Ah, the joys of summer—sun-kissed skin, endless blue skies, and the perfect opportunity to flaunt those flowing locks with a swim-ready hairstyle! But how do you choose a style that keeps you looking chic in the heat and protects your hair in the pool or sea? Whether you have luxuriously long tresses, sporty short hair, or something in between, finding the right swim hairstyle is key to both your look and hair health.
What styles will ensure you stay fabulous while frolicking in the waters? Let’s dive into some swim hairstyle inspirations that combine beauty with practicality.
Dreadlocks: The Ultimate Beach Companion
Dreadlocks are more than just a hairstyle; they are a powerful expression of cultural identity and an excellent choice for beach adventures. Perfectly suited for black women and those with black natural hair, these locks offer a robust solution to swimming woes. The thick, intertwined strands are not only striking but also practical, effectively resisting salt and sand while maintaining their form.
Ideal for individuals with natural hair looking for a protective style that minimizes fuss. Dreadlocks thrive in natural environments, making them perfect for those who frequent beaches and outdoor settings.
Maintaining dreadlocks in a healthy state requires regular care. Rinse them with fresh water after each swim to remove chlorine or salt. To keep them moisturized, apply a lightweight, water-based leave-in conditioner, such as Shea Moisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave-In Conditioner. Weekly deep conditioning with a product like Mizani True Textures Moroccan Clay Steam Mask will help maintain the strength and vitality of the locks.
Picture yourself walking along the beach, your dreadlocks gently swaying in the ocean breeze, embodying a spirit of freedom and strength. With dreadlocks, you carry a piece of heritage that complements the wild beauty of the sea.
Elegant Long Braid: A Timeless Swim Style
A solitary long braid trailing down your back is not just practical; it’s classically beautiful. This hairstyle is perfect for those with medium to long hair, providing a neat method to manage your mane while swimming. It’s a go-to for anyone looking for a simple yet elegant swim hairstyle.
This braid is particularly suited for women with longer hair lengths. It’s easy to manage and works well for both swimming and post-swim activities, allowing for quick drying and minimal tangling.
To protect your hair during a swim, apply a protective serum such as Living Proof’s No Frizz Humidity Shield before braiding. After swimming, washing with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo like Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, followed by a deep conditioning treatment, can help restore moisture and prevent damage.
Envision relaxing on a sun-drenched shore, your elegantly braided hair cascading down your back, capturing the essence of summer elegance. A long braid isn’t just practical; it’s a style that reflects the grace of the waves.
Sleek and Structured Dual Braided Ponytails
This hairstyle showcases sleek and structured dual braided ponytails, beginning at the crown with tightly pulled sections on each side, elegantly secured with elastic bands down the length, creating a striking and polished look.
This style is ideal for women with medium to long hair who desire a dramatic and neat hairstyle that can transition from daytime activities to evening events. Its secure and intricate nature makes it perfect for those who need a style that stays intact throughout busy days.
To achieve the sleek look and ensure flyaways are kept at bay, start by applying a smoothing balm, such as the Bumble and Bumble Straight Blow Dry Balm, to damp hair. Comb the product through from roots to ends for even distribution. After creating the ponytails and securing them with bands, use a strong-hold hairspray, like L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray, to maintain the style’s crispness and control any loose strands throughout the day.
This hairstyle not only keeps you looking sophisticated but also ensures you remain comfortable without needing to adjust your hair, letting you focus fully on the moment.
Braids and Blooms
For those who adore a dash of whimsy, beachy braids interspersed with tiny flowers offer a magical hairstyle option. This look is not only gorgeous but also functional, ideal for long days spent by the sea. It’s particularly suited for those with long hair and a love for curly styles, providing a fabulous way to manage curls without compromising on style.
This style is perfect for anyone who loves a bohemian look. It’s ideal for curly or wavy hair types, offering a playful yet practical way to manage hair in the summer heat and water.
Protect and enhance your curly or wavy textures by prepping your hair with a curl-enhancing product like Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Cream. After the beach, refresh and rehydrate with Aveda Nutriplenish Leave-in Conditioner, ensuring your hair remains soft and your curls stay defined.
Visualize strolling along the beach at sunset, your hair adorned with flowers, embodying the spirit of a modern-day mermaid. This hairstyle isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling magical and connected to nature.
Sophisticated Side Braid Bun
For a refined yet practical beach look, the side braid bun offers a chic solution. This style is particularly suitable for women with medium to long hair looking to keep their locks under control while adding a touch of sophistication to their beach attire.
This style works wonderfully for those who need a secure, yet stylish option that transitions seamlessly from a day by the water to an elegant evening out. It’s excellent for women with medium or long hair who prefer their hair neatly tucked away to avoid tangles and frizz.
Prep your hair with a smoothing primer such as Bumble and Bumble’s Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer to protect against the drying effects of saltwater and chlorine. After swimming, rejuvenate your locks with Kérastase Nutritive Masquintense Thick Hair Mask, focusing on the ends to replenish and repair.
Envision yourself lounging by the shore, your hair elegantly styled in a side braid bun, perfect for capturing the seaside breeze without a strand out of place. This hairstyle not only keeps you looking poised but also ensures your hair remains healthy and beautiful.
Loose Beach Waves with Braided Crown
Embrace the spirit of the ocean with loose, tousled beach waves crowned with a delicate braid. This style is perfect for women with long hair, especially those with natural waves or curls, looking to flaunt a relaxed yet captivating beach look.
Ideal for those with long, wavy or curly hair, this hairstyle enhances your natural texture while the braided crown adds a whimsical touch, keeping the hair off your face stylishly.
Before heading out, apply a curl-enhancing spray like Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream to boost your waves. Post-swim, refresh your curls with DevaCurl MIST-ER Right Dream Curl Refresher to keep them bouncy and lively.
Picture yourself strolling along the beach, your hair flowing in soft waves, crowned with a braid, embodying the carefree essence of summer. This look is not just about beauty; it’s about feeling unbound and in harmony with the seascape.
Elegant Braids
This braids is offering an elegant yet functional style for beach outings. Suitable for women with medium to long hair, this braids keeps your hair neatly organized and adds a touch of sophistication.
This hairstyle is perfect for those who enjoy detailed styles that are both beautiful and practical. It works best on long hair and is ideal for keeping your locks contained and stylish during any beachside activity.
To maintain the sleekness of the braid, start by applying a frizz-control serum like John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum. After your day out, treat your hair with a nourishing conditioner, such as Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Conditioner, to restore hydration and smoothness.
Imagine the gentle sea breeze playing with your braids as you enjoy the sunlit waves. This hairstyle is not just a practical choice for swimming; it’s a statement of elegance and grace.
Playful Ponytail Braid with Floral Accents
For a playful yet practical beach hairstyle, the ponytail braid with floral accents offers a cheerful and youthful look. This style is fantastic for women with medium to long hair who want a hairstyle that’s both functional and fun.
Excellent for active beach-goers, this hairstyle keeps your hair secure while adding a vibrant touch with floral accents. It’s perfect for those who love to express their personality through their style.
Use a strong hold gel like Got2b Ultra Glued Invincible Styling Hair Gel to keep your ponytail in place throughout the day. To recover from the sun and water exposure, apply Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioner to quickly restore moisture and vitality to your hair.
Visualize yourself playing beach volleyball or building sandcastles, your ponytail braid bouncing with every movement, adorned with flowers that catch the light. This hairstyle is all about bringing joy and energy to your beach days.
Chic Top Knot with a Stylish Twist
This sophisticated top knot, accented with a patterned сlaw сlip, provides a chic and practical solution for a day by the water. The elevated bun keeps the hair off the neck, perfect for keeping cool and managing medium to long hair during swim activities.
Ideal for women of all hair types looking for an effortless yet fashionable way to control their hair while swimming. This style is particularly great for those with long hair who want to prevent tangles and minimize exposure to pool chemicals.
Before styling, apply a lightweight mousse, such as Paul Mitchell’s Extra Body Sculpting Foam, to give your hair extra hold and volume. After your aquatic adventures, treat your hair to a restoring session with Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Deep Conditioner to replenish any lost moisture and maintain hair health.
Imagine yourself poolside, your hair elegantly styled up and away, enjoying the sun without a worry. The top knot isn’t just a hairstyle; it’s a functional fashion statement that keeps you looking and feeling cool.
Festival Ready: Glittery Braided Pigtails
These eye-catching glittery braided pigtails are not just stunning but are also perfect for a fun day at the beach or a pool party. The intricate braiding and shimmering accents make this hairstyle a standout choice for those looking to add a little sparkle to their swim look.
Fantastic for women with medium to long hair who want to express their vibrant personality. This style is best suited for outings where style is as important as swim functionality.
Protect your braids and scalp from the sun and chlorine by using a protective spray like Sun Bum’s 3-In-1 Leave In Hair Conditioning Treatments. To maintain the sparkle without drying out your hair, use a hydrating serum like Moroccanoil Treatment Light post-swim to add moisture and shine.
Visualize dazzling under the sun, your braids glistening with every turn of your head, making every moment at the beach or pool an instant celebration.
Sleek and Simple: Low Maintenance Bun
This sleek, low bun is the epitome of understated elegance and practicality. Perfect for an active day in or out of the water, it keeps your hair securely tied back and out of the way.
This style is excellent for women with medium to short hair who prefer a minimalist yet chic look. It’s particularly good for those who engage in water sports or want a fuss-free hairstyle that stays put.
Before tying your hair back, use a smoothing serum such as TIGI Bed Head Control Freak Serum to fend off frizz and add a subtle sheen. After your activities, revitalize your hair with Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask, ensuring it remains soft and manageable.
Imagine the ease of diving into the pool and emerging with your style as immaculate as when you went in. This bun is not just about simplicity; it’s about maintaining elegance no matter the activity.
French Long Braid
The elegance of a French braid, this hairstyle is perfect for active swimmers who also want to flaunt their locks. It’s a dynamic style that manages to be both practical and attractive.
Ideal for women with long hair who love a bit of flair in their functional swim hairstyles. This look keeps your hair tangle-free while allowing some length to flow freely.
Start with a detangling spray like Not Your Mother’s Knotty To Nice Conditioning Detangler to ensure smooth braiding. Post-swim, a spritz of It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product will help repair and protect your hair, keeping it silky and vibrant.
This hairstyle isn’t just convenient; it’s a symbol of your dynamic approach to life.
Beach Reading Chic: High Bun with Scarf Accessory
This style captures the essence of beach leisure. A high bun wrapped with a scarf not only keeps your hair neatly away from the face and neck but also adds a stylish flair to your beachwear, making it perfect for a relaxing day of reading by the shore.
This hairstyle is ideal for women with medium to long hair looking for an easy, chic way to manage their locks in the heat. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy basking in the sun but need to keep their hair protected and controlled.
To keep your hair smooth and protected throughout the day, apply a leave-in conditioner with UV protection, such as Sun Bum’s Revitalizing 3 in 1 Leave-In Conditioner. After the beach, wash your hair with a gentle, hydrating shampoo like Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Moisturizing Shampoo to replenish any moisture lost to the sun and saltwater.
Imagine yourself lost in a good book, the ocean’s breeze fluttering the edges of your stylish scarf, while your hair stays perfectly in place. This look is not just about comfort; it’s about embracing the summer vibes in style.
Elegant Low Bun with Strawberry Scrunchie
For those who prefer a subtle yet elegant look, this low bun adorned with a strawberry scrunchie is a wonderful choice. It offers a touch of grace while being highly functional for both beach outings and more formal summer gatherings.
Perfect for women of all hair types but especially those with short to medium hair. This hairstyle provides a neat, polished appearance while keeping you cool and comfortable under the summer sun.
Before styling, use a smoothing serum like Aveda’s Smooth Infusion Style-Prep Smoother to fight frizz and add shine. To maintain hair health after a day out, treat your hair to a revitalizing mask such as Kiehl’s Olive Fruit Oil Deeply Repairative Hair Pak, focusing on the ends to prevent split ends and breakage.
Visualize yourself at a summer garden party, your hair elegantly styled in a low bun, the strawberry scrunchie adding just the right touch of summer’s bounty. This hairstyle is not just practical; it’s a perfect blend of formality and leisure.
Playful and Pretty
This vibrant and playful hairstyle is perfect for those who like to express their personality through their hair. The half-up, half-down style with braided details and colorful accessories makes it a fun choice for beach parties and music festivals.
Great for women with medium to long hair, especially those with natural curls or waves who want to flaunt their volume while keeping the hair off their face.
To enhance and protect your curls, apply a curl-defining cream like Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie before styling. After your outing, refresh your hair with a spritz of Ouidad Botanical Boost Curl Energizing & Refreshing Spray to revitalize curls and maintain bounce.
Imagine dancing by the seaside, your curls bouncing joyously with every move, your braids accented with playful ribbons that catch the sunlight. This hairstyle is all about fun and freedom, embodying the spirit of summer.
Sleek Beachfront Elegance: Low Ponytail with Leopard Print Scarf
A sleek low ponytail wrapped with a leopard print scarf offers a sophisticated yet edgy look, perfect for those who want to make a statement at the beach or while cruising along the coast.
This style is excellent for women with medium to long hair who seek a chic, low-maintenance hairstyle that keeps hair under control in windy beach conditions.
Prior to styling, apply a frizz-control product like Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream to ensure your ponytail stays sleek and smooth. Post-beach, use a rich hair oil, like Moroccanoil Treatment, to nourish and add a luxurious sheen to your hair.
Picture yourself walking along a bustling boardwalk, your hair elegantly tamed with a stylish scarf, making a bold fashion statement while enjoying the seaside atmosphere. This look combines practicality with panache, ensuring you stand out in any beachside crowd.
Intricate Pull-Through Braid for Active Outings
This stunning pull-through braid offers both beauty and practicality for those who love outdoor activities. The structured design of the braid ensures that hair stays in place, even during the most vigorous activities, making it a perfect choice for adventurous spirits.
Ideal for women with long hair who need a secure, yet stylish hairstyle for active days. It works great for sports, hiking, or any outdoor event where you need your hair to stay put.
Before braiding, use a strong hold gel like Schwarzkopf Osis+ Grip Extreme Hold Mousse to maintain the structure of the braid. Post-activity, apply Living Proof Restore Repair Leave-In to strengthen and repair hair strands, ensuring your locks remain healthy after a long day outdoors.
Envision conquering the highest peaks or embarking on a sunrise trek, your hair beautifully contained in a pull-through braid that matches your adventurous spirit. This hairstyle is more than just functional; it’s a testament to your dynamic lifestyle.
Sleek Dutch Braids for a Carefree Look
These neatly styled Dutch braids are perfect for maintaining a polished look while enjoying the summer’s carefree moments. This hairstyle not only keeps your hair tangle-free but also infuses a bit of youthful charm into your style.
Excellent for women with medium to long hair who enjoy an active summer lifestyle but want to keep their hair neatly styled. Dutch braids are especially good for swimming and other water-related activities.
To ensure the braids hold well, apply a smoothing cream like Kenra Platinum Blow-Dry Spray before braiding to control frizz and add shine. After unwinding the braids, treat your hair with a lightweight oil like the Moroccan Oil Treatment Light to restore moisture and elasticity.
Picture yourself at a lively summer festival or a lazy day at the park, your Dutch braids making a subtle style statement while you enjoy the day worry-free. These braids aren’t just practical; they are your ticket to enjoying the best of summer without hair hassles.
Bold and Playful: Braided Top Knots with Natural Curls
This hairstyle combines the edginess of braided top knots with the natural beauty of loose curls, creating a look that is as bold as it is playful. It’s an excellent choice for those who like to stand out and express their unique style.
Perfect for women with curly hair who want to showcase their natural texture while adding a fun, styled element with braids. This look is great for casual outings, music festivals, or just a fun day out with friends.
Protect your curls by using a curl-defining product such as Curlsmith Curl Defining Styling Souffle before styling. To keep the curls hydrated and the braids neat, use Cantu Shea Butter Hydrating Leave-In Conditioning Mist after styling and throughout the day as needed.
Imagine yourself enjoying a vibrant street fair, your hair styled in an eye-catching mix of braids and curls that not only turns heads but also expresses your lively personality. This hairstyle is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling free and expressive.
Elegant Fishtail Braid for Sophisticated Evenings
This meticulously crafted fishtail braid offers an elegant solution for those evening events where you want your hair to look refined yet breathtaking. The smooth texture and intricate weaving make this braid a showstopper.
Ideal for women with medium to long hair who are looking for a sophisticated hairstyle that combines grace with a touch of intricacy. This style is particularly suitable for formal events or romantic evening outings.
To achieve the sleek look of the fishtail braid, start by applying a light hair serum like Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to damp hair. This will help smooth down any flyaways and add a glossy finish. After the event, use a deep conditioning treatment, such as Olaplex No.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner, to keep your hair strong and healthy.
Envision yourself at a candlelit dinner by the sea, your fishtail braid perfectly complementing your elegant attire, making every moment feel more special. This hairstyle is more than just a choice; it’s a statement of your refined taste and elegance.
Relaxed Half-Up Style with a Hair Claw
This effortlessly chic hairstyle captures a relaxed yet stylish look, perfect for a beach day or a casual outing. The hair is styled in a loose half-up fashion, partially secured at the back with a decorative hair claw, which adds a touch of elegance while keeping the hair out of the face.
This style is excellent for women with medium to long hair who want a simple yet fashionable way to manage their hair during casual activities. The loose hair allows for natural movement and texture, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more laid-back look.
To ensure your hair maintains its natural texture while staying manageable, start by applying a lightweight leave-in conditioner, such as the It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product, to damp hair. This will help detangle and smooth your hair without weighing it down. For added texture and volume, spritz some sea salt spray, like Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, focusing on the lengths and ends.
This hairstyle is not just practical for keeping hair out of your eyes; it also enhances your natural beauty as you soak up the seaside vibes.
Tropical Getaway Ready: Top Knot with Headband
Embrace the tropical vibe with this high top knot wrapped in a soft headband. This look is perfect for keeping your hair up and away while adding a pop of style with the headband, making it ideal for hot weather and poolside lounging.
Best for women with short to medium hair. The top knot helps to keep you cool, while the headband serves as both a stylish accessory and a practical solution for managing flyaways.
Start with a frizz-preventing product like John Frieda Frizz Ease Original Serum to keep your hair smooth and manageable. To maintain moisture and protect against sun damage, spritz your hair with Sun Bum Revitalizing 3 in 1 Leave-In Conditioner throughout the day. After your outing, pamper your hair with a hydrating mask, such as the Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask, to replenish moisture and ensure your locks stay healthy.
Imagine yourself enjoying a coconut drink under the shade of palm trees, your hair comfortably styled up with a vibrant headband that complements your sun-kissed glow. This hairstyle is not just practical; it’s a fun expression of your holiday spirit.
Poolside Chic: Messy Bun with Bright Claw Clip
This effortlessly chic messy bun, secured with a bright yellow сlaw сlip, is perfect for a relaxed day by the pool. The сlaw сlip not only adds a burst of color but also provides a gentle way to hold the hair without causing breakage.
Great for women with medium to long hair looking for a casual yet fashionable way to style their hair while enjoying the water. This look is ideal for those who prefer a laid-back style that’s both cute and functional.
Before tying your hair, use a protecting leave-in conditioner like Kevin Murphy Leave-In Repair to nourish and protect your strands. After swimming, apply a light oil, such as Moroccan Oil Light, to restore shine and softness without weighing down your hair.
Visualize lounging by the pool, your hair playfully tied up with a colorful сlaw сlip, ready to dip in the water or relax in the sun. This hairstyle allows you to enjoy the best of summer days with zero fuss.
Natural Beauty: Loose and Luscious Beach Curls
Celebrate the beauty of natural curls with this simple yet stunning look. These loose curls are perfect for a day spent by or in the water, providing a relaxed and beautiful hairstyle that embraces your natural texture.
Ideal for women with curly hair of any length who love to flaunt their natural curls in their most authentic form. This style is excellent for beach days, ensuring your curls look their best without requiring constant upkeep.
Protect and enhance your curls by applying a curl-enhancing cream like DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler before heading out. To prevent damage from the sun and saltwater, use a protective spray such as Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat and Humidity Gel. At the end of the day, rejuvenate your curls with a deep conditioner like SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque to keep them bouncy and healthy.
Imagine emerging from the ocean, your curls perfectly embodying the wild and free spirit of the sea. This hairstyle is all about embracing your natural beauty and enjoying the summer vibes without constraints.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve found inspiration in these versatile swim hairstyles perfect for any summer adventure. Whether you’re hitting the beach or lounging poolside, these styles are designed to keep you looking effortlessly chic while enjoying the sun and surf. Have you tried any of these styles, or do you have a go-to summer hair favorite?
Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear how you add a splash of style to your summer looks!
