Confession: one of the things I love about summer hair is that it’s supposed to look a bit fun mixed with a little bit messy. My fave hot-weather styles take me through a morning of errands with the kids, an afternoon at the pool or beach, and a casual date night with Lew.

I adore a mermaid braid. (Sounds better than fishtail, don’t you think?) And I’ve been playing with asymmetric styles lately. A loose bun or topknot is another favorite – that moment when it twists itself into the perfect shape is soooo satisfying. Accessorizing with a wisp of pattern or a touch of sparkle makes it look like I’ve spent hours in my stylist’s chair… as if I have time for that when school’s out?!