30 Effortless Summer Hairstyles That Wow

The Iconic Messy Top Knot That Never Goes Out of Style

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Summer is the ultimate time to let your hair reflect your mood — carefree, stylish, and full of personality. Whether you’re off to the beach, dancing under the stars at a festival, or catching golden hour on a rooftop, your hairstyle should feel effortless, fun, and uniquely you.

From tousled waves and breezy boho buns to sleek ponytails and playful braids, this collection of 30 summer hairstyles offers something for every vibe. These looks are designed to be easy to create, comfortable to wear, and perfect for every sun-filled adventure.

No matter your hair length or texture, you’ll find a style that matches your energy. Whether you love a laid-back, cool-girl feel or a polished touch of glamour, there’s a summer look here that’s just right for you.

Get ready to shine brighter than the sun with your perfect summer hairstyle for every moment the season brings.

1. The Iconic Messy Top Knot That Never Goes Out of Style

The messy top knot is the simplest and and easiest hairstyle of the summer. It’s big, it’s dirty, it has attitude. The messy top knot is perfect for those lazy summer days when you want to get your hair out of your face but still look cute!

To create the style, take the hair into a ponytail at the desired height, twist it until you’ve formed a bun shape, and pin it in place with bobby pins or secure it with an elastic. You don’t need to try to make it perfect; you want it to be a bit messy.

This style is ideal for lounging by the pool, running errands, or participating in any summer papastimen your day-to-day activities. You will be in a thanltimate state of relaxed, buyable, fashionable attitude—feeling like “I woke up like this.”

The Iconic Messy Top Knot That Never Goes Out of Style
PC: Gal Meets Glam

2. The “I-Woke-Up-Perfect” Beach Braid

The beach braid is a great summer hairstyle. The beach braid is a side braid that embodies the carefree relaxation of a beach day—hair with sun and sea air, and a dash of effort! A beach braid aims to convey the feeling of getting up in the morning, brushing down a few pieces, and hitting the beach! The secret to achieving the ultimate beach braid is to learning to love your hair texture.

Forget about perfection here! All you need is a sloppy, loose braid. Great for days at the beach or a day out and about, it’s both functional and cute, keeping your hair out of your face without looking too put together.

The “I Woke Up Perfect” Beach Braid
PC: Emily Grace

3. Double Dutch, Double Cool

Double Dutch braids are an excellent style for both function and style; they keep your hair out of your face while also being cute and sporty. Whether it’s for hiking, dancing, or a festival, braids add sass and a touch of extra cuteness to your style. Additionally, they will generally withstand all your activities.

You can create them as tight, clean braids or loose, messy braids; regardless, they are fun and playful hairstyles. For an added touch, try using colored elastics or beads at the end of your braids. It is a cute and youthful style that makes people ask about your hair styling techniques.

Double Dutch, Double Cool
PC: Asmina

4. The Mermaid Fishtail

The mermaid fishtail is ideal for girls who want to challenge themselves with braiding while achieving an effortlessly trendy summer style. While this braid may look complicated and stylish, once you practice it, you’ll find it to be straightforward. Begin with two sections of hair, and then you simply take strands from the outside of the sections and cross them over.

 Voila! A beautiful, elegant fishtail braid that is perfect and beachy, for sunset walks or dinner on a date night. It’s the ultimate combination of cute and convenient!

The Mermaid Fishtail
PC: www.pinterest.com

5. Half-Up Braid Crown, Total Summer Goddess

For summer days when you need to feel like a goddess, a half-up braid crown is an absolute must. With this boho-chic style, you wear a braid around the crown of the head. The rest of the hair drapes freely. The braid can be, however, you like– I find it looks great either tightly or loosely braided, just feel free! The goal is to achieve a carefree, relaxed feeling. When you pair this with a flowy maxi dress, chunky gold accessories, and bare feet, you can be a goddess all day! I love this hairstyle for everything, from music festivals and beach days to any other outdoor summer event where I want to feel fabulous.

Half Up Braid Crown, Total Summer Goddess
PC: Rae Merida

6. Playful Bubble Braids for Endless Fun

Bubble braids are the ultimate summer playful hairstyle. This style is perfect for anyone who enjoys putting a playful, bouncy flair on their hair. The bubble appearance comes from dividing the braid into small, relaxed sections and tying them up with elastics at regular intervals.

This gives a “bubble” appearance that’s both adorable and free-spirited. Try a burst of color with bright elastics or scrunchies, or stick to tradition with clear or black bands. Whether heading off to a summer picnic or simply spending time with friends, bubble braids will keep you fresh and ready to go all day.

Playful Bubble Braids for Endless Fun
PC: OkChicas

7. The “Cool Girl” Low Bun

The low bun is your go-to when you need to look cool on those scorching summer days without exerting much effort. This hairstyle is all about looking effortlessly chic with little effort. The key to pulling it off is keeping it loose and textured—don’t try too hard! A loose, low bun at the nape of your neck, with some strands rounded in front of your ear, gives you an immediate “cool girl” look.

[$nYou can leave it loose and frame your entire face, giving you an even more effortless style. Alternatively, you can tie back your strands at the nape of your neck or the nape of your neck or your ears.

[$nClassic yet versatile enough to wear for brunch sessions and night outings.

The Cool Girl Low Bun
PC: Stylin By Sarita

8. Silk-Scarf Wrapped Bun for Instant Chic

Elevate your average bun to incredible heights by adding a silk scarf to the top. It is effortless, combining the low-maintenance, luxurious vibe of a black and white look with added elegance through a scarf. It is perfect for a hot summer day when you want to spruce up your outfit.

Simply wrap a brightly colored silk scarf around the top of the bun and tie it in a knot or bow, allowing for the ends to hang out. By adding a scarf around the bun, you’ll add another touch of color and sophistication, making this outfit perfect for brunch with friends, picnics in the park, or spending a day at the beach – the ultimate summer hack!

Silk Scarf Wrapped Bun for Instant Chic
PC: HOW TO WEAR Fashion

9. Twisted Low Ponytail That Beats the Heat

When it gets hot outside, a twisted low ponytail is the ultimate solution for keeping hair away from your face without sacrificing fashion. This style is streamlined, straightforward, and suits nearly any ensemble. To achieve the look, pull your hair into a low ponytail and twist strands of hair around the base before fastening them with an elastic.

The twist provides just enough detail to make this basic style unique. Whether you’re heading to work, a lunch date, or out for evening drinks, this look is effortless yet polished, making it perfect for any occasion.

Twisted Low Ponytail That Beats the Heat
PC: Talialacky

10. ’90s Claw Clip Updo Comeback

The claw clip updo is back and better than ever! This retro hairstyle has made a huge comeback, and for good reason—it’s easy, quick, and chic. Simply tie your hair up, twist it loosely, and clip it in place with a claw clip. That easy.

This works particularly well for second-day hair and is perfect for those summer days when you don’t want to fuss with your tresses. Wear a plain outfit for grabbing errands around town, or go a bit spunkier using colorful clips to add some visual interest. It’s a true throwback with modern-day cool.

'90s Claw Clip Updo Comeback
PC: Adison Justis

11. Effortless Salt Spray Waves

Whether your style is wild or structured, on a hot summer day, nothing is more refreshing than the combination of bright sunlight and the sea breeze invigorating your hair. Salt spray waves can be easily achieved, allowing you to capture the ease of your natural waves after a full day of sun, surf, and salt.

This look holds its meaning at work when it is created in much the same way – dampening the hair, scrunching with fingers, and allowing it to air dry.

[$nSalt spray creates texture and volume, with an effortless beachy look, that makes it easy on those hot summer days. Whether you are on the sand at the beach, by the pool, or strolling a lovely boardwalk, this lazy-haired look epitomizes summer and relaxation.

Effortless Salt Spray Waves
PC: Hair and Nails Lounge

12. No-Heat Braided Waves While You Sleep

The no-heat braided waves are the game-changer if you need fabulous waves without heat damage. Just braid your wet hair at night and wake up to silky, beachy waves in the morning. The best part about this hairstyle is that it’s easy and heat tool–free—just what you need for those sultry summer evenings when you want to air-dry your hair.

You can create tight braids for a more structured look or loose braids for a relaxed, boho vibe. These braids add body and texture to your locks, making them the perfect summer hairstyle for a healthy, effortless look.

No Heat Braided Waves While You Sleep
PC: Tiffany Zwicky

13. Wet Look Waves That Shout “Model Off Duty”

Wet-look waves are the epitome of he “model off duty” hairstyle.  It’s sleek, shiny, and chic all at once, giving off a freshly washed-hair vibe with gorgeous shine. To achieve the look, apply a texturizing gel or leave-in conditioner to damp hair and gently scrunch it with your hands for added volume and movement. 

The key to this look is that beachy, just-out-of-the-ocean shine, so don’t be shy on glossy products or serum for a shiny finish.  It’s perfect for everything from beach cocktails to dinners during your night out when you want to look effortlessly cool.

Wet Look Waves That Shout Model Off Duty
PC: A Beautiful Mess

14. Pineapple Updo for Slaying Curls

The pineapple updo is a must-try for those with curly hair. This high, playful, and flirty look keeps your curls out of your face, provides volume, and looks chic. To achieve the pineapple, take your curls to the crown of your head, similar to a high ponytail. Instead of tucking them in tightly, leave them loose to maintain your curl pattern.

Add a scrunchie or colorful elastic to finish the look. This style is ideal for warm summer days when you want to keep your hair out of the way while still showcasing those gorgeous curls. It’s fun, fresh, and fabulous.

Pineapple Updo for Slaying Curls
PC: Michelle Carmona

15. Diffused Curls That Bounce With Joy

For curl lovers, a diffuser is your best friend during the summer months. This product helps define your natural texture while taming frizz and adding volume. To style, apply your preferred curl-defining product to damp hair, then dry with the diffuser attachment of your blow dryer.

The outcome? Bouncy, lush curls that are soft, defined, and full of life. The diffuser helps your curls air dry naturally, producing a smooth, bouncy texture ideal for any summer event. From nights out with the girls to weddings this summer, these curls will always be a hit.

Diffused Curls That Bounce With Joy
PC: Active Athenas

16. Space Buns, But Make It Summer

Space buns are a fun, flirtatious hairstyle ideal for summer adventures. Follow these simple steps to achieve this style by combing your hair and creating mini buns on either side of your head (it can be messy or neat). If you’re feeling summery, you can add fun accessories, such as colored elastics, hair clips, or little flowers.

[$nThis style is best suited with hair that is a bit textured, so if you want, you can always add waves/curls first. Whether you are going to a pool party, music festival, or just spending a summer weekend lounging in the sun, space buns are the super cute, carefree summer look.

Space Buns, But Make It Summer
PC: zafariqbal

17. Half-Up Claw Clip for Relaxed Chic

A half-up claw clip is a classic hairstyle that’s ultra-chic and flattering to every face. It’s a great look when you want your face clear of hair but still want to emphasize your natural texture. Simply take the top half of your hair, pinch it, twist gently, and clip it up with a claw clip.

Remember, it’s supposed to be casual and laid back, not symmetrical perfection. You can wear it when you do not want the fuss of trying to keep everything together on really hot summer days. It’s best suited for all hair types, making it a staple for hot summer days.

Half Up Claw Clip for Relaxed Chic
PC: ManiVibe

18. Braided Half-Up for Boho Vibes

For a fast and effortless boho-chic hairstyle, the braided half-up works wonders. This effortless hairstyle has a basic braid or two at the crown area of your head, while your remaining hair is left loose. The braids provide texture and interest, but the loose, unstructured finish makes it easy and casual.

Throw on some beads, flowers, or other adornments to make it truly festival-ready! Whether attending a garden party or a beach bonfire, this look is an effortless way to capture those summer vibes with minimal effort but maximum impact.

Braided Half Up for Boho Vibes
PC: Diva Gaze

19. The Half-Up Top Knot We All Love

The half-up top knot is a classic favorite. It is a cute and playful hairstyle that is stylish and functional. If you want to pull your hair away from your face but still want a style that is fun, giddy, and adorable, the half-up top knot is for you.

All you need to do is pull the top portion of your hair up into a ponytail, twist it in the shape of a knot, and secure it with an elastic or bobby pins.  Let the rest of your hair down. This style looks good regardless of whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly. This style is suitable for everyone, for all occasions, and is both simple and practical. And cute too!

The Half Up Top Knot We All Love
PC: ChicHair Styles

20. Twisted Crown Half-Up: A Summer Fairytale

The twisted crown half-up hairstyle is perfect for when you want to feel like you’re in your very own fairytale. This style involves twisting pieces of hair from both sides of the head and pinning them up at the back to create the appearance of a crown.

The softness of the twists is very romantic, making it the perfect style for garden parties, weddings, or dates in warm weather.. And, of course, there are flowers and jeweled headpieces for added adornment… This style emits an otherworldly, whimsical feel with minimal effort. It’s the ultimate summer style for anyone looking to feel like royalty.

Twisted Crown Half Up A Summer Fairytale
PC: Hairstyles for everyday

21. The Power Pony: High, Sleek, and Bold

A Power Pony is a big, daring hairstyle that screams fabulousness. Picture long, shiny hair pulled up into a smooth, high ponytail with some volume. To create the Power Pony, be sure to use a good smoothing serum to eliminate any frizz, and then you will want a good quality, strong-hold hair elastic to pull your ponytail up high, on your head. You can tease the roots of the ponytail a little, so you get a bit of height, but if you want to go on and be glamorous, add in some clip-in extensions.

The Power Pony is perfect for all the hot summer days that you want to look cute without having your hair on your neck and sticking to your face. When I am running out the door for brunch or headed out at night, I know a Power Pony will give me a beautiful look while still letting me exude confidence.

The Power Pony High, Sleek, and Bold
PC: Natalie Yerger

22. Slicked Back Pony for That Clean-Girl Look

The slicked-back ponytail is the ultimate cool-girl chic, providing a crisp, polished appearance ideal for summer. This look is about smooth, shiny hair that remains in place throughout the day. To achieve the clean-girl look, apply a smoothing gel or pomade to push your hair back and banish flyaways.

Brush your hair into a tight ponytail at the back of your head, securing it with a hair tie. Complete it with bold accessories, such as gold hoop earrings and an oversized shade, for a carefree yet high-end look. It’s sleek, high-tech, and ideal for a sunny day out.

Slicked Back Pony for That Clean Girl Look
PC: Jacinthe Skiles

23. Bubble Ponytail That Bounces

The bubble ponytail is a fun and playful version of the classic ponytail, emphasizing texture and bounce. This style involves securing tiny sections of hair into “bubbles” along the length of your ponytail, giving it a whimsical, bouncy appearance. Pull a high or low ponytail to achieve the look, then use little elastics to create the bubble effect.

To give it an extra touch, you can top it off with brightly colored elastics or hair clips. It’s the ultimate hairstyle for a music festival day out, a girls’ brunch, or when you want to add a bit of extra happiness to your summer style.

Bubble Ponytail That Bounces
PC: tzero

24. Curls in the Sky Ponytail

The Curls in the Sky ponytail is about celebrating and flaunting your natural texture. This thick style collects your curls in a high ponytail, allowing your inner beauty to shine. The trick is to let your curls remain loose and bouncy, forming an effortlessly stylish silhouette that makes a head-turning statement.

You can sleek the top portion of your hair for a smooth finish, with curls flowing freely in the ponytail. This is the ideal summer style for anyone who enjoys celebrating their natural hair texture and desires to make the curls the center of attention.

Curls in the Sky Ponytail
PC: outfit Curator

25. Low Ribbon Ponytail for Romance on Repeat

For a delicate and feminine style, the low ribbon ponytail imparts a classy detail to your summer hairstyle. This romantic hairstyle involves ponying your hair low and fastening it with a satin or velvet ribbon of your choice. The ribbon creates a splash of color or texture, and it’s the perfect way to glam up an otherwise plain ponytail.

Whether you opt for pastel or go bold with red, this style is perfect for summer dates, garden parties, or brunch. It’s so romantic and stylish, emitting a relaxed, effortless aura that pairs perfectly with your go-to summer sundress.

Low Ribbon Ponytail for Romance on Repeat
PC: 다♡

26. Tousled Textured Bob That’s Totally In

The tousled textured bob epitomizes a low-fuss, high-fashion haircut ideal for summer. It’s a breezy, beachy cut with soft waves for added texture and movement. This cut is perfect for hot, muggy summers when you wouldn’t want anything longer than a fringe dragging on your face.

The secret to this style is applying a sea salt spray or texturizing mousse to add to your natural wave pattern. It’s an effortlessly stylish look that’s great for any event—casual beach days to dining out. And because the bob cut is versatile enough to style with straight or curly hair, you have an effortless, chic summer look.

Tousled Textured Bob That's Totally In
PC: Glam Haircuts

27. Pixie Cut + Headband = Retro Perfection

If you want to rock a retro-inspired look, the pixie cut with a headband is a must-try. This hairstyle combines the chic, short pixie cut with a wide band or scarf to add a touch of vintage glamour. The bold and playful pixie cut offers a modern, edgy look. Add fun print or soft fabric headbands to keep the look fresh and summery.

It’s the ultimate style-meets-functionality combo, keeping hair away from your face and providing a playful, retro flair. And it’s heat-free, no less, and ideal for those sweltering summer days when you don’t want to bother with your hair.

Pixie Cut + Headband = Retro Perfection
PC: ELLE Magazine (US)

28. Summer Shag That Delivers the Volume

The summer shag is a dramatic, voluminous cut that captures ’70s rockstar style with a contemporary twist. This curly or wavy style is all about layers, bounce, and body,  giving you a laid-back, textured style ideal for summer.

The trick to an excellent shag is making sure that the layers all blend nicely, giving the crown volume and the ends fullness.

This cut is great for both straight and curly hair. It gives you loads of personality and flow, ideal for a lively summer style. It’s perfect for those who adore volume, and it looks stunning with tousled beach waves and a relaxed summer vibe.

Summer Shag That Delivers the Volume
PC: Bangz Hair Designs

29. Blunt Bob With a Bold Part

The bold, right-blunt bob is a show-stopping, sharp haircut that makes a statement. This straight, geometric look features a blunt cut at the ends, resulting in a sleek, modern appearance. The dramatic part—whether a deep side part or a center part—adds visual appeal to the style. To the style

This sleek, sophisticated bob is perfect for anyone seeking a no-frills summer hairstyle. It. Suitable for both straight and curly hair, it can be styled with a little texture spray to add volume and definition. This cut is all about sleek lines and contemporary simplicity, so it’s a great, versatile, and stylish choice for summer.

Blunt Bob With a Bold Part
PC: ElegantEdgeCuts

30. Short Afro with Hair Jewelry That Glitters

Embrace your natural hair with a short afro that features metallic cuffs, clips, or a striking parting line. This style lets your curls glitter while introducing a bit of glamour with hair jewelry. The afro is a stunning, confident celebration of natural texture, and the hair accessories add the finishing touches to the look, making it ideal for special occasions or everyday glamour.

The metallic details reflect the light and add an extra shine to your crown, while the short cut keeps things cool and low-maintenance during the hot summer months. This style showcases your inner beauty and confidence with a radiant spirit in the most glamorous manner.

Short Afro with Hair Jewelry That Glitters
PC: Tee .H

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