Summer is finally here, and our current beauty efforts are concentrated around adding to our hairstyle repertoire.
The warmer months lend themselves to looks that appear fresh and invigorating, but crucially demand minimal effort – a pop of cream blush, a dewy layer of tinted moisturiser, a sweep of bronzer and the like.
It is only natural that this low-maintenance, laissez-faire approach be extended into our hairstyle choices, especially when the temperature begins to rise.
Summer is one of the worst offenders when it comes to hair damage – from humidity and heat to salt water and chlorine. And yet, it's not all doom and gloom. It also presents the perfect opportunity to broaden your hair horizons and experiment with some new looks.
If your quest to beat the heat has left you hot and bothered, we've got you covered. This season, buns will be your beauty godsend: from super sleek spiky styles and classic 90s claw clips to unfussy chignons with face-framing tendrils.
Festival favourites such as bubble braids and textured plaits are also ideal if you're wanting to keep cool (while looking even cooler). Alternatively, up the ante with coloured elastics and playful accessories for a cutesy Y2K moment or serve elevated elegance à la Sofia Richie with crisp white camellia clips.
The vibe is fuss-free, but that certainly doesn't mean low impact. Get inspired with our current favourite hair looks and start perfecting your skills, stat.
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© © Instagram / @milly_amybaineshairSleek, spiky bun
All the cool girls are living for super sleek buns at the moment, and this spiky version is steeped in Y2K flair. Boar bristle brushes and aloe gel at the ready...
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© Instagram / @naturalhair_hopeLarger-than-life scrunchie
Scrunchies skyrocketed in popularity in the late 80s and early 90s, but the hair accessory one of those boomerang trends that just refuses to quit. Supersize styles are huge right now thanks to Good Squish, and they look beautiful alongside moisturised coils.
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© Instagram / @michaelgrayhairCowrie shell half-up, half-down bun
Shells are a bona fide summer classic, and these cowrie slides are a super cute addition. For added relief against the heat, style your hair in a half-up, half-down bun.
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© Instagram / @samirasjewelryBows, bows and more bows
When adding just one bow to your hairstyle isn't enough, opt for multiple that cascade down your bubble ponytail for a Simone Rocha-approved look.
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© Instagram / @hairby.brittanyFace-framing tendrils
If you've got a wedding or chic al fresco event on the horizon, it's difficult to go wrong with an elegant knotted bun. Pull out your bangs or create two sections at the front and style them into smooth, face-framing waves.
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© Instagram / @hairwithlindaHigh bunches
It's giving Baby Spice with a hint of festival energy, and we're here for it. High bunches are great for scraping your hair back, away from your face and infusing your look with a playful femininity.
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© Instagram / @natalieannehairDefined curls with headband
Bouncy corkscrew curls feel synonymous with off-duty effortlessness, and the addition of a textured headband gives this look a clear focal point.
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© Instagram / @alexbrownhairVoluminous low pony
Ah, the ponytail. So simple, and yet so many pitfalls. The secret to a flattering line is to get a bit of height close to the root with a texturising spray.
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© Instagram / @cheban_alenaBig bow energy
As we all know, bows in all shapes and forms are very, very hot right now and the easiest way to adopt the trend is by adding one to your hair. If you don't have a bow clip or hairband, just take one from an old present, bag or your junk drawer.
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© Instagram / @hairbyruslanTextured braid
For guaranteed impact, a long, sweeping braid is the way to go. Use a styling gel to get a smooth finish against your head, but a little texture in the braid can look lived-in and lovely.
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© Instagram / @tiana.myBubble braids and claw clip combo
Bubble braids are the moment and we're 100% into it. Cute and with minimal skill required, they look great as the main feature with a classic claw clip at the back to keep your hair off your neck.
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© Instagram / @lirislawCorkscrew accents
As so effortlessly proved by Iris Law at this year's Fashion Awards, corkscrew face-framing accents are a one-way ticket to cool-girl town.
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Camellia clips
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Chunky gold accents
If you want to elevate a subtle yet sleek ensemble, nothing screams quiet luxury quite like a chunky gold accessory, and the same goes for your hair accents.
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© Instagram / @tiana.myAdd a bandana
Perfect for those days when your cowlick or flyaways aren't cooperating as they should, a simple bandana is both chic and very on trend, as so effortlessly proved by Hailey Bieber just recently.
