16 Easy Hairstyles for Hot Summer Days
When winter ends, many of us look forward to sunshine, beaches, and long summer days. But along with the fun comes heat, humidity, and sticky hair that can make even a backyard barbecue uncomfortable. Before rushing to the salon for a big haircut, try a few simple summer hairstyles instead. Easy styles that keep hair off your face, neck, and back can help you stay cool while still looking cute—and the best part is they don’t require hot tools like curling irons, blow dryers, or flat irons.
1. Braided Box Braids
Give your box braids a fresh twist by styling them into a chic, detailed braid. While it looks intricate and stylish, it’s actually a simple look created using your existing braids. Finish by securing the ends with clear or hair-colored elastics to keep the focus on the beautiful braided pattern.
2. Braided Ponytail
The secret to this style is starting with a ponytail before you braid. This keeps the braid secure and in place all day. For a relaxed vibe, pull out a few front pieces or bangs for a slightly messy look. If you prefer a sleeker finish, use a small amount of styling cream to smooth everything back.
3. Braided Crown
If you have long hair, part it into two sections and braid each side. Then wrap the braids around your head and pin them in place to create a crown-like style. If your hair is shorter, try a Dutch braid on each side instead. Simply part your hair down the middle, braid both sides from the top, and secure the ends with elastics for a similar look.
4. Pulled-Back Knotless Box Braids
For a little extra flair, pull your braids into a wrap-around ponytail. It’s an easy way to keep hair out of your face while still showing off your braids. If you prefer a cleaner look, gather them into a sleek high ponytail for a polished, effortless style.
5. Low Slicked-Back Twisted Bun
To create this sleek bun, start by applying styling cream and gathering your hair into a low ponytail at the back of your head. Twist the ponytail clockwise, then wrap it around itself to form a bun and secure it with pins.
6. Space Buns
Space buns are one of the easiest hairstyles to create and have remained a timeless favorite. Simply part your hair and form two small buns on either side of your head, securing them with elastics or bobby pins. A middle part works best, but you can also experiment with different placements for a fun twist.
7. Twisted Top Knot
A sleek top knot is a go-to hairstyle that looks polished and works with almost any hair type. Brush your hair up to the crown of your head, using a little styling gel to smooth out bumps. Secure it into a tight ponytail, then twist the hair around itself to form a bun and pin it in place.
8. Braided Bun
This hairstyle gives a stylish upgrade to a simple low messy bun. Start with a side part, then create a French braid from the crown toward the back of your head, stopping where you want the bun to sit. Gather the remaining hair and form a messy bun, securing it with an elastic and a few bobby pins.
9. Bubble Pony
Start with a classic ponytail—high, mid, or low depending on your preference. A few inches below the first hair tie, add another elastic, then continue placing elastics every few inches down the ponytail until you reach the ends. Adjust the spacing based on the look you want and your hair texture.
10. Sleek Low Pony With Accessory
Ponytails are a favorite because they’re simple and versatile. Brush your hair back to smooth any bumps, using a little styling cream for a sleeker finish. Gather it at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic, then add a clip, pin, or scrunchie for a stylish touch. This look works well on straight hair and also looks great on wavy, curly, or coily hair for extra volume.
11. High Pony
For the perfect high ponytail, brush your hair back and secure it tightly with an elastic. To add extra volume, place a bobby pin at the base of the ponytail with the open end pointing upward. Your hair will cover the pin, but it will subtly lift the ponytail and keep it looking fuller throughout the day.
12. Messy Wrapped Ponytail
This ponytail is perfect for second-day hair because it lets your natural texture or leftover curls shine. Pull your hair back into a ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic without worrying about making it perfectly sleek. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it, pin the end underneath with a bobby pin, and finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep the style in place.
13. Chignon With Clip
This style is a modern twist on the classic French twist. Pull one side of your hair back and secure it with a few bobby pins. Then twist the other side over the pinned section and hold it in place with a claw clip or decorative hair pins. Tuck in loose pieces for a polished look or leave a few strands out for a relaxed finish.
14.’60s-Style Braided Chignon
This retro-inspired style is perfect for short hair, which often has fewer updo options. Start by creating small braids on each side of your head and securing them with elastics. Pull the hair back behind your ears, bring the braids toward the back of your head, and pin them in place. Finish by gently lifting the hair above the braids with a rat-tail comb to add soft, ’60s-inspired volume.
15. Twisted Up-Do
This simple updo looks elegant with minimal effort. Pull your hair back into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Create a small opening at the base, then flip the ponytail through it to form a soft twist. Leave it as is or add a hair accessory to hide the elastic for a more polished look.
16. Curly High Puff
The curly puff is a quick, easy style for natural hair that keeps it off your neck and out of your face. Start by pulling the top section into a temporary ponytail while you smooth your edges and brush your hair back. Lightly comb through your curls with water, apply pomade, and brush everything down. Secure your hair with a snap hair tie to form the puff, then fluff your curls for volume and finish with your favorite accessories.
