A summer sans ponytail is like ordering a margarita without the salt -- practically illegal, yes? A seaside savior, this signature tail (be it high or low) can be updated with a side order of thick-cut bangs. Glamorously demonstrated by actress Kerry Washington, the laidback hairstyle delivers drool-worthy drama that still feels cool for summer.
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Rachel McAdams
Though this summer will be all about natural, barely touched texture, don't kick your curling iron to the curb just yet. A large-barrel wand is a stylist staple and creates the prettiest of bends when paired with just-above-the-shoulder length, as seen here on Rachel McAdams. According to Blum, ends should be light and carefully textured. To keep the style sleek and polished, use a light-handed dab of hair oil.
Expert tip: Do like the pros and nab the wallet-friendly BabylissPro Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron, $49.95, which, Blum tells us, is a backstage staple during New York Fashion Week.
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Felicity Jones
According to Matrix Celebrity Stylist Nick Stenson, you can dramatically shift your look for summer with the following three ingredients: mid-length cut, flirty fringe and undone texture. We love Felicity Jones' understated, vintage take on a classic summer hairstyle that still feels effortlessly current. If hair is on the finer side, Stenson says to steer clear of thick, heavy bangs, as "this will only take away the length and fullness needed around the face." Instead, get the volume you crave with the help of strategic styling. A skilled stylist will be able to add texture to mimic the look of natural fullness. Matrix Style Link Blowout Big Queen, $16, applied before blow-drying and Matrix Style Link Mineral Airy Builder Dry Texture Foam, $18, applied before curling are a few of Stenson's red-carpet must-haves.
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Alanna Arrington
Ever since we saw Alanna Arrington strut her stuff at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show last year, we can't get enough. And, as it turns out, her '70s-inspired shag will be one of the hottest trends of the season. In addition to rocking her natural texture (a no-brainer when it comes to hot, humid weather), her sweep of bangs gives this summer haircut a fresh, vintage look.
Expert tip: Try a hat! "Bangs with hats are everything," says Audrey Rae, celebrity stylist and co-owner of RA_Hair House. The ultimate summer accessory (in addition to your SPF), hats are a must when it comes to protecting your color and the integrity of your hair.
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Jessica Biel
Love your length? Don't fret. Longer tresses can still get an update for summer when paired with a heathy dose of fringe. Masterfully combining two of the season's hottest trends, Jessica Biel rocks cool-girl juxtaposition á la covetable bed-head texture and heavy bangs. And yes, in honor of JT, we happen to think this style would be perfect for "ridin' in the drop-top with the top down." Summer Love? You bet.
