Summer Hair in 5 Minutes or Less
Summer hairstyles that beat the humidity. (Photo: Trunk Archive)
In case the steamy weather didn’t give things away, summer is still here. The good news is you can be sure that there are plenty more backyard barbeques and beach days to look forward to. The bad news is that summer events call for summer hairstyles. Between the record high temperatures and serious humidity, it’s probably safe to assume you’re not looking to spend an hour attached to a curling iron. So, what to do?
Meet Leo Manetti, master stylist and co-owner of New York City salon Ion Studio. He’s Italian, so he’s got the whole easygoing, summer chic thing down to a science. Plus, Ion just partnered with cult favorite (and fellow Italian) hair care brand Davines to become its flagship U.S. salon, so, he also has serious arsenal of standout products to work with too.
On the eve of the grand re-opening of Ion’s newly renovated space we quizzed the laidback Italian about his favorite quick (we’re talking five minutes or less) summer hairstyles for every occasion. Luckily, he obliged and offered some product tips too (but don’t expect braids – he’s really over those). Read on for major hair-spiration and know this: humidity’s got nothing on you.
A Backyard Barbeque
To keep your hair out of your face on an afternoon spent outdoors (whether you’re the one slinging burgers or not), Manetti recommends a messy bun. To master the look (inspired by model Doutzen Kroes), Manetti suggests using the Oil non Oil. “It’s a very light product that just helps to give you a little texture and tame fly aways,” he explains. “It enhances your natural hair without weighing it down or making it greasy.” Just twirl your ponytail around an elastic and tuck the ends into it. For extra hold, you can stick a large bobby pin into the center and voila: an effortless undone bun.
Davines This is an Oil Non Oil ($26)
A Day at the Beach
For the beach, Manetti really goes with a less is more mantra. “You don’t want to do much, because it’s a waste of time,” he says. “You’re outside, you’re sweating, it’s hot and humid and your hair will just go back to its natural state.” He recommends going au naturel, and spraying on a bit of the Su/Milk as a protectant. It shields the hair from sun exposure (especially important if you’ve got colored strands), keeps your locks looking shiny and soft and has a refreshing floral scent that doubles as a nice perfume.
Davines Su/Milk ($29)
A Garden Wedding
A slick ponytail is Manetti’s favorite look for his clients, like model Lindsay Ellingson, when they’re headed to formal summer events. All you need is a strong elastic and the dry Oi Oil. “If you want to add some sheen or tame flyaways, this is the way to do it,” he says. To flatter the face, he suggests a deep side part and low pony. “The hair should sweep across your forehead, no lower than halfway between your eyebrows and your hairline,” he advises.
Davines Oi Oil ($20)
A Pool Party
Nothing causes beauty angst like a pool party. And while the debate rages on about whether or not to brave a swipe of mascara, your hair shouldn’t add to the stress. “Keep it easy and just spray a bit of sea salt primer onto your hair, wet or dry, and let your natural texture do the rest,” advises Manetti. Then throw the spray in your bag and reapply periodically throughout the party for an instant lift. Curly-haired girls take note: if you need extra hold (the sea salt spray is pretty soft), try the Moisture Mousse (http://us.davines.com/this-is-a-curl-moisturizing-mousse/d/1066C282).
Davines This is a Sea Salt Spray ($27)
An Office Cocktail Party…on a Boat
If you need an easy way to take your ‘do from office to event, take a cue from Manetti’s client Britt Robertson, and slick it back. All you need is an oil to give it sheen and the Strong Hold Gel, to keep things in place. “Once you put that gel in, it will hold like a helmet,” advises Manetti. “So just add a little at a time.” With gel on your fingertips, run your hands straight back through your hair from the roots. For best results, your hair should be about 80% dry. Then smooth stray hairs with dry oil and you’ve got a magazine editorial-worthy (and no-fuss) look.
Davines This is a Strong Hold Gel Cream ($24)
Date Night at a Cute Outdoor Bar
When it comes to hair, we can all admit that Beyonce’s is pretty out of this world (pro tip: she’s not afraid of a good extension). To get her voluminous summer coif, all you need is a good Texturizing Dust. “The Davines one is a really strong powder that gives swell to the hair,” says Manetti. “Unlike dry shampoo, you don’t put it in dirty hair, you put it on newly washed hair, right at the roots.” But a little bit goes a long way, he warns, so apply sparingly.
Davines This is a Texturizing Dust ($28)
Related:
Summer Beauty Trend: Glossy Lips Rule
