Summer 2012 hairstyle trends

Messy updos

Messy updos are all the rage for summertime. Whatever your hair’s texture, you can pull this look off. If your locks are ultra-straight, it looks best on hair that hasn’t been washed for a day or two. Just gather your hair haphazardly and pull it up. Secure it with bobby pins, and let some strands come free in the front. That’s it!

Photo credit: Apega/WENN.com

Braids, braids, braids

Any and every kind of braid will be popular this summer, from the halo braid to milkmaid braids to side braids. If you are going to master one thing this summer, learn how to braid! Check out these simple and pretty braided ‘dos.

Find out how to get ScarJo’s braided halo hairstyle >>

Photo credit: WENN.com

Soft waves

Instead of stick straight blowouts, this summer it’s all about blowouts with loose curls or soft waves. If you are blow drying your own hair (yes, some of us still do that), dry it with your head hung upside down for extra volume.

Read about the simple secret to beach waves >>

Photo credit: Jody Cortes/WENN.com

Dramatic side parts

We saw it on the spring/summer runways, and now we are seeing it on the streets too. Deep side parts with the hair pulled pack into a low ponytail are popular for the office. For dates, the deep side part works with the chignon. You can also leave your hair down (and super straight) with a dramatic side part.

Photo credit: Daniel Tanner/ WENN.com

Wet look

Whether you are heading home from the beach or not, you can look like you are — thanks to the “wet look” trend. From slicked back ponytails to long, loose locks, hair with plenty of product (gels, serums and high-shine hairspray) is popular for summertime.

Photo credit: L.Gallo/WENN.com

Other popular hairstyles this summer include the chignon, the sock bun and the pixie cut.

More summer beauty & fashion tips

5 Tips for summer hair health
Summer fashion lust: Gold shorts
Summer’s hottest hair color trends