Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new hairstyles that keep you cool and stylish. Whether you have long hair, short hair, or medium hair, there’s a trendy look for everyone. Dive into our list of 46 trendy summer hairstyles, complete with descriptions, care tips, and image prompts to inspire your next summer look.
Beach Waves
Beach waves are the quintessential summer hairstyle. This look is all about creating loose, tousled waves that mimic the effortless beauty of hair after a day at the beach. Beach waves suit everyone, from those with long hair to those with medium hair shoulder length. This hairstyle adds volume and texture, making it perfect for thin hair. Avoid this style if you have very curly hair, as it can turn frizzy.
To achieve the perfect beach waves, use a sea salt spray like Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray on damp hair. Scrunch your hair and let it air dry or use a diffuser. Finish with a texturizing spray such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to add volume and hold.
Sleek High Ponytail
The sleek high ponytail is a chic and practical choice for hot summer days. This hairstyle pulls the hair away from your face and neck, keeping you cool while looking polished. It works best for long hair and medium hair. This style is perfect for those with straight or slightly wavy hair. If you have very curly hair, you might need to straighten it first to achieve the sleek look.
To create a sleek high ponytail, start by applying a smoothing serum like Moroccanoil Treatment to your hair. Use a fine-tooth comb to gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep flyaways in place.
Braided Crown
The braided crown is a romantic and elegant summer hairstyle. This look involves braiding sections of hair and wrapping them around your head to create a crown-like effect. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This style is ideal for those with straight or wavy hair but can also work with curly hair if you use a smoothing product first. Avoid this style if you have very short hair.
To achieve a braided crown, start by parting your hair down the middle. Braid each section and secure with small elastics. Wrap the braids around your head and pin them in place with bobby pins. Use a light-hold hairspray like TRESemmé TRES Two Ultra Fine Mist Hairspray to set the style.
Messy Bun
The messy bun is a go-to summer hairstyle for its effortless and chic appeal. This look involves pulling the hair into a loose, undone bun that sits high or low on the head. It’s perfect for any hair length, from short hair to long hair. This style suits all hair types, including curly hair and straight hair. It’s an excellent choice for a casual day out or a relaxed evening.
To create a messy bun, gather your hair into a ponytail and twist it into a loose bun. Secure it with bobby pins and pull out a few strands to frame your face. Use a texturizing spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray to add volume and texture.
Half-Up Half-Down
The half-up half-down hairstyle is versatile and perfect for summer. This look combines the best of both worlds, with the top section of hair pulled back and the rest left loose. It’s ideal for long hair and medium hair shoulder length. This style works well with straight, wavy, and curly hair. Avoid this style if you have very short hair.
To create a half-up half-down hairstyle, part the top section of your hair and secure it with a clip or hair tie. For added interest, you can braid the top section or add a twist. Use a lightweight hairspray like Kenra Volume Spray 25 to keep the style in place.
Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids are a stylish and practical choice for summer, providing a sporty yet chic look. This hairstyle involves creating two Dutch braids, one on each side of the head, starting at the front and braiding towards the back. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This style works well for women with straight, wavy, or even curly hair. It’s an excellent choice for keeping hair out of the face during outdoor activities.
To achieve Double Dutch braids, start by parting your hair down the middle. Take a section from one side and begin a Dutch braid (an inverted French braid) by crossing the strands under instead of over. Repeat on the other side. Secure the braids with elastics and finish with a light-hold hairspray like Herbal Essences Bio Flexible Hairspray.
Loose Curls
Loose curls are a timeless and versatile summer hairstyle that exudes effortless glamour. This look involves creating soft, voluminous curls that cascade down the shoulders. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair shoulder length. Loose curls suit all hair types, especially those with naturally wavy or straight hair. It’s an excellent choice for both casual and formal summer occasions.
To create loose curls, use a large-barrel curling iron like the Conair InfinitiPRO Curling Wand. Wrap sections of your hair around the barrel, holding for a few seconds before releasing. Use a curl-enhancing product like DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler to define and maintain the curls.
Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid is a trendy and intricate summer hairstyle that adds a touch of bohemian charm. This braid involves weaving small sections of hair together to create a detailed, fishbone-like pattern. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This style works best for those with straight or wavy hair but can also be achieved with curly hair using a smoothing product first.
To create a fishtail braid, divide your hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to the inside of the other section. Repeat on the other side, alternating until you reach the end. Secure with an elastic and use a texturizing spray like Bumble and Bumble Thickening Dryspun Finish for added volume and hold.
Low Chignon
The low chignon is a sophisticated and elegant summer hairstyle, perfect for formal events or a polished everyday look. This hairstyle involves twisting the hair into a low bun at the nape of the neck. It’s ideal for long hair and medium hair shoulder length. This style works well for straight and wavy hair but can also be achieved with curly hair using a smoothing serum.
To create a low chignon, gather your hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a bun. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a shine spray like Redken Shine Flash 02 for a sleek look.
Top Knot
The top knot is a trendy and practical summer hairstyle that keeps hair off your face and neck. This look involves pulling the hair into a high bun on top of the head. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This style suits all hair types, including curly hair and straight hair. It’s ideal for hot summer days and casual outings.
To create a top knot, gather your hair into a high ponytail and twist it into a bun. Secure with bobby pins and use a texturizing spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray for added volume and texture.
Side Braid
The side braid is a simple yet elegant summer hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to your look. This style involves braiding your hair to one side, creating a casual yet polished appearance. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This braid suits all hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly hair. It’s a great choice for keeping your hair tamed and out of the way during summer activities.
To achieve a side braid, gather your hair to one side and start a traditional three-strand braid or a fishtail braid, depending on your preference. Secure with a hair tie and loosen the braid slightly for a more relaxed look. Use a light-hold hairspray like John Frieda Frizz Ease KeraFlex Flexible Hold Hairspray to keep the style in place.
Space Buns
Space buns are a fun and playful summer hairstyle that adds a youthful and trendy touch to your look. This style involves creating two buns on the top of your head, one on each side. It’s perfect for medium hair and long hair. This style works well with straight, wavy, and curly hair. Space buns are great for festivals, beach days, or any casual summer outing.
To create space buns, part your hair down the middle and gather each section into high pigtails. Twist each pigtail into a bun and secure with bobby pins or small elastics. For extra flair, wrap some colored ribbon or glitter hair gel around the buns. Use a strong-hold hairspray like Aussie Instant Freeze Hairspray to keep the buns in place.
French Twist
The French twist is a classic and elegant summer hairstyle perfect for formal occasions or a polished everyday look. This style involves twisting the hair up and securing it at the back of the head, creating a sleek and sophisticated appearance. It’s ideal for medium hair shoulder length and long hair. This style works best with straight or slightly wavy hair.
To create a French twist, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it upwards, tucking the ends in as you go. Secure with bobby pins and use a firm-hold hairspray like L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep the style in place.
Pixie Cut
The pixie cut is a bold and trendy summer hairstyle that offers a fresh and edgy look. This short haircut involves cutting the hair close to the head, often with longer bangs or layers on top. It’s perfect for those looking for a cute, low-maintenance style. The pixie cut suits most face shapes and works well with straight, wavy, and curly hair.
To maintain a pixie cut, use a lightweight styling cream like Bumble and Bumble Sumotech to add texture and definition. Regular trims every 4-6 weeks are necessary to keep the cut looking sharp and stylish.
Layered Bob
The layered bob is a versatile and trendy summer hairstyle that adds movement and texture to your look. This haircut involves layering the hair to create a bob that falls just above the shoulders. It’s perfect for medium hair shoulder length and short hair. The layered bob works well with all hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly hair.
To style a layered bob, use a volumizing mousse like Kenra Volume Mousse Extra 17 on damp hair before blow-drying with a round brush. Finish with a light hairspray like Paul Mitchell Flexible Style Super Clean Spray to add hold without stiffness.
Textured Lob
The textured lob (long bob) is a trendy summer hairstyle that adds volume and movement to your look. This haircut falls between the chin and shoulders, featuring layers and texture to create a tousled, beachy effect. It’s perfect for medium hair shoulder length and works well with straight, wavy, and curly hair. The textured lob suits most face shapes and adds a youthful, modern touch.
To style a textured lob, use a sea salt spray like Ouai Wave Spray on damp hair. Scrunch your hair while blow-drying or let it air dry for a natural, tousled look. Finish with a light-hold hairspray like R+Co Trophy Shine + Texture Spray to add shine and definition.
Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a beautiful and intricate summer hairstyle that adds a touch of elegance to any look. This braid involves weaving sections of hair in a cascading pattern, creating a “waterfall” effect. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This style works best with straight or wavy hair but can also be achieved with curly hair using a smoothing product first.
To create a waterfall braid, start by taking a section of hair from one side and begin a French braid. Drop the bottom section after each crossover and pick up a new section from underneath to continue the braid. Secure with a small elastic and use a light-hold hairspray like TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hair Spray to keep the style in place.
Scarf Braid
The scarf braid is a fun and stylish summer hairstyle that incorporates a colorful scarf into your braid. This look is perfect for adding a pop of color and a bohemian touch to your style. It’s ideal for long hair and medium hair. The scarf braid works well with straight, wavy, and curly hair. This hairstyle is great for casual outings, festivals, or beach days.
To create a scarf braid, start by selecting a lightweight scarf. Begin a traditional three-strand braid and incorporate the scarf as one of the strands. Continue braiding, ensuring the scarf is evenly distributed throughout the braid. Secure with an elastic and let the ends of the scarf hang loose. Use a texturizing spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray for added volume.
Boho Braids
Boho braids are a carefree and romantic summer hairstyle that features multiple small braids intertwined throughout the hair. This style exudes a bohemian vibe and is perfect for festivals, beach outings, or casual summer days. It’s ideal for long hair and medium hair. Boho braids work well with straight, wavy, and curly hair.
To create boho braids, start by braiding small sections of hair randomly throughout your hair. Leave some hair loose and tousled for a relaxed look. You can add beads or small flowers for extra flair. Use a light-hold hairspray like Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray to keep the braids in place without stiffness.
Sleek Bob
The sleek bob is a chic and polished summer hairstyle that offers a modern and sophisticated look. This haircut involves cutting the hair to just above the shoulders with a straight, blunt edge. It’s perfect for short hair and medium hair shoulder length. The sleek bob suits most face shapes and works best with straight or slightly wavy hair.
To achieve a sleek bob, use a straightening iron like the GHD Platinum+ Styler to create a smooth, straight finish. Apply a smoothing serum like Kerastase Discipline Fluidissime Anti-Frizz Spray to tame flyaways and add shine. Finish with a firm-hold hairspray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep the style in place.
Curly Bob
The curly bob is a trendy and playful summer hairstyle that embraces natural curls. This cut involves trimming the hair to chin or shoulder length and letting the curls frame your face. It’s perfect for those with curly hair and works well for medium hair shoulder length. This style adds volume and bounce, making it ideal for round and heart-shaped faces.
To style a curly bob, apply a curl-defining cream like DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler to damp hair. Use a diffuser to dry your curls without frizz, or let them air dry for a natural look. Finish with a light-hold gel like Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel to maintain definition and combat humidity.
Vintage Waves
Vintage waves are a classic and glamorous summer hairstyle that channels old Hollywood glamour. This style involves creating smooth, S-shaped waves that frame the face. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This style suits all hair types but works best with straight or slightly wavy hair.
To achieve vintage waves, use a curling iron with a medium barrel to create uniform curls. Brush through the curls gently to form waves and set with a firm-hold hairspray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray. Use a shine spray like Kenra Shine Spray to add a glossy finish.
Shag Cut
The shag cut is a modern and edgy summer hairstyle that adds texture and movement to your look. This haircut involves layering the hair to create a tousled, messy effect. It’s perfect for medium hair shoulder length and long hair. The shag cut works well with all hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly hair. This style is ideal for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
To style a shag cut, use a texturizing spray like Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray on damp hair. Scrunch your hair while blow-drying or let it air dry for a natural, tousled look. Finish with a light-hold hairspray like Bumble and Bumble Does It All Light Hold Hairspray.
High Bun
The high bun is a stylish and practical summer hairstyle that keeps your hair off your face and neck. This look involves pulling the hair into a high bun on top of the head, creating a sleek and polished appearance. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This style suits all hair types, including straight, wavy, and curly hair. The high bun is great for formal events, work, or casual outings.
To create a high bun, gather your hair into a high ponytail and twist it into a bun. Secure with bobby pins and use a strong-hold hairspray like Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray to keep the style in place. For a sleek finish, apply a smoothing serum like John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum.
Braided Ponytail
The braided ponytail is a versatile and stylish summer hairstyle that combines the practicality of a ponytail with the elegance of a braid. This look involves braiding a section of the ponytail or incorporating multiple braids for added detail. It’s perfect for long hair and medium hair. This style works well with straight, wavy, and curly hair.
To create a braided ponytail, gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Braid a section of the ponytail or create multiple small braids, then secure with small elastics. Use a light-hold hairspray like TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hair Spray to keep the style in place.
Summer hairstyles offer endless possibilities to keep you looking stylish and feeling cool. Whether you opt for cute beach waves, a sleek high ponytail, or a romantic braided crown, there’s a summer hairstyle for everyone. Try these looks and find the perfect one that suits your style and hair type. Don’t forget to share your favorite summer hairstyles in the comments below!
