Embrace the bohemian charm of natural, messy hair. In need of some inspiration? We’ve rounded-up our four favourite looks to try this summer
Words Joy Montgomery
HALF UP MESSY TOP KNOT
Perfect for all hair lengths and textures, the half-up bun is this year’s answer to the classic half-up ‘do. Spotted on everyone from Sienna Miller to Kendall Jenner, this the ideal low-maintenance, hungover hairstyle. The key is to get height and texture in the crown to avoid looking too ‘slicked back’. The good thing about this style is that you don’t need crazy amounts of product to achieve the messy effect – it’s all about being clever with the placing of your hair tie. For top tips check out Zoella’s half-up top knot tutorial.
TEXTURED PLAITS
There’s nothing that says effortless romanticism better than loose plaits. Whether it’s a halo crown, long fishtail or milkmaid braids, plaits are great for both greasy hair days or offering a bohemian finish to an event dress. Crown braids are great for longer hair – we love this pretty tutorial from Abby Smith. Milkmaid braids, on the other hand, are a better option for short hair and are useful for keeping cool on holiday. A romantic braid will also look beautiful as part of a bohemian bridal look.
TOUSLED LOW BUN
The tousled low bun is a timeless messy hairstyle that looks elegant at any age. Elegant yet relaxed, put-together yet chic – this is a great ‘do to soften up a crisp white shirt. Simply add a slick of red lipstick and small hoop earrings for effortless Parisian cool. Keep crown volume to a minimum to avoid the dreaded prom look, instead focus on enhancing natural texture. This Wella tutorial offers just the right amount of messy-chic finish.
NATURAL TEXTURE
Natural texture has slowly but surely taken over from the K-Middy glossy blow-out when it comes to contemporary styling. Messy waves and schoolgirl kinks covered the catwalks this season, while the undone lob is red carpet’s look du jour – just ask Emma Stone and Jennifer Lawrence. Unfortunately, the ‘effortless’ texture of 2017’s favourite finish is anything but. The key is to use wide barrelled curling tongs or straighteners to create cool kinks and waves, then carefully undoing and tousling the hair using texturising products. Try Nikki DeRoest’s soft wavy hair tutorial for street style-inspired chic.
