3 Pretty Hot-Weather Hairstyles

We're in the thick of summer, where the air is heavy like a wet towel. Now is the time to toss hair up into simple ponytails and knots that will keep stringy strands at bay and transition easily from work to patio to family picnic. Here are our top three style picks:

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1. The Curled Ponytail, inspired by Jessica Biel
This isn't your average pony. With extra shine, volume at the crown and a lightly curled tail, this style walks the line between casual and dressed to impress. Biel works the look with bangs, but pinning hair off the forehead is also a chic option.

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1. The Low Bun, inspired by Diane Kruger
This isn't your average pony. With extra shine, volume at the crown and a lightly curled tail, this style walks the line between casual and dressed to impress. Biel works the look with bangs, but pinning hair off the forehead is also a chic option.

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1. The Swirled Top Knot, seen at Valentino Couture Fall 2012
Perhaps the most effective at keeping you cool, twisting locks into a high bun means you have zero chance of sticky strands. Pull hair to the crown of your head and secure with an elastic. Gently loop the tail into a swirled bun (if it looks like a soft dollop of whipped cream, so much the better). Pin in place and spritz with extra-hold hairspray.

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