Oh, summer! I love the sunshine and warm breezes, but let’s be real, the heat can turn even the best hair day into a frizzy mess. I remember one particularly humid August afternoon, trying to wrangle my hair into something presentable before meeting friends. It felt like a losing battle against the humidity! That’s when I really started exploring quick ways to get my hair up and off my neck.
Finding styles that are both easy and actually look good became my mission. Over the years, I’ve tried so many different techniques and products, working with all sorts of hair types in the salon. Trust me, I’ve seen it all!
That’s why I’m so excited to share these 16+ Quick Updo Ideas for Summer with you. We’ll dive into everything from super sleek knots that keep every strand in place to gorgeous braided styles that add a touch of romance. Whether you’re heading to the beach, a picnic, or just running errands, there’s an updo here that will keep you feeling cool and looking chic. Let’s banish those summer hair woes together!
Your Go-To Updos for Summer
Ready to beat the heat in style? I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite updos that are perfect for those hot summer days. These looks are quick to create and will keep you feeling cool and looking fabulous, no matter what your day holds.
17. The Simple Low Bun
This is such a classic for a reason! Just gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun. Secure it with an elastic or bobby pins. It works for everything from a casual beach day to a slightly dressier evening. I find it works best on medium to long hair. A little texturizing spray before you start can give it more grip and hold.
16. The Twisted Crown
I love how romantic this one feels! You take two sections of hair from the front, twist them back, and pin them together at the back of your head, making a sort of crown. It’s lovely for fine to medium hair. Just be sure to use enough bobby pins to keep it secure throughout the day.
15. The High Ponytail
Whether you go sleek and smooth or loose and messy, the high ponytail is full of energy. Just sweep your hair up high on your head and secure it with an elastic. It works for most hair lengths. I always keep a travel-size hairspray handy to tame any little flyaways.
14. The Space Buns
These are just plain fun! Part your hair down the middle, create two pigtails high on your head, and twist each one into a bun. They’re super trendy and work well if you have medium to long hair. Feeling extra playful? Add some glitter gel around the part or clip in some cute accessories.
13. The Braided Top Knot
This adds a little something extra to a regular top knot. Braid a section of hair, maybe from the front or underneath, and then incorporate it as you wrap your hair into a top knot. It works on lots of hair types. Gently pulling on the braid loops before you wrap it can make it look a bit fuller.
12. The Messy Bun with Tendrils
This is my go-to when I want something effortless. Just create a loose messy bun, and then pull out a few strands of hair around your face. It gives such a relaxed vibe and works for most hair types and lengths. Sometimes I’ll give the tendrils a quick curl with an iron for a more polished messy look.
11. The French Braid Updo
Start a French braid at the top of your head and braid down, then coil the end into a bun and pin it. It’s a classic that looks so elegant. This one works best on medium to long hair. If you want a softer feel, gently loosen the braid sections once it’s secured.
10. The Low Ponytail with a Twist
Simple but so chic. Pull your hair into a low ponytail, then take a small section and wrap it around the elastic, securing it with a pin. It adds a touch of sophistication and is great for medium to long hair. Make sure the pin is tucked underneath to hide the elastic completely.
9. The Half-Up Top Knot
Get the best of both worlds! Section off the top half of your hair and create a small top knot. It keeps hair off your face while letting some hang down. This works well for various lengths. Adding some texture spray to the loose hair can give it a nice wave.
8. The Bubble Ponytail Updo
This is such a cool, unique look! Create a high ponytail, then add elastics down the length, spaced a few inches apart. Gently pull the hair between the elastics to create “bubbles.” This looks best on long hair. Don’t be afraid to really pull those bubbles for volume!
7. The Side Braid Updo
Braid a section of hair on one side, then sweep all your hair to that side and create your updo, incorporating the braid. It adds a lovely asymmetrical touch. This can work on different lengths depending on how you finish the updo. Adding some decorative pins along the braid really elevates the look.
6. The Chignon
Pure timeless elegance. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a neat bun or knot. It’s perfect for more formal events or when you want a super polished look. Best for medium to long hair. A bun maker can give you a really smooth, perfect shape.
5. The Twisted Pigtails Updo
A cute and playful option. Part your hair in the middle, create two pigtails, and then twist each one up and pin it near your ears or higher. It works nicely on medium length hair. Fun decorative clips can add extra charm and help keep them secure.
4. The Knotted Ponytail
This is a modern twist on a classic. Create a ponytail, then literally tie a knot (or a couple!) with the hair before securing the ends. It looks so chic and works for medium to long hair. A good hairspray is key to keeping those knots in place.
3. The Braided Low Bun
Similar to the braided top knot, but lower down. Braid a section of hair, then gather all your hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a bun, incorporating the braid. It adds lovely texture and works well on medium to long hair. Gently loosening the braid and bun can make it appear fuller.
2. The Sleek High Bun
For a super polished look, gather your hair into a high ponytail and wrap it tightly around the base, securing with pins. You want it really smooth and neat. This is best for medium to long hair. Using a little gel or pomade along your hairline helps get that sleek finish.
1. The French Twist
This is a classic for a reason – it’s elegant and professional. Gather your hair as if making a low ponytail, then twist it upwards and tuck it inside itself vertically, securing with pins. It works well on medium to long hair. Don’t skimp on the bobby pins and hairspray to keep it from unraveling.
Frequently Asked Questions
I get asked a lot of questions about keeping hair looking good in the summer heat. Here are some common ones about these quick summer updos.
What updo is best for fine hair?
If you have fine hair, try updos that create the illusion of volume. The Twisted Crown is great because it adds texture at the top. A Messy Bun with Tendrils also works well. Focus on styles that don’t need a lot of hair to look full.
How can I make my updo last in summer humidity?
Humidity is the enemy of a perfect updo! Before styling, use an anti-humidity spray or serum. Once your updo is done, use a strong-hold hairspray. Make sure you use plenty of bobby pins to keep everything locked in place.
Are these updos suitable for short hair?
Some of these styles are definitely easier with medium to long hair. However, with enough bobby pins and maybe a little help from extensions, you can adapt styles like the Low Bun or a Half-Up Top Knot for shorter lengths. It just takes a bit more effort to tuck everything in.
Conclusion
So there you have it! A whole list of quick updos to keep your hair looking great and feeling cool all summer long. Don’t be afraid to play around and find which ones work best for your hair type and style. These looks prove that staying chic in the heat can be totally easy. Happy styling!
