Basic Summer Hair Styles

Ponybraid
Get a beach-worthy style!

When temperatures rise, many people start to consider flattering and easy to maintain summer hair styles. Whether you keep your hair long and work with varied updo or ponytail styles or opt for a short and sassy cropped cut that's sure to keep you cool, these fresh ideas are sure to inspire a new summer look.

Popular Summer Hair Styles

The following style ideas are popular choices for a variety of hair lengths and textures. Bear in mind that summer heat and humidity can wreak havoc on your hair, so consider your hair's texture when trying to beat the heat.

Ponytails and Pigtails

Ponytails may not be considered a style per se, but they certainly get the vote as the easiest and coolest look for medium and long hair. There are many ways to wear your hair in ponytails. Some looks lend a fun and casual vibe, while others can be office-appropriate or suited for formal occasions. Consider these simple ponytails and accessorize accordingly to enhance your summer style:

  • Top Knot: The top knot ponytail is a youthful choice. To create a high ponytail, simply bend at the waist and gather hair at the highest point on the crown. Affix with an elastic band and lightly mist with hairspray to smooth and prevent flyaway strands.
Top knot ponytail
Top knot ponytail
  • Side Ponytail: The side ponytail is sassy yet professional and can be worn when you need chic in a pinch. If your hair is long enough, you can affix several elastic bands at varied lengths to provide more control while imparting a sophisticated edge.
Side ponytail
Go for a playful side pony!
  • Classic: A classic ponytail is the easiest option to wear. To style a simple pony, brush all your hair to the nape of your neck and secure with an elastic band. Keep in mind both the classic and side ponytail work best for thicker hair types.
Classic ponytail
Classic ponytail
  • Braided Pigtails: If you're seeking a bohemian flirtatious style, consider braided pigtails. To create this sexy look, divide hair into three even sections, and wrap one side over the middle, and alternate to form a set of two playful braids.
Braided pigtails
Braided pigtails

Curly Styles

If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, fighting heat and humidity can pose a real hair challenge come summer. Rather than fight the wave, rely on styling products and tools to control and manage unruly textures. To fight frizz during humid months, apply a dollop of shine or frizz-control serum into the mid-section and ends of hair after washing. Comb through curls and apply a lightweight gel or mousse to add control. Air-dry or blow dry on low heat while sculpting curls.

Curly haired gals seeking unique summer hair styles should learn to love their precious curls and use them to their advantage. Many beachy looks need curl to look their best. Use headbands, barrettes, and bobby pins to sweep loose waves and curls away from the face in a windswept, haphazard fashion. Or, apply a lightweight gel from scalp to ends and twist large sections of the hair while wet. Air dry the twists and shake them out when dry. These playful summer styles are flirty and fun for curly hair and will help you work with your natural texture rather than fight it.

Curly hair with headband
Curly hair with headband

Cropped Styles

When deciding on a shorter style, remember that some looks may require more work than a casual summer lifestyle supports. The shorter you go the easier styling will be, so if you're ready to make the cut, it's basically an all or nothing commitment.

The most popular short style is the pixie cut. Made famous by Mia Farrow back in the '60s, this cut is perfect for summer and requires little attention. To keep your crop sassy, why not play with hair color? A solid platinum or jet black hue is sure to turn heads while you stay cool.

Blond pixie cut
Pixie cut

Add Some Color

No matter the style you choose, nothing screams summer like a fresh application of sun-kissed hair highlights. Book a visit with your stylist and summerize your style with a few well-placed highlights. For the most natural look, opt for just a few face framing pieces. If you hair is darker, stay within a couple shades of your natural tone for a very believable color.

Natural looking highlights on dark hair
Natural looking highlights on dark hair

Summer is a great time of year to embrace your natural texture and play with hair color. Stockpile your accessories to include scarves, playful hair elastics and bright, punchy colored bobby-pins and you're well on your way to creating a variety of carefree and breezy summer hair styles!

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Basic Summer Hair Styles