Summer hairstyles that bring out the best in natural curls.
Summer has spent years taking the blame for every frizzy curl. That seems a little unfair. A good curl routine can handle sunshine, beach days, and humid afternoons just fine. In fact, this is the season when natural texture often looks its happiest. Here are the hairstyles that make the most of every sunny day.
Some hairstyles ask for an hour in front of the mirror. A wash-and-go asks for good products and a little patience. Summer does the rest by bringing out the natural bounce many curls already have.
Apply a leave-in conditioner to soaking wet hair, then layer a curl cream and a gel to lock in definition. Fine curls usually prefer lightweight formulas, whereas tighter coils hold their shape longer with richer creams underneath. Hands off until your hair is completely dry. Your curls will thank you.
@ryanbrownhair
Long weekends, beach trips, and outdoor concerts all have one thing in common. Nobody wants to stop the fun to restyle their hair. Cornrows earn their place every summer because they hold up for days and cut styling time to almost nothing.
Keep your scalp hydrated with a lightweight oil, especially after swimming. Straight back braids never disappoint, though curved parts, beads, or metallic cuffs can make the style feel entirely your own.
@braids_by.steph
If your curls love volume but also enjoy showing off their definition, a twist out happily delivers both. It is one of those rare styles that somehow looks even better after a day or two.
Apply a styling butter or curl cream to damp sections before creating two-strand twists. Once fully dry, separate them gently with a little oil on your fingertips. Smaller twists create tighter definition, and larger ones form fluffier curls. A satin bonnet helps the style last well beyond the weekend.
@mandy_jacobz
Your nighttime favorite has officially clocked in for daytime duty. The pineapple ponytail lifts curls away from your neck on warm afternoons and helps preserve their shape at the same time.
Gather your hair loosely at the crown with a satin scrunchie, then let the curls, braids, or locs fall naturally. Add a silk scarf or an oversized scrunchie if you want extra color.
@quaniquestudio
Summer and short curls get along surprisingly well. Less drying time, less product, and plenty of texture make the curly pixie an easy choice when temperatures climb.
A lightweight mousse or curl cream is often enough for daily styling. Define a few curls around the front with your fingers if they need extra shape, then finish with a diffuser or let your hair air dry. Statement earrings do not hurt, either.
@yourmanewitch
Few hairstyles deserve bonus points for multitasking, but Bantu knots certainly do. They look striking on their own and reveal beautifully defined curls after the takedown.
Create evenly sized sections, apply a moisturizing cream, then twist each one into a knot. Leave them in overnight for a knot out, or wear them as the final style. Decorative cuffs or colorful thread can add even more character.
@goldannfrancois
Some trends come and go. A beautifully shaped afro simply waits for everyone else to catch up. Summer gives it plenty of opportunities to shine thanks to its full, airy silhouette.
Regular trims maintain the rounded shape, but daily styling is refreshingly straightforward. A leave-in conditioner keeps curls hydrated, and an afro pick lifts the roots for extra fullness. Fresh flowers or a printed scarf make lovely finishing details for picnics, festivals, or sunny afternoons.
@peabo.did.that
Summer never asks curls to become something else. It simply invites them outside. Pick the style that suits your plans, enjoy the sunshine, and let your texture steal a little attention along the way.
