19 Summer Updos for Long Hair Ideas
Let’s be honest: long hair in summer is a blessing and a challenge.
It’s gorgeous, versatile, and dramatic… but also sticky, sweaty, and constantly glued to the back of your neck when the temperature rises. We’ve all been there.
In this friendly little guide, I’ll walk you through 19 summer updos for long hair that are cute, breathable, and perfect for everything from beach trips to weddings.
Think relaxed, romantic, messy-in-a-good-way styles that let your hair be the main character.
1. The Messy High Bun (aka every girl’s go-to)
If summer had a hairstyle mascot, it would be the messy high bun.
You know the one:
- high on the crown
- slightly undone
- a few face-framing strands escaping like rebels
It’s:
- quick
- heat-proof
- ideal for second (or third, no judgment) day hair
Pro tip: Don’t aim for perfection. The more “lived-in” it looks, the better the summer vibe.
2. Sleek Top Knot for When You Mean Business
Sometimes you don’t want wispy strands. Sometimes you want your hair out of your way like it signed a contract.
Enter the sleek top knot:
- smooth base
- shiny finish
- tightly wrapped bun
Perfect for:
- hot workdays
- gym sessions
- when humidity is trying you emotionally
Add a little hair gel or serum and suddenly you look like you’re running your own minimalist skincare brand.
3. Boho Braided Crown
This one feels like summer festivals, sundresses, and acoustic guitars playing somewhere in the distance.
The look:
- two braids wrapped around the head
- slightly loose for softness
- ends tucked and pinned invisibly
It’s feminine, romantic, and keeps your hair totally off your neck—aka the dream in extreme heat.
4. Low Twisted Chignon
If elegance had an updo, this would be it.
A low twisted chignon is:
- simple
- timeless
- perfect for weddings or date nights
It sits right at the nape of your neck and looks like you spent an hour on it when really you twisted and pinned it in under five minutes. Long hair makes it extra full and lush—your secret weapon.
5. Bubble Ponytail Updo
Want something playful and Instagram-ready? Try a bubble ponytail updo.
Here’s the vibe:
- high or mid ponytail
- spaced elastics creating “bubbles”
- gently pull sections for volume
It’s youthful, bouncy, and holds up beautifully in beach wind or poolside lounging. Also: zero braiding skills required.
6. Braided Top Knot
This one’s like the glow-up version of a regular top knot.
You simply:
- pull hair into a high ponytail
- braid the ponytail
- wrap it into a bun
You get:
- extra texture
- extra hold
- extra compliments
Plus, it doesn’t loosen as easily as a standard bun—which is key for sweaty summer adventures.
7. Romantic Low Bun with Tendrils
There is something undeniably soft about a low bun paired with wavy face-framing tendrils.
This look screams:
- “I might be going to a picnic later.”
- “I read romance novels in my free time.”
Curl a few strands, loosen the bun, and let the vibe do the rest.
8. Double Dutch Braids into a Bun
This is a sporty, active-girl summer hairstyle favorite.
You:
- Dutch braid both sides of your head
- Gather the ends
- Twist into a bun
It’s secure enough for:
- hiking
- biking
- chasing after friends’ kids at BBQs
And it survives humidity like a champ.
9. High Ponytail Wrapped into a Bow Bun
Cute. Playful. Slightly dramatic. We love it.
You divide your ponytail into loops and shape them into a bow using pins. It’s one of those hairstyles that looks complicated, but after one try you realize it’s super doable.
Perfect for:
- parties
- summer concerts
- “I just want to feel adorable today” days
10. Low Braided Pony Updo
Think ponytail meets updo meets braid—basically, the best of everything.
Here’s the trick:
- start with a low pony
- braid it
- fold or twist it upward and pin
It keeps things neat while still looking soft and textured. Plus, it’s comfortable enough to wear all day without begging to be taken down.
11. Top Knot with Scarf Wrap
If you’ve got long hair and a cute scarf, you’re unstoppable.
Simply:
- create a top knot
- wrap a colorful scarf around the bun or hairline
It instantly adds:
- personality
- color
- “summer in Europe” aesthetic
Also amazing for hiding frizz on humid days when your hair has its own opinions.
12. Fishtail Braid Bun
This is for the braid lovers.
A fishtail braid bun is:
- intricate-looking
- perfect for longer hair lengths
- surprisingly easy once you get the pattern down
Fishtails add gorgeous detail when wrapped into a bun, making it wedding-guest ready without feeling overly formal.
13. Half-Up Twisted Top Bun
Don’t want all of your hair up? Half-up updos are your sweet spot.
This one gives:
- casual cool energy
- volume at the crown
- hair off your face while letting the rest flow
It’s a perfect style for beachy waves or naturally wavy long hair. It says: “I didn’t try too hard—but it worked anyway.”
14. Low Bun with Middle Part
Chic. Minimal. Very “model off-duty.”
The look:
- sharp middle part
- slick sides
- low bun tucked neatly at the nape
It pairs beautifully with oversized sunglasses, gold hoops, and linen outfits. Basically, if summer had a uniform, this bun would be part of it.
15. Space Buns Updo
Two buns instead of one? Yes, please.
Space buns are:
- playful
- festival-friendly
- perfect for long hair volume
Wear them high and bold or low and subtle. Add glitter or hair rings if you’re feeling adventurous. They’re the kind of hairstyle that automatically puts you in a good mood.
16. French Twist Updo (But Make It Relaxed)
Traditional French twists are polished—but summer calls for a slightly softer version.
Leave a few pieces loose. Don’t tuck every strand perfectly. Let it feel casual and breezy. It’s the kind of updo that works with flowy dresses and open-back tops like they were made for each other.
17. Braided Headband Updo
Fake a headband… with your own hair.
You:
- braid a section behind your ear
- wrap it across the head like a headband
- pin it on the opposite side
Then gather the remaining hair into a bun or twist.
It keeps hair out of your face while looking delicate and detailed. Bonus: no actual headband squeezing your skull. Win-win.
18. Claw Clip Twist Updo
Thank goodness claw clips made a comeback, right?
This style is:
- wildly easy
- super gentle on hair
- trendy without trying
Just twist your long hair upward, clip it, and let the ends fan out or tuck in. It’s the ultimate “I’m running late but I still look good” hairstyle.
19. Braided Low Side Bun
Last but definitely not least—the romantic side bun.
You:
- sweep hair to one side
- braid or twist
- wrap it into a loose bun
It frames your neck and shoulders beautifully and works for:
- dinner dates
- summer weddings
- evening strolls
Plus, side buns photograph really well. Just saying.
Final Summer Hair Tips for Long-Haired Girls
A few friendly reminders from one long-haired human to another:
- Dry shampoo is your best friend in heat.
- Don’t fight every wisp—summer hair is allowed to be a little wild.
- Hairpins are tiny superheroes.
- Hydration matters (for you and your hair).
- Messy doesn’t mean sloppy—just relaxed.
Most importantly: have fun with your hair. Summer is about ease, freedom, and not taking everything too seriously—including your updos.
