The Best Scandi-Inspired Updos To Beat The Heat

While the street style set at Copenhagen Fashion Week continue to redefine summer dressing with maximalist polka dots, graphic stripes and oversized tailoring as key trends, it’s the low-effort, high-impact updos that are quietly leading the hairstyle conversation. Think sculptural buns, minimalist ponytails and messy twists that hold their shape through heatwaves and humidity alike. “The overall look is intentionally undone,” says A-list hairstylist Belle Cannan of London’s Salon Sloane. “And, equally, it is weatherproof – pulled back and off the face, but with softness and a sense of ease.”

To create these summer-ready styles, Cannan advises to put the most effort into your pre-styling routine: “Use the right tools to smooth, build texture and hold shape without overworking your hair.” Her top product picks include Hair Rituel by Sisley’s The Brush, to smooth and detangle lengths before sweeping them into a bun or sleek ponytail; a few drops of the brand’s Precious Hair Care Oil for a professional radiant shine and finish; a volumizing or texturizing spray used on dry hair to create or boost texture; and (before and after you’ve secured your ’do in place), a misting of Hair Rituel by Sisley’s Invisible Hold Hairspray for a natural and flexible hold (and another hit of shine). “In order to master that minimalist Scandi look, think less is more – don’t overstyle your hair,” she stresses. Here are the five Scandi-approved styles we’ll be copying all month…

This isn’t your classic ’80s-style, teased-to-perfection iteration. Instead, make it middle parted, loose and add a clip for a fresh, seasonal twist. To copycat the look, “start by simply pulling hair into a low or mid-height ponytail,” says Cannan. “Then twist the hair upwards to create a pleat or roll and secure it against the head with a claw clip instead of traditional hair pins. The key is letting pieces fall out, so it looks undone with natural texture.”

This high-sitting top knot is the ultimate protective-meets-polished style for textured hair. Sculptural yet effortless, it lifts braids off the neck (and out of the heat), while embracing natural volume and shape. Before twisting braids into place, use a texturizing spray for added grip to help them stay in place better.

Polished, sculptural and endlessly versatile, the slicked-back bun is a timeless summer hairstyle. Whether worn low at the nape of the neck or high on the crown, the look is all about a smooth, high-shine base. “Use a nourishing hair oil to get that ultra-sleek finish,” says Cannan. “Pull your hair tightly into a ponytail, then twist it into a simple knot, securing it with pins for a minimalist mood – or opt for a silk scrunchie if you’re leaning into something more maximal.” Let flyaways come out of the bun itself for that just-swept-up effect.