The look: Beachy braids

Why it's hot now: "Braids offer a relaxed approach to the way hair is styled for summer," says Brad Ngata, of Brad Ngata Hair Direction, Sydney. Get the look with a girlie plait, or work with smaller sections for a different feel. "Braided pieces at the hairline offer a hot look as they clear the hair from the face and give a carefree, 'Bondi babe' attitude," adds Ngata.

How to do it: "The simplest braid is a loose, three-strand plait, which looks best when your hair is finger-combed to give a messier texture," explains Ngata. For long locks, "Take a small section of hair behind your ear and do a three-strand plait, then wrap it around your head like a headband and secure with a bobby pin behind your other ear, leaving the rest of your hair loose," he says.

What you'll need: This look requires little assistance, but if you're beach bound, apply a leave-in treatment with UV filters before you braid, such as PPS Life Jacket, $19.95, or Joico K-Pak Sun Therapy Protective Sun Milk, $26.95.