22 Summer Hairstyles Ideas
Summer hair—two words that can either mean “breezy beach goddess” or “frizzy disaster, sponsored by humidity.” Been there, survived that (barely).
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, rushing to brunch, or heading out for a summer wedding, your hair deserves more than a sad ponytail you threw together in the car mirror.
Here’s my personal stash of 22 summer hairstyle ideas—from easy, lazy-girl looks to “I totally spent an hour on this” styles (even if you didn’t).
Ready? Let’s make your hair summer-proof.
1. Messy Bun with a Scarf
The messy bun is basically the Swiss army knife of summer hair. Add a cute silk scarf, and suddenly you look like you belong on a yacht in the south of France.
- Works for all hair types.
- Keeps strands off your neck.
- Adds instant color and personality.
Pro tip: Don’t overthink it—the more “I didn’t try” it looks, the better.
2. Beach Waves (Without the Beach)
No ocean? No problem. You can fake that salty, wavy magic.
- Spray a sea salt spray on damp hair.
- Scrunch and let air-dry.
- Optional: twist hair into two loose buns for extra wave definition.
Ever notice how this style gets better the messier it gets? Yeah, lean into that.
3. Braided Crown
This one’s basically a built-in tiara (minus the weight). Braid two sections from each side, wrap them over your head, and pin them in place.
Perfect for:
- Music festivals.
- Garden parties.
- Pretending you’re in a fairy tale.
4. Low Sleek Ponytail
Humidity can’t ruin what’s already sleek. Use a little smoothing serum, tie it low, and wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for a polished finish.
This one screams “effortlessly chic”—great for summer weddings or nights out.
5. Bubble Ponytail
Why settle for one ponytail when you can have, like, six in one?
- Start with a high ponytail.
- Add small elastics every few inches.
- Gently pull each section to create “bubbles.”
FYI, this looks adorable with sunglasses perched on your head.
6. High Top Knot
The higher, the better. This keeps everything off your neck—bless.
- Ideal for hot, sticky days.
- Looks good with oversized hoops (trust me).
7. Half-Up Space Buns
Because regular buns are too mainstream. Twist two small buns on top, leave the rest down. It’s playful, cute, and low-maintenance.
8. Side Braid
A loose side braid is perfect for beach days—wind actually makes it better. Pull out a few strands in the front for a relaxed vibe.
9. Fishtail Braid
Looks complicated but is surprisingly easy once you get the hang of it.
- Great for keeping hair tamed on humid days.
- Works for both casual and formal settings.
10. Pixie Cut with Texture
Short hair in summer = freedom. Add a little pomade or texturizing spray for that “cool girl” finish.
11. Wet Hair Look
Channel your inner supermodel. Comb through a styling gel on damp hair for that glossy, just-out-of-the-pool effect.
Bonus: it’s humidity-proof (finally).
12. Loose Low Bun
Perfect for evenings out when you want understated elegance. Keep it low and slightly messy, with a few face-framing tendrils.
13. Claw Clip Twist
Claw clips are basically back from the ‘90s, and I’m here for it. Twist hair up, clip it, and you’re done in 10 seconds.
14. Boho Braids
Tiny braids scattered through loose waves = instant festival vibes. Bonus points if you add beads or little charms.
15. Sleek Straight Hair
Sometimes you just want your hair to behave. Use a flat iron, smoothing cream, and anti-frizz spray. Wear with big sunnies for maximum effect.
16. Pinned-Back Front Pieces
Part your hair in the middle, twist back the front sections, and secure with bobby pins. Perfect for keeping hair out of your face while still wearing it down.
17. Rope Braid Ponytail
Twist two sections together for a rope-like effect, tie it low or high. Looks intricate but takes two minutes.
18. Low Pigtails
Yes, pigtails. But make them grown-up—think sleek, low, and parted in the middle. Great for sporty or playful days.
19. Bandana Wrap
Fold a bandana and tie it around your head like a headband. Keeps sweat at bay and adds a retro vibe.
20. Braided Ponytail
Start with a high ponytail and braid the whole thing. This keeps hair neat all day—perfect for outdoor activities.
21. Shaggy Layers
Summer is the perfect time to embrace shaggy, layered cuts. They air-dry beautifully and look effortlessly cool.
22. Natural Curls, All Out
Stop fighting your curls in summer—embrace them! Use a curl cream or mousse and let them do their thing. Humidity? More like free volume 😉
Final Thoughts
Summer hair doesn’t have to be complicated. The trick is picking styles that work with the season, not against it. Whether you’re a fan of sleek ponytails, boho braids, or the “I woke up like this” messy bun, there’s a look here for every mood and occasion.
So, which one are you trying first? Or are you like me and planning on doing half of these before August is over? 🙂
