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When it comes to pool days, your hairstyle deserves just as much attention as your swimsuit or sunscreen. It shouldn’t be a soggy afterthought that leaves you battling frizz or flyaways. Whether you’re gliding through laps, floating lazily on an inflatable, or snapping selfies from the comfort of a cabana, a cute yet practical hairstyle can elevate your entire poolside look.
The secret? Opt for styles that stay put, resist humidity, and maintain their charm—even after a dip in chlorine-filled water.
From resilient braids that won’t unravel to sleek buns that defy both waves and wind, pool-proof hairstyles are all about combining beauty with function. These looks are crafted to endure the elements while keeping you effortlessly stylish.
Ahead, discover 29 stunning, creative, and chlorine-friendly pool hairstyles that will keep you looking fresh and fabulous—from your first dive of the day to the last golden rays of sunset.
1. Designed for Movement and All-Day Hold
Boxer braids are the poolside MVP because they’re perfect. These two sleek Dutch braids aren’t just tough-looking but also keep your hair completely secured in place—regardless of how many cannonballs you execute. They suit every hair type and length below the chin, and they play nicely with chlorine exposure.
Smooth flyaways by applying a little pomade or styling cream before braiding for a hold that lasts. This athletic style is cool and ridiculously practical, whether you’re swimming laps or relaxing in a deck chair. Finish your braid style with colored extensions or ribbons to take your game to the next level.
2. Royal Vibes That Remain Undisturbed in the Pool
The braid crown has a regal appearance. It’s fantastically realistic for pool days. By braiding a phase of hair around the crown of your head, you produce a dignified, halo-like effect that doesn’t slip even if moist. This look keeps hair out of your face and neck, which is ideal for preserving coolness and preventing tangles.
Apply a robust-hold gel or pomade first to help the style bear chlorine and wear. Whether you are sipping mocktails or swimming laps, a braid crown can provide beauty and practicality in one stunning package. Add floral pins or shells for a beachy contact.
3. Bubble Braids: The Instagram-Worthy Trend
Bubble braids are the ultimate cool-girl poolside style. Easy to create and endlessly photogenic, these braids are made by tying hair at intervals with elastics, then puffing out each section into “bubbles.” The result? A big, playful look that doesn’t come undone when wet.
They suit medium to long hair particularly well and can be pulled back into one ponytail or styled into two pigtails for added pizzazz. Use bright elastics for a splash of personality, or opt for neutrals for a more streamlined look. Either way, bubble braids are a whimsical style that performs from the shallow end to deep dives.
4. Low Space Buns: Practical for Splashing About
Low-space buns are a sweet and easy way to discipline your locks without looking frumpy. Placed at the back of your neck or behind your ears, these twin buns are effortless to twist up and pin down.
They fall out of place less compared to high buns, especially when going in and out of the water. This style is suitable for straight, wavy, or curly hair and can be styled with gel for added hold and definition. Top it with glitter, scrunchies, or miniature clips to add a personal touch. They’re adorable, cozy, and completely splash-proof—what more could you desire?
5. The Wet-Look Slick Back Ponytail: Chic and Swim-Proof
Why battle with the wet appearance when you can have it? The slick ponytail is a versatile style that combines poolside practicality with fashion. Before diving in, apply a moisturizing gel or leave-in conditioner to protect your hair from chlorine. Then, comb your hair directly lower back right into a tight ponytail and secure it with a sturdy elastic.
This smooth appearance works beautifully with straight, wavy, or even curly hair, and it doesn’t require contact. After swimming, it looks even better when moist. It’s a remarkable desire for pool parties, beach pictures, or every time you need an elegant, no-fuss look that excels in humidity and water.
6. Braided Top Knot: Your Poolside Warrior Bun
The braided pinnacle knot is both secure and fashionable, making it one of the most fantastic hairdos for action-packed pool days. Begin with a snug ponytail, braid the give up, then wrap it into a bun on the crown of your head.
It continues your hair totally out of the way, ideal for diving, floating, or gambling water volleyball. It additionally reduces chlorine publicity at the ends of your hair. Apply a high-maintenance product to preserve flyaways, tame hair, and pins to steady the fashion in place. Throw on a scrunchie or silk wrap for a dash of color. It’s sturdy, chic, and equipped with a pool.
7. Mini Cornrows to the Rescue
Mini cornrows are a favorite among those seeking maximum hold with minimal hassle. These closely packed braids hug the scalp, providing both a shiny look and remarkable staying power—perfect for swimming or just hanging out without retouching.
They also serve to shield natural hair from chlorine, minimizing tangling and breakage. Braid your whole head or just sides for an adorable contrast. Top with beads or colored extensions for a personal touch. Best of all, this look can last for days, making it ideal for weekend pool or beach getaways without the everyday fuss.
8. Double Dutch Braids: The Ultimate Pool Adventure Look
Double Dutch braids are not only adorable—they’re rugged. These reversed French braids bulge out of your scalp, adding extra depth without any hair feeling loose. Perfect for long to medium hair, they tame frizz, prevent tangles, and have an effortlessly sporty appearance. Apply a styling cream first to set the style and fight humidity.
Whether you’re swimming to the bottom of the pool or racing your friends to the deep end, Dutch braids won’t budge from sunrise to poolside s’mores. Seal with a touch of edge control on your baby hair for that sleek, camera-perfect finish even after a good swim session.
9. French Braid Into Fishtail
Why have one braid when you can have two? This look starts as a traditional French braid at the crown of your head and transitions into a fishtail braid towards the ends, marrying security with bohemian-chic sophistication. It’s ideal for long hair and adds a touch of class to your pool appearance.
Begin by French braiding to the base of your neck, then separate your hair into two parts and fishtail the remainder. Set with hairspray or water-proof style gel to hold it in place. It’s chic enough for a poolside lunch and durable enough to last a dip-o-noon splash.
10. The Classic High Bun: Because Sometimes Simple Wins
There’s a motive why the high bun is a conventional preferred—it’s effective. This low-maintenance updo places your hair high, dry, and absolutely out of the manner from your face and neck, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
To reap it, deliver your hair lower back into a tight ponytail at the crown of your head, twist, wrap, and pin. Apply gel to clean the edges and tame frizz. It’s an exquisite choice for all hair lengths and brands, especially when you’re in a hurry. Want to glam it up? Add a scrunchie, scarf, or some decorative bobby pins.
11. Slicked Side Braid: Water Fun Meets Glam
High glamour meets practicality with the slicked side braid. Begin by dividing your hair deeply to one side and applying mousse or gel to slick your hair back. Then, make one snug braid that hangs over your shoulder. It hugs the head, minimizing movement and frizz while swimming or in the sun.
It’s a classy, chic choice for formal affairs or relaxed pool parties either way. Ideal for medium-length to long hair, it’s chic dry or dripping wet. Combine it with hoop earrings or water-resistant makeup for a look that swiftly goes from poolside to patio supper.
12. Swim-Ready Hold Meets Soft Romance
The twisted halo provides goddess vibes with pool-day convenience. It entails twisting two strands of hair from the front and wrapping them around the back to form a romantic halo. It plays nicely with natural waves or curls and is just as adorable wet as it is dry.
Add bobby pins and light gel for added grip so the twists don’t disintegrate after a swim. It’s heatless, low-maintenance, and ideal for those who desire something pretty and soft that lasts when wet. Bonus: it gives your hair beachy waves when you remove it!
13. The Pretty Detail That’s Also Practical
A headscarf braid is the closing mixture of adorable and genius. By braiding a small area of hair throughout the front of your head in a scarf-like style, you’re maintaining flyaways at bay and framing your face with a carefree boho appearance. It’s powerful on medium to lengthy hair and may be styled with a ponytail, a bun, or loose waves for added versatility.
Smooth and connect the braid with gel or cream, then pin it in the back of your ears using inconspicuous bobby pins. Whether you are splashing or sunbathing, this chic detail holds up and puts a shine on any pool appearance.
14. Knotted Ponytail: A Trendy Twist on the Standard
Turn your plain old ponytail into a poolside twist with the knotted ponytail. This design gives a fun twist—literally—by knotting your hair together in plain knots down the length. It’s tricky-looking but incredibly easy to do, making it ideal for spur-of-the-moment pool trips. Begin a low or mid ponytail, divide it into two parts, and start knotting as if you were using shoelaces.
Finish the ends off with a clear elastic band and spritz with hairspray for hold. It’s a funky, playful look that holds up surprisingly well in wet conditions—and gives even the most basic swimsuit a fashion-forward vibe.
15. The Mermaid Side Braid
The mermaid facet braid is whimsical and water-safe. Begin with a deep aspect component and loosely braid down over your shoulder, using small portions for that convenient “undone” look. It’s a comfortable style that pairs well with beachy waves, and it enhances them even better when undone.It’s better for a complete dive into swimming, both inside and outside the pool.
Spray a few texturizing sprays or sea salt sprays into your hair before braiding to add grip and volume. Top off with a candy hair tie or shell clip to feature the mermaid look. Wet or dry, this braid adds effortless glamour to any poolside experience.
16. Bubble Ponytail: Bouncy, Playful, and Chlorine-Resistant
The bubble ponytail is the ideal combination of playfulness and practicality. Begin with a mid or excessive ponytail, then divide it into sections with the use of hair ties, spaced approximately every few inches. Tug every phase outwards lightly to obtain a bubbly, puffy appearance. The style is water-pleasant and keeps your locks detangled and lifted—a perfect way to break out that publish-swim knot catastrophe.
Use snag-proof elastics and a small amount of styling cream to keep the whole thing silky smooth. It’s style-ahead, smooth to customize with colored bands or ribbons, and stands up amazingly. Poolside or getting within the water, this ponytail can provide a huge character and remains gorgeous.
17. Rope Braid Bun: Twist It, Wrap It, Swim in Style
The rope braid bun is smooth, speedy, and designed for action. To make it, pull your hair into a ponytail, rope braid it (twist two strands in the same direction, then twist them around one another in the opposite direction), and wind it into a bun.
This neat style keeps your hair tight and high, making it perfect for swimming or sunbathing. Apply a gel or light oil ahead of time to tame frizz and protect against chlorine damage. It’s a low-maintenance style with high-style reward—less effort, more chic.
18. French Braided Pigtails: The Retro Look That Delivers
French braided pigtails are whimsical, old-school, and extremely water-ready. Braiding the hair from the scalp down means the style will stay in place during splashes, dives, and all-day pool lounging. It’s an excellent method for keeping thicker or longer hair in place without the heaviness of a full braid down your back.
Divide your hair down the middle and French braid each side tightly, securing with elastic bands. It’s a style suitable for any age, giving your face a youthful glow without appearing too young. Add ribbon ends or scrunchies for a personal touch. Adorable, secure, and ready for fun at the pool all day!
19. Lovely But Pool Friendly
The waterfall crown braid is a fairytale, romantic hairstyle that impressively performs just as well in the water. The braiding method allows strands “to fall” through openings in a crown braid, producing a flowing effect surrounding your face perfectly. It suits medium to long hair, particularly when worn with soft waves or curls.
Style with mousse before braiding to secure the shape and prevent frizz caused by water or humidity. Although more complex than other styles, it holds up when done tightly and can even be sported for special poolside events or functions—a gorgeous combination of artistry and longevity.
20. Pool-Ready Elegance for Long Hair
Long-haired swimmers will love the Dutch braided updo for style and definition. Begin by doing a single or double Dutch braid down the scalp, and then tuck the rest of the hair into a bun or roll it into a low chignon. This look is excellent for whirlwind pool days—it will not come out and keeps all your hair out of your face.
It also shields your ends from chlorine, sun, and saltwater damage. Hold everything in place with a firm-hold gel and bobby pins. Bonus: this stylish look carries over perfectly from the pool to an outdoor dinner or sunset party.
21. Topsy Tail Twists and Chlorine-Resistant
Topsy tail twists are ideal when you want something quick, playful, and ready to swim. Begin by pulling your hair into a low ponytail, and then flip it through itself with your fingers or a topsy-tail tool. You can continue the process along the length of your ponytail for a tiered twist effect or make several small topsy ponytails across the scalp.
What’s the outcome? Sleek in seconds with minimal effort. This style can withstand water, particularly if you pre-treat with a leave-in conditioner. It’s perfect for all hair types and gives your poolside look a chic, surprising twist—literally.
22. Protective Twists: Natural Hair’s Pool Day Bestie
Protective twists are a classic for natural hair, particularly when water, sun, and chlorine get mixed. Whether you choose two-strand twists, flat twists, or mini twists, this style reduces tangling, breakage, and moisture loss. Before styling, use a moisturizing leave-in and oil to seal in and protect against pool chemicals.
Twists are so versatile—wear them down, pinned up, or braided into buns or ponytails. They can easily last a few days, making them ideal for long beach trips or weekend excursions. Not only are they curl-protective, but they also look fabulous—effortlessly combining functionality and beauty.
23. Half-Up Boxer Braids: Keep It Cute and Cool
Half-up boxer braids are the best of both worlds—secure styling and flowy flair. Begin by separating your hair down the middle and Dutch braiding just the top parts on both sides, tucking them at the crown or nape.
Let the rest of your hair be loose for that effortless, beachy look. It’s an excellent idea for medium to long hair and perfect for staying cool without having flyaways on your face. Add some curl cream or gel for some extra texture and hold. Whether you’re chilling on a float or doing underwater handstands, this look stays fun and functional.
24. Pineapple Puff: Ideal for Curls in the Chlorine
The pineapple puff is a go-to for curly-haired beauties who want volume and ease. To create it, gather all your hair at the very top of your head and secure it with a soft, wide scrunchie or elastic. This top-up puff shields your curls from excessive chlorine exposure and helps retain your curl pattern.
It’s also an adorable way to rock natural texture without going all out—Spritz with a water-based leave-in and edge smooth with gel for a done look. If you’re poolside or not, the pineapple puff gets curls looking fly and protected.
25. Low-Key & Long-Lasting Style
Flat twists into a bun are a chic, elegant hairstyle that remains resilient in water. Begin by flat twisting pieces of hair along your scalp (similar to cornrows but with two strands) and collecting the ends into a low or high bun. This combination provides both scalp protection and end security, keeping your hair in place and reducing chlorine contact.
It’s excellent on natural or relaxed textures and can be dressed up or down with hair jewels or wrapping. Flat twists are scalp-friendly and long-lasting, so this style is ideal for multi-day poolside getaways.
26. Braided Ponytail Wrap Strong Hold
This look starts with a classic ponytail—but gets an upgrade with a braid wrapped around the base. After securing your ponytail, take a small section of hair, braid it, and wrap it around the elastic to hide it and add a polished finish.
The braid not only adds style but also helps reinforce the hold, making it ideal for active swim days. Finish the rest of your hair with gel or serum to keep it frizz-free. It’s a quick, stylish solution that works with straight, wavy, or relaxed hair and has serious “model off duty”-pool vibes.
27. Goddess Braids: Bold Beauty That Survives
Goddess braids are giant cornrows that are both strong and feminine. They hold hair in place from roots to ends, won’t get ruined with water disturbance, and shield strands from chlorine damage. Typically styled in intricate patterns, they can be worn straight back or creatively curved for added personality.
Best of all? They last for days—sometimes even weeks—with minimal maintenance. Apply a moisturizing base product before braiding to seal in hydration and prevent dryness. Whether you’re doing laps or lounging under the sun, goddess braids offer bold, unapologetic beauty that never quits, even when you’re soaking wet. Top with beads or cuffs for godly radiance.
28. Braided Bangs + Top Knot: Cool Meets Clever
Do you desire to highlight your face while maintaining a cool and innovative style? Attempt braided bangs with a top knot. Just section the hair at the front, braid the bangs directly across or diagonally and tuck the rest into a solid top knot. This fun-looking prep adds swag ahead of time and overall functionality in the back.
It’s particularly great with bright colors or glitter gel for summer carnivals or beach parties. Not only will it keep your look intact in the water, but it also provides a beautiful frame around your face and keeps you fresh all day.
29. The Secret Weapon to Save Your Hair
Alright, so it’s not precisely a hairstyle—though preparing your hair underneath a swim cap can be a complete lifesaver. Before getting in the water, spray on a leave-in conditioner or oil to protect your locks against chlorine damage. Then, braid, twist, or bun your hair into a low-key shape that will sit comfortably under a cap.
This guards against both the style and the health of your hair, particularly for color-treated or textured hair. Silicone swim caps offer the most secure and stylish fit. And when the cap is removed? Your hair will still be styled, sleek, and ready for the photo op—complete pool-day pro move.
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