Summer hair is usually all about the relaxed vibes, loose styles and perfectly imperfect tousled hair. This year is no different, and all the classic summer hair styles are back for 2018 – with their own modern twist. I’ve taken a look at some of the most popular trends around just now to offer a bit of guidance on what is going to be hot for summer 2018.
To start with, braids are big news and a gorgeous look; Sienna Miller was instrumental in starting a boho braid trend a few years back, and it’s a look that’s been taken to heart again this season – braids of all shapes and sizes are coursing the catwalks just now! From skinny braids that frame the face, to halo braid that create more of a statement look – there is a style for anyone with hair long enough to plait.
Check out some of the season’s runway looks for inspiration. Dior featured sleek, tight braids; hair slicked back with not a stray hair in sight, teamed with neat, precise braids – a truly modern style. Use a water-based gel or pomade through hair before braiding, something that offers a strong hold and shine without being too hard or stiff, to help sleek braided styles last. At the other end of the scale with a more bohemian-inspired style, take a look at the festival-inspired braids at Roberto Cavalli.
Braids suit pretty much everyone, whether your hair is straight, curly, thick or thin. Waves and curls lend themselves to floaty, romantic looks, particularly when paired with flowers woven or clipped into the hair. Braided buns and fishtail braids work really well for more bohemian looks, particularly with any added floral or foliage detail. Bear in mind that the looser, braided styles will benefit from texture-boosting products, such as volumising mousse or salt spray, before blow drying to create extra volume that works so well with this type of style.
Glamour has a major role to play this summer. Think back to the bygone movie star era for inspiration for sleek waves and voluminous curls, if you are looking for a timeless, elegant look. Meanwhile, a relaxed top knot, with plenty of volume and wisps of hair framing the face, is a look that keeps us well within romantic territory.
For those with longer hair, the half up-do with part of the hair pulled back into a braid, bun or tied in a bow, leaving plenty of length to cascade down the back, is also bang on trend. And if you don’t have hair long enough to cascade, think about faux hair pieces that will add length and volume to your own locks, and allow you to go for a dramatically different look.
Hair accessories are cropping up all over, from single jewels pinned throughout the hair and jewelled accessories that really up the glamour ante, to simple bands and tiaras that finish off an elegant chignon. Flower ‘crowns’ give a real boho feel and can be as elaborate as you like.