There are obvious perks of summer holidays, with beach-filled days and post-swim sunset cocktails to name a few. But that lengthy period of time exposed to the sun, surf and sand can leave us with a mop of textured lengths that are known for their unpredictability.
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And though beach babe waves are a coveted hairstyle many of us attempt to flaunt on hot days, if you’re skipping a wash and heading out straight from the beach, it’s likely your salty strands will require a little wrangling.
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Without access to a mirror or heat-styler, don’t lose your faith! Here are five easy ways to style your hair after the beach, courtesy of our summer beauty icon Poppy Delevingne.
Amp up your ponytail
When the heat is on the last thing you want is the heavy weight of hair causing sweat on the back of your neck. Make use of the instant volume boost from the salt water, and tie your hair into a low pony at the base of your neck. Part your locks straight down the middle, or flaunt one of summer’s biggest hair trends – the no-part. Either way, keep it slicked, since it’ll add the illusion of more volume to your already-tousled pony.
Plait it your way
Styling your hair with a plait will hide a multitude of sins. Whether your hair is a tad greasy thanks to the humidity or it just won’t cooperate, a plait will keep the gritty hair off your face, while still looking put together. Poppy’s deep side part and swept-over-the-shoulder plait looks fresh and clean, while the twists of the plait accentuate the summer highlights in her hair.
Pin on the go
Want to create a super chic look but feeling lazy from a day in the sun? Take a cue from Poppy D, who proves that the humble bobby pin can transform ‘blah’ hair into something fabulous. It’s the simplest of summer styles (besides doing nothing at all!) that’ll earn you snaps at the bar for effort. Pin your hair down just behind your ears to keep your lengths from falling forward.
Preppy and high
Sky-high ponytails aren’t just for cheerleaders – as proven by Ms Poppy D. Sweep your post-beach hair up as high as it can go for a look that’s both summer-friendly and suave. The difference between this look and your post-gym workout style is what you do next. Turn it up a notch by taking a small section of hair from the pony and wrapping it around the base to cover the hair elastic.
Easy, heat-free waves
Summer is synonymous with carefree hair, and the easiest way to achieve this is by styling your locks while they’re damp post-ocean dip. Wait for your hair to dry to around 80 per cent, then create a single plait. Just before you’re ready to head out for the night, take your hair out of the plait and you’ll be left with volumised, beachy waves.
