End of Summer Hairstyles Ideas 2025 for Women: Braids, Buns & Heat-Proof Glam

Bonfires on the beach, sunset concerts, and frozen latte on the way to the September switch. But what does your hair tell about the finale of the season?

Is it the fashionable up-do that battles the frizz on a rainy night? The long dishevelled waves that still have the scent of sunscreen and sweet freedom? Or a brand new something you were saving till that late August self-esteem do-over?

So without further ado, let’s dive into the most inspiring end of summer hairstyles that are going to make your hair the last outfit detail you never knew you needed.

Soft Power: The Elegant Poolside Slick Back

A well-done Slick back style has a secretly luxurious feel to it. The drama is here, but not a flyaway, all the talking is done by your features with this look. Heading pool to patio or simply wanting to achieve that clean-girl look? This shiny bun is perched at the back of the head like a crown. It is sculptural, intentional and strong in a I-planned-this-and-no-it-did-not-take-hours kind of way.

In order to maintain the style crisp even on a hot and humid day, I would always prepare by applying a water-based styling gel such as Ouai Matte Pomade. It gives hold but still feels touchable. Apply a small amount of serum on the ends in case your hair usually dries in the sun. Pro tip? A toothbrush (yes, really) is your best friend for taming edges without disturbing the silhouette.

It is my default when I am not in the mood to think hard yet I want to appear to have at least two linen matching sets in my wardrobe. I have worn this to a Labor Day concert once, and I received compliments all night long, in between each song, literally.

And, if you are shy to give something so put-together a try, then don’t. As hairstylist Justine Marjan once remarked, “A polished bun will do wonders to your outfit more than a bag would do.” Honestly? She’s right.

Retro Flirt: Deep Waves and Defined Brows

This look screams confidence with a vintage wink. The waves are deep-set, the brows are brushed up, the lips are boldly at work–all these basically are the ingredients to a hot day slay in the year 2025. The tendrils that frame the face neutralize the aggressive accuracy of the wave pattern and create a gentle, but dominating impression. Think long hair glamour, but with an edge.

In the styling department you will require a wide-barrel curling iron and a light touch. For hold that doesn’t crunch, I trust R+Co’s Vicious Strong Hold Flexible Spray—strong enough to last through a beachside dinner, soft enough to touch. Heat tools should be kept on medium, and a shine serum can be used to bring that reflective shine.

This hairstyle reminds me of Old Hollywood choosing to attend a rooftop party in Miami. I’ve worn this for a late-August holiday brunch, and let me tell you—it photographs ridiculously well.

Want to keep it more chill? Finger loosen the curls and spray dry shampoo to give volume. Children Hairstylist Kristin Ess recommends brushing out of structured waves to achieve a lived in softness that looks deliberate. Yes, ma’am.

Whimsical Chic: The Satin-Tied French Twist

This one is for you, in case you ever wish to feel like you just exited a European rom-com. The Updos trend has returned, however, it is looser and more romantic this time, with the soft side pieces and silk details. The drama at the crown is just enough, without being too prom-ish of the 90s. It’s elegant, but effortless. Feminine, without trying too hard.

The trick to making this look easy (and not fussy) is texturizing the hair beforehand. Before styling I apply Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray. It will give you grip and grit, which is particularly necessary when your hair is just washed. Then you can pin and finally you can use a little flexible hold spray.

I have a variant of this, which I wore out one night to a winery in Sonoma, and it added soft, summery glam to the entire evening. I didn’t even touch it once. It just… stayed.

A small tip I overheard hair stylist Anh Co Tran say: “It is the mess that makes it contemporary.” Don’t worry about every strand being perfect. That’s the charm.

Braided Royalty: Protective Space Bun Cornrows

There is nothing as fun, free, and summer brilliant as Trending braids that are as stylish as they are Protective. The well-organized cornrows leading to space buns give this hairstyle a vibe of a party—of texture, culture, and personality. It holds up through long days in the sun, camping trips or even dressing up to go to a concert without having to worry about frizz.

To maintain this look, the scalp should be kept hydrated and braids kept safe during the night. I like the TPH by Taraji Master Cleanse Targeted Scalp Wash- it reaches in between braids without disrupting the appearance. End the day by wrapping a satin scarf before you go to bed and your style will outlive your out-of-office message.

I have always envied those women who are able to sport natural curls and complicated braids like this throughout the summer. It’s both practical and stunning. This is a style that, frankly, I wish I knew how to braid better than a French plait I learnt in high school.

Because as stylist Vernon Francois is fond of saying: “Protective does not have to be boring.” This is proof.

Soft Luxe: Barely-There Waves with Pearl Glam

It is about the women who prefer to keep things simple yet elegant and mysterious at the same time. The shoulder length, soft-wave hairstyle whispers sophistication. It is this in-between season appearance that looks equally great with a beach cover-up as it does with a silk slip dress. Add a modern pearl earring and suddenly, you’re her.

This type of wave is fond of a flat iron, simply bend, release and repeat. If you’re looking to protect your strands from heat (and you should), I swear by Living Proof Restore Instant Protection Spray. It adds UV shielding, which is great if you’re still logging outdoor hours this late in summer.

Some days I want my hair to appear expensive with no effort. This style delivers. I wore it to a late summer art show and was stopped three times to be asked what I used. It was just dry shampoo and low-maintenance glam.

This is the change you might want to make before fall, in case you are ready to make a slight change. Minimal effort, maximum impact.

Floral Halo: Romantic Braid Crown with Waves

Long hair braided softly like a halo around the head, and natural waves beneath the tousled hair are giving modern fairytale. I am liking how the braid is placed just at the hairline, as though it is an in-built adornment. Add floral accents (bonus if they’re real), and it becomes the kind of look that works from a late summer bridal shower to a laid-back camp evening with s’mores.

This style thrives on healthy texture. To prepare hair, I prefer to use Gisou Honey Infused Leave-In Conditioner, as it moisturizes and shapes without making things heavy. This braid crown will last longer in you have naturally wavy hair or shoulder length hair, a little dry shampoo at the roots will give the braid something to hold on to.

This is the slow Sunday morning of hair styles to me. I have attended a small garden party in it, and really felt like I entered a romantic movie. The braid gets the hair out of your face, which is always a good thing when it remains hot and humid in August.

Want to try this look but feel unsure? As celebrity stylist Sarah Potempa is always quick to point out: “Braids are actually quite forgiving- you do not have to get it right to make it beautiful.” That’s the vibe here.

Boho Half-Up with Wildflower Details

This is the undress braid down the back of the head, the braids a trifle dishevelled, and with a bit of whimsy in them. The side braid easily transitions into a half-up look, and the wildflower clip adds the element of transforming a basic look to an Instagramable one. The barrel curls are soft and fall down to give an undressy but finished look. It is not a screamer of a hairstyle but one that surely does grab attention.

I would add that this style is best when you already have a little wave in your hair. Mist all over with the Amika Un.Done Volume and Texture Spray, particularly when you have been out in the sea air, or near salty winds. Use a light floral pin (Etsy has great ones) for that final sweet touch.

Frankly speaking, this has the energy of last summer weekend in the countryside. I attended a rooftop movie night in this, and someone literally questioned me whether I was a hairstylist. I said no—just vibing!

Don’t overthink symmetry here. It is the beauty of the loosely hanging pieces, the delicateness, the almost invisible work. Embrace the flyaways—it’s summer, after all.

Classic Double Cornrows for Pool Days

Sleek, durable braids with a huge amount of staying power- this is what this look is all about. The two cornrows pulled back at the hairline are not only keeping your hair safe but are also shouting hot summer day. Especially when you’re on a beach trip or lounging by the pool, nothing beats a style that stays exactly where you left it.

The prep here is key. I begin by applying Pattern Curl Gel to the braid sections to make all that nice and defined and then I apply Pattern Curl Gel to the rest of the hair to make it all that sleek. I would also never forget to suggest a nice scalp oil: the Scalp Serum by Bread Beauty Supply is very light and perfect in the sun.

There’s something bold yet sweet about this hairstyle. I recall using it on a camping trip and not needing to touch my hair at all in three days. It’s the kind of protective style that gives freedom.

This one takes the grand slam combination of fashion and stay-put practicality. It’s giving swim-ready, sweat-proof chic.

Goddess Twist: Sculptural Braids with Spirals

Alright, this one is when you want your braids to make the statements. Two long braids twisted into curls on the ends- it is punk, space-age and, well, a bit hypnotizing. This type of sculpture is creative and royal at the same time, combining the game of shape and texture. It is most effective with natural or blown-out hair, which has a stretch.

This kind of look needs a strong base. I would suggest braiding using Shine n Jam Magic Fingers Gel that provides hold and definition without flaking. Apply some light oil on your edges and a lil edge control to tame those baby hairs into nice clean swirls.

I have not tried this on, but I have been drooling over it ever since I laid my eyes on it at a fashion show pop-up. It is wearable art and it is ideal to wear to concerts, photo shoots or to simply be your own mood board.

Don’t sleep on decorative braid ends. They’re having a moment. As the hair artist Jawara once remarked, “Hair can be geometry, mood or sculpture.” This? It’s all three.

Sky-High Braided Ponytail with Carved Sides

Take your Ponytail game to new heights—literally. This style is a combination of tight side braids and a sleek high braided tail, which gives the snatched figure that means business. The braiding patterns also involve geometry, which gives it more detail and dimension, thus it is not a plain pony. It’s a statement.

This fabric is resistant to damp air, and will not move in a late-summer concert. To prepare, I would always suggest applying Design Essentials Sleek Edge Control Gel to define and lock in preparation. At night, care: Set the pony with a satin scrunchie- it will help avoid breakage at the base.

I used to observe this style on this girl at some summer music fest in Atlanta, and I tell you, the lines just to make a selfie with her were forming. That’s the power of a great protective, high-impact style.

It is stylish, robust and your hair is not on your neck when it is too hot outside. Ideal for when you’re not just attending the party—you are the party.

Twist Envy: Jumbo Marley Twists with Golden Tone

Long Marley twists are just that empowering, or rather, they are the kind of armor of beauty and uniqueness. This one is basically all about clean pieces, medium-sized twist on the bounce and body, and a dimensional color melt that incorporates dark chocolate roots into warm honey-brown ends. It is the type of protective style that makes you feel like you are making a style statement and self-care at the same time.

The upkeep of this appearance is all about moisture and care- spray your scalp with Mielle Organics Rice Water Moisturizing Milk every day, and seal with a light oil such as Camille Rose’s Cocoa Nibs & Honey Growth Serum. To avoid frizz I have made it a habit to wrap my hair with a silk scarf at night.

Twists at the end of the summer equate to freedom. You are not stressed about sweat destroying your look, or whether your hair will be well-behaved on that spontaneous camping journey or three-day music festival. These hold their own.

Bonus? These twists have a color play that captures sunlight in the most complimenting manner. I call that solar power beauty.

Satin Bow Softie: Half-Up Luxe with Warm Waves

This one is to make you feel like the moment without the most doing days. Shoulder length or more, dressed in ringlets, drawn together slightly, so that your face can shine through, and a big satin bow. It is the perfect combination of sweet and glamour- casual sophistication that you can put on and go to a picnic, a gallery walk, or a late summer date.

This style loves volume. I prepare using Drybar Southern Belle Mousse and then blow-dry using a round brush to accomplish that big, soft form. Lightly curl the ends with a 1.25-inch iron and brush out and you have a vintage bounce.

On a personal level, I tend to gravitate toward this appearance when I do not want to think much but still want to look photogenic. It is romantic but not too precious, and when combined with gold hoops or a minimalistic makeup look, it becomes silently alluring.

Need to elevate it even more? Add a bow in deep burgundy or ivory to give a clue of the oncoming fall. Why not give main character energy even when drinking lemonade?

Daisy Chain Braided Cascade

If fun were a hairstyle, this would be it. Thick braid begins at the top of the head and works down through the natural waves of soft hair. The difference with this one is the small, dainty floral clips that look like they are floating within the braid like petals on water. This outfit has the barest hint of whimsy to it and would be ideal for an end-of-season holiday brunch or a romantic night out at a concert under string lights.

Smooth and manage your hair using IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray, especially when you are creating second-day waves. The flower clips? I get them at Anthropologie or small Etsy stores and utilize them as a means to include seasonal character.

I have replicated this look at a bachelorette weekend and felt like a forest fairy all weekend long. It’s soft, subtle, but definitely not forgettable.

It is something in the combination of the braided organization and the wave movement that makes this feel balanced- planned but playful.

Cool-Girl Curls with Bangs and Attitude

We should discuss Natural curls and the absolute delight of allowing them to live their very best life- particularly when they are accompanied by bangs and attitude. This style embraces volume, definition, and movement. The curls are springy and bouncy and the layers permit the shape to shine. It gives that spontaneous “I woke up like this” vibe… but with a little finesse behind the scenes.

In caring for my curl, my ride-or-die is Pattern Curl Gel and Leave-In Combo. The gel makes things structured and the leave-in moisturizes without weighing the bounce. If you’re dealing with humid days, this combo resists the frizz drama beautifully.

Curls with bangs were a revelation for me. I never thought that my texture could “pull off” bangs- now it is my favorite part about my hair. And they also make the face look framed when it is covered in large sunglasses or bold earrings.

Celebrity curl stylist Nai’vasha often says, “Curls are an attitude.” This is that energy in full form. Let your texture be the look.

Twist & Turn: Bantu-Inspired Crown with Box Braids

It’s giving futuristic royalty meets street-style star. A take on box braids, done as high bantu knots on the top and the lengths left free to fall down. This half-and-half appearance is designed to be worn to concerts and street festivals or when your hoodie and liner simply require a topper. And it’s ridiculously chic.

Scalp care is everything here. On the mid-week, I apply TPH by Taraji Mint Condition Tingling Scalp Conditioner and then give my head a quick rub-down with oil. Edges are supposed to remain sharp, thus have them laid with Ebin 24 Hour Edge Tamer to give it that sharp clean appearance.

I had a slightly different take on this to a downtown gallery crawl, and I felt invincible. It lasted through the heat, through dancing, and even through more than a few rounds of spicy margaritas.

When you have long hair and you need to give it a dramatic farewell to summer- this is it. Playful, powerful, and totally worth a double take.

Half-Up Twists with Mini Top Knot

Braids and a top knot together are just super playful, no? Particularly when they are done in this dishevelled, golden mix. The crown is twisted into two baby cornrows which are pulled into a tight mini bun, and long hair is left to curl freely down below. It’s a little whimsical, a little Y2K, and honestly? It is equally appropriate on that impromptu beach walk as it is on a backyard BBQ.

This one stays put even in humid weather, especially if you prep with a texturizing mousse (try Bumble and Bumble’s Thickening Full Form Soft Mousse—it’s light but keeps things together). I prefer to give the roots a light tease to add volume, braid roughly to add texture and finally pin the top knot using invisible grips. No fuss.

This is one of those looks I consider fun and flexible, where you even do not need a mirror to touch up. I drove up to a lake in August wearing it, and I felt like I was in a Pinterest board, even on the third day of hair. It’s flattering for pretty much every face shape too.

If you’re growing out your bangs or in that awkward “mid-length” stage, this style will help you fake shape and structure without committing to a cut. Pair with hoop earrings and a sundress and you’re golden.

Poolside Dutch Braids with Sleek Ends

The perfection of clean lines and cool-girl energy is this double braids style. This one begins with two Dutch braids on the top of the head that continue down the back of the neck and exude a vibe of “I know what I am doing” even when you do not. The loose braid ensures that your hair is not on your neck on a hot day but the ends are left soft to add some femininity. The secret? A good shine serum and patient hands.

I always run a little Moroccanoil Treatment Light through the braids to make them look smooth and moisturized in the sun. It locks in moisture and gives it that mirror-gloss finish, which is great whether you are at the beach, camp or simply relaxing by the pool with a book.

I have always thought this to be the most appropriate look on those days when you know you need to have a protective and no-nonsense hair, yet you want to appear to be put together. It’s also perfect for women who work out outdoors. I have actually attended a concert in this and did not touch my hair the whole night.

If you’re naturally light blonde or icy platinum, these braids will also enhance the color dimension. And the best part? They come out as gorgeous waves the next day. Like, instant volume with no heat.

Twist Braids with Ribbon Tie-Back

Who would have thought that braids coupled with a touch of a ribbon would feel this contemporary? The key to this appearance is contrasting structured top and easy lower texture. Two French braids cascade into low ponytails secured at the base- pretty, subtle and a tip of the cap to school-girl nostalgia done properly. It is the hairdo version of a shoulder-length off-shoulder top and a sun-kissed skin.

Maintenance? Ridiculously easy. Begin on semi-wet hair and braid whilst drinking your iced coffee. Spray a little Oribe Superfine Hair Spray and go. Ribbons optional—but highly recommended.

Personally, this is the sort of hairstyle I would go to a holiday market or an end of summer picnic. It toes the border between dressed up and silly- and if you replace the ribbon with leather cord, a little more edgy.

You can even add an upgrade to this of face-framing bangs or a side part to add additional movement. Don’t overthink it. This is your I-didn-t-try-too-hard flex that still looks like 100 percent intentional.

Mini Side Braids with Bow Accents

When you have long hair and you want to leave it down, yet you need some element that seems special, this is a success. Little braids on each side are folded back and held by small satin bows– completely practical and only slightly coquettish. It’s giving cottagecore meets end-of-season sparkle.

No heat required. Only dry shampoo, some hair ties, and bows (optional). I prefer the white ones, however, I have also seen girls wear neon elastics to make it feel more of a city girl summer. In any case, this style can cope with rainy weather, and even on the day after beach waves have lost their curl.

It takes me back to when I was 12–but in the best possible manner. I had something like this during the last holiday season when I had a comfortable dinner and I kept receiving compliments. Who says grown women can’t wear bows?

Leave it with natural curls at the ends or put all behind your ears. Either way, it is soft, fun and does not compete with statement earrings or bold lip color.

Romantic Half-Up Twist with Flower Clip

Soft twists, voluminous crown, and a delicate flower clip? Say no more. The look is a daydreaming retro to 2010 Tumblr-meets-Vogue, and I adore how it can be worn now. The top half is pulled back slightly with a puff at the root to provide lift and the remainder falls in natural texture. It requires minimal effort and makes you feel like a protagonist.

I am fond of Living Proof Full Volume Blast at the crown and then I mist a little rosewater spray just because it smells so nice. The flower clip is adorably soft and a miracle worker when you have to be camera-ready and it is the final concert of the summer.

It is one of these styles that I can always revert to when I feel blah. It’s forgiving, flattering, and makes you look pulled together even when your hair is doing its own thing. And it completely suits bangs or shoulder length cuts as well.

I would adore to wear this with a light makeup and a loose white shirt. It’s romantic, yes—but still grounded. sort of like the right finish to a long, memorable summer.

Loose Braid with Floral Embellishments

There’s a certain softness that comes with loose, romantic braids—especially when you weave in dainty blush florals and baby’s breath. The texture of this style is lived-in and therefore it does not look like a wedding style; it looks like an ideal style to end the summer with dreamy garden strolls or sunset dinner. This braid is begun low and broad, with lovely bits of volume and movement pulled out.

If you’re planning to recreate this at home, I recommend working with second-day long hair or adding texture spray like Ouai’s Wave Spray before braiding. It possesses the style of non-crunchiness and provides the braid with that fluffy, pillowy texture. Real or artificial flowers may be added as an afterthought, at the end, do not overdo it. You want romance, not a bouquet.

This appearance takes me back to the last time I visited a lavender farm in Sonoma, completely surprising and extremely serene. My hair was giving me grief that day and this was the fastest solution that still earned me compliments form strangers.

Bonus: This braid works beautifully on natural curls too. Then simply twist them into the shape, without trying to make them all the same–just leave the texture to do its work. It’s a vibe.

Ribboned Shoulder-Length Soft Waves

When you are in the mood of something sweet, easy, and Pinterest worthy then this could become your next staple. Shoulder length curls are loosely gathered together and held with two thin pink ribbons, the cutest symmetry that is completely wearable. Imagine saying, I just came out of a Sofia Coppola scene, but it is 2025.

Curls like this come alive with a good leave-in. I’m obsessed with Amika’s Hydro Rush Leave-In Conditioner for moisture and light definition. When it is humid, and you are going to a beach or brunch, this reduces the frizz to the minimum and remains weightless.

I did my hair this way on lazy mornings on holiday when I needed to feel dressed-up without much effort. And believe me, I have more than once tied the ribbon to my outfit.

This can be also elevated by replacing the ribbons with velvet or gingham depending on the mood. A little detail goes a long way here.

Voluminous Ponytail with Statement Bow

It is impossible to discuss updos without hailing the drama of a traditional, voluminous ponytail and this one is serving contemporary-day Brigitte Bardot. It is huge at the crown and has loose curls falling down and a final touch is a transparent ribbon that makes the whole thing a fantasy that one can wear. It is sophisticated, high waisted, and absolutely suitable to your next concert or hot day when you want to dress up.

To make your volume lasting, prepare your roots with Drybar Southern Belle Mousse and backcomb the crown a little. This product doesn’t leave buildup, which is great when you’re dealing with late-summer humid air.

I had a slightly different version of this style last year at a rooftop party and at least three people asked me which salon I visited. Spoiler: I didn’t. It lies in the teasing and curling the ends outwards, away form the face.

Finish with flexible hold spray and you’re set. This style stays with you when you are on the move- just the way a good hair style ought to be.

Boxer Braided Space Buns

Calling all fun, bold girls—this style’s for you. Two neat braids begin at the forehead and twist into high space buns, providing a lot of sporty-glam vibes. It is edgy and cute, and I adore the fact that it performs even better when being slightly imperfect. And it is a good protective style that will keep everything in place even on your sweatiest day in the camp.

For sleek roots and no flyaways, I recommend Eco Style Olive Oil Gel—it’s strong enough to hold but won’t flake. Toothbrush or edge brush that super-defined center part.

The previous time I wore this look, I went on a holiday trip to a music fest, and my hair remained in the needed place throughout the whole day even despite dancing, sweating, and sitting on a picnic blanket.

It is also an excellent option when you are growing out layers or bangs and need something that is not hot tooled. Just braid, twist, pin, done.

Soft Half-Up Ribbon with Yellow Bow

Sometimes the simplest styles are the most memorable. This half-updo is held together with a large yellow bow, it is sunny and neat and just what is needed on those final days of the late summer sun. The style is gentle and has slightly curled ends, it suits best on long hair and appears particularly fresh on lighter shades.

No need for fancy prep here. All you need is a curling wand and a little Verb Ghost Oil worked through the ends. It has a smoothing effect but does not weigh things down and provides just the right amount of shine to make photos worthy.

I adore this style when you have beach picnics or some casual evenings when you need something nostalgic yet not that precious. The yellow makes it a bit playful, a summer dress you simply cannot get rid of yet.

Want to keep it fresh? See if you can vary the colour of the bow to suit your mood or clothing. Or keep your ends out natural-looking to be more lived-in. One way or another, it is that effortlessly pretty hairstyle that will make people say, “How did you style your hair?”

Twisted Low Chignon with Floral Crown

A twisted chignon bound in a halo of flowers is nothing if not late-summer ethereal. The bun itself is placed low and a little to one side to give that carefree, nymph-y look, and a few pieces of hair crossed over to give it some depth and shape. The flower crown is like a gentle period at the end of the sentence – it finishes the ensemble without dominating it.

To avoid the shape collapsing into flatness, I apply Color Wow Style on Steroids Texturizing Spray on damp hair before I style it. It provides the hair with sufficient hold to twist it, and to maintain the style in damp weather without causing it to be crunchy. Flowers may be pinned on last- just be sure not to pinch on the bobby pins.

I adore it on garden brunches, engagement dinners or simply one of those hot days when I want my hair up yet romantic. I once wore this to an outdoor holiday lunch, and it was still as good five hours later.

Don’t worry about getting it perfect. The beauty lies in the simplicity and the somewhat dishevelled-ness of it – as though you just tossed it on in the process of gathering wildflowers.

Slicked Back Claw Clip Twist

This is the definition of modern minimalism. Slick back your hair into a twist and pinch it all together with a bold claw clip. It is the sort of appearance that is dressed up without appearing as though you tried to hard -and it is ridiculously versatile in case of last minute plans.

I go in with OUAI Matte Pomade at the roots before slicking everything back — it adds hold with zero shine (in the best way) and doesn’t slide in hot or humid weather. To get an additional hold, a little spray of dry shampoo on the ends will make the clip tight.

For me, this is my everyday lifesaver. It is casual and put together whether I am going to Pilates or running errands before a trip. The best part? You can fancy it up with hoops and a linen blazer or you can keep it sporty with a crop tank.

It’s proof that simplicity can still feel totally cool.

Boho Side Braid with Texture Ring

This braid is a Pinterest board in real life. On the dramatic side French braid begins at the crown and falls loosely along the shoulder adorned with a statement texture ring. The secret in this is the restrained looseness -loose enough to move and show body, yet tight enough to stand up to a complete concert or day at camp.

I always prepare this look by blow-drying it out with IGK Beach Club Blowout Cream – it adds the volume you require without the frizz which is a must in humid climates. Then I plait loose, and bind around with a narrow band, and then tuck in the gold ring in the very middle, so as to make flair.

I once wore this to a dinner by the sea and felt absolutely in harmony with the landscape — it is beachy, but sophisticated, like what you would put on barefoot with a maxi dress.

Match with gold accessories and sheer shine and you are practically radiating.

Everyday Boxer Braids with Center Part

There’s something timeless about two neat, symmetrical braids. This iteration is extra casual, with a clean center part and tied ends – sporty and sweet at the same time. It is one of those effortless looks, and yet not lazy at all.

The real secret? A hydrating base. I prefer to prepare it with SheaMoisture Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner to make the strands flexible during braiding. It is a miracle worker when your hair is sun-drenched throughout the summer.

This is what I call a grab-and-go look. I have tested it on a recent weekend trip, where I did not feel like doing my long hair every day, and it survived even a short swim.

The next day styling also takes place by using these braids as a protective foundation. Sleep in them, undo them in the morning and boom -you have soft waves ready to go.