Stay cool and stylish with these 20 easy summer hairstyles! Perfect for hot days, these quick and breezy looks work for all hair types and lengths.
The Ultimate Guide to Cute and Trendy Summer Hairstyles
Choosing the right summer hairstyle, however, means battling the elements.
Think about your unique hair type, its reaction to humidity, and your summer plans.
Factor in your activity level and how much effort you want to put in.
A little planning ensures your hair looks great from beach days to bonfire nights.
This guide will help you find a style that perfectly complements you and the sunny season.
Finding Your Perfect Summer Style: Key Questions to Ask
Before you pick a look, think about your hair’s needs and your summer lifestyle.
This helps you choose a style that’s both beautiful and practical.
How much time can you commit to styling before heading out into the sun?
How does your hair typically react to humidity, salt water, or chlorine?
Are you looking for a style that will stay put during activities like swimming or hiking?
What’s the vibe of your summer relaxed and beachy, or chic and event-focused?
Answering these questions will point you toward the best options for your summer.
Essential Summer Hair Prep & Protection
Great summer hair starts with smart preparation to protect it from sun, salt, and sweat.
Healthy, prepped hair holds styles better and resists environmental stress.
Some styles, like beach waves, work best on hair with a bit of natural texture or salt spray.
Sleek styles often require a smoothing, anti-frizz base.
Adjust your hair care routine to combat summer’s challenges.
Use a UV protective spray to shield your hair from sun damage and color fading.
Incorporate a clarifying shampoo weekly to remove chlorine and salt buildup.
Deep conditioning masks and anti-frizz serums are your best friends for fighting humidity.
These steps ensure your hair stays healthy, manageable, and ready for any style.
20 Effortless Hairstyles for a Stunning Summer
Here are 20 versatile hairstyles, perfect for refreshing your look this summer.
Each offers a unique blend of casual charm, chic style, and heat-proof practicality.
1. Messy Beach Waves – The Ultimate Summer Classic
The Look & Feel
This is the quintessential “I woke up like this” look, defined by soft, undone, textured waves. It’s carefree, romantic, and effortlessly cool.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Amazing on naturally wavy hair. Easily created on straight or curly hair with sea salt spray.
- Face Shapes: Universally flattering; the softness complements all face shapes.
- Lifestyle: The go-to for beach days, casual BBQs, and everyday summer wear.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Spritz damp hair with sea salt spray and scrunch. Let it air dry for the most natural finish.
Effort: Low. The less perfect it is, the better it looks.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Requires virtually no maintenance. Hides frizz within its texture. It’s the signature look of summer.
2. High Bubble Ponytail – Playful and Trendy
The Look & Feel
A fun, modern twist on the classic ponytail, featuring “bubbles” created by elastics down its length. It’s playful, graphic, and adds instant personality.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Best on medium to long, straight, or wavy hair for a clean look.
- Face Shapes: The height lifts features, making it great for round and oval faces.
- Lifestyle: Perfect for parties, festivals, or when you want a trendy, statement look.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Create a high ponytail. Add clear elastics every 2-3 inches. Gently pull each section apart to create the “bubble.”
Effort: Medium. Requires a bit of precision to get the bubbles even.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Keeps hair securely off the neck and back. Stays in place during active days.
3. Half-Up Space Buns – Quirky and Fun
The Look & Feel
Two small, twisted buns placed on top of the head, with the rest of the hair left down. It’s a youthful, fun-loving style with a nod to festival culture.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works on almost all hair types and lengths (even bobs!).
- Face Shapes: Draws attention upward, flattering heart and oval shapes.
- Lifestyle: Ideal for concerts, theme parties, or a fun day out with friends.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Part the top section of your hair and create two mini buns. Secure with elastics and bobby pins.
Effort: Low to Medium. Easy to do, but placement is key.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Keeps hair out of your face while still showing off your length. A perfect compromise for hot days.
4. Claw Clip Chic – 90s Vibes in Full Effect
The Look & Feel
A simple, elegant twist or fold of hair secured with a claw clip. It’s the definition of the “clean girl” aesthetic minimalist, sophisticated, and effortlessly chic.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works best on medium to long hair. Thicker hair provides a more secure hold.
- Face Shapes: Very versatile. Can be positioned high or low to flatter any face shape.
- Lifestyle: Perfect for everything from running errands to a casual brunch or even the office.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Gather your hair, twist it upwards against your head, and secure with the clip.
Effort: Low. The fastest elegant updo you can do.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Gets all your hair off your neck in seconds. Looks polished with minimal effort.
5. Braided Crown – Princess Energy Activated
The Look & Feel
A beautiful braid (or two) wrapped around the head like a halo. It’s romantic, ethereal, and perfect for feeling like royalty.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Best on medium to long hair. Thicker hair creates a fuller braid.
- Face Shapes: Softens angular features on square or long faces.
- Lifestyle: Stunning for summer weddings, garden parties, or special date nights.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Create one or two braids and wrap them around your head, pinning securely. Gently “pancake” the braid (pull the edges) for more volume.
Effort: Medium to High. Can be intricate but the result is worth it.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
An incredibly secure style that withstands wind and humidity. Looks impressive from every angle.
6. Sleek Low Bun – Minimalist and Elegant
The Look & Feel
A polished, smooth bun secured at the nape of the neck. It’s sophisticated, modern, and exudes quiet confidence.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Easiest to achieve on straight or straightened hair.
- Face Shapes: Flattering on oval and long face shapes.
- Lifestyle: A chic choice for summer evening events, weddings, or a polished daytime look.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Use a smoothing cream or gel for a sleek finish. Comb hair back into a low ponytail, then twist into a tight bun and pin.
Effort: Medium. Achieving a perfectly smooth, bump-free finish takes patience.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Keeps hair perfectly contained and frizz-free. A timeless look that always feels appropriate.
7. Fishtail Braid – Mermaid Goals
The Look & Feel
An intricate-looking braid that resembles a fish’s tail. It’s bohemian, textural, and gives off major mermaid vibes.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works best on long hair to showcase the detailed pattern.
- Face Shapes: A versatile style that softens features on most face shapes.
- Lifestyle: Perfect for the beach, festivals, or any time you want a relaxed yet detailed style.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Divide hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to the inside of the other. Repeat on the other side.
Effort: Medium. Takes practice but becomes quick once you master the technique.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Holds up well throughout the day and looks even better as it gets a little messy.
8. Fluffy High Ponytail – Instant Lift and Volume
The Look & Feel
A high ponytail with lots of volume at the crown and in the tail itself. It’s glamorous, confident, and a bit retro.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Great for thick or wavy hair that has natural volume. Fine hair can be teased for lift.
- Face Shapes: The height visually lifts the face, complementing round and square shapes.
- Lifestyle: Transitions perfectly from a daytime power look to a fun night out.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Tease the hair at the crown before securing the pony. Wrap a piece of hair around the elastic for a polished finish.
Effort: Medium. Requires some backcombing and product for lasting volume.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Keeps hair completely off the face and neck while still making a statement.
“Summer is about embracing a more relaxed beauty,” notes stylist Chloe Davis. “A great fluffy ponytail or messy wave feels effortless but still looks incredibly chic.”
9. Waterfall Braid – Soft and Romantic
The Look & Feel
A beautiful, cascading braid that weaves horizontally across the hair, with strands flowing down like a waterfall. It’s dreamy, intricate, and very romantic.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Best on medium to long, straight or wavy hair to see the cascading effect clearly.
- Face Shapes: Softens the hairline and is lovely on all shapes, especially oval and heart.
- Lifestyle: A beautiful choice for summer dates, picnics, or as a wedding guest.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
It’s like a French braid, but you drop the bottom piece of each stitch and pick up a new one.
Effort: High. This technique requires practice and dexterity.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Keeps the front pieces of hair pulled back while letting the rest flow. Looks stunningly complex.
10. Sleek Braided Ponytail – Sporty Yet Chic
The Look & Feel
A high or low ponytail that is tightly and neatly braided down its length. This style is the perfect mix of sporty function and sleek fashion.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works well on all hair types, but looks especially sharp on straight hair.
- Face Shapes: A high version lifts features, while a low one is chic and understated.
- Lifestyle: Ideal for workouts, boating, or any active day where you need your hair completely secured.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Smooth hair back into a pony, then create a tight, classic three-strand or fishtail braid.
Effort: Medium. The sleekness of the base is key.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
The ultimate no-fuss, sweat-proof style. It won’t budge all day long.
11. Twisted Half-Updo – Boho and Effortless
The Look & Feel
Two sections of hair from the front are twisted back and pinned. It’s a softer, quicker alternative to braiding with a bohemian, romantic feel.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works on all hair types and lengths, from bobs to long locks.
- Face Shapes: Frames the face beautifully and suits all shapes.
- Lifestyle: Your go-to for a quick, pretty style for brunch, shopping, or a casual date.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Simply twist two front sections of hair away from your face and pin them at the back.
Effort: Low. Takes less than five minutes to achieve.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Keeps hair out of your eyes without committing to a full updo. Effortlessly pretty.
12. Scarf-Wrapped Ponytail – The Ultimate Accessory Hack
The Look & Feel
A basic ponytail or bun elevated with a colorful silk scarf. It’s a chic, vintage-inspired look that adds an instant pop of personality and color.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works for any hair type that can be put into a ponytail.
- Face Shapes: Universally flattering.
- Lifestyle: A fantastic way to accessorize for a pool party, vacation, or city exploring.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Create your ponytail or bun, then tie a scarf around the base or weave it into your braid.
Effort: Low. It’s a simple addition that makes a big impact.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Protects hair from tight elastics and adds a fashionable touch to a simple style.
13. Mini Braids – Subtle Yet Stunning
The Look & Feel
Tiny, delicate braids scattered throughout loose hair, often framing the face. It’s a subtle, 90s-inspired detail that adds a touch of cool-girl whimsy.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works on any hair type or texture.
- Face Shapes: The face-framing braids are flattering on everyone.
- Lifestyle: Perfect for festivals, beach days, or adding a little something extra to your everyday hair.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Take small sections of hair and create tiny, tight braids. Secure with small, clear elastics.
Effort: Low. You can do as few or as many as you like.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Adds texture and interest without requiring a full, complex style.
14. Pigtail Braids – Cute and Nostalgic
The Look & Feel
Two classic braids, one on each side. This Y2K and summer camp-inspired look is back in a big way, feeling both nostalgic and trendy.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works on most hair types, especially medium to long lengths.
- Face Shapes: Balances features and looks particularly cute on oval and heart-shaped faces.
- Lifestyle: Great for a playful day out, a workout, or a casual festival look.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Part your hair down the middle and create two even three-strand or Dutch braids.
Effort: Medium. Getting them symmetrical takes a bit of practice.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
A very secure style that keeps every strand in place through heat and activity.
15. Rolled-Up Bandana Style – Effortless and Retro
The Look & Feel
A bandana or scarf folded and tied around the hairline, often with the knot at the top. It has a cool, retro, “Rosie the Riveter” vibe.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Excellent for all hair types, especially for controlling short flyaways or bangs.
- Face Shapes: Keeps hair off the forehead, flattering all face shapes.
- Lifestyle: A functional and cute solution for gardening, beach days, or covering up second-day hair.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Fold the bandana into a long strip, wrap it around your head from the nape of your neck, and tie it at the top.
Effort: Low. Super easy and very effective.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Keeps sweat and hair off your face. Absorbs moisture at the hairline and protects your scalp from the sun.
16. Heatless Overnight Curls – Wake Up with Perfect Waves
The Look & Feel
Soft, beautiful curls or waves achieved without any damaging heat tools. It’s the ultimate low-effort, high-reward hairstyle.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works on most hair types; results will vary from loose waves on straight hair to defined curls on wavy hair.
- Face Shapes: Curls soften all face shapes beautifully.
- Lifestyle: For anyone who wants beautiful hair in the morning with zero styling time.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Wrap damp hair around a silk robe tie, headband, or foam rollers before bed. Unwrap in the morning.
Effort: Low. The effort is all done the night before.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
No heat damage! Wake up ready to go with gorgeous, lasting waves.
17. Chunky Clipped Waves – E-Girl Approved
The Look & Feel
A deep side part with the front sections of hair clipped back with bold, chunky barrettes. It’s a trendy, Gen Z-approved look that’s all about face-framing.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Best on straight or wavy hair to emphasize the clean lines of the clips.
- Face Shapes: The asymmetrical parting and clips flatter round and square faces.
- Lifestyle: A cool, fashionable look for social media pics, hanging out with friends, or a city adventure.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Create a deep side part, smooth the front sections, and add two or more colorful, chunky clips.
Effort: Low. An accessory-driven style that’s simple to execute.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Keeps hair out of your face with a bold fashion statement.
18. Dutch Braids – The Ultimate No-Frizz Look
The Look & Feel
Two tight braids that sit on top of the hair, creating a 3D effect. This is the go-to style for ultimate control and a sporty, chic aesthetic.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Fantastic for all hair types, especially for managing thick or frizz-prone hair.
- Face Shapes: The braids draw the eye vertically, flattering a variety of face shapes.
- Lifestyle: The absolute best choice for intense workouts, swimming, hiking, or multi-day festivals.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
It’s an inverted French braid: cross the strands under instead of over.
Effort: Medium to High. This technique can be tricky to master on your own hair.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
This style will not move. It’s the best for taming hair in extreme humidity or during high-impact activities.
19. Faux Bangs with a Top Knot – No Commitment, Full Impact
The Look & Feel
A high bun or top knot where the ends of the hair are pulled forward and arranged to look like bangs. It’s a clever, edgy way to completely change your look without scissors.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Works best on straight or wavy hair that is long enough to create both the bun and the “bangs.”
- Face Shapes: Allows you to test-drive how bangs would look on your face shape.
- Lifestyle: Perfect for a party or a night out when you want a dramatic, temporary style change.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Create a high ponytail, but don’t pull the ends all the way through the elastic on the last loop. Fan the ends forward over your forehead and pin.
Effort: High. Requires skillful pinning and arrangement to look convincing.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
A major style transformation with zero commitment. Keeps all your hair up and off your neck.
20. Messy Low Twisted Bun – The Undone Look That Works for Everything
The Look & Feel
A relaxed, loosely twisted bun that sits at the nape of the neck, with soft pieces left out to frame the face. It’s the chic, “I just threw this up” look that actually looks incredibly stylish.
Best Suited For
- Hair Types: Wonderful for wavy or curly hair to enhance texture. Works for all types.
- Face Shapes: The soft tendrils flatter every face shape.
- Lifestyle: The perfect versatile style for a late brunch, a casual work-from-home day, or an impromptu evening out.
Styling Tips & Effort Level
Loosely gather hair at the nape, twist it, and form a bun, pinning it loosely. Pull out a few face-framing strands.
Effort: Low. It’s meant to look perfectly imperfect.
Maintenance & Occasion Perks
Disguises second-day hair beautifully. Comfortable for all-day wear and looks effortlessly elegant.
Product Essentials for Summer Hair Success
Having the right products makes all the difference in achieving and maintaining your summer style.
Focus on products that protect, texturize, and fight frizz.
Stock up on sea salt spray for beachy waves and anti-frizz serum for sleek looks.
A good UV heat protectant spray is a non-negotiable for shielding hair from sun damage.
Clear elastics and bobby pins are essential for updos and braids.
Don’t forget fun accessories like claw clips, scarves, and bandanas to elevate any style.
Conclusion: Your Summer Hair Game, Leveled Up
Choosing a summer hairstyle is about finding the sweet spot between style and practicality.
It’s a chance to play with new looks that keep you cool, confident, and ready for any adventure.
From effortless waves to chic, heat-proof updos, there’s a perfect look waiting for you.
Consider your hair type, lifestyle, and the summer elements to find your signature style.
So, which one are you trying first? Go ahead and experiment your best summer hair awaits