15 rain-proof hairstyles to keep your look fresh & sleek

Rainy days might spell disaster for freshly styled hair, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with boring, thrown-together looks every time the forecast turns gloomy. The key? Choosing hairstyles that work with the weather instead of against it: ones that embrace texture, hold their shape, and won’t be ruined by a little extra moisture. And trust us, achieving a stylish rainy-day look isn’t as complicated as it seems.

To prove it, we tapped expert stylists for their top foolproof hairstyles that withstand humidity, drizzle, and even full-on downpours. Read through the descriptions to find the proper rainy day hairstyle that suits your vibe or sign up for our email list to get exclusive rainy-day hair tips straight from the pros. Because bad weather shouldn’t mean bad hair.

1. Low bun 

If you want a style that rain can’t ruin, this is it.

If rain is threatening to turn your hair into a frizzy mess, a sleek low bun is the only way to fight back. This look not only keeps every strand in place, but it also thrives in humidity, and the moisture in the air actually helps smooth flyaways instead of ruining the style.

To achieve it, you may need to apply a smoothing serum or styling gel, brush your hair back, and secure it into a low, tight bun.

Moreover, it works on all hair types and instantly makes you look polished and put-together, no matter how gloomy it is outside.

2. Braided crown 

Why let the rain ruin your hair when you can wear it like a crown?

The braided crown is so practical. By weaving your hair into a secure halo braid around your head, you’re keeping it completely off your face and protected from frizz-inducing moisture. This style works best on medium to long hair and can be done in a classic three-strand braid or a Dutch braid for extra texture. It holds up all day, and even if the rain makes it a little messy, it only adds to the boho vibe.

3. Rope braid ponytail – A stylish upgrade to the basic pony 

Your ponytail’s stronger and rain-resistant cousin.

If you’re dealing with unpredictable weather, a rope braid ponytail is your best bet. It keeps everything secure while still looking trendy. Just tie your hair into a ponytail, split it into two sections, and twist them around each other before securing the ends. It’s faster than a traditional braid and way less likely to frizz up in the rain. A little anti-humidity cream will keep it looking fresh, no matter what the forecast says.

4. French twist

For those moments when you need your hair to stay in place—no matter what.

The French twist is timeless and functional. By twisting the hair up and pinning it securely at the back, this style eliminates the risk of frizz, tangles, and rain-induced chaos.

Bonus: it works beautifully with wet hair too! Just twist and go. To make sure it stays put, use strong-hold bobby pins and a light mist of flexible-hold hairspray.

5. Dutch braid 

A braid that gets better with rain? Say no more.

Dutch braids are basically armor against humidity. Unlike looser styles that can unravel in the rain, Dutch braids sit tight against your head, keeping every strand in place. Start at the crown and braid downward, tauting with a hair tie at the end. Even if it gets a little damp, the texture will only enhance and brings you an undone look.

6. Claw clip twist

Minimal effort, maximum style.

If you need a five-second solution to rainy-day hair, grab a claw clip. Just twist your hair into a loose bun or French twist and secure it with a clip for an instant updo. This style works with all hair textures and can be easily adjusted throughout the day.

Pro tip: opt for a matte-finish clip to keep it from slipping in humid weather.

7. Bubble braid

Why fight the rain when you can embrace the volume?

Bubble braids are a great alternative when you don’t feel like dealing with traditional braids. Simply secure your hair in a ponytail, add elastics every few inches, and  pull each section to create the “bubble” effect. This style holds up way better than loose waves in damp weather and keeps frizz under control.

8. Twisted side bun

Soft and totally resistant to bad weather.

For a hairstyle that thrives in drizzly weather, go for a twisted side bun. The key is to work with the natural texture of your hair; if the rain adds a little wave, let it! Simply twist two sections of hair toward one side, gather them into a loose bun, and pin in place. It’s quick and actually looks better when a little messy.

9. Braided low ponytail

A braid and a ponytail? Double the rain protection.

This is the ultimate combination of security and style. A low ponytail alone might get frizzy in the rain, but add a simple three-strand braid, and suddenly, you have a style that stays put and keeps flyaways under control.

10. Low twisted bun 

For a look that never loses its charm even in the worst downpour, the low twisted bun is your go-to. Unlike a traditional bun that requires perfection, this style embraces natural texture.

Simply part your hair down the middle, divide it into two sections, twist each side, and wrap them together into a bun at the nape of your neck. Lock with pins or a hair tie, and voilà.

11. Rope twist ponytail

When rain threatens to turn a sleek ponytail into a tangled mess, the rope twist ponytail steps in as your weatherproof warrior. This twist holds its shape longer, resists frizz, and stays put all day no matter how humid or windy it gets. Not only does this create a gorgeous, structured look, but it also keeps your hair from sticking to your face or getting weighed down by moisture.

Guide:

Step 1. To achieve it, tie your hair into a ponytail, separate it into two sections, and twist each one tightly in the same direction.

Step 2. Then, wrap them around each other in the opposite direction and secure with a small elastic at the end.

12. Pinned-back waves

Who says rain is always the enemy? If you love wearing your hair down, let the rain work with your natural texture instead of against it. The trick? Pinning back just the front sections with stylish clips, bobby pins, or even a delicate barrette. This keeps your hair off your face while allowing the rest to move freely.

13. Braided ponytail

When a sleek ponytail just won’t hold up against the rain, upgrading to a braided ponytail ensures everything stays locked in place. This style combines the security of a ponytail with the structure of a braid, meaning no loose strands clinging to your face or neck.

Guide:

Step 1. Tye your hair into a ponytail at your preferred height

Step 2. Braid it all the way down and secure with a small elastic. A little misting rain won’t ruin this style; but in fact, it gives it a slightly undone, romantic effect.

14. Twisted side braid

If you love the look of braids but don’t want to deal with the precision of a classic three-strand braid, the twisted side braid is your best-kept secret. It’s easier, faster, and looks just as put-together. It works beautifully on all hair types, whether straight, wavy, or curly.

Guide:

Step 1. To create it, take two sections of hair from one side of your head and twist them over each other, gradually incorporating more hair as you go.

Step 2. Fix with a clear elastic at the end and let the rain do its thing: a little added moisture only makes this look more boho and effortless.

15. Hat trick – Style + protection in one move

Sometimes the best rain-proof hairstyle is a stylish cover-up. When you’re short on time (or patience), throwing on a hat instantly solves all your hair worries. A low pony or braid tucked under a beanie, a tousled look peeking out from beneath a bucket hat, or even a stylish baseball cap can completely transform a rainy-day outfit while keeping your hair safe from the elements. So, on those truly miserable weather days? Just embrace the hat life.