The 12 Best Summer Loc Styles

May 2024 · 5 minute read

Locs are a hairstyle that's all the own, but the incredibly special thing about them is that when it comes to summer loc styles, the possibilities are endless! But before we talk about the super cute styles, it's important to make sure your hair is healthy and hydrated, so we got expert Jennifer Lord, hair designer and author Natural Hollywood to give us all the tips.

The Classic Bun

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Lord says this classic, regal style is best suited for those with shoulder to mid-back length locs.

"Using a safe twist tie, snatch all of the hair up into a ponytail," Lord explains. "Then gradually and consistently place the bulk of hair around the pony so that a full bun develops. Tuck the ends of the hair under the bun and use hairpins to secure it. [If you] want a large bun, stuff it. Try Marley hair or a light styrofoam ball wrapped in yarn to work the trick."

High Curly Ponytail

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When you're ready to switch things up from your bun, simply take it down and rock a high ponytail instead. To take the style to the next level, why not add in some quick curls for added texture?

"Saturate [the hair] with moisture — water or leave-in conditioner, then apply purple or orange perm rods to the pony and allow to dry," Lord says. "Once dry, remove the rods and style as desired using hairpins. Add a centralized embellishment to up the anti on the look."

Fulani Tuck

Lawrence Green

This remix of the French twist is a classic look that can be dressed up or down.

"To achieve this look, sweep the hair over to one side, then use large bobby pins to lay the hair swept over flat," Lord explains. "Flip the hanging hair up and start tucking it at the nape to the base. Work your way up to the bulk of the hair always using hairpins to secure the tuck. When you reach the top you are free to get creative."

The stylist adds that you add dimension to the look by separating small sections and tucking the hair in different directions.

Side Up, Soft Curls Down

Collville Heskey

"If you're a profile lover like me but then you'll love this asymmetrical action," Lord shares. "Simply twist and smooth your locs back into an upside section and leave the other locs out for pin curls. Set the pin curls overnight and take down and style the next day. Tuck the ends of the locs away for a refined coiffed look."

Pin Curls

Jazzy Studios

Speaking of pin curls, you can also leave them in to create a faux pixie look.

"The concept is to use different curl sizes to have a more natural effect," the stylist explains. "Saturate the hair so that is fully wet. Use a bit of tension but not too much!"

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High And To the Side

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This simple and elegant style is perfect for your next formal event. To create look, start off by sweeping the hair up into a high, side ponytail. Next, tuck the ends in — or leave them out. It's up to you.

Accessorize

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"A sunflower or some baby's breath in the corner of your hair by the ear is so charming," says Lord. "Wear it to a festival or on a picnic."

You can also play with headwraps, hair clips, cuffs, or whatever else you're feeling.

Super High Ponytail

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Channel your inner Sasha Colby and tie your locs up into a chic high ponytail. To hide any scrunchies or hair ties, tie extra locs around the hair tie and secure the ends with a bobby pin. Looking for extra shine? Lord typically opts for shea butter, while skipping traditional conditioners to avoid product build-up. "You don't want the product getting trapped in the loc and leaving a heavy or visible residue," she says.

Pinned Up Locs

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Willow Smith's pinned up locs are the epitome of laid-back, chic style. The idea is to make it look as messy as possible by pinning your locs with large bobby pins so they're just off the neck.

High Side Ponytail

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Kelela's high, side ponytail is the perfect style for locs that are chin-to-shoulder length. Your hair is out of the way, but it's not so heavy that you have a massive headache by the end of the day.

Sculptural Side Ponytail

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If you're looking for a summertime bridal look, Halle Bailey's recent The Little Mermaid promo look should fit the bill. Instead of simply letting the side pony locs cascade down, her locs are styled into a sculptural look that looks out of this world.

Swooped to the Side

David Livingston/Getty Images

Lalah Hathaway's side swept, purple-tipped locs are a big summer mood. It's the perfect style when your locs are a bit too long to keep in a heavy updo, but you still don't want heavy hair completely covering your neck.

Frequently Asked Questions

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