For all our talk about smart layering and the sweat-stopping virtues of breathable fabrics, sometimes it’s just too damn hot for clothes. Home or away, summer’s bound to bring days so sweltering that wearing anything more than a pair of swim shorts is suffocating.

Which is why your hair needs to be ready to save your style from sinking. So no matter if you shed your shirt and shorts, your Fred Astaire still keeps you looking fresh.

We asked some of London’s top stylists to share their two cents on what’s on happening in hair this season. These are the trends to know:

The Textured Crop

Part French crop, part Damon Albarn, this unfussy style is one of this season’s easiest to execute – and ideal if your wardrobe’s already turned back to Britpop, Ellesse and washed-out denim. (It works even if your wardrobe hasn’t, though.)

“This is a messy, textured style suitable for those with short to mid-length hair,” says hairstylist Matt Hookings from Fish salon in Soho. “You’ll also need to have some length at the front to work with.”

Depending on your preference, and your face shape, you can vary the contrast between hair at the back and sides and hair on the top of your head. “The back and sides can be scissor or clipper cut,” says Adam Brady, Ruffians barbers’ Trend Expert. “The stronger your bone structure is, the shorter you can go on the back and sides to emphasize the angles of your face.”

(Related: How to find the right haircut for your face shape)

How Do I Style It?

Start by applying a pea-sized amount of a texturizing cream to towel-dried hair to create a choppy, messed-up look. Then, lightly blow-dry your hair, and finish off with a matte paste to further enhance your natural texture.

“Choose styling products that offer firm hold but that don’t dry hard so you can rework the style throughout the day,” advises Hookings. Or, for an even more flexible finish, Brady recommends a texturizing dust. “Apply from the roots, and spread evenly over the head.”