In the summer, two things can be true when it comes to my hair. I want it to look super cute, and I want it off of my face and neck, especially as the temps rise. But these two truths don’t coexist easily, because I feel prettiest with my hair out but look sweaty as heck when doing so. In fact, most days I give up and throw my long bob into a low bun and call it a day.
I want more rotation options for styles that’ll make me look and feel chic but don’t take too much effort, you know? And this isn’t just an issue for those of us with lobs—having a bank of ideas for easy summer styles is key for all hair types and textures. I’ve had a long weave, bobs, lobs, and my natural coils out in the summer, and in each phase I would have benefited from having a few of these in rotation.
Keep scrolling for summer hairstyles that are equal parts cute and sweat-friendly.
Boho braids
Our fave curtain-bang-having, fun-sized pop angel is always serving beauty looks and this summer-coded style is no different. Two low pigtail braids are super easy to do. And if you also have bangs like Ms. Carpenter, this is a great way to style them away from your face slightly, while keeping the shape.
Retro hairband
Miu Miu called, and ’90s-core zigzag hairbands are back, styled here on Hailey B. Yes, these hairbands are pure nostalgia, but I think you’re forgetting how handy they are to get your hair off your face. Cool and practical—we love it.
An adorned low pony
Got a wedding to go to this summer? This cute low pony adorned with a floral scrunchie is so low-effort but looks equally elegant.
Half up, half down
No matter your hair length or texture, whether it’s straight, wavy, curly, braided, or coily, a half-up, half-down hairstyle is an easy solution for keeping hair off your face.
Swept back
Pixie-havers and bob wearers, you might be used to a certain simple parting style, but summer calls for a swept-back look. Use a styling stick or a wand to slick it back while still giving it some texture at the same time.
French pin
The French pin is the chicest way to throw your hair up in the heat. It looks a little complicated, but once you get the hang of the twist, I promise you’ll be able to do it with your eyes closed.
A row of bows
Sorry, how sweet is this row of bows?! A kitschy way to pin back a fringe you’re growing out, or even if you have some hairline breakage (or new growth!). If bows aren’t your thing, you could opt for simple hairpins.
Bubble pony
The mix of hair tie sizes and styles gives this bubble pony a grown-up feel, transforming it from the kind of hairstyle that kept Claire’s in business when we were 12 into a chic way to keep your hair off your neck all summer long.
Keeks Reid is the Beauty Director at Cosmopolitan UK. While she loves all things beauty, Keeks is a hair fanatic through and through. She started her career in beauty journalism in 2013 as editorial assistant at Blackhair and Hair magazines working her way to Acting Editor of Blackhair magazine at 23 years old. She spent much of her career working in trade hairdressing media at Hairdressers Journal, Salon International and the British Hairdressing Awards. Which is why she is a regular contributor to Cosmo's Curl Up franchise. Now, alongside her Cosmo work, she presents, creates content on social media and works with a range of beauty companies; from magazines and websites to beauty brands and salons.
