Sun’s out—hair up, down, and everywhere in between.
Summer isn’t the season to play it safe. It’s your time to glow, sweat a little (okay, a lot), and still look effortlessly stunning while doing it. Your hair should be part of that vibe.
Messy buns? Yes.
Glossy braids? Bring them on.
Loose waves that scream “I live at the beach”? Absolutely.
Whether you’re rocking a bob, flowing layers, or something in-between, these 23 summer hairstyles are here to match your energy. They’re cool, bold, and made for sunsets, sangria, and that “just one more selfie” moment.
Beachy Waves
Embrace the carefree spirit of summer with beachy waves. This style is perfect for capturing the essence of a day by the sea. Begin by spritzing sea salt spray onto damp hair.
Use a diffuser to dry your hair, scrunching it with your hands. The result is a naturally wavy texture that’s effortlessly chic. Perfect for medium lengths, these waves add volume and movement.
Whether you’re on vacation or heading to brunch, beachy waves offer a laid-back elegance. A quick tip: for added texture, braid your hair overnight and unravel in the morning for stunning results.
Sleek Ponytail
A sleek ponytail is the epitome of sophistication. This hairstyle works beautifully for long hair and is ideal for both casual outings and formal events.
To achieve a polished look, straighten your hair and gather it high on your head. Secure it with a hair tie and wrap a small section of hair around the base for a neat finish.
The sleek ponytail keeps your hair off your face, making it a practical choice for hot summer days. Versatile and elegant, it’s perfect for showcasing statement earrings or a bold lip color.
Messy Bun
The messy bun is a timeless classic, ideal for those with short hair. It’s casual, comfortable, and perfect for summer’s relaxed vibe.
Start by pulling your hair into a loose ponytail and twist it into a bun. Allow a few strands to fall naturally around your face for an effortlessly chic effect.
This style is perfect for busy mornings when you need something quick yet stylish. The messy bun’s charm lies in its imperfections, making it a go-to for casual outings or a day at the beach.
Braided Crown
A braided crown is both romantic and regal, perfect for medium-length hair. This style involves braiding sections of hair on each side of the head and wrapping them around like a crown.
Secure with bobby pins for a secure hold. The braided crown is ideal for summer weddings or garden parties, adding a touch of elegance to any outfit.
It’s a versatile style that keeps hair off the neck and face, providing comfort in warm weather. For an extra touch, weave in small flowers or decorative hairpins.
Pixie Cut with Accessories
Short hair doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with accessories. A pixie cut with bold clips or headbands offers a playful and trendy summer look.
Select colorful or sparkly pins to make your pixie cut pop. This style is perfect for adding personality to your hair without much effort. It’s a wonderful option for those who prefer low-maintenance yet stylish hair.
The pixie cut with accessories is all about showing off your unique fashion sense while staying cool and comfortable in the heat.
Half-Up Top Knot
A half-up top knot is the ultimate blend of casual and chic, suitable for medium-length hair. Begin by sectioning the top half of your hair and twisting it into a knot.
Secure it with a band or pins. This playful style keeps hair out of your eyes, making it ideal for outdoor activities. It’s a versatile look that transitions seamlessly from day to night.
The half-up top knot adds a hint of sophistication while maintaining a relaxed vibe, perfect for a summer hike or a casual dinner.
Low Chignon
The low chignon is a classic style that exudes elegance and grace, ideal for long hair. To create this look, gather your hair at the nape of the neck and twist it into a bun, securing with pins.
This sophisticated style is perfect for weddings or evening events. It’s a timeless choice that highlights the neck and shoulders, complementing strapless or off-the-shoulder dresses.
The low chignon embodies a refined beauty that never goes out of style, ensuring you stand out at any occasion.
Side Braid
A side braid is a playful and youthful hairstyle, perfect for summer adventures. This style suits medium to long hair, providing a fun alternative to traditional braids.
Start by parting your hair to one side and braiding it loosely. Secure with a hair tie and gently pull on the braid to add volume.
The side braid keeps hair tidy while allowing for a carefree appearance, ideal for theme park visits or beach trips. Add a ribbon or hair tie in a bright color for a playful touch.
Voluminous Curls
Voluminous curls are full of life and body, a fantastic choice for long hair. To achieve this look, use a curling wand to create tight curls, then gently brush them out for added volume.
This style is perfect for making a statement at summer parties or nights out. The curls create a sense of movement and vitality, capturing the energy of the season.
Whether you’re dancing the night away or enjoying a rooftop dinner, voluminous curls offer glamour and allure.
Twisted Updo
The twisted updo is a beautifully intricate hairstyle, ideal for medium-length hair. Begin by twisting small sections and pinning them at the back of your head.
The result is an elegant updo that’s perfect for weddings or formal gatherings. This style allows for creativity with twists and turns, offering an artistic flair.
The twisted updo keeps your hair neatly in place, ideal for humid summer evenings. It’s a sophisticated choice that pairs well with statement earrings or a bold necklace.
Textured Bob
A textured bob is a modern and trendy hairstyle, perfect for short hair. It’s all about layers and movement, creating a dynamic look.
Use a texturizing spray to enhance the layers and add volume. This versatile style works for both casual and professional settings, making it a great choice for summer.
The textured bob is low-maintenance yet stylish, offering an effortless appeal that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for those who want a chic and manageable haircut in the hot months.
Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is an enchanting style, ideal for long hair. This technique involves braiding sections of hair while leaving some strands to fall like a waterfall.
It’s a whimsical look that’s perfect for festivals or outdoor events. The waterfall braid adds a touch of romance and creativity, allowing for personalization with ribbons or flowers.
This style keeps hair in place while maintaining a light and airy feel, ideal for summer’s warm embrace. It’s a delightful choice for showcasing your artistic flair.
Pineapple Updo
The pineapple updo is a fun and practical style for those with curly hair. Gather your curls at the top of your head and secure them with a soft band.
This technique showcases your curls while keeping them off your neck, perfect for hot weather. The pineapple updo is both playful and functional, allowing curls to shine.
It’s an easy style to achieve, making it a favorite among those with natural curls. Whether lounging by the pool or exploring new places, this updo is a summer staple.
Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is an eye-catching style, perfect for medium to long hair. Its unique pattern resembles a fish’s tail, offering a creative twist on traditional braids.
Start by splitting your hair into two sections and crossing small pieces over each other. Secure with a band and gently pull to loosen the braid for added volume.
This style is ideal for summer walks or seaside dinners, combining elegance with a touch of whimsy. The fishtail braid is a delightful choice for those seeking something different.
Pixie with Side Fringe
The pixie cut with a side fringe is a chic and edgy style, perfect for those with short hair. The side fringe adds a playful touch, framing the face beautifully.
This style is low-maintenance, ideal for busy summer days. It’s versatile enough to dress up or down, making it suitable for various occasions.
The pixie with side fringe is all about embracing individuality and showcasing your personality. Whether attending a casual brunch or an evening soiree, this cut ensures you stand out.
Slicked-Back Look
The slicked-back look is a modern and bold choice, suitable for medium-length hair. Use gel or pomade to comb your hair back, creating a sleek finish.
This style exudes confidence and sophistication, perfect for evening events. The slicked-back look keeps hair neatly in place, allowing you to dance the night away without worry.
It’s a striking style that pairs well with elegant attire, making it a favorite for summer parties. The slicked-back look combines style and practicality, ensuring you shine.
Boho Braids
Boho braids are all about relaxed elegance, a perfect fit for long hair. These braids are loose and intertwined, creating a laid-back vibe.
Start by braiding sections of hair and securing them with small bands. Add beads or feathers for a bohemian touch. This style is ideal for festivals or beach days, combining comfort with creativity.
Boho braids embrace the free spirit of summer, allowing for self-expression through hair. The versatility of this style makes it a beloved choice for those seeking a breezy yet stylish look.
Retro Waves
Retro waves bring a touch of vintage flair to short hair. This style involves creating soft, sculpted waves that evoke the glamour of old Hollywood.
Use a curling iron or rollers to achieve the desired effect, then set with hairspray. Retro waves are perfect for themed events or nostalgic summer gatherings.
The style offers a sense of nostalgia and sophistication, turning heads wherever you go. Whether paired with a vintage dress or modern attire, retro waves add a timeless charm to your look.
Floral Headband
A floral headband is a delightful addition to any summer hairstyle, perfect for medium-length hair. Choose fresh or artificial flowers to create a headband that complements your outfit.
This accessory adds a whimsical touch, making it ideal for picnics or outdoor celebrations. The floral headband is versatile, pairing well with loose waves or braided styles.
It’s a simple way to embrace the beauty of summer, enhancing your hair with a natural flourish. Whether worn at a garden party or festival, it exudes charm and grace.
Braided Bun
The braided bun is a sophisticated and elegant hairstyle, ideal for long hair. Begin by braiding your hair and wrapping it into a bun at the back of your head.
Secure with pins for a polished finish. This style is perfect for formal occasions or evening events, offering a blend of grace and creativity.
The braided bun keeps hair tidy while showcasing intricate details, making it a standout choice. It’s a timeless look that pairs beautifully with statement jewelry or elegant gowns.
Pixie with Pompadour
The pixie with pompadour is a daring and stylish choice for short hair. This look involves adding volume at the front, creating a pompadour effect.
Use a volumizing mousse and a comb to lift the hair, securing with pins if necessary. The pixie with pompadour exudes confidence and flair, perfect for music festivals or concerts.
It’s a bold style that highlights individuality and creativity. Whether paired with casual wear or dramatic makeup, this hairstyle ensures you stand out in any crowd.
Loose Waves with Highlights
Loose waves with highlights offer a sun-kissed look, perfect for medium-length hair. Use a curling wand to create gentle waves, adding dimension with highlights.
This style is ideal for capturing the essence of summer’s radiant glow. The loose waves create movement, while highlights add depth and brilliance.
It’s a versatile look that works for casual outings or romantic dinners. Loose waves with highlights embody the carefree spirit of the season, ensuring you shine with natural beauty.
Elegant Side Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs are a timeless choice that blends elegance and simplicity. Perfect for medium-length hair, this style adds a playful twist to your everyday look.
Imagine the gentle sway of your bangs in the summer breeze, offering a touch of mystery to your appearance.
This hairstyle suits various occasions, from casual beach outings to sophisticated evening events. With minimal effort, side-swept bangs can transform your look, highlighting your eyes and cheekbones.
Did you know? Side-swept bangs were a hallmark of the glamorous 1940s Hollywood era, bringing a classic touch to modern styles.