15 Hair Tutorials That Will Help You Beat the Heat This Summer

Y’all, it’s almost summertime. And you know what that means? It’s time spice up our ‘dos and experiment with new styles. Whether it’s to avoid frizz or pull back your hair, playing with braids, twists and ponies is a total must. We took to YouTube to find tutorials that show us how to get the style that’s right for us when that warmer weather arrives. Check out these 15 hair how-tos to beat the heat (and sweat) this summer.

1. Loose Curls + Flower Headband: Even though Coachella has come and gone, we’re still loving the flower crown trend. If you ask us, you can rock these loose curls and a flower headband on the reg. (via Carrie Rad)

2. No Heat Hairstyles: Summertime is all about playing up your natural hair. Check out Rachhloves’ video for two hairstyles that don’t require heat. (via RachhLoves)

3. Big Waves: Buuuut, if you aren’t quite ready to wear your hair au naturale, try out this method of achieving big waves. And when we say big, we mean big. (via Meghan Rienks)

4. 3 Days, 3 Hairstyles: Washing your hair every day can be super damaging. Try out these three hairstyles to go further between washes… with the help of a little dry shampoo, of course. (via Ingrid Nilsen)

5. Flat Twist Halo: During the warmer months, keeping your hair away from your face is a must. Watch this tutorial to learn how to get a flat twisted halo. It’s *way* cute for summer. (via AlleySinai)

6. Blake Lively-Inspired: We’re willing to try just about anything that’s inspired by Blake Lively, and this ‘do is no exception. Plus, a braided pony sounds pretty easy, so we’re not complaining. (via Tanya Burr)

7. Crown Braid: We know, we know. You have a million and one weddings to attend this summer. Use this tutorial to guide you to the cutest wedding updo EVER. (via MakeupWearables Hairstyles)

8. Messy Side Braid: Take your messy side braid to the next level by making it, um, giant. This how-to shows that wearing a huge braid is totally acceptable, and we’re all about it. (via Fleur De Force)

9. Quick Braided Hairstyles: On the hunt for quick and easy braided styles that you can do in just a few minutes? These are oh-so easy and oh-so adorable. (via Kayley Melissa)

10. Milkmaid Braids: Milkmaid braids are like the grown-up version of pigtails. Simply braid both sides of your hair, criss cross and secure with bobby pins. It’s that easy! (via Cute Girls Hairstyles)

11. French Braided Bun Updo: We’ll never say no to a topknot, but add a french braid to the back? Oh, you can bet we’ll be trying out this style tomorrow morn. (via TheChicNatural)

12. Heat-Proof Hairstyles: Hairstyles that last all day in hot weather can be somewhat of a challenge. Check out Kalyn Nicholson’s heat-proof summer hairstyles to beat the heat. A braided pony and flower crowns? *watches instantly* (via Kalyn Nicholson)

13. 2-Minute Bubble Bun: Remember when we said we’ll never say no to a topknot? Well, we’ll also never say no to an easy bun. This bubble bun is simple to achieve, and it only takes two minutes. Two. Minutes. (via MakeupWearables Hairstyles)

14. Easy, No-Heat Styles: That’s right. We have more no-heat hairstyles to show you because you can never have too many. We’re ready to try all of these as soon as the weather warms up. (via Bethenny Mota)

15. 5 Quick and Easy Styles: The best part about this tutorial? Tracy and Stefanie show five styles — one for every day of the work week. Score! (via EleventhGorgeous)

What’s your favorite way to wear your hair during the warmer months? Tell us in the comments below.

Calling all Star Wars nerds: After decorating the house with geeky accessories and DIYing our favorite character costume, wehad to address our favorite part of the saga: Princess Leia's hair. It's epic — period. In honor of Star Wars Day (May the Fourth be with you!) and the fact that Carrie Fisher finally got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, here are some of my favorite Princess Leia hair moments — with a modern twist. I updated these three styles into fun, five-minute looks that any level of fan or fashion girl would want to work. They're perfect for dinner plans and Star Wars parties alike.

Princess Leia's Double Braids from "​Episode VI: The Return of the Jedi​" –> Casual Rope Braids

Images via Lucasfilm Ltd/20th Century Fox/Walt Disney Studio Motion Pictures/Brit + Co

Tight, leather-threaded braids get a casual update with these pigtails, perfect for those days you want an easy, lazy girl style.

Step 1: Section + Twist

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Take a tiny strand of hair near your temple and separate it into two equal sections. Taking one strand in each hand, twisting each section around your fingers in a counterclockwise direction. Then cross the pieces over one another in a clockwise motion and keep on going.

Step 2: Secure + Repeat

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When you reach the end of the strand, secure the rope braid with a clear elastic.

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Then repeat on the other side.

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You can also curl the ends of your hair if you want to dress this look up a bit!

Princess Leia's Milkmaid Braid from ​"Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back​" –> Messy Fishtail Crown Braid

Images via Lucasfilm Ltd/20th Century Fox/Walt Disney Studio Motion Pictures/Brit + Co

Image via Brit + Co

We’re putting a more romantic twist on Princess Leia’s chunky milkmaid braid with a messy fishtail-Dutch plaitand loose, long tendrils to frame your face.

Step 1: Section

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Start by sectioning your hair in half. Pin the right section in place so that it will be easier to work with the left one.

Step 2: Fishtail Dutch Braid

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Now take a small strand from the top of your head and start fishtail braiding with two alterations: Braid underneath instead of over the top (this gives the braid a cool 3D effect) and incorporate tiny strands as you go.

Step 3: Secure + Repeat

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Once you’ve incorporated all the hair, keep on braiding normally, then tie with an elastic. Then, braid the other section with one twist: Braid this section upwards.

Step 4: Pancake

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Gently separate your plaits — what’s called pancaking — to give your braids a fuller, messier look.

Step 5: Pin + Final Touches

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Lastly, use a couple of bobby pins to secure the braids in place and get the perfect crown result. And don't worry if some tiny pieces are sticking out: It's all part of the look!

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Date-night ready like that.

Princess Leia Space Buns from "Episode IV: A New Hope" –> Half-Up Half-Down Double Buns

Images via Lucasfilm Ltd/20th Century Fox/Walt Disney Studio Motion Pictures/Brit + Co

While this is hands down Princess Leia's most iconic hair look, it's one of the hardest to wear outside of Halloween. This half-up, half-down update featuring a pair of mini buns makes it feel both more attainable and of the moment.

Step 1: Section

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Use a fine-tooth comb to make a section from the ear to the top of your head.

Step 2: Cheerleader Pigtails

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Then make a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Once you’re done, repeat on the other side.

Step 3: Create the Buns

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Finger comb your hair to add a bit of volume, then start twisting your ponytail to create a bun. Bobby pin it in place, then repeat on the left side.

Image via Brit + Co

Polish your next athleisure outfit with this so-cute style.

Which Star Wars are you going to watch tonight? Tag us in your Princess Leia hairstyles on Instagram!

This post has been updated.

Lead image via Brit + Co

Brunch is a decadent ritual. Late mornings full of sticky syrup and bottomless mimosas (!) are all fun and games until you receive the dreaded bill from your local spot. It's not that the food's not good, it's just expensive. We're here to *happily* report that you can save some dough and take the brunch party inside by hosting your own at home! Here are the best recipes and brunch party ideas to enlist for your next brunch time shenanigans!

What do you serve at a brunch party?

Any dish you can break up into smaller servings or finger foods are good for serving at a brunch party. Think mini pancakes, sausage links, breakfast sandwiches, and more.

What activities do you do at brunch?

Playing games, serving food, drinking mimosas, and visiting with friends and family are all activities that you can do at brunch.

How do you throw a casual and fun brunch party?

Keep things low-key for throwing a fun and casual brunch party – first, send out some simple invites to your inner circle and set a realistic budget for the party. You don’t have to necessarily go for a theme or full-fledged party. As long as brunch foods are involved, your guests will feel welcome.

What are some easy brunch party ideas for hosting at home?

You could organize a pancake bar, a coffee station, or a decorate-your-own donut set-up for an at-home brunch party.

Brunch Party Recipe Ideas

Here are some of our favorite recipes for when you wanna be the brunch hostess with the mostess!

Ultimate Spring Brunch Board

Let your brunch party guests have at it. This sharable brunch board hits all the marks – with sweet and savory bites included. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Easy Vegan Strawberry Tart

These single-serving tarts make feeding a crowd unbelievably easy, especially since they're made with only 10 ingredients. (via The Edgy Veg)

Breakfast Fruit Salad

Luckily, there's not much to making fruit salad. Just toss your favorite fruits in a massive bowl with a ladle, and consider your brunch party side dish done! (via Live Eat Learn)

French Toast Casserole

This *iconic* french toast casserole is made in one pan, plus there's an option for the lazy hosts to let the dish sit overnight before baking. So, if your A.M. routine feels like a Manic Monday every day, all you need to do is pop the prepped casserole in the oven, and voila! (via The Girl On Bloor)

Stuffed Waffle Breakfast Sandwich

This breakfast sandwich truly delivers the best of both worlds. Each stack is comprised of savory bacon, egg, and cheese, plus sweet waffles and syrup for that *ultimate* flavor balance. For a brunch party, simply prep all of the ingredients, then let your guests build their own sammie! (via Rachel Mansfield)

Breakfast Potatoes

Dressing up some diced potatoes with bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño spruces up a familiar brunch recipe that'll please pretty much everyone at the table. Bonus points for making big batches for your brunch party! (via This Wife Cooks)

Lemon Sugar Rolls with Vanilla Cream Cheese Icing

You know (and love) cinnamon rolls – now get ready for something even sweeter and tangier: lemon rolls! This ooey-gooey recipe is ideal for a brunch party because it brings some good 'ol share-worthy pull-apart goodness to the table. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Shakshuka

Hear us out: you could host a dippable brunch party. Sounds tasty, right? First up on your menu should be this shakshuka recipe, a prime dish to dip some toast into for those hard-hitting morning munchies. Next up, dippable biscotti cookies! (via Brit + Co.)

Funfetti Biscotti

Coffee + pastries is the *best* breakfast combo on the weekends, so why not opt for a coffee brewing bar paired with a bake like these colorful biscottis? Your weekend warrior pals will totally dig it! (via Barley & Sage)

Ricotta Biscuits

These luscious biscuits recall Southern home cooking in every good way possible. Each bite is equal parts cushy and crunchy, the perfect contender for a hearty gravy bath at brunch. (via Cozy Cravings)

Sheet Pan Pancakes

This sheet pan recipe is a *total* time saver when it comes to a brunch party! It beats pouring out individual pancakes and waiting for each one to cook by miles. Just don't forget the syrup! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Japanese Fruit Sandwich (Sando)

Japanese sandos are prime picking for brunch because they carry a light, airy, and fruity flavor that just makes mornings better. No matter the type of fruit you use, you can always count on this dish to taste balanced and refreshing. Plus, it's painfully easy to make. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Sausage Hash Brown Casserole

If you're up to feed a large group, casseroles are the #1 move. This brunch-forward recipe idea compiles cheese, sausage, hash browns, and more to form a creative (and communal) dish. (via Culinary Hill)

Millionaire's Bacon Cinnamon Rolls

This brunch party recipe did not come to play. It mixes sticky sweet icing in with caramelized bacon that makes every decadent mouthful feel truly fit for a millionaire. Take care to make extra dozens for your party's company! (via Brit + Co.)

Easy Breakfast Yogurt Bake

We have to admit, we've never thought of baking yogurt, but now we see the light with this recipe. The dish brings a beneficial amount of protein to any brunch function, plus it can easily be cut up into individual portions for serving the whole table. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Citrus Fruit Cups

These fruit cups are genius for brunch party spreads. It's as simple as staging as many cups as you need for the party the night before, storing them in the fridge, and serving! (via Amanda Wilens)

Berry Bulgur Breakfast Bake

Bulgur is extremely similar to oatmeal or grits, making it a supremely healthy pick for a brunch party! Cook a large amount for your guests to eat on over time – this recipe calls for blueberries and strawberries, but you can add whatever you're feelin' in the moment. (via Live Eat Learn)

Healthy Breakfast Egg Muffins

Starbucks' egg bites? Never heard of 'em. This recipe toes the line of being a copycat, except *totally* better than what you can get your hands on in the drive-thru. The cups are prepped in a muffin tin, so you can create countless numbers of the savory breakfast bite. (via Salt & Lavender)

Healthy Breakfast Cookies

Cookies for breakfast have to be the best thing since sliced bread, TBH. What's even more desirable about this recipe is that it's health-focused, so you don't lose track of your goals at breakfast. Make some for your brunch party guests to take home once the festivities are done! (via The Endless Meal)

Ultimate Breakfast Tacos

Because only a crazy person would say 'no' to breakfast tacos. For your brunch get-together, you can prep the additions separately, then have your attendees build their own tacos! (via Cozy Cravings)

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Header image via The Girl On Bloor

Browsing through Pinterest for hairstyle inspo is honestly a favorite pastime of mine. Lately, I've had braids on the brain, scrolling through summer-inspired styles, and I'm kind of obsessed. So many celebs have been spotted in braids recently — especially our fave Taylor Swift who sports the style almost every time she's papped as of late. And while the tried-and-true simple braid is always a smooth move, there are so many different ways to incorporate braids into your hair for summer! We chatted with braids specialist, Ellie Mulqueen and founder of The Roslyn, Katelyn Ellsworth to learn more about these sweet styles. So keep scrolling for even more ways to add a little flair to your hair with our favorite braided hairstyles!

Half-Up Braided Crown

Photo via Ellie Mulqueen

This is a super simple style that we'd love to see you rock! And we have all the details on how you can achieve it! Our hair expert, Mulqueen, says, "Take two small sections of hair from each side of your head, braid them, and secure them at the back of your head to create a braided crown effect while leaving the rest of your hair down. You can dress this style up or down, it’s perfect for summer!" And voila, it's as easy as that! We can not wait to try this one. It's perfect for weddings or any events where you want to dress up your hair a little bit!

Bubble Braids

Photo via Getty

One of our favorite looks for summer are forever and always bubble braids! To achieve this, you simply need colorful hair bands and lots of braided sections to add texture.

Ellsworth says, "Braids are amazing for the summer and can be worn in so many different ways. Styling, even the most basic of braids can be fun. Using glitter, earrings, or even pops color with string or extensions is always a fun way to dress up a basic “B” braid. Using multiple braid techniques on one style is going to be seen a lot this year in festivals and in the wild." She adds, "Taking it back to Brittany style with crimps/waves and micro braids will be making it back into 2024 summertime. So get your accessories and your braid guides ready to the room with your style and accessorized braids."

Bubble braids are definitely the perfect way to standout and add some statement pieces to your hairstyle! Throw in some butterfly clips, and you're a Y2K goddess for sure!

Fishtail braid

Photo via Ellie Mulqueen

One bonus about this braid? It keeps your hair out of your face and from getting knotted. Mulqueen says, "Adding braids into your hairstyles for summer is a great way to keep your hair healthy and tangle free!" And this fishtail braid is sure to protect your hair in such a cute way! Simply take a piece from either side and tuck it in-between; just repeat this until you get the braid you want!

Ponytail Braid

Photo by Lia Toby/Getty Images

We simply adore this look on Zendaya, and we definitely think this style will will pop up more and more with the rise of tenniscore and impending beach days! It's so simple that all you need to do is put your hair in a slicked-back ponytail, braid the ponytail like you would normally, then put in a bow for added effect! And there you have a chic, fun hairstyle for the summer!

Floral Fun

Photo via Ellie Mulqueen

I absolutely love this braid hairstyle for summer! You can find some flowers (fresh or fake) and pin them to your hair with either clips or bobby-pins and there you have it; a fresh bouquet braid! However, if you're less interested in (or don't have time for) the DIY of it all, you can also just buy clips that have these details on them already at Target or Amazon. I love how elegant this style looks, especially for the upcoming wedding season! This looks straight from our Pinterest board and I need to try it so don't mind me running to Trader Joe's for some fresh flowers immediately...

Braided Bun

Photo via Ellie Mulqueen

For this style, it may seem complicated, but it's actually quite simple! You braid a tiny section of hair (like the small, center braid above) and then do a very loose fishtail braid underneath it. For a fishtail, all you do is divided the hair into two sections and take pieces from the outer edges of either side and drag them to the middle one at a time. Then put your hair into a messy, chic bun like so! We love this fun style for wedding season, too!

Which variation of the modern shag would you try? Follow us on Pinterest for more hair inspo!

Header image via Getty

It's almost time to officially celebrate the moms in your life, but we know moms are worth celebrating every day. While you prep for Mother's Day with cute cards and brunch menus, sometimes a kind and inspiring word really makes all the difference in a day. While your moms, sisters, and gal pals have perfectly good advice, we think a little extra words of encouragement can't hurt. With that in mind, here are 16 motherhood quotes to send to the moms you know and love — or to screenshot and save for yourself. Big hugs, mamas!

"I was lucky enough to get to have one woman who truly helped me through everything." — Emma Stone

"You're going to get advice from a lot of people...but you know innately what your child needs. You should trust that." — Lucy Liu

"My mother and I are so close, and I always prayed that I would have that type of relationship with my daughter." — Beyoncé

"Become a mother has made me next-level confident. I've never felt more empowered." — Kelly Clarkson

"As a new mom myself, it really was important to hear positive compliments from people just being like, 'Hey, you're doing a great job.'" — Shay Mitchell

"Nothing can really prepare you for the sheer overwhelming experience of what it means to become a mother. It is full of complex emotions of joy, exhaustion, love, worry, all mixed together." — Kate Middleton

"No one's really doing it perfectly, I just think you love your kids with your whole heart, and you do the best you possibly can." — Reese Witherspoon

"There is no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one." — Jill Churchill

"There's no such thing in the world as a supermom. We just do the best we can." — Sarah Michelle Gellar

"'Oh, I'm just a mom,' you heard women say. Just a mom? Please! Being a mom is everything. It's mentorship, it's inspirational, and it's our hope for the future." — Sally Field

"I've approached many things in my life with such intensity that I want to approach motherhood with dedication and focus." — Drew Barrymore

"Motherhood has helped me stop overanalyzing things." — Idina Menzel

"When I had my children and I felt that type of love...it made me understand there was a purity to love." — Jennifer Lopez

"I try to call my mother with more regularity because I think, what if Hazel didn't call me for two weeks? I'm able to see her mothering now from a different vantage point." — Julia Roberts

"If you're confident with what you're doing even if that's some weird, bizarre parenting technique that you know works for your kid or you feel happy about it, do it." — Kristen Bell

"I am completely changing since being a mom. I'm much more open, I'm much more accepting of myself, I'm much more thoughtful." — Pink

Be sure to check out our other mom quotes to help remind you that you're doing the best you can on your motherhood journey.

Lead image via olia danilevich/Pexels

May the Fourth be with you! To celebrate Star Wars Day, we're bringing you a tasty take on a classic cocktail you already know and love – the Old-Fashioned. Crafted with Breckenridge Port Cask Bourbon, this intergalactic drink honors Obi Wan with robust flavors and a strong sip. If you're feeling in the spirit, prep some Star Wars sweets to pair. Scroll for the easy cocktail recipe!

Ingredients for May The Fourth Obi Wan Old-Fashioned

Photo by Jessie Unruh / Breckenridge Distillery

For the Obi Wan Old-Fashioned:

  • 2.5 oz. Breckenridge Port Cask Finish
  • .5 oz. raw simple syrup*
  • 2 dashes of barrel-aged bitters or Angostura Bitters
  • Luxardo cherries, to garnish

For the simple syrup*:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water

How to Make The Obi Wan Old-Fashioned

Instructions for the Obi Wan Old-Fashioned:

  1. Stir all ingredients with ice and strain over one large ice cube.
Instructions for the simple syrup*:
  1. Mix the sugar and water over medium heat. Simmer and stir until dissolved.

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