Oh, summer! The sunshine, the longer days, the feeling of freedom… and the challenge of what to do with your hair when it’s hot and humid. I swear, some summer mornings I look in the mirror and my hair has decided to have a party all on its own, usually involving frizz and zero cooperation. Sound familiar? That’s exactly why I get so excited about easy summer hairstyles. We want to look cute, right? But we also want to spend zero time fussing when the temperatures climb. For me, the heroes of summer hair are definitely claw clips and those effortlessly cool beachy waves.
They just scream ‘summer vibes’ without the hour-long styling session. Over the years, I’ve tried pretty much every trick in the book to keep my hair looking decent from June to September. Some failed spectacularly (don’t ask about the time I tried a DIY humidity treatment involving kitchen ingredients!), but many others became my absolute go-tos.
That’s why I pulled together this list of over 17 easy summer hairstyles. Whether you’re heading to the beach, a backyard BBQ, or just running errands, there’s a quick and stylish option here for you. We’ll dive into some classic updos, explore the magic of claw clips, and yes, talk about how to get those perfect beachy waves without a ton of effort.
Your Ultimate Guide to Easy Summer Looks
Okay, let’s get into the good stuff! Here are my absolute favorite easy summer hairstyles. They are perfect for those hot days when you want your hair off your neck but still look put together. We’re starting with some quick wins and working our way up to my top recommendation. Think of these as your summer hair survival kit!
17. Simple High Ponytail
You can’t go wrong with a classic high ponytail. It’s my go-to when I have zero time. Pulling your hair up high instantly lifts your face. It’s incredibly practical for beating the heat. This style honestly works for almost everyone.
If you add a little hairspray to a brush, you can smooth down any bumps.
16. Braided Headband
This look gives off major bohemian vibes without much effort. You just take a small section of hair near your temple and braid it back. Pin it across the top of your head like a headband.
It’s great for festivals or just adding a cute touch to loose hair. Use a clear elastic at the end of the braid.
15. Messy Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
Ah, the messy bun! It looks effortless, like you just threw it up, but still stylish. Pull out a few pieces around your face to soften the look. This style is super forgiving and suits almost everyone.
To get that perfect messy texture, gently tug on sections of the bun.
14. Half-Up Top Knot
This is a quick way to get hair off your face while showing off your length. Gather the top half of your hair and twist it into a small bun on top of your head. It’s a fun, casual look that works well for medium to long hair.
Use a small elastic or a couple of bobby pins to keep it secure.
13. Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is playful and trendy. Start with a regular ponytail. Then, place elastics down the length of the ponytail every few inches. Gently pull apart each section to create a “bubble.”
It’s a fun look for casual days or even a summer party. Try using clear elastics for a seamless look.
12. Sleek Low Bun
When humidity hits, a sleek low bun is your best friend. Use a comb and some gel or serum to pull your hair back smoothly. Twist it into a tight bun at the nape of your neck. This look is polished and keeps every strand in place.
It works beautifully for formal occasions or just looking chic. A little hairspray on a toothbrush tames tiny flyaways.
11. Twist Back Half-Up
This style is simple and romantic. Grab a section of hair from each side of your face. Twist each section back towards the center of your head. Pin them together at the back.
It’s lovely for adding a touch of elegance to everyday hair. Use bobby pins that match your hair color to hide them.
10. Space Buns
Space buns are just plain fun! Part your hair down the middle. Create two high pigtails. Twist each pigtail into a bun on top of your head. Pin them in place.
This look is youthful and perfect for concerts or laid-back weekends. Make sure your pigtails are even before twisting for balanced buns.
9. Low Braided Ponytail
Adding a braid to a low ponytail makes it a bit more secure and interesting. Braid your hair first, then gather the braid and the rest of your hair into a low ponytail. It’s a nice twist on a simple style.
This is a great option for keeping longer hair tidy. Gently pull on the sides of the braid to make it look thicker.
8. Scarf Headband Style
Using a scarf as a headband is so versatile and adds a pop of color. Fold a scarf into a band. Tie it around your head, either over or under your hair. You can tie it at the nape of your neck or on top.
It’s a fantastic way to hide greasy roots or just add flair. Make sure to tie a knot that feels secure but isn’t too tight.
7. High Braided Ponytail
This is like the sporty cousin of the low braided ponytail. Start a braid high on your head, incorporating sections as you go. Once you reach the crown, gather the braid and the rest of your hair into a high ponytail. It looks sleek and stays put.
It’s perfect for working out or active summer days. Tease the hair at the crown slightly before starting the braid for more volume.
6. Half-Up with a Claw Clip
Claw clips! My summer loves. For a simple half-up, just gather the top half of your hair. Twist it once or twice. Clip it in place with a claw clip. It takes seconds and looks instantly chic.
This works for almost all hair lengths and textures. Don’t grab too much hair, or the clip might not hold.
5. Twisted Low Bun with a Claw Clip
This is a quick alternative to tying your hair with an elastic. Twist your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck. Instead of a hair tie, secure the twist with a medium to large claw clip. It’s a relaxed and stylish undo.
This is great for thicker hair that might break elastics easily. Place the clip vertically over the twisted section.
4. Full Updo with a Claw Clip
Yes, you can do a full updo with just a claw clip! Gather all your hair like you’re making a ponytail. Twist it up towards your head. Fold the ends down and clip the whole thing with a large claw clip. There are a few ways to twist, so play around!
This is a fast way to get all your hair up and off your neck. Make sure the clip is big enough to hold all your hair securely.
3. Sides Secured with Mini Claw Clips
Mini claw clips are adorable for pulling back small sections. Just grab a piece of hair from each side near your temples. Twist them slightly and clip them at the back. It’s a simple, decorative touch.
This is lovely for keeping hair out of your face on a breezy day. Choose clips that are small and lightweight.
2. Effortless Beachy Waves
Ah, the quintessential summer look! Beachy waves don’t have to be hard. After washing, apply a sea salt spray or texturizing mist. Scrunch your hair with your hands. You can air dry or use a diffuser on low heat.
This look is relaxed and beautiful and suits most hair types. Try braiding damp hair overnight for heat-free waves.
1. The Twisted Claw Clip Updo
This is my absolute favorite easy summer hairstyle. It’s simple, looks elegant, and takes less than a minute. Gather your hair into a low ponytail position. Twist the ponytail tightly. As you twist, wrap it up against your head. Secure the twist vertically with a medium to large claw clip. It’s a game changer for beating the heat in style.
This works for medium to long hair. Make sure the clip grips the twisted hair and sits flat against your head for the best hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
I get asked a lot about keeping summer styles looking good. Humidity is a real struggle, right? And finding the right products can feel overwhelming. Here are some common questions I hear and my best tips.
How can I make my summer hairstyle last in humidity?
Humidity is the enemy of a good hair day! My top tip is using anti-frizz products. Look for serums or sprays with silicones; they create a barrier. Also, choose humidity-resistant styles like sleek buns or braids. They just hold up better than loose curls.
What are the best products for achieving beachy waves?
For beachy waves, sea salt sprays are a classic for a reason. They add texture and hold. Texturizing mousses also work well, especially if you have finer hair. Apply them to damp hair before scrunching or air drying.
Are claw clips suitable for all hair types?
Yes, claw clips can work for almost everyone! The key is choosing the right size and strength. If you have thick, long hair, you’ll need a large, sturdy clip. Finer or shorter hair might only need a small or medium one. Test them out to see what holds best.
Find Your Perfect Summer Look
See? Summer hair doesn’t have to be a struggle! With these easy summer hairstyles, you can stay cool and look cute all season long. Don’t be afraid to experiment with claw clips or try different ways to get those beachy waves. Hair should be fun, especially in the summer!
Pick a few styles that caught your eye and give them a try. You’ve got this!
