Summer is an absolute yes when it comes to playing around with your hair. The sun’s out, the vibe’s cool, and it’s time to play around with hairstyles that are cool without making you feel like a total trendsetter yourself. If you’re just sunbathing on the beach, drinking iced coffee during a picnic, or clubbing during a summer festival, a sweet hairstyle can brighten up your entire look without having to exert too much effort.
The great thing about summer hairstyles is that they are easy no hair pro skills necessary to rock them. Using just a few hair ties, bobby pins, or perhaps a cute accessory, you can get styles that are functional and ‘grammable. And good news: these styles suit all hair types and lengths, so everyone can get in on the action.
In this post, we’re sharing 12 easy and cute summer hairstyles that anyone can master. From breezy braids to chic buns, these looks are designed to beat the heat while keeping your style game strong. Let’s dive in and find your new go-to summer vibe!
1. The Effortless Messy Bun
There’s just something so summer about a messy bun. It’s the hair equivalent of sliding into your favorite sundress casual, chic, and perfect for anything. To get it, sweep your tresses into a sloppy pony, twist it into a bun shape, and tie with an elastic or bobby pins. Leave a few loose strands for that ridiculously undone look.
The wonder of messy bun is that it’s so adaptable. Brunching on a lazy Sunday afternoon? Loose and knotted, let it be. Something more put-together for a summer wedding? Tame it and slap some glittery hair clip on it. It’s a savior on those oven-roasted hellish days when you just want your hair off your neck but don’t want to look like you barely even bothered.
Here’s how to turn your messy bun into more of you:
- Add texture: Spray some dry shampoo or texturizing spray for volume.
- Accessorize: Top it off with a scrunchie or cute bow for a play twist.
- Play with placement: Pull off the statement look with a high bun or dainty look with a low bun.
2. Beachy Waves Without Heat
What’s more summery than those relaxed, just-stepped-off-of-the-sandy-beach waves? Bonus: You don’t have to blast the curling iron or spend a weekend at the shore to get them. Simply braid your damp hair at night perhaps one huge braid for relaxed waves or a few small ones for extra definition and go to sleep. Wake up in the morning, undo braids, brush out fingers, and voilà: gorgeous beachy waves.
This heatless method is a total game-changer because it’s just so gentle on your hair. Heat tools can be harsh, and even worse in the summer when your hair’s already struggling with sun and humidity to start with. And this process literally takes no effort whatsoever while you sleep, so when you wake up, you’re like, “I was just at the beach.”.
To elevate beachy hair to a new level:
- Sea salt spray: Toss a quick spritz for that salty, piecey effect.
- Finger-comb: Forgo the brush in favor of healthier, texture-friendly locks.
- Mix it up: Combine French or fishtail braids for mixed wave patterns.
3. Half-Up Braided Crown
If you’re dreaming of a hairstyle that’s equal parts romantic and practical, the half-up braided crown is your answer. Start by taking small sections of hair from either side of your head and braiding them. Cross the braids at the back to form a crown, pinning them in place with bobby pins. It’s like giving yourself a halo of style that screams boho-chic.
It’s perfect for outdoor warm weather celebrations like garden parties or music festivals. It keeps your hair out of your face but lets the rest of your locks flow freely, creating a soft, airy appearance. Slip on a flowing gown and dainty accessories, and you’ll be turning heads in an instant.
Why braided crown is a summer must-have:
- Stands the test of time: It’ll survive the heat, the wind, and dancing.
- Adornable: Add flowers or beads for added oomph.
- For any hair length: Even short hair can pull off little braids too.
4. Low Twisted Ponytail
Who tells the ponytail can’t be classy? Low twisted pony brings some sophistication to this retro look, so it’s perfect for anything from a workday to a dinner for two at sunset. Pull back hair into a low ponytail, split hair from above band to make some space, and flip pony through it for a chic touch. Puff it up slightly for extra volume.
This summer ‘do is a doozy in that it’s simple, quick, and puts your hair out of your neck. And it’s super versatile, incidentally one firm yank for sleek perfection or leave it down for a relaxed look. Seriously, it’s one of those hairstyles that gives you that “I spent an hour on my hair” look when in fact you didn’t.
How to get your twisted ponytail just right:
- Smooth it out: A gel layer provides a silky finish.
- Add a scrunchie: A printed or colored one provides instant personality.
- Curl the ends: Loose curls provide a romantic, whimsical touch.
5. Space Buns
Space buns are the hippest summer hairdo that brings a laid-back, festival vibe to your fashion. Split hair into two parts, twist each one into a top bun on each side of your head, and secure with elastics or pins. Have loose ends for that loose, youthful appearance that we all love in summer.
These buns are perfect for hot summer afternoons when you want your hair completely out of your face but still out there. They’re a hit at concerts, picnics, or just lounging in the house. And they’re also quite easy to make your own with accessories or a spritz of glitter for some extra pizzazz.
Make your space buns pop:
- Add braids: Add small braids into each bun for texture.
- Glitter it up: Sprinkle a dash of hair glitter for sun-kissed look.
- Mix heights: Opt for one bun higher than the other for a playful spin.
6. Sleek Low Bun
When you need a style that’s classy yet easy, the smooth low bun is the style to look to. Brush your hair back into a small, secure bun at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic band, and experiment with some gel or hairspray to keep any stray hairs at bay. It’s a style that seems totally effortless-looking, whether you have an appointment at a business lunch or a black-tie event.
This summer lifesaver haircut keeps all of your hair in place, even on hot days outside. It’s also totally versatile pair it with statement earrings for a night on the town or go low-key for the weekend. The chic low bun is the best evidence that less really is more.
How to achieve the sleek low bun just so:
- Use a comb: A fine-tooth comb guarantees that super-sleek finish.
- Shine spray: A flash of rapid shine leaves a sleek, professional shine.
- Hold tight: Bobby pins for hold holds it all day.
7. Braided Space Buns
Take your space buns up a notch with braided space buns. Divide your hair down the middle, braid both sides, then roll each braid into a bun on the left and right sides of your head. Secure with elastics or pins, and leave a few loose strands for a relaxed, summery finish. This cool, edgy take on the classic space bun style is sure to take your haircut to the next level.
These space buns are perfect for a bold entrance at summer festivals or relaxed hangouts with friends. The braids provide texture and depth, so this look is fun as well as different. It’s also a great way to keep cool hair out of your neck and show off your personal style.
Why braided space buns are great:
- More texture: Braids introduce a new, textured appearance to your buns.
- Accessorize: Adorn it with beads or clips for the personal touch.
- Durable: They remain in place all summer long.
8. High Ponytail with a Twist
A high ponytail is a summer classic, but adding a twist makes it feel fresh and modern. Pull your hair into a high ponytail, take a small section from the tail, twist it, and wrap it around the elastic to hide it. Pin it in place, and you’ve got a sleek, polished look that’s ready for anything.
This look is perfect for showing off your summer tan it pulls your hair back high, creating a clean face and neckline. From the gym to the city, the twisted high ponytail is both stylish and easy to do.
High ponytail tricks for a show-stopping look:
- Curl the ends: Snuggly curls add a light, playful touch.
- Use a statement elastic: A bold scrunchie makes it pop.
- Volume tease: A minute backcombing at the crown adds drama.
9. Bubble Ponytail
Bubble ponytails are the playful, fashionable cut you never knew you wanted. Start a low or high ponytail and then pin bobby pins a few inches down the length. Tug gently on each section to create a “bubble” effect. It is too cute, quirky, and a great way to spice up your summer hairstyle.
This style is so flexible it’s great for beach trips, weddings, or a trip to the errands. You can leave it plain and straightforward with basic elastic or get creative with colored ones for a splash of color. It’s great for long hair, but even short hair can handle small bubbles.
How to master your bubble ponytail:
- Even spacing: Form bubbles evenly for a sleek finish.
- Add ribbons: Wrap small bows around each elastic for a bonus touch of cute.
- Texturize: A little volumizing spray fills out bubbles for a fuller look.
10. Twisted Half-Updo
This bouncy half-updo is every romantic’s summer dream for a soft, romantic hairstyle. Take small sections from either side of your head, twist them backward, and secure them with an elastic or a clip. Pull on the twists gently so that they loosen out for a lush, easy look.
This hairstyle is perfect for summer date nights or outdoor events it keeps hair out of your face while letting your natural texture shine. Add some fresh flowers or jeweled pins, and you’ve got a look that’s both elegant and effortless.
Why you’ll love the twisted half-updo:
- Quick to create: Takes less than five minutes.
- Works with curls: Shows off wavy or curly hair beautifully.
- Accessory-friendly: Perfect for floral or sparkly hairpins.
11. The Scarf Bun
Dress up your daily bun with a scarf bun. Secure your hair in a high or low bun, then put a light scarf around the base and secure with a bow or let the ends cascade loose. A chic, bohemian-cool ‘do perfect for making a statement of color on your outfit.
Scarves are a summer staple they add some personality to your bun and prevent it from getting stale, even on windy beach days. Use a print of flowers or a vibrant, solid color, and this ‘do is all about being seen and being effortless.
The ultimate scarf bun secrets:
- Keep scarves light: Goodbye to thick material that will weigh down your bun.
- Mix patterns: Combine a printed scarf with a solid-colored top to earth.
- Secure tight: Pinch the scarf in with bobby pins.
12. Bouncy Top Knot
For when you want to make an entrance, try the bouncy top knot. Tease your hair up into a high ponytail, then twist up into a puffy bun and pin back into place. Secure with hairspray all day long.
This is ideal summer hair because it keeps your hair entirely out of your face and neck, where the sun is burning. It’s also extremely versatile match it with colors for a day look or with earrings for a night out.
How to style the giant top knot:
- Tease for lift: Backcomb the ponytail to provide as much height as possible.
- Add gloss: A spritz of shine spray gives it a glamorous sheen.
- Pair with bold accessories: Think big hoops or oversized shades.
