21 Summer Hairstyles Ideas That’ll Make You Look Cool Even When It’s 90 Degrees Out

Let’s be honest—summer hair can be a whole mess. Between humidity, sweat, and that “I swear I brushed it” look that still somehow happens, finding a hairstyle that actually works feels like a miracle.

But guess what? It doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re headed to the beach, brunch, or just surviving a heatwave, I’ve got 21 summer hairstyles that’ll keep you looking put-together and feeling breezy.

I’ve tested a bunch of these myself (some were total fails, let’s be real), and others became go-to looks I swear by every summer.

So grab your favorite dry shampoo and maybe a few bobby pins—because we’re about to fix your summer hair game for good.

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1. The Effortless Messy Bun

Let’s start with the classic that never disappoints. The messy bun is basically the superhero of summer hairstyles—quick, cute, and functional.

It works whether you’re running errands or pretending to be productive on a patio somewhere. Pull out a few face-framing strands for that “I didn’t try too hard” vibe. Spoiler: you totally did.

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2. Beach Waves That Actually Last

You can’t talk about summer hair without mentioning beach waves. They’re easy, sexy, and give off that “just got back from vacation” look—even if you’re just at home in your kitchen.

Use a salt spray or a curling wand with a wide barrel. The trick? Twist sections in alternating directions and don’t overdo it. Imperfection is the point here.

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3. The Slicked-Back Ponytail

When it’s 100 degrees and your hair refuses to cooperate, the sleek ponytail is your savior. It’s chic, modern, and keeps every strand out of your face.

Use a strong-hold gel or pomade to smooth everything back, and wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic for that “I have my life together” finish.

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4. Half-Up, Half-Down Vibes

If you want your hair down but not all over your neck, this one’s your best friend. The half-up, half-down hairstyle gives you the best of both worlds.

Go for a mini top knot or a braided crown for something a little extra. It’s cute enough for brunch but still casual enough for everyday wear.

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5. The Low, Loose Bun

Think of this as the chill cousin of the messy bun. A low bun works for date nights, office days, or literally anywhere.

Twist your hair loosely at the nape of your neck, secure it with pins, and let a few strands fall naturally. It’s relaxed, elegant, and takes about 30 seconds.

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6. Braided Pigtails (Yes, They’re Back)

Before you roll your eyes, hear me out. Braided pigtails aren’t just for schoolgirls anymore. With a center part and a bit of texture, they look fresh, playful, and super on-trend.

Bonus: They’re perfect for keeping hair out of your face at festivals or beach days.

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7. The Bubble Ponytail

If regular ponytails bore you, try this one. The bubble ponytail adds instant personality without needing fancy tools.

Simply tie off sections of your ponytail every few inches and gently pull the hair between the elastics to “puff” it up. It’s fun, flattering, and looks like you spent way more time on it than you did.

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8. The Scarf Ponytail

A silk scarf can take an ordinary ponytail and make it Instagram-worthy in seconds. Wrap a printed scarf around your hair tie or weave it into your braid.

It adds a pop of color, protects your hair from sun damage, and looks effortlessly boho. What’s not to love?

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9. Short Hair, Don’t Care (Textured Bob Edition)

If you’ve ever considered chopping your hair for summer—this is your sign. A textured bob feels light, stylish, and is practically made for hot weather.

Add some sea salt spray and scrunch it for that perfectly undone look. Low effort, high impact.

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10. The Fishtail Braid

Okay, it looks complicated—but it’s not. The fishtail braid is one of those hairstyles that looks way fancier than it actually is.

It’s ideal for long hair and works great for beach days because it holds up even after swimming. Tug gently on the braid once it’s done for that full, boho look.

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11. The Classic French Braid

Call it basic, but French braids are timeless for a reason. They’re elegant, practical, and perfect for taming frizz.

Plus, when you take it out at the end of the day, you get bonus waves. Two hairstyles for the price of one? Yes, please.

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12. The Claw Clip Comeback

If you don’t own a claw clip yet, are you even living in 2025? These things are back and better than ever.

Twist your hair up, clip it in place, and boom—you’re done. It’s the easiest way to look chic without trying (and without melting under a blow dryer).

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13. Space Buns for Fun Days

Need something playful? Go for space buns. They’re cute, quirky, and perfect for festivals or casual weekends.

Keep them tight for a bold look or loosen them up for a softer vibe. They work with straight, wavy, or curly hair, so you really can’t go wrong.

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14. Braided Headband Style

This one’s a total showstopper and surprisingly easy. Braid a small section from behind your ear, then pull it over your head like a headband.

Pin it on the other side, and suddenly you look like you spent hours styling your hair when it took five minutes.

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15. High Ponytail with a Twist

Take your classic high ponytail up a notch—literally. Tease the crown a little for volume, and twist a small strand of hair around the elastic for polish.

If you’ve got long hair, let the ends bounce freely for that Ariana Grande energy (minus the sore scalp).

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16. The Wet Look

If humidity’s already ruining your hair, just lean into it. The wet look is bold, modern, and low-maintenance.

Use a gel or styling cream, comb your hair back, and you’re runway-ready in seconds. It’s edgy without trying too hard—and perfect for nights out.

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17. The Crown Braid

Feel like channeling your inner goddess? Go for a crown braid. Wrap your braid around your head like a halo and pin it in place.

It’s elegant, practical, and perfect for weddings, garden parties, or just pretending you’re on a European vacation.

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18. The Pixie Cut Glow-Up

If you’re ready for a serious change, the pixie cut screams confidence and style. It’s lightweight, cool, and easy to maintain.

You can slick it back, tousle it for texture, or accessorize with a cute headband. Plus, you’ll save a ton on shampoo. FYI, I tried this one summer—it felt liberating.

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19. The Braided Ponytail Combo

Why choose between a braid and a ponytail when you can have both? Start with a French braid at the crown, then tie it off into a ponytail.

It’s sporty, cute, and great for gym days or hikes when you want your hair to stay put but still look stylish.

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20. The Headband Hack

Accessorizing is half the fun of summer hair. A wide headband instantly elevates any look while keeping your strands sweat-free.

Try fabric headbands in bright colors or prints to add flair to even the simplest styles. IMO, it’s the easiest way to fake effort. 🙂

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21. Loose Waves with a Middle Part

If you’re after that effortless, “I woke up like this” energy, loose waves with a middle part always hit the mark.

Use a curling iron for gentle bends, then brush them out for a soft, lived-in finish. Pair it with minimal makeup, and you’ve got peak summer aesthetic.

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Tips to Keep Your Summer Hair Healthy

Even the best hairstyles fall flat (literally) if your hair’s fried by sun and heat. Keep your strands healthy with a few simple habits:

• Use a UV protectant spray before going out.
• Deep condition once a week to restore moisture.
• Avoid hot tools whenever possible—embrace your natural texture.
• Trim regularly to prevent split ends from ruining your look.

Trust me, healthy hair makes every style look 10x better.

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Final Thoughts

Summer hair shouldn’t feel like a chore. Whether you’re into effortless buns, playful braids, or bold pixie cuts, there’s a hairstyle for every vibe (and every type of heat-induced chaos).

The key is to keep it light, practical, and fun. Don’t overthink it—just find what makes you feel confident and roll with it.

So, which one are you trying first—the sleek ponytail or those carefree beach waves? Either way, your hair’s about to look seriously good. And if anyone asks your secret, just tell them it’s “natural talent.”