Ideas for summer hairstyles...

To me, the summer means two words - HAIR NIGHTMARE!!!  If like me, you have curly, thick hair then you know that these hot humid days mean bad hair days!  No matter how long I spend trying to tame my curls, it seems that within minutes I'm a hot mess!  Trust me when I tell you that there is nothing I haven't tried - nowadays I get a Keratin treatment every 4 months, which is costly, but has helped somewhat.  But there is no way my hair will ever do exactly what I need it to do, which is why in the summer months I just have to admit defeat and pull it up in a top knot, ponytail, or bun.

Luckily the top knot, buns, and ponytails are very on trend and fashionable right now, and even though I can't do a whole lot with my hair during the summer months, I still try to keep it interesting.  So if you are also someone who struggles with hair during the heat, here are some tips of different ways to wear your hair in a bun but still look cool and creative!  Finally maybe you'll be able to enjoy the summer without constantly worrying about your hair....

• Wear your bun with a very deep side part.  Not only is it easier than pulling strands straight back, but brushing your hair to the side will look less severe and more refined.  Begin the line right above the highest point of your brow's arch.  From there, drag the end of a styling comb back from the hairline at a slight inward diagonal to give it an edgy angle.

• Add a headband - if your bun feels bland, jazz it up!  Chunky, embellished buns look right with low buns. Simple, skinny versions are cute with high knots.  For a modern look, choose one that's sleek (no more than 1 to 2 inches wide) and position it about an inch behind your hairline.

• Make it messy - for chic that goes beyond freeing a few wisps in front of an otherwise tidy knot, texturize your hair with dry shampoo, then twist it and hold the bun in place with French hairpins instead of an elastic.

• Try a side bun - tweak the position of your bun for a flirty variation!  Part hair in the center, and then sweep it onto one shoulder before setting the bun behind your ear.  If you feel lopsided, balance the look with a few face-framing tendrils on the opposite side.

• Try braids - for more of a boho look try braiding a front piece of your hair and pulling it back.  This look is great for a more casual day look, but can also be combined with the messy bun for a more glamorous evening look.