There's an electric feeling in the air right now infused with the smell of sunscreen and coconut oil because it's finally time to shake off the winter months and embrace the sunshine season!

It’s that magic time of year when we step into stylish sandals, slip on a sundress, don a bikini and throw our hair into a top bun - wait, what?? Ok, so let’s rethink that last step. Just because it’s hot out doesn’t mean we should get lazy with our hair.

As you know, braids and updo’s are my specialty. I love coming up with new hair looks that are both stylish and simple enough for you to recreate at home too. That’s why I’m so excited to share my latest braided do that will not only help you beat the heat, but look good doing it.

Over the weekend I worked with lead stylist, Walker and the Bespoke Salon team on the W Scottsdale’s Splash into Summer fashion show. We created a super fresh and modern dutchhawk fishtail bun. I pulled a little along each side of the braids to give it that undone finish and `lived-in’ look. As you know, I love that gritty pretty style because it turns groomed hair into everyday.

The great thing about this look, is it only gets better the longer you wear it making it the perfect vacation hair style. It’s especially great for swimming at the beach or in the pool because it’s guaranteed to look glamorous long after you get out of the water.

But this look doesn’t end there! After the sun has dried your hair in this braided style, it’s time to transition into look number 2. This second style is an effortless transition from day to night and straight to the cocktail bar. Here’s how you do it.

Simply take your hair out of the braids and spray a little sea salt spray into the mid-lengths and ends. Comb your fingers through slowly to create a fun waves. This will give you that messy boho hair, but if you want to glam it up a little, just spritz a small amount of shine treatment on the ends only, then gently work it in. Use any remainder of this product on your hands to tame any flyaways and frizz, but not too much or it could look oily. Then add a bright lip or gloss and you’re ready to go.

What do you think of this braided look? Will you try it out at home? Sound out in the comments below. Don't forget to tag me in your Instagram post when you recreate this look for the chance to be featured on The Confessions of a Hairstylist IG!

Jenny Strebe and the Bespoke Salon team working their magic backstage at Splash into Summer, W Scottsdale.

Braid It to Beat The Heat and Splash Into Summer