1. Introduction: Outer Banks Aesthetic = Hair Goals
The Outer Banks vibe is all about sun-kissed, beachy, effortlessly cool hair that looks like it’s been naturally tousled by the ocean breeze. Whether it’s Sarah Cameron’s soft, voluminous waves or John B’s messy, sun-bleached strands, the show’s characters embody that perfect laid-back, beach-town aesthetic.
Hair plays a huge role in capturing the carefree, adventurous energy of the OBX lifestyle. It’s all about natural texture, volume, and a little bit of salty grit—as if you’ve spent the whole day surfing, boating, or riding around on a Jeep with the top down. Unlike sleek and polished styles, Outer Banks-inspired hair embraces imperfections—think tousled waves, piecey layers, and that effortless “just-woke-up-like-this” look.
So, how do you get the OBX hair look? It all comes down to texture, volume, and the right products. A mix of sea salt spray, lightweight mousse, and a few styling tricks can help you achieve that signature beachy, undone style—no ocean required. Whether you’re aiming for Sarah’s golden surfer waves or Kiara’s low-maintenance, natural curls, there’s a way to bring that Outer Banks aesthetic to your own hair routine. Ready to channel your inner Pogue or Kook? Let’s dive in!
2. The Pogue Look: Messy Beach Waves & Natural Texture
In Outer Banks, the Pogues embody a laid-back, sun-soaked, effortlessly cool aesthetic, and their hair reflects that. Their signature messy, beachy waves aren’t overly styled or polished—they look like they’ve been naturally tousled by the ocean breeze after a long day of surfing or riding around in a Jeep. Unlike the more polished Kook hairstyles, Pogue hair is carefree, slightly messy, and full of texture, making it the ultimate low-maintenance, beach-girl (or guy) look.
Heatless Wave Techniques for Effortless Texture
The key to achieving Pogue-inspired waves is embracing natural movement and avoiding excessive heat styling. Instead of using a curling iron, try these heatless wave methods for a truly effortless OBX look:
· Overnight Braids – Loosely braid damp hair before bed and wake up to soft, natural waves. For a more undone effect, run your fingers through the braids instead of brushing them out.
· Sea Salt Spray + Scrunching – Spritz sea salt spray onto damp or dry hair, then scrunch with your hands to enhance natural texture. This gives you that windblown, salty, just-came-from-the-beach vibe.
· Twist & Air Dry – Twist small sections of damp hair and let them air dry for a piecey, undone wave pattern.
· Sock Bun or Heatless Curl Rods – Wrap sections of your hair around a sock bun or heatless curl rod for loose, natural waves without the heat damage.
Best Clip-In Extensions for Natural, Undone Volume
For those who want extra volume and length while still keeping that effortless Pogue aesthetic, clip-in extensions are a great option. The trick is to choose lightweight, natural-looking extensions that blend seamlessly with your own hair. Here’s what to look for:
Seamless or Weft Clip-Ins – These lie flat against your scalp, making them undetectable.
Textured or Beach Wave Extensions – Pre-styled wavy extensions help add that Pogue-approved volume without looking too styled.
Human Hair Over Synthetic – Human hair extensions move more naturally, giving you that authentic beachy texture.
By using heatless waves, sea salt spray, and the right clip-ins, you can recreate the messy, salt-kissed Pogue look without spending hours styling your hair. Whether you’re channeling Sarah Cameron’s tousled blonde waves or Kiara’s effortlessly cool texture, this look is all about embracing the natural, carefree beauty of Outer Banks.
3. The Kook Style: Polished Yet Carefree Glam
In Outer Banks, the Kooks represent the polished, upper-class side of the island, and their hair reflects their effortless yet refined lifestyle. Unlike the Pogues' messy, salt-kissed waves, Kook hair is glossy, put-together, and subtly glamorous—think sleek ponytails, soft waves, and elegant half-up styles. Whether it's Sarah Cameron’s signature money-piece highlights or Kiara’s chic loose braids, Kook-inspired hair always looks stylish but never overdone.
Why Kooks Love Sleek Ponytails, Loose Curls & Chic Half-Ups
Kook hairstyles balance effortless beauty with polished elegance. Here’s why these styles are their go-to:
Sleek Ponytails – A high or mid ponytail adds instant sophistication while keeping hair off the face. It's perfect for boating, brunching, or throwing shade at the Pogues. A bit of texturizing spray at the roots keeps it looking voluminous instead of flat.
Loose Curls – Soft, cascading waves are a Kook essential. Instead of messy, beachy texture, Kook waves are smoother, shinier, and more controlled. A large barrel curling iron or hot rollers can create this look, finished with a shine serum for that extra polished effect.
Chic Half-Up Styles – The half-up, half-down hairstyle is a Kook staple because it gives the best of both worlds—polished in the front, flowy in the back. Adding loose curls or waves keeps it from looking too formal.
How to Style a Kiara-Inspired Loose Braid with Extensions
Kiara may run with the Pogues, but her style has a touch of Kook influence, especially in her signature loose braid. Here’s how to recreate it with extensions:
1. Start with Waves – Kiara’s braid looks best with natural texture, so either use a curling wand or a sea salt spray to create soft waves.
2. Add Clip-In Extensions for Length & Fullness – If your hair is on the shorter side or lacks volume, clip in a few wefts of wavy extensions before braiding.
3. Create a Loose Side Braid – Gather your hair to one side and start a loose, three-strand braid, leaving out face-framing pieces for that effortless, undone look.
4. Pancake the Braid for Volume – Gently pull apart each section of the braid to make it look fuller and more voluminous.
5. Secure with a Hair Tie & Add Texture – Use a clear elastic and gently tug on sections for that messy-but-chic vibe. Finish with a texturizing spray for an extra beachy effect.
Soft Waves & Money Pieces: Sarah Cameron’s Signature Hair Look
Sarah Cameron’s sun-kissed, flowy waves with bright money pieces define the Kook princess aesthetic. Here’s how to get her signature look:
Blonde Face-Framing Highlights – If you want Sarah’s money piece highlights, ask for bold but blended blonde streaks around the face.
Big, Bouncy Waves – Instead of tight curls, wrap large sections of hair around a curling iron and brush them out for a softer effect.
Glossy Finish – Sarah’s hair is always healthy and shiny, so use a lightweight hair oil or shine spray to complete the look.
Whether you prefer Kiara’s chic braid or Sarah’s soft waves, the Kook aesthetic is all about looking effortlessly polished with a touch of coastal glam.
4. John B’s Perfectly Messy Hair – But Make It Work for You
John B’s hair is the definition of effortlessly cool—a little messy, a little windswept, and totally in line with the Outer Banks surfer aesthetic. His tousled, sun-bleached locks look like he just stepped off a boat (or out of trouble). But while his perfectly imperfect hair may seem effortless, there’s actually some technique behind achieving that “just-surfed” look—even if you weren’t just out catching waves.
Why Tousled, Wind-Blown Styles Are the OBX Standard
The Outer Banks vibe is all about natural, lived-in hair. Unlike the sleek styles of the Kooks, Pogues keep things relaxed, rugged, and real. Wind, saltwater, and humidity naturally create that undone, textured look, so instead of fighting it, the goal is to enhance and control the messiness in a stylish way.
The “undone” look is key – Hair should be tousled but not dirty or greasy. A little natural wave and volume go a long way.
Salt and sun influence the texture – That sun-kissed, piecey effect comes from being outdoors. If you don’t live by the beach, don’t worry—you can recreate it with the right products.
It works for all lengths – Whether your hair is short, medium, or long, adding texture, volume, and movement is what makes this style work.
How to Create a Laid-Back “Boyish” Texture (Yes, Even for Long Hair!)
John B’s hair isn’t about perfection—it’s about embracing natural movement while keeping the shape intentional. Here’s how to recreate his look, whether your hair is short or long:
1. Start with Damp Hair – After washing, towel-dry your hair but leave some moisture in.
2. Use a Texturizing or Salt Spray – This is the secret to gritty, windblown texture. Spritz it through your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends.
3. Scrunch & Air Dry – Instead of using a brush, scrunch your hair with your hands and let it air dry for a more natural finish. If needed, use a blow dryer with a diffuser for added volume.
4. Add a Matte Clay or Paste for Definition – If your hair is straight or too soft, take a tiny amount of matte hair clay or pomade and work it through your hair with your fingers. This helps add separation and shape without looking greasy.
5. Mess It Up (But In a Controlled Way!) – Flip your hair upside down, shake it out, and run your hands through it to create movement and that effortless “I don’t care” finish.
Best Texturizing Sprays to Get That Just-Surfed Look
The right product makes all the difference. Here are some of the best texturizing sprays to achieve John B’s signature beachy waves and volume:
Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray – A cult-favorite that mimics the effect of ocean water for gritty, natural texture.
Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray – Great for adding volume and separation while keeping hair lightweight.
Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Spray – A more budget-friendly option that still delivers that tousled, sea-salt effect.
Ouai Wave Spray – Ideal for longer hair, this formula enhances waves without making them crunchy.
By following these steps, you can rock John B’s signature tousled locks, whether you're a guy wanting the Pogue aesthetic or someone with longer hair looking to add some effortless, beachy texture to your style.
5. Celebrity Hairstylists on Achieving the Outer Banks Vibe
The Outer Banks aesthetic is all about effortless, beachy waves that look like they’ve been naturally tousled by the ocean breeze. While the show’s characters may get their texture from the salt air and surf, celebrity hairstylists have their own pro tips for recreating the look—no beach required!
Chris Appleton, the mastermind behind Kim Kardashian’s sleek and voluminous styles, has a go-to trick for perfect beach waves. He recommends using a flat iron instead of a curling wand, bending the hair in alternating directions to create a natural, undone texture. To finish, he applies a lightweight texturizing spray and scrunches the hair with his hands for that Pogue-worthy movement.
Hailey Bieber’s signature waves have a similar carefree, effortless look that fits the OBX vibe. Her hairstylist swears by minimal heat styling, often opting for braid-drying techniques to achieve soft, natural bends in the hair. A spritz of sea salt spray enhances the effect, giving her locks that salt-kissed texture.
For a voluminous, sun-kissed summer look, Gigi Hadid’s go-to routine involves hydrating hair masks to keep her strands healthy, followed by a diffuser blow-dry to enhance her natural waves. Her stylist also adds a touch of dry shampoo at the roots to create that lived-in, beachy fullness—perfect for mimicking the Outer Banks aesthetic. Whether you're aiming for messy, surf-inspired waves or soft, effortless bends, these celebrity stylist secrets will help you nail the OBX vibe year-round!
6. How to Nail Outer Banks Hairstyles with Extensions
The Outer Banks aesthetic is all about effortless, voluminous waves, and extensions can be the secret weapon for achieving that full, textured look. Whether you want Sarah Cameron’s soft, flowing waves or the Pogue-style messy beach texture, the right extensions can add length, thickness, and natural movement to your hair.
Why Extensions Are Key for Extra Length & Volume
Most OBX-inspired hairstyles have an undone, voluminous feel, which can be difficult to achieve with fine or shorter hair. Clip-in extensions or tape-ins help create that extra boost of fullness and length, making waves look more effortless and natural. If your natural hair doesn’t hold curls well, high-quality human hair extensions will give you better texture and definition, helping your style last all day.
Best Extensions for Seamless Blending in Wavy or Curly Hair
To keep your Outer Banks-inspired hair looking natural, it’s important to choose extensions that match your texture. For those with naturally wavy or curly hair, look for extensions that have a pre-waved or loose curl pattern to blend seamlessly. Remy human hair extensions are ideal because they mimic the way natural hair moves and can be styled with heat tools without damage. Balayage or sun-kissed highlights in extensions also enhance the beachy vibe by adding dimension and brightness.
The Trick to Making Clip-Ins Look Natural in Beachy Hairstyles
For the most natural blend, the key is strategic placement and styling. When applying clip-in extensions, focus on layering them in sections so they integrate with your natural hair. Wave or curl the extensions before clipping them in, ensuring the texture flows naturally. After securing the extensions, run your fingers through the waves or gently brush them out for a lived-in, tousled look.
A light mist of texturizing spray or sea salt spray will help everything blend together effortlessly, while a little dry shampoo at the roots can add grit and volume for that perfectly undone Outer Banks effect. Whether you’re channeling Sarah Cameron’s soft waves or the Pogues' carefree beach hair, the right extensions will help you nail the look with ease!
7. Adventure-Ready Hairstyles for an OBX-Inspired Day
Outer Banks-inspired hairstyles are all about looking effortless yet practical, especially when you’re on the go for an adventure-packed day. Whether you're out on a boat, exploring sandy trails, or heading to a sunset bonfire, your hair needs to be secure, stylish, and wind-resistant. Here are three go-to hairstyles that capture the laid-back OBX aesthetic while keeping your hair tangle-free and adventure-ready.
The “Boat Ride Ponytail” – Secure, Sleek & Windproof
Nothing ruins a boat day faster than hair whipping in your face. The boat ride ponytail is the perfect way to keep your hair in place while still looking effortlessly chic.
How to style it:
1. Brush your hair to remove any tangles, then apply a lightweight styling cream or serum to prevent frizz.
2. Gather your hair into a mid-to-high ponytail, securing it with a strong, no-slip hair tie.
3. For extra hold, take a small section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the base, and secure it with a bobby pin.
4. If you want a more polished look, smooth the ponytail with a flat iron, or for a beachier vibe, add some loose waves.
5. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep everything in place, even against strong coastal winds.
Boho Fishtail Braid – The Ultimate Effortless Adventure Style
A fishtail braid is perfect for bike rides, hikes, or surfing, as it keeps your hair secure while still looking effortlessly beachy.
How to style it:
1. Start with textured hair—if your hair is too smooth, use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo for grip.
2. Split your hair into two equal sections. Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other side.
3. Repeat the process, alternating sides until you reach the ends.
4. Secure the braid with a clear elastic band and gently pancake (loosen) the braid for a more relaxed, voluminous effect.
5. Pull out a few face-framing pieces for that effortless, undone look.
This braid is not only functional but also super stylish, making it a go-to for any OBX-inspired adventure.
Half-Up Beachy Bun – Perfect for Sunset Bonfires & Beach Parties
If you’re going for casual but cute, a half-up beachy bun is the ultimate laid-back hairstyle. It keeps your hair out of your face while still letting your waves flow freely.
How to style it:
1. Take the top half of your hair, from temple to temple, and gently pull it back into a loose bun at the crown of your head.
2. Secure the bun with a hair tie or a few bobby pins, making sure to keep it messy and relaxed.
3. If you want extra texture, scrunch the rest of your hair with sea salt spray or add a few loose waves with a curling wand.
4. Pull out a few strands around your face for that effortless Outer Banks vibe.
This style is perfect for transitioning from a day of adventure to a fun night out, keeping your hair carefree yet stylish. Whether you’re heading out on a boat, exploring new trails, or dancing around a beach bonfire, these OBX-inspired hairstyles will keep you looking adventure-ready all day long!
8. Hair Care Essentials for Maintaining the Outer Banks Look
The Outer Banks aesthetic is all about effortless, beachy waves that look sun-kissed and carefree. But keeping that perfectly tousled, salty-air texture requires the right hair care routine—especially if you’re dealing with saltwater, humidity, and sun exposure. Whether you're rocking natural waves or extensions, here’s how to maintain your OBX-inspired hair and keep it looking fresh all summer long.
Saltwater may give your hair that natural, textured look, but it also strips moisture, leading to dryness and tangling—especially for hair extensions. Before heading to the ocean, rinse your hair with fresh water to help prevent your strands from soaking up excess salt. Applying a leave-in conditioner or lightweight oil creates a protective barrier, and if you're wearing extensions, keeping them braided or in a bun minimizes tangling in the wind and waves. After a beach day, rinse your hair with cool water as soon as possible to remove salt and sand, then use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo followed by a deep conditioning treatment to restore hydration.
Outer Banks-inspired hair isn’t about looking too "done"—it’s about embracing a lived-in, effortless texture. A good dry shampoo is a must for maintaining volume and absorbing excess oil between washes. Batiste Dry Shampoo is great for absorbing oil and adding instant volume, while Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo leaves no residue and gives a fresh, airy feel. For those who want lightweight texture without buildup, Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo is a perfect choice. With the right care, you can keep your OBX waves looking flawless all season long.
9. FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About OBX-Inspired Hairstyles
How do I make my waves last all day like Sarah Cameron’s?
Sarah Cameron’s signature beachy waves have that effortless, undone look—but they still need the right prep to last all day. Start with a texturizing spray or mousse before styling to add grip and hold. If using heat, curl your hair in alternating directions with a 1.25-inch curling wand, then let the curls cool before brushing them out for a softer finish. Finish with a lightweight hairspray or sea salt spray to maintain movement without stiffness. If you want extra longevity, consider braiding your hair overnight to wake up with natural waves that hold their shape.
What’s the best way to blend extensions with natural waves?
For a seamless OBX-inspired look, choose extensions that match your hair’s texture—whether that’s loose waves, tousled curls, or soft bends. Clip-in or tape-in extensions work best for adding volume and length without looking obvious. To blend them in, curl both your natural hair and the extensions together using a low-heat setting. A sea salt spray or wave-enhancing mist can help create a natural, textured blend. For even more dimension, try adding subtle highlights or balayage extensions for that sun-kissed, beachy effect.
Can I achieve an OBX look without heat styling?
Absolutely! The Outer Banks aesthetic is all about natural texture. To get heatless waves, try braiding damp hair before bed—loose braids will create soft waves, while tighter braids add more defined texture. Another method is the rope twist technique, where you twist damp hair into sections and let it air dry. You can also enhance your natural texture with sea salt spray, curl-enhancing mousse, or a leave-in wave cream. These products help define and hold waves without any heat damage, keeping your OBX-inspired style looking effortlessly cool.
10. Conclusion: Living Your Best Outer Banks Hair Fantasy
The Outer Banks aesthetic is all about effortless, sun-kissed, and adventure-ready hair. Whether you’re rocking Pogue-style beach waves, a polished Kook ponytail, or a boho fishtail braid, the key to mastering the look is texture, volume, and a laid-back attitude. Extensions can help add length and fullness, while texturizing sprays, sea salt mists, and protective hairstyles keep your hair looking gorgeous, even in the sun and wind.
For long-lasting waves, try heatless styling techniques like braiding damp hair overnight or using a rope twist method. If you’re going for a polished OBX-inspired look, clip-in extensions blend seamlessly with wavy hair for added dimension. And don’t forget to protect your hair from the elements—hydrating oils, dry shampoo, and sun-protectant sprays are essential for maintaining that perfectly tousled, beachy vibe.
Final expert tip: The Outer Banks look isn’t just about the hair—it’s about confidence and a carefree attitude. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new styles, embrace natural texture, and have fun with your hair. Whether you’re spending the day on a boat, exploring the beach, or just channeling OBX vibes in your daily routine, your effortless, textured, and voluminous hair will make you feel like you’re right there in the adventure.