6 hair extension hairstyles for the summer

We all know too well how quickly our hair can become a challenge to handle when the 20-degree weather finally arrives in the UK. 

The blazing sun and a head full of hair don’t mix well; it sticks to your neck, leads to a sweaty scalp, and can get frizzy quickly. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t keep your hair looking pretty. 

With the right summer hairstyles, you can keep your neck cool and your hair neat, especially when wearing hair extensions. Today, I’m So Pretty will run you through some gorgeous hairstyles that actually hold up in heat and humidity, look good on a night out, and won’t weigh you down during the day.

If you’ve invested in our stunning real human hair extensions, you deserve styles that can handle the heat, the sweat, and that sudden beer garden breeze.

1. Slicked-back ponytails

Whether you need something to keep you looking sophisticated in the office or a workout-friendly style in the heat, a sleek pony will always come through. 

Polished, powerful, and pretty, it’s quick and easy to do, saving you lots of fuss in the morning while looking effortlessly stunning. With our 32-inch hair extensions, you can create a long and luscious pony that’s to die for!

Here’s how to do it:

• Start with smooth, dry hair: If your hair is naturally wavy or frizzy, run it through with a straightener first (using I’m So Pretty heat protectant spray, of course).
• Part and smooth: Part your hair, if you desire, with a styling comb and set it in place.
• Brush your hair into a ponytail: Using a soft-bristled brush, gather your hair into either a mid or high ponytail, ensuring it's tight and smooth all the way around. Secure it with a snag-free hair elastic.
• Smooth and finish: Go back over the top and sides with a small brush or toothbrush to tame any flyaways or baby hairs.

2. Braided crowns

Elegant and regal, a braided crown is perfect for when the UK summer heat gets insufferable. 

This is perfect for more formal events, like summer weddings, galas, and family celebrations. It’s even a great way to keep your extensions out of the sea or pool while on holiday!

Clip-in or nano ring extensions are ideal for this style, or just use a few extra wefts for volume and length. 

• Prep your hair: Work with freshly washed hair or second-day hair for a style that won’t fall out. Lightly wave the hair using a wide-barrel curler for extra texture.
• Create a centre part or side part: Opt for a centre part for a traditional halo effect and a side part for a more romantic look.
• Start braiding from one side: Take a section of hair from just above your ear and start a Dutch or French braid, working across the front of your head and around the back, just below the crown. As you braid, pick up small sections of hair from both sides, keeping the braid loose.
• Adjust to extensions: if you’re wearing tape-ins, braid above or below the tapes, not directly over them, so they stay hidden. You’ll have to part your hair slightly higher than you would with clip-ins.

3. Half-Up, Half-Down 

Classic and easy, a half-up, half-down hairstyle is perfect for those occasions where you need a happy medium between dressy and casual. 

It’ll keep your hair from sticking to your forehead, perfect for our girls who are heading off to Ibiza or to live their best life in Greece. It’s also not too much effort for our low-maintenance girls. 

This hairstyle can be achieved in many ways, from sectioning it and creating a bun or braid on the top with the rest of your hair down to creating a half ponytail.

For the Messy Half-Up Bun…

1. Twist the top section of your hair into a loose bun at the crown of your head.
2. Secure it with a few bobby pins, leaving some strands out for a more effortless feel.
3. Tug at the bun slightly to loosen it and create a fuller effect.

For the Classic Half-Up Ponytail…

1. Secure the top section of your hair with a hair tie.
2. Wrap a small piece of hair around the band to conceal the bobble for a sleek finish.
3. Curl the ends of the ponytail for extra movement.

For the Braided Half-Up Look

1. Make two braids on the side of your head in the desired style and size, then tie them together at the back.
2. For a bohemian style, fasten them with a stylish clip or clear elastic bobble.
3. For more texture, try a fishtail braid.

Are you more of a simple girl? If so, placing half of your hair back in a claw clip takes seconds and looks effortlessly stunning. You can place as much or as little hair back as you want, twirling it into a bun or keeping it down and back. 

4. Fishtail Braid

When it comes to keeping your hair and extensions protected and tangle-free in the sun, the braid is a staple. And in this case, the fishtail braid is perfect for something a little more eye-catching. 

While a fishtail braid isn’t as confusing to create as it looks, it can be tricky to do for a beginner. However, it makes for a very chic and eye-catching hairstyle, keeping your extensions off your neck and face. 

Plus, it makes your hair appear fuller and naturally conceals clip-in and tape extensions. 

• Prep your hair: If you’re using clip-in extensions, position them lower on your head so they blend into the braid. Apply a texturising spray to help the braid hold better. 
• Begin weaving: Divide the hair into two sections. Then, take a small piece from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to the right section. Repeat this step for the right side. 
• Secure the end: Secure the end of your braid with a bobble and slightly loosen the strands to create a more relaxed look (if that’s your goal).

5. Dutch braids

If you’re looking for something fun and different, then Dutch braids are your new summer go-to. 

Perfect for festivals, this style keeps hair off your neck and adds a dimension to any outfit. Plus, you’ll be able to create thicker braids with our weft hair extensions. They also offer something a little different from your regular braids. 

As the strands cross underneath the braid rather than over, this is perfect for adding extra volume and dimension to your hair. You can create these braids through these steps: 

• Prep your hair: Secure any clip-in extensions lower on your head and apply a light-textured spray to your hair for extra grip.
• Divide your hair: Part your hair down the middle and secure one side while you’re braiding the other. 
• Start braiding: Divide a small section at the top of your hair into three equal parts and begin braiding by crossing the outer sections underneath the middle section instead of over.
• Continue braiding: Gradually add small sections of hair to each outer strand before crossing them under the middle until you reach the nape of your neck. Then, finish it with a classic three-strand plait and secure it with a bobble. You can gently pull the braid apart for a fuller look.

6. Stylish Low Bun

A low bun is sophisticated and timeless, the perfect hairstyle for when you want your hair out of your face on a hot summer's day.

The low placement at the nape of your neck keeps extension attachment points hidden, so you won’t have to worry about your bonds, wefts, or tape-ins showing. Additionally, the extensions create a fuller bun, adding a beautiful touch. 

Follow these steps for a smooth finish:

• Prep your hair: Add any clip-in extensions to the lower part of your head so they blend naturally, and apply a lightweight hair oil for a glossy look. 
• Create a clean middle part: Low buns are also about being uniform and neat, so section your hair evenly in the middle for a structured look. For a Hollywood glamour touch, create a side part instead.
• Place your hair in a low ponytail: Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and smooth out any bumps. Then, secure it into a low ponytail.
• Twist and wrap: Take the ponytail and twist it tightly, wrapping it around the base to form a bun. Secure it in place with bobby pins, making sure the ends are tucked in neatly, and use a boar bristle brush to smooth down any flyaways.

Beautiful summer hair with I’m So Pretty

Are you looking to achieve a hair glow-up in time for the summer? If so, we have a range of stunning real human hair extensions for you to choose from. 

With our in-depth colour-matching service, we can help you find the perfect shade for you so your locks look natural, sun-kissed, and healthy.

If you’re looking for the best hair extension maintenance tips to keep your I’m So Pretty hair healthy and in check this summer, then check out our hair extension do’s and don’ts for summer.