With the end of summer mere days away—and a bevy of pumpkin spice lattes in the near future—it’s important to savor every last drop of summertime fun: squeeze in one last weekend getaway, take one more spontaneous beach trip, enjoy yet another “Summer Friday” sans guilt and, of course, rock a few more of the edgy styles that have been blowing up your Instagram feed all summer long. Check out the top five trends to put on your radar.
Trend #1: Braided Center Part
Instagram/@revolve
Braids are forever a summer staple, but one of the standout plait trends gaining momentum this season is the braided center part. After first making the rounds at Coachella last year, the cool-girl style continues to command attention, looking equal parts edgy and boho-chic. The best part? The seemingly intricate look is relatively easy to create: Start by dividing the hair into a 1-inch section down the center of the crown, then weave the hair into a traditional three-strand braid and secure with a clear hair elastic. Looking for something more unique? Amp up your look with an inverted fishtail braid, multiple infinity braids or even some heavy metal hair accessories.
Trend #2: Scarves
Instagram/@allisondepmuah
Thanks to an array of retro hair accessories spotted on the runways, colorful scarves are making major headway this summer (pun intended!). And it’s no wonder why: Scarves not only add interest and a pop of color to any ordinary style, they can also disguise oily roots and allow you to go an extra day between washes! Use a scarf to spice up a classic ponytail, or, weave it into your braid or bun for a cool, modern look.
Trend #3: Cheerleader Pony
Instagram/@kimkardashian
Another retro style spotted all over the ‘Gram? The flirty high ponytail. From Kim K. to Hailey Baldwin, A-listers have been sporting the ‘90s-inspired style all season long. The key to the throwback trend? Lots of bounce and flipped-out ends. (Think: Less Ariana Grande and more Lisa Kudrow in the iconic film “Romy & Michelle’s High School Reunion”.)
To create the look, use a boar bristle brush to pull the hair into a tight ponytail at the top of your head. Smooth down any frizz or flyaways with a styling creme, then gently pull at the top of the ponytail to add lift.
Trend #4: Bobby Pins & Barrettes
Instagram/@justinemarjan
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you probably know that hair clips and bobby pins are having a major moment, both for girls looking to add bling to an updo and those in need of a couple of clips to smooth down kinks in their ponytail. What’s more, hair accessories are extremely user-friendly. Simply pile them on in a funky pattern to heighten any style. Pro Tip: To give your pins and clips extra grit, simply spritz them with a strong-hold hairspray before styling.
Trend #5: Braided Ponytail
Instagram/@kyliejenner
Leave it to Kylie Jenner to turn a simple braided low pony into one of the hottest looks of the season. Whether you wear it high, low or paired with lengthy, hip-grazing extensions a la the makeup mogul, the braided pony is a perfect way to go from the pool to a night out in a few minutes flat. Throw on some hoops, a bold lipstick and you’re ready to head out the door to wherever the final days of summer may take you!