Summer is here and while our wardrobes are thrilled (hello mules, gingham, and a fresh pair of sunnies), our hair is less enthused. For those of us with fringes, the hot weather usually means frizz, sweat and a whole lot of maintenance. But when everyone from Brigitte Bardot to Alexa Chung makes having bangs look so effortless, we’re not about to throw in the towel that easily. We’ve done our research and found the best tools and products to keep your mane under control, leaving more time to sit back, relax and enjoy that poolside prosecco care-free.
These are a godsend. With just as much firepower as their full-sized counterpart, these little wonders are the perfect size to sort out a '70s-flicked post-rain fringe in under a minute. They also come with a small pouch, so you can take 'em with you on the move. We laugh in the face of being caught off-guard.
Cloud Nine The Micro Iron, £64, available at Cloud Nine
Whether you're used to clouds of hairspray or not, this bamboo fix is a summertime essential. The beauty is that it won't freeze your 'do in position, making your hair look unnatural. Instead, it acts as a barrier against the humidity that makes your hair expand and curl in the heat. No more nightmares about becoming Monica in the Barbados episode of Friends.
Alterna Bamboo Smooth Anti-Humidity Hairspray, £19, available at Escentual
This two-in-one hairbrush is a handbag staple. Divide and part your fringe with the pointed end (careful of your eyes...) and brush into place with the bristled end. Boar hair keeps locks smooth and shiny rather than static, while the rounded brush gives you control of your style. This kind of brush is also great for achieving a '60s full-fringe look.
ORIBE Medium Round Brush, £121, available at Space.NK
Philip B's formula is the don for taming unruly frizz and flyaways. Apply a small drop onto the palm of your hands, rub together to warm the product, and run through your mane. Think of it as a laminate layer that makes your hair waterproof, and therefore heatproof. Vitamin E and soya bean oils keep hair shiny, and parabens and sulphates are nowhere to be seen.
Philip B Anti-Frizz Formula 57, £38, available at Selfridges
We've discovered a trick that is a small saviour come rushed mornings or lazy holidays, when you don't want to get the straighteners out or spend more than five minutes styling your hair. Simply divide your parting when your hair is still wet, sweep a comb through your fringe, and clip at the ends into the main sections of hair (the clips should be sitting over your temples). Then, once hair has air-dried, remove the clips, use a brush or your fingers to loosen the hair, and voilà! A styled fringe with zero effort.
ASOS Pack of 6 Mixed Metal Hair Clips, £6, available at ASOS
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