Summer Hairstyles for Long Hair 2025 That’ll Keep You Cute (and Cool) All Season

Temperatures are soaring, dresses are getting shorter, and our hair? It’s begging for something fresh, playful, and low-effort-beautiful. So what do you do when your long locks start sticking to your neck and your style inspiration runs dry? You turn to braids, waves, texture, and twisty magic — and let this season’s freshest looks lead the way. In this post, I’m walking you through summer hairstyles for long hair 2025 that not only scream effortless charm but also feel like a glass of rosé in the sunshine — chilled, pretty, and just what you needed.

Whether you’re heading to a beach wedding, a rooftop brunch, or just want to look like the most put-together girl at the grocery store, these long summer styles are here to inspire your next look. Let’s dive in, and trust me — your ponytail will thank you.

Textured Loose Braid with Crown Twist

There’s something wildly romantic about a loose, voluminous braid that feels like it could’ve been whipped up during a lazy golden hour. This one pairs a dramatic, tousled braid with a softly twisted crown section that wraps the hair diagonally from one side. It gives the whole look a fantasy-meets-runway edge, while still being breezy enough for summer days.

If your hair tends to fall flat in humidity (hello, every July afternoon), I always prep mine with a dry texture spray like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray before braiding. It gives just enough grip to hold a chunky plait, without sacrificing that undone softness we love this time of year.

I wore a similar style last summer on a weekend trip to Charleston, and I had more people ask me about my hair than about my outfit — which is saying something, because I was wearing satin. That off-duty mix of structure and softness hits different.

To give it more staying power, hairstylist Kristin Ess recommends gently tugging the braid loops once it’s secured — “pancaking” the braid creates that thick, lived-in finish that’s pure summer magic.

Half-Up Twisted Waves in Caramel Copper

This sun-drenched caramel copper color immediately caught my breath — it’s rich, dimensional, and basically bottled summer. The loose waves look casually elegant, and the half-up twisted section feels playful without trying too hard. The top has just the right amount of volume to elongate the crown, while the lower waves keep everything soft and romantic.

For color like this, upkeep is all about moisture. I personally rely on Redken Color Extend Magnetics Conditioner, which keeps those honey-copper notes looking radiant and prevents the color from dulling out after sun exposure.

What I love most about this style is that it works for literally anything — dressed up with statement earrings or toned down with a beachy linen set. The half-up twist feels young but not juvenile, and the way it opens up your face is just chef’s kiss.

Sometimes, the trick isn’t changing your cut — it’s styling what you already have in a way that makes you fall in love with it again.

Sleek Braided Pony with Side-Swept Front

Here’s the thing: sleek doesn’t have to mean stiff. This braid is clean and polished but softened by the sweeping front section that curves naturally into the braid’s base. The braid itself has a classic thickness, tied all the way down with a modern finish that feels subtly elevated.

I usually recommend a smoothing serum for styles like this. My go-to is Color Wow Dream Coat, which creates a frizz-proof, glassy shine — basically the holy grail when you’re styling sleek braids during hot months.

To me, this is one of those go-to summer hairstyles for long hair 2025 that you’ll find yourself doing over and over. It’s quick but looks like you put effort in, and it holds up during sweaty concerts, chaotic errands, or breezy dinner dates.

If your hair frizzes at the mere mention of humidity, this one’s for you.

Double Braided Bubble Ponytails

Okay, can we talk about the fun here? This is summer hair that doesn’t take itself too seriously — structured cornrows along the scalp feed into ultra-smooth bubble ponytails. It’s youthful but fierce, and there’s just something about this look that screams festival-ready or poolside-glam (depending on your vibe).

This style is all about tension and hold — so I reach for GOT2B Glued Styling Spiking Gel when I want those bubbles and braids to last from brunch to sunset. A little gel on the baby hairs makes all the difference in finishing the look.

If you’ve never tried bubble braids, this summer is the moment. They’re high-impact without needing perfect braiding skills, and they instantly lift your whole look.

Celebrity stylist Justine Marjan recommends separating each bubble with mini clear elastics and then gently tugging to get that fuller effect — it’s simple, but it changes everything.

Double Crown Braids with Loose Waves

When you want to look pretty-pretty, but still chill enough to order takeout — this is the hairstyle. The double mini crown braids along the hairline are feminine, a little boho, and frame the face beautifully. Paired with those flowing waves? It’s giving ethereal Pinterest queen in the best way possible.

Keeping waves bouncy during high heat can feel like a losing battle. I swear by Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream even on straight hair, just to add hold and reduce that mid-day flop. It’s lightweight but powerful — and smells divine.

Some days I do this style when I want to feel like my best self but don’t have time to figure out my outfit. It just sets the tone — soft, pretty, easy.

Let’s be real, some braids make you feel like a girl in a fairytale. And isn’t that what summer’s about, anyway?

Voluminous Double Braids with Free-Flow Ends

This is the final salute to that laid back, sun-kissed summer look. The thick, softly structured double braids are divided in the middle and tied off right before the ends – allowing the last few inches to fall freely. This is a combo of polish and undone texture that has something undeniably playful about it, especially with the strands framing the face. It’s part festival-girl, part midsummer goddess.

I always comb a wide-tooth comb through before braiding to retain my natural wave pattern, then lightly pancake each braid for fullness. For hold without stiffness, Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine adds just enough sheen and control — especially useful if you’re planning to wear this look all day (or dance the night away).

I wore this look to an outdoor flea market last July and I swear I felt like the lead character in a coming-of-age movie. It’s just different when your hair compliments the vibe.

One thing I might do differently next time? Add some little hair rings or charms to the braid for that Y2K boho look. This style is an excellent canvas for a touch of flair.

Tight Dutch Braids with a Sleek Finish

Taut, tidy, and boldly confident – these paralleled Dutch braids add structure and sleekness to long summer hair without being too severe. The manner in which they embrace the scalp and fall into silky plaits makes it ideal for busy days when you still want to serve a look. I love the clean feeling of it, and yet there is softness in the parted front and tucked-in strands.

If you’re going for the longevity and shine, my trick is to start with OUAI Leave-In Conditioner on damp hair, then seal the braids with a light oil like Verb Ghost Oil to tame the frizz. It gives that glassy braid finish without looking greasy.

What I love the most is the way this style combines function and fashion. Whether I’m on my way to yoga, hitting errands, or getting into summer travel mode, I know it’ll stay put and still look intentional.

A great tip from celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan? Turn your braids under as you go and gently pull the outer edges when you’re done — it’s the illusion of fullness without loosening the base.

High Pony with Ribbon Waves and Sleek Crown

This slick ponytail is an entirely new definition of “power move”. High, tight at the crown and falling into perfect ribbon-like waves, it’s polished but subtly romantic. The clean part and slicked sides take the silhouette higher, while the loose tendrils at the front soften the look just enough to make it wearable in real life – not just on red carpets.

For this type of hold, I’m fanatical about applying Living Proof No Frizz Humidity Shield before heat styling. It tames flyaways and keeps waves in check, even in 90-degree weather, which, let’s face it, is a pretty real summer situation.

It is very gratifying to flip this pony over your shoulder. It makes you stand taller. I wore a version of this to a rooftop birthday dinner and ended up on everyone’s story — the movement just looks incredible in video.

This is the type of ponytail that attracts attention without shouting for it. Clean. Confident. Effortless.

Twisted Half-Up Waves with Chocolate Gloss

This hairstyle is soft elegance at its finest. Twisted sections pull away from the temples and pin up into a loose half-up style that falls into rich chocolate waves that are thick and airy. The color is hypnotic all by itself – glossy and dimensional and it plays beautifully with summer sunlight. It’s romantic, wearable, and whispering “let’s go somewhere special.”

For such a shiny hair, I always rely on Amika Flash Instant Shine Mask once a week. It’s my secret to getting that “just-stepped-out-of-a-salon” vibe without spending the money every time.

What makes this style a win for me is the fact that it looks so low-maintenance — when it’s actually quite easy. A few twists, some soft curls, and you are that girl who looks like she has just stepped out of the hair salon.

It’s a perfect date night or family BBQ hairstyle. It’s dressy, but not demanding – and that’s the sweet spot I always try to hit with long summer hair.

Half-Up Side Bun with Waterfall Braid

This half-up style has a whimsical energy that is as if from a sunlit backyard picnic. A side bun is neatly wrapped around at the back, a waterfall braid flows into it from the crown – intricate but relaxed, structured yet sweet. This one is a crowd-pleaser in the summer, especially when you want to keep the hair out of your face but still make it fun.

To keep that voluminous braid and bun, I like to apply Not Your Mother’s Plump for Joy Mousse on damp roots — it adds structure without crunch. Add more texture with a misting of IGK Beach Club Texture Spray to complete the look.

What I adore is the playfulness here. It’s the sort of style you toss in for brunch and then keep on through golden hour because it just feels right. Comfortable, secure, and cute.

Truly, every summer should have that one hairstyle that makes you feel like you’re in your soft girl era, and this one may be it.

Ribbon-Tied Braid with Soft Half-Up Texture

This braid is the definition of delicate charm. Against softly tousled waves, the centered braid cascades from a half-up section and ends with a petite white ribbon that gives it an instant romance. It’s a little but worth it — the summer’s equivalent of a handwritten note. The overall texture is feather-light and the braid is a visual focal point without overwhelming the look.

I’ve discovered that this type of gaze is most effective when the hair isn’t just out of the shower — the natural texture will help the braid grab and lend the style a little lived-in nonchalance. When I want to bring it back to life midweek, I spray Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk for volume and touchable hold.

At times I do this style when I want to be a bit more put-together while still keeping my casual look. The ribbon is a little thing that brings joy – like a quiet reminder of childhood summers, but all grown-up.

This one is for the dreamers, the coffee sippers, and those who want to have a soft-girl moment under the wide-brimmed hat.

Crown Braid with Glossy Summer Waves

There is a reason why crown braids are back every season – they are timeless, face-framing, and simply feel regal. This one goes across the head at the back of the hairline, and the rest of the long hair falls in thick, glossy curls. It’s the kind of style you could wear to a midsummer garden party or just while running errands and pretending your life is a Jane Austen novel (guilty).

To maintain those waves juicy and defined, I apply Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Curl Defining Jelly, even if my hair is naturally wavy, it helps me to shape without crunch. A little of this on wet hair and a diffuser will take you far.

To be honest, this style makes me feel like I’ve got secrets – the good kind. Hair that is this soft and sculpted at the same time has a certain quiet power to it.

If you’ve been in need of something whimsical but wearable, this is your sign. And yes, it photographs beautifully from every angle.

Intricate Twisted Chignon for Golden Evenings

This updo is pure elegance with a modern softness. The twisted chignon is constructed out of thick, layered sections that are lightly pulled and wrapped to create dimension and texture, with a few tendrils that fall loosely to soften the neckline. It’s romantic, but not fussy. Formal, but not rigid. Ideal for warm summer evenings, but especially if worn with drop earrings or a backless dress.

I always prep my hair with Kenra Volume Spray 25 before doing such updos. It’s strong, but allows you to work with the hair, which is crucial for all those little adjustments after you’ve pinned the base.

This look brings me back to late summer weddings – that golden hour lighting, the buzz of conversation, the desire to stay for a little while longer. It’s that moment, turned into a hairstyle.

If you’ve been scratching your head wondering what to wear to that end-of-July wedding, this may be the crown you didn’t know you needed.

Curly Summer Bun with Fresh Floral Accent

Talk about joy in a hairstyle – this curly updo has bounce, texture, and a naughty twist of sunshine courtesy of that fresh floral pin. The curls are stacked into a voluptuous bun that honors natural shape with wispy strands framing the face. It’s carefree, cool, and bursting with personality.

Curly hair requires moisture in order to flourish, particularly in the heat. I am in love with Pattern by Tracee Ellis Ross Leave-In Conditioner to maintain curls defined and frizz-free, but without weighing them down. It prepares the hair so that the bun keeps its shape but feels light.

The yellow flower adds that perfect dopamine pop. It doesn’t matter if it’s a real bloom or a fun clip, don’t underestimate the mood boost that comes from sticking a flower in your hair.

It’s messy in the best way; a little wild, a little soft, but totally unforgettable.

Structured Crown Bun with Looped Texture

This is the type of hairdo that enters a room before you do. The formal crown bun is high and full, shaped with large looped twists that pile into a rich, elegant shape. A side-swept bang and several curled tendrils add a soft touch to the look, offsetting the drama of the updo with a down-to-earth femininity.

To make this sort of structure stand up to the heat, I swear by Tresemmé Tres Two Extra Hold Hairspray and a couple of inconspicuous U-pins. Set it once and it’s set in stone — great for evening affairs or those summer nights when dancing is a given.

This look gives me a little more togetherness than I am likely to be. I’ve worn variations of this to rooftop dinners, late night gallery hops, and even to host friends at home, it just ups your game without trying too hard.

It’s class with an attitude — and isn’t that what we’re always after?

Sleek Dutch Side Braids for Subtle Summer Edge

This style is so wonderfully surprising – it brings the right pinch of detail without shouting for attention. It begins with a clean center part, but what really makes it feel fresh are those tightly woven Dutch braids that are close to the scalp, just above the temple. Everything else is kept sleek and straight, so that the texture of the braid can pop. I am a fan of this type of look for when I am aiming for “laid-back but make it memorable”.

I tend to avoid heavy styling products when I wear this, as it is all about softness, but I will prep my roots with IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray. It adds a little bit of polish without making my scalp greasy or weighing down the braid. Plus, it’s heat-protectant heaven.

If you have never tried such side braids, you will be amazed at how different it feels. It’s doing model-off-duty at a coffee run with a touch of festival flair. Actually one of my favourite looks when I want to channel that cool-girl confidence without trying too hard.

This style is also genius for growing out bangs or framing layers. It hides them in a way, but makes them a feature. Unexpected? Maybe. Essential? Definitely.

Romantic Waves and a Sunset-Worthy Flower Clip

There is something about the tousled waves and a warm breeze that just seems right. In this, the crown sections are loosely twisted and pinned back to create a soft half-up style that opens up to loose, sun-kissed waves. The oversized tropical flower clip? That’s the mic drop. This is one of those summer hairstyles for long hair 2025 that remind me of oceanside dinners and SPF-slicked shoulders.

To keep these beachy waves looking fresh (and not frizzy), I reach for Bumble and Bumble Surf Styling Leave In—it’s part sea salt mist, part hydration hero. It helps to keep the shape but still allows the hair to breathe, which is a must for summer days that turn into nights.

There is a dreamy quality to this hairstyle, like a romantic daydream. When I put it on, I instantly become more open, more floaty. It’s like a wearable version of golden hour. And if you’re wondering whether the flower clip is “too much?” It’s not. It’s just enough.

The best part? This works on day-two hair. In fact, the more lived in the waves are, the better it looks. You don’t have to have perfect curls, you just need a little texture and some summer confidence.

Soft Twist Crown with Braid and Bloom

If you’re into soft structure (and maybe you also binge period dramas in your spare time), this one’s going to be your new favorite. Two crown twists come together at the back and are braided together and held together with a bright white flower clip. There’s romance, there’s order, but it’s casual enough for day adventures. This is the sort of summer hairstyles for long hair 2025 inspo I gather throughout the year for the wedding season and garden brunches.

It is better to use a flexible hold styling cream when twisting the hair – Ouai Matte Pomade is my favorite. It gives grip so the twists don’t come undone and gives the braid a little more chunk without crunching it up.

I wore this to a friend’s engagement dinner last summer and I got so many “Did you get this done professionally?” comments. No, just my fingers, a bit of patience and the right product.

This would also be awesome with soft peach-toned makeup and linen dresses. The flower clip’s not optional. It is the final touch that completes the whole story.

Side-Swept Fishtail Braided Half-Up

Braids and waves crash together, and you have this breezy, boho-glam look. A chunky fishtail braid on one side is swept back into a loose half-up pony with the ends in soft spirals that fall down. It’s giving Malibu with a side of mystery. Perfect for a summer concert, or just when you’re feeling extra.

This one requires a little more work so I always prep with Drybar Prep Rally Prime & Prep Detangler before I even touch a brush. It makes everything smooth so that I can section and braid without tangles. A light mist of hairspray will ensure the braid stays in place even if the night gets a little wild.

I used to be scared of fishtail braids, but once you get the hang of it, it’s almost meditative, relaxing. Plus, they photograph beautifully. Like, pause your scroll beautifully.

If your hair is good at holding curl, you can be less vigorous in styling. If not, wrap some of them around a 1.25-inch curling wand after the braid to add that lived-in luxe.

Split and Tied Double Ponytail with Loose Waves

Okay, this is the cool-girl take on a regular ponytail, and I am all for it. The hair is parted down the middle and tied off into two low ponies, wrapped with strands of hair for a smooth finish. What makes it pop? The tousled waves running through both lengths. It’s fun, it’s cute, and it’s absolutely effective with second or even third-day hair.

This style works best with a little bit of volume at the crown, so I like to use Kristin Ess Dry Finish Working Texture Spray to lift the roots and give that barely-there piecey texture. If your hair is super straight, a flat iron wave hack can instantly give your hair dimension.

Double ponytails have a sweetly nostalgic feel to them, but this is the adult version. I love it for casual hangs, trips to the grocery store, or a no-fuss, no-muss date night – hoops and a lipstick to make a statement.

You could absolutely stick some pearl bobby pins into the base or use color-coordinated elastics. Minimal effort, maximum energy.

Glossy Half-Up with a Minimalist Clip

There is a certain quiet luxury to a hairdo like this. Deep, rich waves are gently curled and then pulled back into a half-up moment that’s pinned with a minimalist gold barrette. It’s elegant but pared-back, like something you’d wear for a lakeside walk or a breezy rooftop lunch. The glossy finish makes this go from “just styled” to styled and thriving.

For shine and hold, I am obsessed with running a little Moroccanoil Treatment Light through damp hair pre blow dry. It provides that silky finish without being over the top, especially for darker shades that are not as reflective of light.

This one is a go-to for me if I want to look put together with minimal effort. It is best on day-two hair that has a little bit of natural bend to it, so zero heat tools required if you’ve already got texture.

Bonus: it is easy to dress this up with a silk sundress or down with a tank and jeans. The clip does all the heavy lifting.

Effortless Twist-Up with a Chunky Claw Clip

Summer sometimes requires something a little undone – and this twist-up with a tortoiseshell claw clip is just that. Soft pieces come loose while the rest is loosely collected and twisted upwards, held in place by that chunky accessory we all have at the bottom of our beach bag. This is heatwave chic, and I’m obsessed.

This look thrives on messy texture. I generally spray Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray before I twist it up – it gives me grip and grit without any crunch. That way, the twist is secured and those soft tendrils are not too polished.

This has become my default when I’m rushing out of the door, but I want to look styled. The best part? You don’t even need a mirror to nail it.

If you’re someone who runs warm or hates hair sticking to your neck, this style is your savior. You get the updo, the lift, the volume – and all without pins.

Messy Summer Updo with Face-Framing Bangs

This updo is pure romance. Messy yet sculpted, with light volume and tendrils in the perfect places around the face – it’s the type of hair that seems like you threw it up in the middle of a laugh, but it’s art. The loose curls and the soft height at the crown give it an eternal look.

I always use L’Oréal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray on this kind of updo. It provides hold that will stay in humidity but you can comb through it later without stickiness.

This is the look I resort to when I want to feel a little bit more. It’s perfect for weddings, date nights, or any place where you’d like to be a bit more elevated without being “done”. Moreover, it’s quite simple to make it with a couple of hair pins and a nice texturizer.

If you have face-framing layers or curtain bangs – this is your time. Let them float free and feel the instant glam.

Knotted Half-Up Waves That Scream Summer

This style is sunshine bottled. Honey-blonde waves cascade in soft curves down the back, and the top is twisted and knotted at the back – like a hair ribbon. It’s breezy, flattering and it’s like being in a Pinterest daydream. Total summer hairstyles for long hair 2025 energy.

I’ll prep this look with Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray to add the easy, wind-swept finish to the waves. It’s cheap, smells like vacation, and enhances natural highlights in blonde tones.

What I love about this look is that it is casual but curated. The knot detail adds visual interest without overthinking things. I wear this when I want to look put together, but not try too hard.

This style goes perfectly with swimsuits, sundresses, and even oversized button-downs. Think “minimal effort, maximum charm.” You’ll definitely get compliments.

Double Braids and a Velvet Bow Moment

This one is like a small fashion story on its own. Two crisp braids are taken from the top and pinned back, leaving the rest of the hair to fall sleek and straight. But the star here? That huge black velvet bow – it does this from sweet to iconic in a heartbeat.

When I want my braids to look neat and shiny, I always prep with Gisou Honey Infused Leave-In Conditioner. It tames flyaways and gives a bit of weight, so the braids don’t puff out, especially in dry heat.

This aesthetic provides me with balletcore meets the French picnic vibes, and I am all for it. It’s fun but not cutesy and the bow just makes it all the more perfect. I love to match it with anything off-shoulder or romantic black pieces.

Want to elevate it even more? Add a spritz of perfume to the bow’s ribbon. Trust me—it’s magic.