In 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 temp rises. But these two truths don't co-exist easily because I feel prettiest with my hair out but look sweaty and so, in fact most days I give up and whack my long bob into a low bun and call it a day.
I just want more options on rotation for styles that'll make me look and feel cute 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 long weave, bobs, lobs and my natural coils out in the summer and in each phase I would have benefited having a few of these in rotation.
Boho braids
Our fave curtain-bang-having, pint-sized pop angel is always serving beauty looks and this summer coded style is no different. Two smooth pigtails are neat and super easy to do. If you also have a fringe like Ms Carpenter, this is a great way to style it to keep it off of your face slightly while keeping the shape.
Retro hairband
Miu Miu called and 90s-core zig-zag hairbands are back, styled here on Hailey B. Yes these hairbands are pure nostalgia but also I think you're forgetting how handy they are to get your hair off of 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 florals scrunchie is so low-effort but looks effortlessly elegant.
Half up, half down
Whether you have long or short hair and if it's straight, wavy, curly, in braids or super coily, half up and half down is an easy fix for keeping the hair off of your face.
Slicked back
Pixie-havers and bob wearers, you might be used to a certain parting style but summer calls for a swept back look. Use a stick like the JVN Hair Perfect Stylefix Stick to slick it back but give 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 does look 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 his this row of bows? A kitsch 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 hair slides.
Bubble pony
The assortment of hair band types in this bubble pony elevates it from the kind of bubble pony we wore when we were 12 years old and keeping Claire's Accessories afloat to a chic way keep your hair off of your neck in summer.
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.
