Welcome to Texture Talk, a column that celebrates and deep dives into the dynamic world of curly hair, from crowns of curls that are free flowing to strands that are tucked away in a protective style.
Before we dive in, let’s get one thing straight: frizz is definitely not the enemy. If you have curly or coiled hair, frizziness is an unavoidable part of its beautiful package, and should be embraced. However, there are instances where frizz and flyaways can turn a sleek and stylish hairdo into something that more resembles what your crown looks like after you’ve rolled out of bed. And in the summer months, humidity makes frizz that much more inevitable. For the days when you’re going for a sleeker finish, we rounded up some of the best summer hairstyles that will minimize frizz and are easy enough to DIY from the comfort of your home.
Sleek, low bun
A low bun is a go-to style for many naturalistas. Not only is it pretty easy to achieve, for the most part, but it’s the perfect style for just about any occasion. To keep flyaways at bay, try spraying hair with an anti-humidity spray, like The Shield Anti-Humidity Spray by Amika ($33). This spray will help to prolong the life of your bun and keep it looking sleeker for longer.
Jumbo box braids
Thick braids are an excellent protective style because they prevent the hair from being overly manipulated, which can be a major cause of frizz. Jumbo box braids are the perfect solution if you’re low on time and want to give your hair a break from styling for a few weeks.
Space buns
Space buns are fun, easy to do, and work on a variety of hair lengths. Make sure your hair has been fully detangled before parting it down the middle and using a scrunchie to secure each section. Try applying a holding gel, like Briogeo Curl Charisma Rice Amino + Quinoa Frizz Control Gel ($26), to keep your hair in place and prevent it from frizzing up.
High puff with a head wrap
A high ponytail will always be a holy grail summer hairstyle for natural hair. Bonus points if you use a brightly coloured head wrap to spice things up. A pop of colour will instantly elevate the entire look while keeping flyaways at bay.
Braided Bantu knots
Bantu knots are a great style choice if you want your hair tucked away for a period of time without having to worry about maintenance. Begin by parting into multiple sections (how many will depend on how big you want your Bantu knots to be and how thick your hair is), braiding hair and then twisting it into a knot.
High braid
The braided high ponytail is probably one of the easiest styles on this list to replicate. Start by using a hard-bristled brush to gather hair at the top of your head, using whatever styling gel is part of your usual routine. You then braid the hair in that ponytail or for added length, try braiding in extensions similar to your natural texture for a seamless blend.
Halo braid
Notice a pattern yet? The more hair that’s tucked away in your summer hairdo, the less room for frizz. With this look, you can elevate your braid game even further. Begin by gathering your locks into one long braid and then wrapping that braid around your head, using bobby pins to secure your hair and keep it in place.
Wash and go with a barrette
If there’s one hairstyle that is notorious for being prone to frizz, it’s the wash and go. However, sometimes when you’re in a bit of a time crunch, that’s all you really have time to do. Help to control frizz by pinning the sides of your hair with a fun barrette, like this pair of Clear Crystal Clips by Duplantis Hair ($19). If and when your hair does begin to puff slightly, the frizz will only add volume while the barrettes keep your edges looking polished.
Faux hawk
A faux hawk or “frohawk” is a great style for everyone, but particularly for those with shorter hair. Create it after taking down a twist-out or braid-out for more defined curls, or after washing and applying a leave-in conditioner if you’d like to display your curls in their most natural state. If you’re opting for a more defined look, try using a product like the Curl Anti-Humidity Gel Oil by Bumble and Bumble ($39), which not only helps to define and moisturize curls but also helps to protect against humidity.
Banded topknot
Everyone loves a classic topknot, but have you tried this banded method for a chic, updated version? The bands will help elongate your hair while keeping it in place. For a super sleek and smooth finish, use an at-home keratin treatment like the Goldwell Kerasilk Reconstruct Intensive Repair Mask ($57) prior to creating your topknot.
Missed our last Texture Talk column? Click here.