As the sun climbs higher and the days grow longer, there’s only one place we want to be: lounging lakeside, soaking up those summer vibes. But let’s face it, figuring out what to do with your hair can be a real beach (or should we say, lake?). You want a style that’s not only water-resistant but also Instagram-worthy for those impromptu lake selfies.
Say goodbye to soggy, tangled locks and hello to 20 effortlessly chic lake day hairstyles that’ll have you feeling like a lakeside goddess. Whether you’re paddling in a kayak, lounging on a float, or sipping rosé on the dock, these styles are designed to withstand everything from rogue splashes to that post-swim shake.
1. Messy Bun
The messy bun is the ultimate low-maintenance lake day hairstyle. It’s quick, easy, and effortlessly stylish. This look keeps your hair up and away from your face, helping to combat humidity and frizz while also giving you a carefree, beachy aesthetic. To achieve the perfect messy bun, gather your hair loosely at the crown of your head and secure it with a hair tie, allowing a few strands to fall naturally. If you want extra volume, lightly tease your hair before twisting it into a bun. This hairstyle works well for all hair types and lengths, and the more tousled it looks, the better!
2. Braided Pigtails
Braided pigtails are a fun and functional way to keep your hair neat while still looking adorable. This style ensures that your hair stays in place no matter how active your lake day gets—whether you’re swimming, paddleboarding, or playing beach volleyball. The best part? It works beautifully on both wet and dry hair. You can go for classic three-strand braids, Dutch braids for extra hold, or fishtail braids for a boho-inspired touch. If you want an even more effortless vibe, gently pull at the braids to loosen them slightly, giving them a fuller, more relaxed look.
3. Slicked-Back Ponytail
For a sleek and polished lake day look, the slicked-back ponytail is a top choice. Not only does it keep hair off your face, but it also exudes a sophisticated, sporty aesthetic that pairs perfectly with swimsuits and oversized sunglasses. To achieve this style, brush your hair back into a high, mid, or low ponytail and apply a smoothing gel or leave-in conditioner to keep flyaways at bay. If you’re coming straight out of the water, embrace the wet look by scrunching in some mousse or styling cream before securing your ponytail.
4. Bandana Headband
A bandana headband is a simple yet stylish way to accessorize your lake day look while keeping your hair under control. Whether you have short hair, long locks, or anything in between, a bandana can be folded and tied around your head to add a pop of color and a touch of retro charm. Not only does it keep sweat and water from ruining your style, but it also helps protect your scalp from the sun. Go for a bright, patterned bandana for a playful vibe or a neutral-toned one for a more understated, classic appearance.
5. Beachy Waves
There’s something effortlessly beautiful about beachy waves, making them a perfect choice for a lake day. This style works with your natural texture, so there’s no need for excessive styling or heat tools. If your hair is naturally straight, you can braid it while damp and let it air dry for loose, effortless waves. For an extra boost, spritz on some sea salt spray to enhance texture and add volume. The best part? This hairstyle only gets better with the water, as the natural movement of the waves creates even more dimension throughout the day.
6. Half-Up Top Knot
If you want the best of both worlds, the half-up top knot is the perfect blend of casual and chic. This style allows you to keep the top half of your hair secured while letting the rest flow freely, making it ideal for lake days where you want a bit of control without sacrificing style. Simply gather the top section of your hair into a high bun, securing it with a hair tie or claw clip. This look works well on all hair types and adds instant volume to fine hair while keeping thicker hair manageable and off your face.
7. Milkmaid Braids
Milkmaid braids are not only beautiful but also incredibly practical for lake days. This hairstyle involves creating two braids and wrapping them over the top of your head like a crown, keeping your hair secured and stylish. The best part? This look stays put even after a dip in the water. It’s a great option for those who want an elegant, feminine touch while still keeping their hair protected from tangles. If you want a softer, more romantic feel, gently pull at the braids to create a fuller appearance and leave a few tendrils loose around your face.
8. Bubble Ponytail
A bubble ponytail is a playful and stylish way to elevate your classic ponytail. This look involves sectioning off your ponytail with multiple hair ties, creating evenly spaced “bubbles” along the length of your hair. It’s a fun and unique way to keep your hair secured while adding a bit of texture and volume. To make the bubbles stand out even more, gently tug on each section after securing it with an elastic. Whether you opt for a high or low bubble ponytail, this look is both practical and eye-catching for a lake day.
9. Headwrap
A headwrap is a fantastic choice for a lake day because it combines style and functionality. Whether you’re dealing with high humidity, strong winds, or the need to protect your scalp from the sun, a headwrap does it all. You can wear it as a full wrap covering your entire head or tie it into a stylish turban for a bohemian-inspired look. Headwraps come in endless patterns, fabrics, and colors, allowing you to customize your look while keeping your hair protected and tangle-free.
10. Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid is a timeless, intricate-looking style that holds up beautifully against water and wind. While it may seem complicated at first, fishtail braids are relatively easy to master with a bit of practice. This braid adds an effortlessly elegant touch to any lake day outfit while ensuring your hair stays put, no matter how active you get. For a boho-inspired finish, gently pull at the sides of the braid to create a looser, more voluminous look. If you’re short on time, you can even do a side fishtail braid for a quick, stylish fix.
11. Wet Look
The wet look is the ultimate chic and effortless lake day hairstyle. Instead of fighting the effects of water, this style embraces damp hair and turns it into a sleek, high-fashion moment. To achieve this look, start with damp hair and work in a generous amount of hair gel or mousse from root to tip. Use a fine-tooth comb to slick your hair back or part it to the side for a polished, editorial vibe. Not only is this style incredibly low-maintenance, but it also keeps frizz at bay and looks stunning both in and out of the water.
12. Bandana with Bun
A bandana paired with a bun is a stylish way to keep your hair off your neck while adding a fashionable touch to your lake day outfit. To create this look, tie your hair into a messy or sleek bun and wrap a colorful bandana around the base, securing it with a knot at the top or side. This look is perfect for adding a vintage-inspired flair while keeping your hair secure and out of the way. It also doubles as a protective style to prevent breakage from sun and water exposure.
13. Natural Waves
If you prefer a more relaxed and effortless look, natural waves are the way to go. Instead of spending time on styling, simply let your hair air-dry after a dip in the lake. If you want to enhance your waves, scrunch in a bit of sea salt spray or a lightweight mousse while your hair is damp. This style embraces the beauty of your hair’s natural movement and texture, making it a perfect low-maintenance option for lake days.
14. Bandana Headband Wrap
The bandana headband wrap is a trendy yet practical way to accessorize your lake day hairstyle. To achieve this look, fold a bandana into a thick headband and wrap it around your head, tying it at the top or back. This style works well on all hair types and lengths and helps keep hair out of your face while adding a playful or bohemian vibe to your look. It’s also an excellent way to protect your hair from the sun while adding a splash of color or pattern to your ensemble.
15. Halo Braid
The halo braid is an elegant, romantic hairstyle that’s both secure and stylish for a day at the lake. This look involves braiding two sections of hair and wrapping them around the crown of your head, creating a beautiful halo effect. It keeps your hair neatly in place, making it perfect for windy lakeside weather or active water activities. The halo braid is also incredibly versatile—it works on both dry and damp hair and can be loosened for a softer, more bohemian feel or kept tight for a polished, sleek appearance.
16. Scrunched Waves
Scrunched waves offer a carefree, tousled look that screams summer. This style enhances your hair’s natural texture and adds volume without needing heat styling. Simply apply a bit of mousse or sea salt spray to damp hair, then scrunch it upward with your hands to encourage wave formation. Let it air dry naturally, and you’ll have soft, beachy waves that hold up throughout your lake day. Scrunched waves are an effortless yet flirty way to embrace the summer heat while looking effortlessly stylish.
17. Bandana Half-Up Ponytail
The bandana half-up ponytail combines practicality and style for the perfect lake day look. To achieve this hairstyle, gather the top half of your hair into a loose ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Then, wrap a bandana around the base of the ponytail, tying it into a bow or letting the ends hang loosely. This adds a playful, vintage-inspired touch to a simple half-up style while keeping hair off your face and looking put-together even after a swim.
18. Braided Pigtails
Braided pigtails make another appearance on this list because they are just that versatile! Whether you opt for tight, sleek braids or looser, relaxed ones, this style is perfect for keeping your hair tangle-free while you enjoy the lake. Pigtail braids are easy to style on both dry and wet hair, making them a convenient option for all-day wear. They also pair well with accessories like hair rings or scrunchies for an extra playful vibe.
19. Headband Braid
The headband braid is a beautiful and practical way to keep hair out of your face while still looking effortlessly chic. To create this look, braid a section of hair near your hairline and wrap it across the front of your head like a headband, securing it with pins. This style works well for all hair lengths and adds a romantic, feminine touch to your lake day outfit. It’s a great alternative to using actual headbands while offering a natural and elegant finish.
20. Messy Topknot
The messy topknot is the ultimate fuss-free hairstyle for any lake day. Whether you’re fresh out of the water or just want to keep your hair up and off your shoulders, this style is quick, easy, and effortlessly cool. To achieve the perfect messy topknot, gather your hair into a high bun and secure it loosely, allowing a few strands to fall naturally around your face. If you want to add extra volume, tease the hair at the crown before twisting it into a bun. This look is effortlessly stylish and works for any hair type, making it a must-have for your lake day lineup.
Conclusion
From sleek and polished styles to relaxed and bohemian waves, these 20 lake day hairstyles are designed to keep your hair secure, stylish, and ready for all your lakeside adventures. Whether you’re taking a dip in the water, enjoying a boat ride, or simply lounging on the dock, these hairstyles will help you look and feel your best. With so many options to choose from, you can easily find the perfect look to match your vibe while embracing the carefree spirit of summer. So, grab your favorite hairstyle, throw on your swimsuit, and dive into the ultimate lake day experience with confidence!