natural Texture
Instead of spending hours with your straightener or hot brush this summer, embrace your natural texture. There are so many great products available this season to help define and enhance your natural hair, whether you have soft waves or beautiful curls.
7. Half-Up, Half-Down
“Half-up, half-down looks are the ultimate blend of ease and elegance, looking effortlessly chic for all hair types and lengths,” Farey tells me. “This style is completely customisable to the individual, beautifully showcasing the hair’s natural texture, from straight and sleek to wonderfully wavy; this is the ideal option for keeping your hair out of your face. [Plus], it’s perfect for any event, from work to weddings to weekends in the sunshine.”
8. ’90s Tendrils
I love this ’90s-inspired updo hairstyle. Give your low bun a summer update by adding some wavy tendrils around the front of your face, and get ready for the compliments to come in.
9. Soft Bob
A bob hairstyle is a great option for summer. According to Farey, the soft bob will be a top choice this season. “This style is a delicately feminine approach to the classic blunt bob, offering a much more effortless rendition with its summery, relaxed feel,” she says. “Essentially, it’s a shoulder-length cut with wispy, graduated layers blended seamlessly throughout to achieve the ethereal essence of the look.”
10. French Braid
Another braid hairstyle I am loving for the warmer months is the French braid. It is slightly more complicated than some other braid styles, but the final result is definitely worth it. Luckily, we have put together a complete guide on how to French braid your hair this season.
11. Bubble Ponytail
“Elevate your classic ponytail this season with the Y2K-inspired bubble ponytail, which is loved for its practical yet trendy look,” says Farey. “This style works best with second-day medium to long hair, making it great for festival season when you need a style that will keep oilier hair looking fresh.”
Clear elastics will be your best friend for this look. Simply use them to create the bubble effect shown above.
12. Claw Clips
Putting your hair up with a claw clip is such an easy and effortlessly chic way to style your hair in hot weather. However, if you want to take the look one step further, try adding multiple statement claw clips like the image above.
13. Relaxed Ponytail
Ponytails are seriously stylish right now, and this relaxed version feels perfect for summer. Add loose waves to the ends of your ponytail for a laidback yet elegant finish.
14. Mermaid Waves
I have been using my hair waver non-stop this season. It does require a little more styling than some of the looks above, but I love the beachy finish that it creates.
15. Micro Bob
Long hair can feel like a lot during the summer months, so if you are thinking about going shorter, I highly recommend the micro bob. According to Instagram, this super-short cut is one of the most stylish bob hairstyles to try this season.
