Your Summer Event Hairstyles Sorted: Races, BBQs & Garden Parties

Summer is here, and that means one thing: event season is in full swing. From stylish race days to laid-back BBQs and dreamy garden parties, your calendar’s likely filling up fast and we’re sure you’ll want your summer hairstyles to look just as good as your outfit; if not better. Whether you’re aiming for timeless elegance or easy, breezy glam, having go-to summer event hairstyles can save time and boost confidence.

Luckily, we’ve got you covered. With the help of SWAY, our hair extensions, professional-grade styling tools from our AIRE Collection, and our salon-worthy haircare products, you can create gorgeous summer hairstyles that last all day and night — whatever the occasion.

Trending Hair Styling Ideas for Summer Events

For the Races: Sophisticated Styles That Stay All Day

If there’s one place you want to look polished from head to toe, it’s race day. Between fascinators, hats, and the wind that always seems to appear right after you've styled your hair, you need a look that holds firm without feeling stiff. Think sleek low buns, smooth ponytails, or glamorous Hollywood waves.

Make It Last with Extensions:

Race-day styles often rely on volume, which is where our tape in extensions or pre-bonded hair extensions shine. These premium options help you achieve thickness and hold, especially for styles that need to stay put all day. If you’re planning to wear a fascinator, a low bun or ponytail paired with extra length from extensions can create a truly head-turning look.

Style Like a Pro:

Use our AIRE Multi-Styler to achieve smooth curls or glossy, pin-straight finishes. Before styling, always apply a heat protection spray, this is especially important when using heat styling tools on both natural hair and for summer hairstyles with extensions.

Post-Event Hair Revival:

After a long day in the sun and wind, treat your hair to some TLC with our hydrate shampoo and hydrate conditioner to restore moisture and keep your extensions soft, shiny and manageable. You can even incorporate our hydrate mask or The Hair Hero for extra nourishment and repair.

For BBQs: Quick, Easy & Laid-Back Looks

Casual doesn’t have to mean boring. When it comes to BBQs and outdoor hangouts, low-maintenance styles that still turn heads are key. The goal? Easy summer event hairstyles that don’t wilt in the heat or get in your way while you’re serving up burgers or lounging with a drink in hand.

Ideas to Try:

Messy buns, half-up half-down ponytails, beachy waves, or a cute claw clip twist are perfect options. These summer hairstyles can be done in minutes — but still look like you made an effort.

Instant Volume:

Add our Clip-In Extensions if you want more volume or length without the commitment. Clip-ins are perfect for casual plans where you want to feel glam without the time investment.

BBQ Styling Tips:

Use our AIRE Multi-Styler to add some quick texture – just a few curls here and there can completely elevate your look. Apply our Heat Protection Spray beforehand and finish with our nourishing daily Hair Oil to smooth frizz and add that glossy, healthy shine.

End-of-Day Care:

Between sun exposure and BBQ smoke, your hair might feel dry or dull. Refresh and cleanse gently with our Hydrate Shampoo, and don’t forget to condition; especially if you’ve worn extensions.

For Garden Parties: Cute, Playful & Photo-Ready

Garden parties are the perfect excuse to embrace fun, whimsical hair. Whether you’re wearing a floral dress or a wide-brimmed hat, your hairstyle can tie the whole look together. Plus, you’ll want something that stays pretty and playful through hours of sipping, chatting, and snapping pictures.

Summer Hairstyles We Love:

Bubble braids, braided crowns, ribbon ponytails, and loose curls with hair accessories. These summer event hairstyles are equal parts sweet and stylish, especially when they’re paired with floral clips or pastel hair ties.

The Extension Edge:

For fuller braids or bouncier waves, our Nano Bond Hair Extensions at SWAY are a dream. Seamless and discreet, they blend beautifully into your natural hair, giving you more to work with and longer-lasting styles.

Style It Right:

Use the AIRE Multi-Styler to create soft, natural waves with a bit of bounce. Always prep your hair with Heat Protection Spray to prevent damage, and finish with a few drops of a daily Hair Oil for added shine and frizz control.

Garden Party Glam Tip:

Pop a mini extension-friendly brush in your bag to gently detangle mid-event. Your extensions (and your photos) will thank you.

Essential Summer Haircare Tips to Keep Your Style Going

It’s not just about creating the perfect style, it’s about keeping your hair healthy and radiant throughout the season. Summer brings UV rays, sweat, and heat styling into the mix, so make sure your haircare routine is just as strong as your styling game.

Our Must-Have Products

  • Hydrate Shampoo & Conditioner: These are your go-to duo for keeping both natural hair and extensions moisturised and tangle-free after long days in the sun.
  • Nourishing Daily Hair Oil: Lightweight but powerful, this adds shine, reduces frizz, and nourishes strands without weighing them down. Use daily or as needed.
  • Heat Protection Spray: Before any heat styling, whether it’s curling, straightening, or waving, this is an absolute non-negotiable.
  • Heat Styling Tools: Designed for professional-level results with hair health in mind, the AIRE collection includes our AIRE Multi-Styler, our AIRE Flow Digital Hairdryer, and our AIRE Digital Hairdryer, curlers, and wave stylers made to work beautifully with extensions.

Your Summer Hairstyles Start with SWAY

Whether you’re getting dressed up for the races, keeping it casual at a family BBQ, or dancing barefoot at a garden party with friends, your hair should make you feel confident, carefree, and completely yourself. With SWAY, our professional hair extensions, expert-approved styling tools, and salon-quality haircare products, it’s never been easier to transform your hair for any summer occasion. Need more hair styling ideas for summer events? Check out our wide range of blogs, tips, and style guides for more advice on summer hairstyles with extensions for different events and occasions. Don’t forget to tag us on social media to show off your look, we love seeing and sharing how you style your summer with SWAY. Now go forth and conquer your summer calendar — in style.