Summer is coming in hot (literally), and if you’re anything like me, your hair is already plotting its frizz-filled revenge. Whether it’s sticking to your neck like cling wrap or morphing into a puffball the second you step outside, your hairstyle becomes less of a fashion statement and more of a survival tactic.
I’ve been down this road—beach days, sweat-drenched commutes, and that one BBQ where my bangs basically melted. That’s why I’m sharing the ultimate guide to hairstyles for summer, packed with options that are cute, cool (in both senses), and easy enough to do when you’re half-asleep and two iced coffees deep.
So what exactly are the best hairstyles for summer? Simple: they’re the ones that beat the heat and still make you look like you tried (even if you didn’t). I’ll walk you through breezy braids, heatless waves, low-effort updos, and a few magic tricks for keeping your hair off your neck without sacrificing style.
Think sweat-proof, pool-party-approved, and Zoom-call-presentable. As someone who writes SEO-friendly blogs for a living and once tried to curl her hair during a heatwave (never again), trust me—these styles are here to save your strands and your sanity.
Ever had a hair tie snap mid-ponytail at a festival? Yeah, we’re not letting that happen again.
1. Messy Bun
When the heat turns my hair into a wild lion’s mane, the messy bun saves the day—every time.
It’s effortlessly cool, takes under two minutes, and somehow still looks chic whether I’m running errands or hopping on a video call.
This style works great for medium to long hair and especially if your strands have some natural wave.
For more breezy, low-maintenance ideas, explore these easy hairstyles for long hair.
2. High Ponytail
The high ponytail is my personal go-to for feeling sporty and polished at the same time.
It keeps hair off my face, adds instant volume, and gives my cheekbones a free lift—who needs contour? If you’ve got thicker hair, you’re in luck—it holds better and looks more dramatic.
Use a texturizing spray before pulling it up to avoid the dreaded flat crown.
Want more styles that work with your hair type? Check out these hairstyles for long hair.
3. Braided Ponytail
On days when I want my ponytail to feel a little fancier, I go for a braided version.
It’s still practical but adds a twist—literally—that makes it look more styled without the effort. Great for everything from gym workouts to casual dates, it works best with longer hair.
I’ve found it stays put better than a regular ponytail in humid weather, which is perfect for hairstyles for summer.
4. Top Knot
Some call it lazy-girl glam—I call it genius. The top knot is ideal for those sticky, sweaty afternoons when I can’t deal with my hair touching my neck.
It works well for thick or long hair, and you can dress it up or down depending on your mood (or outfit).
I like to twist mine loosely and secure it with a claw clip for a softer, modern look.
Want more styles that work with your hair type? Check out these hairstyles for long hair.
5.Space Buns
Okay, space buns are so fun. I tried them for a festival last summer and ended up wearing them way more than I expected.
They add playful energy and surprisingly help tame frizz, especially when my hair’s on its third-day mood.
Ideal for all hair types, just be sure to use small elastics and some styling gel to keep flyaways in check.
For more playful looks like this, browse our collection of cute hairstyles for long hair girls & teens.
6. Low Bun with Scarf
If I want to look put together in seconds, I wrap a scarf around a low bun and call it a day.
It’s super classy and feels like a Pinterest board come to life. This one works best for medium to long hair and looks stunning whether you’re at a beach brunch or just hiding greasy roots.
Choose a light, colorful scarf for the ultimate hairstyles for summer vibe.
For more elegant and easy looks like this, check out our simple braided hairstyles.
7. Bubble Ponytail
Bubble ponytails are one of those styles that look complicated but are shockingly easy.
I saw them all over Instagram last summer and had to try it—and now I’m hooked.
They work especially well for long hair and add flair without heat styling.
All you need are a few clear elastics and a little volume at the crown to start.
8. Boxer Braids
I wear boxer braids when I need my hair to survive heat, sweat, wind, or all three.
They’re perfect for workouts, hiking, or just those days when you want zero maintenance.
They take a little time to braid, but once in, they stay for hours—even overnight! If your hair is layered like mine, a bit of gel goes a long way to keep things sleek.
9. Loose Side Braid
This one’s my go-to when I want something relaxed but still cute.
The loose side braid is a lifesaver on those semi-lazy days—especially after a beach dip when your hair’s already a little wavy.
It flatters almost all face shapes and hair types, and you can even pancake it out for a fuller look. Add a scrunchie or flower clip for a soft, summery finish.
10. Half-Up Half-Down Bun
Honestly, this is the hairstyle that makes me feel like I have my life together—even when I don’t.
It’s fun, functional, and keeps just enough hair off my face without sacrificing flowy vibes.
This one’s perfect for medium to long hair, and it works whether you’re on day one or day four of your wash cycle.
I add a spritz of dry shampoo at the roots to give it some grip and bounce.
11. French Braid
The classic French braid never goes out of style, and I always feel instantly more polished when I wear one.
It’s great for keeping hair neat and off your face, especially during heatwaves or beach trips.
Once you get the hang of it, it’s surprisingly fast to do—and it holds all day.
I like starting mine with slightly damp hair for that clean, sleek look.
12. Dutch Braid
The Dutch braid is basically the French braid’s edgier cousin—it pops out instead of laying flat, and I love that extra dimension.
It’s ideal if you want something secure that still looks like you tried (even if you did it in the car mirror).
Works best on medium to long hair and really shows off highlights or balayage. I’ve worn it hiking and even to weddings—it’s that versatile.
13. Crown Braid
When I want to feel like a forest fairy—or just avoid heat tools altogether—I go for the crown braid.
It wraps around your head like a halo and gives major boho energy, making it perfect for summer parties or festivals.
This one works best with long hair, though medium hair can usually manage with some pins and magic. Bonus: it keeps hair totally off your neck, a major win for hot days.
14. Double Braids
Double braids instantly bring back nostalgic vibes from summer camp, but they’ve totally made a trendy comeback.
I wear them when I want a cute and sporty look that keeps my hair from sticking to everything.
Whether you go for tight boxer-style or loose and messy, they’re great for active days.
Pro tip: braid them before bed and wake up with heatless waves the next morning—win-win!
15. Short Pixie Cut
I chopped off my hair into a pixie cut one July and never looked back.
It’s breezy, bold, and requires minimal styling—which is gold during those sweltering months.
Works beautifully for those with strong facial features or a daring style streak.
If you’re thinking about going short, summer’s the perfect time to do it—and trust me, your neck will thank you.
16. Shoulder-Length Bob
This is the Goldilocks of summer cuts—not too short, not too long. I had a blunt bob a couple summers ago, and it felt super fresh without limiting my styling options.
It’s easy to air-dry, throw into a clip, or wave with a flat iron.
It’s one of the most low-maintenance yet chic hairstyles for summer, especially for straight or slightly wavy hair types.
17. Sleek Low Ponytail
For days when I want to feel put-together without breaking a sweat, I go with the sleek low ponytail.
It’s simple, elegant, and takes less than five minutes to pull off. A little hair oil or gel helps smooth flyaways and create that clean, glassy finish.
Perfect for hot weather, office days, or nights out when you want your earrings to do the talking.
18. Twisted Half-Updo
The twisted half-updo is one of my secret weapons when I’m rushing out the door.
It’s soft, romantic, and looks like you put in way more effort than you actually did.
Just take two front sections, twist them back, and secure with a clip or bobby pins—it’s that easy.
I love how it frames the face while still letting your hair breathe, making it ideal for summer brunches or outdoor weddings.
19. Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid used to intimidate me—until I tried it and realized it’s just a matter of rhythm.
It looks intricate but is super manageable once you get the pattern down.
I especially love how it holds up in humid weather, making it one of the more practical hairstyles for summer.
Best part? It works beautifully even when messy, so perfection isn’t required.
20. Claw Clip Updo
I swear claw clips have been my savior every summer since 2020.
Whether I’m poolside or just too hot to care, twisting my hair into a quick updo with a claw clip instantly feels put together.
It works best for medium to long hair, and you can do so many variations—twists, loops, or even just a simple clamp-and-go.
I keep one in every bag because you never know when your scalp will scream “no more heat!”
21. Wet Hair Look
This one’s for when I literally can’t deal with blow dryers or straighteners—and honestly, it feels kind of rebellious in the best way.
The wet hair look is sleek, modern, and perfect for evening events or beach-to-dinner transitions.
I just run a bit of gel or styling cream through damp hair, comb it back, and boom—done. It’s bold, a little dramatic, and great for making a statement without breaking a sweat.
22. Headband Updo
I rediscovered headbands last summer and wondered why I ever stopped using them.
A simple updo with a bold or soft headband instantly looks cute and keeps hair out of my face.
This style is ideal for bad hair days, third-day curls, or whenever you want to add a pop of color.
It’s one of those effortless hairstyles for summer that works on all hair lengths and textures.
23. Slicked-Back Bun
If you love a clean, no-nonsense vibe like I do, the slicked-back bun is a must.
It’s practically immune to humidity and perfect for those “ugh, it’s 90 degrees out” kind of days.
I smooth my hair down with a little mousse or gel, twist it into a bun, and secure it low or high depending on the mood. It gives off model-off-duty energy, even when I’m in sweatpants.
24. Pinned Back Waves
On days when I actually do something with my waves (rare, but it happens), I love pinning back the front pieces for a soft, open look.
It’s a small change but makes such a difference in keeping hair out of your eyes and looking styled.
I usually use decorative clips or bobby pins with a little flair. This works great for casual hangouts and adds a breezy charm that screams summer.
25. Rolled Updo
I tried a rolled updo for a summer wedding last year and got more compliments than I expected.
It looks elegant and retro, but it’s surprisingly easy—just tuck your hair into a headband and roll.
It works best on medium to long hair, especially if it’s straight or slightly textured.
A little hairspray goes a long way to keep everything in place during those long, warm evenings.
26. Curly Puff
As someone with naturally curly hair, I live in the curly puff when the humidity rises.
It’s a high pony but with volume and personality—perfect for showcasing curls while keeping cool.
I usually gather my hair at the crown and fluff it out, using a soft scrunchie to avoid breakage.
It’s playful, stylish, and one of the easiest hairstyles for summer if you’re working with coils or curls.
27. Side-Swept Bangs Ponytail
This one’s a small twist on a classic ponytail, but it makes such a difference.
Sweeping the bangs or front pieces to the side softens the look and adds that “effortless chic” vibe.
I wear this when I want something polished but not overdone—think date nights, rooftop drinks, or errands where I pretend I’m in a rom-com. Best part? It works on pretty much everyone.
28. Braided Bun
The braided bun is a lowkey powerhouse—it combines structure and texture in a way that’s surprisingly easy to pull off.
I usually braid a ponytail, then wrap it into a bun and pin it in place.
It holds up through wind, sweat, and long days, which makes it one of my most practical go-to hairstyles for summer. Plus, it looks a lot fancier than it actually is—win.
29. Low Pigtails
Yes, pigtails—but make them grown-up. I wear low pigtails with a center part when I want something playful but still stylish.
Great for keeping hair neat during travel or beach days, and they also look cute under a hat. Use scrunchies or ribbons for a fun, flirty twist.
30. Beachy Waves (Natural Air Dry)
No list of summer hairstyles is complete without good old beachy waves.
I usually let my hair air dry after the shower, scrunching in some sea salt spray or leave-in conditioner.
It’s low-maintenance, looks lived-in, and perfectly captures that carefree summer mood.
The best part? No heat, no fuss—just you and your natural texture doing its thing.
