I get it: It’s too hot to think about your hair. But instead of throwing it up into yet another messy bun tomorrow morning, just reference one of these easy summer 2019 hairstyles. Most of them take less than two minutes to recreate — and all of them are celeb-approved.
“I’m loving playful summer looks, including ‘90s throwbacks like relaxed pigtails,” Justine Marjan, a celebrity hairstylist who works with Kim Kardashian and Ashley Graham, tells The Zoe Report. Another ‘90s favorite that’s made a major comeback? The half-up, half-down ‘do, as seen on everyone from Sofia Richie to Lizzo. Marjan is also noticing an uptick in low-key accessories: oversized hair clips (like the one decorating actress Melanie Liburd’s slicked-back style), high “halo” headbands (a favorite of influencer Brittany Xavier), and artfully-wrapped silk scarves (Gigi Hadid and Gemma Chan are fans, too).
A good August hairstyle is about more than looks, though — it has to be wearable in 100+ degree heat. Perhaps that’s why topknots are having a moment. Besides being humidity-friendly, the look works with all hair textures; from Logan Browning’s coily bun to Emily Ratajkowski’s stick-straight version. As Marjan says, “August is all about having fun with your look.”
Ahead, 20 effortlessly chic hairstyles to try this month.
Coily Topknot
Logan Browning’s tall, coily topknot was created by hairstylist Nai’vasha Johnson — but you don’t need a pro to pull off this look on your own (just a good elastic).
Low-Key Topknot
Secure your topknot with a clip and leave out a few face-framing pieces, a la Em Rata.
Braided Half-Knot
Elaine Welteroth, former Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue, twisted her long braids into a half-knot.
Sleek Braided Bun
Hairstylist Joey George topped off Kim Kardashian’s slicked-back bun by wrapping it with a thick braid.
Middle-Parted Bun
If you’re growing out your hair, follow Mandy Moore’s lead: She parted her short strands in the middle, then gelled back each side to meet in a low bun at the nape of the neck.
Beaded Braided Bangs
Give a high pony a little something extra with beaded braided bangs, like Yara Shahidi's.
Afro Updo
All credit goes to iconic natural hairstylist Vernon Francois for this “afro updo” on actress Amber Chardae Robinson.
Loose Pigtails
“I loosely gathered each side and secured with a Kitsch elastic, leaving a few pieces free around the face,” Marjan says of this look she created for Dove Cameron. “The key to making them look more modern and less childlike is to keep them loose and low off the neck.”
Afro Puffs
Talk about a ‘90s throwback: Regina King honored Lady of Rage in a way that’s still at home in 2019.
Wire-Wrapped Boxer Braids
Gabrielle Union’s double boxer braids look even better with gold wire detailing.
Ribbon-Wrapped Low Pony
Gemma Chan added intrigue to a basic pony by wrapping it in ribbon.
Pearl-Clipped Low Pony
Professional hairstylist Takisha Sturdivant-Drew accented Melanie Libard’s low pony with a pearl-encrusted clip.
Messy Pony
Leave it to Olivia Culpo to make even a messy ponytail look Insta-worthy. (I mean, the horse on the beach helps.)
Sleek Half-Up Pony
Sofia Richie’s no-fuss updo feels a little ‘60s, a little ‘90s — and still, somehow, totally modern.
Retro Half-Up Pony
Make like Lizzo and pile half your hair on top of your head for a retro-inspired style.
Off-The-Face Braids
What’s cuter: Chrissy Teigen’s off-the-face braids, or her son Miles?
Retro Headband
Joey King proves pixie cuts can have a little summer fun, too. Her polka dot scarf headband is trés chic.
Scarf Headband
The scarf-as-headband look can really work at any length, as hairstylist Kristin Ess shows on model Courtney G.
Thin Ribbon Headband
Nicole Richie’s look is so easy to recreate at home. Just throw a thin, ribbon-like headband on after tying your usual pony.
Square Silk Scarf
Take inspiration from model Gigi Hadid and wrap a silk scarf over your strands to go yachting… or, you know, run errands.
High Halo Headband
Thick, tall headbands are everywhere this season — including influencer Brittany Xavier’s Instagram — and August is the month to try the trend for yourself.
