top of page

Quick Hairstyles for Hot Summer Days

A woman with a fancy, romantic updo

There's no denying that it's been hot here in the Illinois Valley the past few days, and it looks like the heat is set to continue! And if you're over the feeling of your hair sticking to the back of your neck and can't do one more day of leaving your hair down (or even half up-half down), then we're here to help. Check out these quick hairstyles for hot summer days: they are great for work, everyday, and can be dressed up for special occasions.

  1. Bun: It's a classic for a reason, and there are plenty of variations to choose from to suit your style and need. Go for a high, sleek ballerina bun or twist your hair into a bun just above your neck for a chic, pulled-together look for work. Pop your hair into a messy bun for a fun afternoon or evening out. Adding a few braids twisted up into the bun or pulling a few tendrils out can create a soft or dressed-up look for a more formal occasion. You can even braid your hair and twist it up into a bun to reduce frizz and add grip so it stays all day if you're outside in the humidity. Twist it up into two high buns or two or three low buns at the back of your neck for a bit of variation--these styles can be dressed up or down as well with clips, soft tendrils around the face, braids, headbands, and more.

  2. Braids: A long, loose braid down your back or over one shoulder is a great way to beat the heat and keep frizz from forming. If you have short hair, simply braiding the front portion across your forehead will prevent hair from falling into your eyes. If you're skilled with braids, French braids, fishtails, and Dutch braids all add visual interest and can be used for updos, pigtails, or left as a single braid. Part your hair into two braided pigtails, then flip and pin them both to the crown of your head for a 5-minute updo that lasts and can work for a more formal occasion (think milkmaid-style). Try braiding the hair framing your face and pulling it into a half-up style. Then, twist the rest of your hair around it as you see fit for a cute casual or formal updo, depending on how you play with it. Instead of a traditional three-strand braid, save time and use two for a time saver.

  3. Clips and Scarves: The easiest solution when you have to get out the door! Twist that hair up into a claw or other cute clip and you're good to go. Tie a colorful scarf around your ponytail or bun to elevate the look, or just leave your hair down and tie the scarf around your head for some UV protection.

  4. Ponytail: There are so many variations on ponytails that it's impossible to exclude them from a summer hairstyle list. Go for a slick high pony for work or a low pony casually thrown over one shoulder for a night out. Bubble your ponytail for something fun, or add curls and waves to a high or low ponytail for a more formal occasion. Twist pigtails up at the nape of your neck for a low updo. Pull your hair up into a high ponytail before braiding it for a sporty look.

  5. French twist: Once you get it down, it's an easy, quick, and customizable look for everything from work to fairs to weddings. To create a French twist, gather your hair at the nape of your neck into a low, loose ponytail, twist it upward, and then roll it in on itself. Keep it chic and sleek for work or formal occasions, or create a messier, undone look by pulling a few face-framing tendrils loose. Add clips or pretty accessories to customize, too.

  6. Flipped bun: This is another great one for when you're short on time. Start to put your hair in a ponytail, but instead of pulling it all the way through, stop and keep the ends tucked in to create a loop. This looks great low, but can be done for a messy flipped bun at the top of the head, too. Slick your hair back to keep it off your face or let your front pieces fall naturally.

Salon Patrice is here for all of your summer haircare needs: cut, color, styling, perms, and more. Find all of our hair services here or call (815) 223-8643 to schedule an appointment.


bottom of page