21 BEST HAIR ACCESSORY LOOKS FOR YOUR VIBRANT SUMMER 

When you find yourself stuck in a hair rut, it’s tempting to dive into a bold new color, a fresh haircut, or even the dreaded fringe. However, before making a long-term commitment, consider a simpler and quicker solution: hair accessories.

Hair accessories can effortlessly elevate your look, transforming an everyday hairstyle into something perfect for the beach, a dinner date, or a wedding. They’re not just stylish; they’re practical too, helping to keep your hair off your face and neck during those hot summer days. Long, loose hairstyles can be uncomfortable in the heat, but a chic headband or clip can make all the difference. Check out our favorite hair accessory looks below and say goodbye to boring hair days!

FLOWER CHOKER

Flower chokers are trending right now and can also double as stylish hair accessories. Try adding them to your bun or ponytail, or use one to tuck your hair into a chic faux bob.

RETRO CLAW CLIP

A claw clip is a go-to style for summer 2024. We’re especially loving this 90s-inspired pink flower clip!

RIBBON BOW

A bow tied at the base of a voluminous ponytail adds a lovely touch to a summer dress.

STATEMENT BARRETTE

Embrace a minimalist style with a half-up, half-down hairstyle paired with a statement barrette.

ALICE BAND

It’s a classic, but a plain Alice band effortlessly ties any outfit together, regardless of the season.

METALLIC CLIPS

Whether you prefer gold or silver, high-shine metallic clips are a must-have trend this summer.

LINEN HEADBAND

Just as stylish as they are functional, a linen headband is perfect for keeping your hair out of your face on a hot day at the beach.

ORGANZA SCRUNCHIE

While regular hair scrunchies tend to prioritize practicality over style, opting for ones made from silk, velvet, or organza can elevate your everyday bun.

PEARL CLIP

A simple pearl hair clip is proof that even the smallest accessories can elevate any outfit.

METALLIC CLAW CLIP

A sleek and stylish version of the claw clip trend, this option is ideal for short or fine hair that doesn’t need a heavy grip.

SATIN HAIR SCARF

A satin hair scarf adds a beautiful touch when tied around your hair and cleverly conceals unwashed locks. Bonus points for coordinating it with your outfit and eyeliner!

EMBELLISHED HAIR SLIDES

Embellished hair slides are here to stay, especially styles featuring jewels and pearls. They effortlessly complement any outfit choice!

SILK SCARF

Ponytails don’t have to be boring! Try tying a silk scarf at the base of your ponytail or using it as a headband for an instant statement.

MINI CLAW CLIP

The perfect way to style a half-up, half-down hairstyle? A mini claw clip always does the trick.

OVERSIZED SCRUNCHIE

An oversized scrunchie that matches your outfit is always a winning choice.

BUCKET HAT

Everyone’s favorite summer hair accessory is making a return! We especially love a textured version for practical summer styling.

HEADSCARF

An accessory that looks fantastic, keeps hair out of your face, and shields your scalp from the sun? That’s a win all around!

SKINNY SILK SCRUNCHIES

A great way to secure a braid or ponytail without using a standard hair tie is with a stylish hair accessory.

JEWELLED BARETTE

A chic and stylish way to keep hair away from your face while maintaining a loose style is with a fashionable hair accessory.

BOW SCRUNCHIES

The simplest way to accessorize your hair with a bow? Opt for a bow scrunchie, which also helps keep your hair in place longer.

SKINNY RIBBONS

For a more delicate option than chunky bows, try accessorizing your braids or pigtails with thin ribbons.

CONCLUSION

As you step into the vibrant summer season, don’t forget to complete your look with stylish and functional hair accessories. From chic headbands to trendy clips and colorful scarves, the possibilities are endless. These accessories not only add a touch of personality but also keep your hair in place during the hot weather.

Experiment with different styles and find the perfect hair accessory to complement your summer outfits. Whether you’re heading to the beach, attending a party, or simply enjoying a casual day out, these accessories will help you make a statement and embrace the spirit of the season.

21 ADORABLE LOW-MAINTENANCE PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLES FOR SUMMER

Every Black girl knows the joy of a great protective hairstyle. Not only do they shield your hair from damage, but they also let you look fabulous while doing it! Choosing the right protective style is a big deal because you’ll likely wear it for a couple of months. So, finding a style that’s both stunning and practical is essential.

This post highlights some fantastic protective hairstyle ideas for summer that are light, low-maintenance, and easy to handle. When the weather heats up, you don’t want a style that requires too much fuss, which is why I’m a huge fan of protective styles for the season!

CHUNKY BUTTERFLY LOCS

Butterfly twists really have been gaining popularity! It’s great how styles can grow on you—sometimes it just takes a bit of time to appreciate their unique charm. They’re definitely a fresh and fun option for protecting your hair while staying stylish. Have you tried them out yourself, or are you still contemplating?

STITCH TRIBAL BRAIDS

Absolutely, cornrows and stitch braids are both such powerful styles! And that’s a great tip about protecting those baby hairs—keeping your edges intact is crucial for long-term hair health. Do you have a favorite way to style your cornrows or stitch braids?

CORNROWS WITH A FAUX PONY

Braiding cornrows into a faux ponytail offers the perfect blend of intricate detail and voluminous style. If you’re ready to play with color, you can weave it into the cornrows or add a vibrant ponytail for a chic color-block effect. Either way, you’re sure to turn heads!

PASSION TWIST

Passion twists definitely add a fresh and vibrant twist to traditional styles! They have that perfect blend of texture and movement that makes them stand out. Have you tried them out or are you planning to?

FAUX FISHTAIL BRAID

Not all faux ponytails are the same, and Tracee Ellis Ross took it to the next level with this stunning fishtail braid, adding both length and texture. For an ultra-sleek, shiny look, use a hair pomade like Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey. It’ll tame flyaways effortlessly and leave your hair looking radiant.

KNOTLESS BOX BRAIDS

Knotless box braids are such a game-changer! They’re definitely a more comfortable and gentle option for your hair. Plus, they look great and can be styled in so many ways. Have you found any particular styles or variations of knotless braids that you love?

FULANI BRAIDS

Enhance the texture of your Fulani braids by styling them with defined baby hairs. With endless parting options—like overlapping braids or geometric patterns—the beauty of this protective style is that you can keep returning to it for a fresh, glowing look without ever feeling repetitive.

JUMBO BRAIDS

Jumbo braids are so popular because they let you spend less time in the salon and require less hair! Plus, they’re absolutely adorable and give off major summer vibes—or is that just me?

BOX BRAIDS

Box braids are a top pick for protective styles for a reason. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they’re also incredibly versatile and never dull. For added flair, try larger sections—this amps up the drama, reduces braiding time, and keeps upkeep simple.

CURLY CORNROWS

This layered cornrow style by celebrity stylist Susy Oludele and Aeon Elliott is anything but ordinary. The curl pattern adds a fun and elegant twist to the classic straight-back cornrows, while the red highlights give it a vibrant pop of color.

FAUX LOCS

“Another great way to put a cool spin on box braids or faux locs is combining textures and curl patterns with extension hair,” says Brown. If you’re looking to elevate your look, try incorporating different colors—don’t shy away from bold contrasts—for a modern twist on this classic protective style.

FULANI BRAIDS WITH BEADS

Solange elevated her Fulani braids by adding beads that nearly cover the entire length. Channel her iconic style by coordinating your accessories—like a statement mask—with your braids for a bold, futuristic vibe. “Shook” doesn’t even begin to describe it!

FINGER-WAVE CORNROWS

Koudou drew inspiration from Beyoncé’s Lion King red-carpet look to craft these striking finger waves. Typically ending at the nape, the added extension offers extra length and the versatility to drape over your shoulder or wrap into a low ponytail or bun. Versatility is always a win!

FLAT TWISTS

This style combines flat twists and Bantu knots, showcasing that there’s no single way to rock protective styles. It’s ideal for when you’re torn between styles. Choose twists laid to the side like these, or go for a straight-back approach.

PLAITED UPDO

Elevate your braids with this stunning updo, crafted by Koudou. Inspired by Yoruba royalty, this look not only leaves you in awe but also honors the ancestors who pioneered intricate, innovative patterns to care for their natural hair. It’s a true celebration of heritage and beauty.

WAVY BANTU KNOTS

These Bantu knots strike the perfect balance between playful and chic with their curved parts and chunky, braided knots. It’s a great reminder that changing up your parting can instantly reinvent a timeless classic.

LOCS WITH HIGHLIGHTS

“Color is such a great way to give your box braids or faux locs a fresh look,” says hairstylist Cristiana Cassell, Chloe Bailey’s warm, highlighted locs were created in collaboration with hairstylist Sparkle. The neutral tones are ideal for fall but can effortlessly transition into winter months.

LONG PONY

Not all protective styles need braids—sometimes the simplest options, like a low bun or a long ponytail, can be just as effective. Elaine Welteroth shows that adding a touch of volume can elevate these go-to looks, turning a standard ponytail into something extraordinary.

FLORAL BOX BRAIDS

Combine box braids into larger sections and add floral accents for an instant update to your protective style. This look is great for fall, but you can easily transition it to winter by swapping the florals for golden rings. The beauty of this style lies in its limitless versatility.

HAIR WRAP

“An overlooked protective style is wearing a scarf,” says Lindsey. “Pulling your hair back into a loose ponytail or plaiting your hair, then wrapping a scarf in a chic style, is definitely an easy protective style that can be worn all year round.” The best part is that you can effortlessly switch up your look by experimenting with different colors and patterns based on your mood.

BRAIDED HEADBAND

Yvonne Orji from Insecure adds a touch of regal elegance to protective braid styles by draping one braid across the forehead like a crown.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, cute low-maintenance protective hairstyles offer both style and practicality, making them perfect for busy days or just keeping your hair healthy and protected. From jumbo braids and versatile box braids to chic Bantu knots and sleek faux ponies, there’s a range of options to fit every mood and occasion. Experimenting with colors, patterns, and accessories can add a personalized touch, ensuring your look remains fresh and exciting.