Summer calls for pool days that are as stylish as they are refreshing. But keeping hair looking great while battling chlorine, salt, and humidity can be a real challenge. Heat styling every day isn’t the answer since it can damage strands already stressed by water and sun exposure.
Protective hairstyles are key to staying cool and keeping hair healthy when swimming. The right styles minimize tangles and breakage while keeping hair out of the way. From sleek buns to playful braids these looks offer both practicality and flair for any poolside occasion.
Whether diving in or relaxing poolside you’ll find easy, water-friendly options that protect your hair and elevate your summer style.
1. Icy Blonde High Top Bun
Create a sleek, icy blonde high top bun by first brushing hair upward to remove tangles. Secure hair into a tight ponytail at the crown using a strong elastic. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base, forming a smooth bun. Pin into place with bobby pins.
This style keeps hair off the neck, reducing heat and preventing chlorine damage while adding summer sophistication.
2. Crimped Hair Styled in Space Buns
Create texture by crimping hair before styling. Part hair down the middle, then gather each side into high ponytails. Twist each ponytail into a bun and secure with elastic bands or pins.
This playful style adds volume, keeps hair off the neck, and stays secure during swims or poolside fun. It’s perfect for a trendy, heat-beating look.
3. Blonde Boxer Braids
Blonde boxer braids offer a sleek, sporty look that keeps hair secure and out of the face. Start by parting the hair down the middle. Next, tightly braid each side close to the scalp, incorporating strands as you go.
Finish with elastic bands and light hairspray to prevent flyaways. This style minimizes chlorine exposure and stays intact during swims, making it perfect for active pool days.
4. Low Sleek Bun with French Braid
Start by creating a neat French braid from the crown, keeping it tight to avoid flyaways. Continue braiding down to the nape and gather the remaining hair into a low bun.
Secure with bobby pins and smoothing serum for a sleek finish. This style stays secure during swims, keeps hair off the neck, and looks elegant poolside.
5. Messy High Ponytail
Create a messy high ponytail by gathering hair atop the head and securing it with a sturdy elastic. Leave loose strands around the face for a relaxed vibe.
Add texture with a light sea salt spray to enhance volume and grip. This style keeps hair off the neck, stays secure during swims, and offers effortless summer charm.
6. Half-Up Half-Down Ponytail with Tendrils
Lift the top half of the hair into a ponytail secured with a soft elastic, leaving the rest down for a relaxed vibe. Gently pull a few tendrils loose around the face to soften the look and add a touch of effortless charm.
This style keeps hair out of the face while maintaining natural volume, perfect for both swimming and lounging poolside.
7. Long Blonde Fulani Braids
They start by sectioning hair into small parts, adding blonde extensions for contrast. They braid each section with a curved pattern down the scalp, incorporating beads or accessories for a traditional Fulani look.
This style keeps hair secure, minimizes chlorine damage, and offers a striking, long-lasting pool hairstyle that stays cool and stylish all summer.
8. Pull-Through Dutch Braid
Create a pull-through Dutch braid by first sectioning hair and securing a small ponytail near the crown. Pull sections through one another, loosening strands to add volume and texture.
This bold raised braid stays secure, minimizes frizz, and keeps hair off the neck, making it perfect for active pool days and stylish summer looks.
9. Curly Medium Hair Styled in Pigtails
Part curly medium hair down the middle and smooth with a brush. Secure each side into low pigtails to keep hair out of the face and neck.
For added flair, twist or braid each pigtail, then leave natural curls free at the ends. This low-maintenance style prevents tangling and stays cute poolside.
10. French Braid Bun
The French braid bun is a timeless and elegant hairstyle that combines the intricate beauty of a French braid with the classic charm of a bun. Starting with a braid that flows into a neatly wrapped bun, this look is perfect for formal events or everyday sophistication.
It keeps hair secure while adding texture and detail. Versatile and graceful, it works well with all hair types and adds a polished, romantic touch.
