When it’s hot and the air is fresh, why would anyone want to spend hours curling their hair? That’s why I put together this list of summer simple hairstyles for 2025 — so you can have something easy, elegant and truly your own.
These styles aren’t just low-effort; they’re high-impact. They feel like warm nights and iced drinks. Consider: what it means to be the perfect wedding guest, how to look your best at brunch or how to shine on a beach date. Let’s walk through some fresh ideas that deliver that “Oh, I just threw this together” energy… even when you totally didn’t.
Braided Crown Waves
A layered wave effect on the back and a crown made from thick, braided strands? That’s the stuff summer dreams are made of. It’s a romantic style, but it’s also something you could wear to an outdoor baby shower or dinner. The braid is placed across the back, resembling a halo and sits on top of soft, wavy hair. It’s not complicated, but it’s well-planned — and it blends order and comfort perfectly.
Now, let’s talk maintenance. To keep those waves silky and that braid from frizzing out by noon, I recommend using a heat-protective wave spray (I’m obsessed with the Bumble and Bumble Surf Styling Leave In) and a light oil like Verb Ghost Oil to seal everything in. Braids need moisture to stay sleek, especially when the humidity is wild.
To be honest, this is what I turn to when I want to look nice without making an effort. It’s a go-to for weddings, picnics, or even just because I want to feel pretty running errands. It also keeps my hair out of my face, but it doesn’t feel overdone.
If your hair has a bit of natural texture or you’re willing to sleep in loose braids for heatless waves — this one’s a no-brainer. If you want a cottagecore look, add a sprig of baby’s breath or a satin ribbon.
Textured Low Twist Bun
This low bun with a twisted finish is the kind of style that makes you look put-together even when you’re late and haven’t washed your hair in three days (been there). The chignon has interest thanks to the hair twist, even while it’s still orderly and elegant. It’s clean but not stiff, soft but not messy — ideal for everything from office days to rooftop cocktails.
A smoothing cream is the best product for achieving a smooth, soft base. I’ve been enjoying the Living Proof No Frizz Smooth Styling Cream because it gives me a flexible hold without making my hair crunchy. A shine serum on top seals the deal (literally) and keeps everything looking glossy, not greasy.
This is my trick: I go for this look when I want to wear big earrings and a bold lip. It’s a blank slate, so your accessories or makeup can really stand out. And in the summer? That’s the vibe.
Shoulder length or longer hair will let you style it just like this in less than five minutes. Pin strategically, tuck ends, and you’re golden.
Polished Ballet Bun with Ombre Shine
This summer hairstyle for 2025 is sure to make people think you have expensive taste. This center-parted, very smooth ballet bun seems like it needs a full glam squad, but it’s actually quite easy to do. The reason it’s special is the butter-blonde ombré that fades into soft ash ends. It’s simple, elegant and looks like a ballerina on holiday in the Hamptons.
For a high shine, you should start by applying a smoothing serum. Give Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray a try — it gives your hair a glass-like finish. Use a boar bristle brush next to make your hair look very sleek and tight.
I really like how wearing this look makes me feel like I’m taller, thinner and more graceful. When it’s hot and I still want to look elegant, I put it on for a fancy dinner or gallery opening.
According to Justine Marjan, a clean toothbrush sprayed with hairspray is a great way to keep flyaways under control. Game-changer.
Romantic French Roll Twist
The classic French twist is now a little more relaxed and I love it. This style is marked by soft curves and a tucked-under back that looks lovely, not old-fashioned. Its texture, fullness and easy style make it ideal for today’s events, whether you’re at a summer wedding, on a date or at a surprise party.
Don’t skip the prep here: voluminous dry shampoo or texturizing spray (I recommend Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray) will help you get that teased, softly lifted crown before you twist. Just pin the fabric wherever you like and don’t worry too much about the arrangement — that’s what makes it charming.
I often choose this style when I want to feel as if I’m the star in an old movie. It still has the classic Hollywood charm, but it’s now softened by the year 2025. Take a few tendrils around the face to maintain a relaxed look.
If you want a classic look that also gets you compliments from people you don’t know… this is the perfect choice.
Minimalist Low Ponytail
A low ponytail doesn’t have to be fancy to be chic and stunning. The trick is the hair-wrapped band which gives the look that effortless, model-off-duty style. It’s clean. It’s sharp. It’s powerful. It looks great at work as well as at a gala.
For frizz free and shiny results, apply a smoothing balm and keep everything in place with a flat iron. Pull your ponytail into a tight band, wrap a narrow strand of hair over it and stick a pin underneath.
Honestly? I pick this up when I want something easy but still want to look put together. It just oozes confidence — I didn’t need anything else, just this. It also holds up well in heat and wind (hello, beach weddings).
Choose an eye-catching earring or an eye-catching backless dress, because this should be your focus.
Romantic Waterfall Braid with Loose Waves
There’s always a special charm to a hairstyle with half-up soft waves and braids. This version? A unique braid that looks dreamy yet fits right in with summer’s easygoing mood. These highlights and waves measuring up to sunset weddings and romantic dinners surrounded by candles in gardens. I enjoy the way the braid keeps some hair back and leaves the rest hanging loose around the face.
I use a wide-barrel curling wand to curl the ends, then spray on a salt spray such as Ouai Wave Spray which adds texture but doesn’t leave hair stiff. A flexible-hold hairspray helps the braid stay in place while you dance, sweat or feel the summer breeze.
This one’s close to my heart. I go for this look when I want to feel both dreamy and relaxed, but not too overdone or ignored. The atmosphere feels like someone tried to look nice… just a little while back.
What would make this even better? A small floral clip or a few tiny pearl pins in the braid — they’re hardly noticeable, but very memorable.
Lifted Half-Up Volume with Soft Waves
If you’ve ever wanted to bottle up that sultry ’60s energy and bring it to brunch, this style is the answer. Pulling half your hair up with a little teasing at the crown gives it height and the curled ends add some sparkle. The mix of that rich espresso brown and the rest of the outfit is making it both fashionable and nostalgic.
I start with a root lift spray — I like Amika’s Brooklyn Bombshell because it’s light and strong — and then finish with a light mist of hairspray after I’ve styled my hair. You should gently lift the hair at the top and tie it loosely to maintain a soft, not stiff, effect.
I choose this hairstyle when I want to be noticed quietly. The framework is secure, but it doesn’t call attention to itself. It’s more of a wink — subtle, playful, intentional.
A few pieces falling in front can enhance your look, so you’re all set. Trust me — this one photographs so well.
Knotted Half-Up Casual Twist
This style is what you’d wear if the summer’s lazy Sunday bun had a sister. It’s simple, uncomplicated and goes great with a tank top and a cold latte. A knot highlights the look and the remaining hair is left loose and popping with airy, unfinished waves.
This time, I avoid heat tools and just use a texture spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Soft Waves, scrunching it into damp hair and letting it dry naturally. It’s low-maintenance, frizz-resistant, and ideal for keeping things natural.
I prefer this look when I’m not busy and the weather is too nice to stay inside. Farmers market? Check. Sidewalk café lunch? Even better. It’s stylish without trying to prove anything.
And the best part? After a while, it develops a natural, relaxed and interesting appearance.
Twisted Crown with Buttery Blonde Shine
Blondes, this one’s for you. Combining a silky twist at the back with big, airy curls makes the style look both young and very polished. What takes it to the next level? That champagne-blonde shine catching the light. You’ll want to save this simple summer hairstyle for 2025 and try it out as many times as you can.
To prevent blonde hair from fading in the heat, I suggest you use a purple shampoo like Fanola No Yellow Shampoo once a week and a Pureology Shine Bright Taming Serum on wet hair.
What appeals to me is that the look combines both feminine romance and sharp structure. The twist detail adds intention without overcomplicating things. At a friend’s bridal shower, I wore something similar and got a lot of messages asking me about it.
Use a little soft-hold hairspray before leaving the house to make sure your twist stays in place.
Golden-Twist Half-Up Style
This hairstyle with half of the hair up and a centered twist is perfect for summer. The twist creates a shape that holds your hair up top without making the rest too curly. Wouldn’t you wear this to a vineyard brunch or a romantic meal by the sea?
Blondes, remember to stay hydrated when it’s hot outside. I use Redken All Soft Heavy Cream every week to make my hair soft again. If you find that your hair turns brassy quickly in the sun, using a UV shield spray is necessary.
To me, this hairstyle has a soft, nostalgic elegance. It makes me think of summer parties, beautiful sunset photos and the first taste of chilled prosecco on a warm balcony. You know that feeling? That’s this hair.
And here’s the kicker — it works just as well dressed down with a white tee and jeans as it does with a lacy dress.
Bow-Inspired Half-Up Blonde Glam
Okay, how cute is this one? A half-up style that’s shaped like a bow, adding a touch of sweet retro charm to a modern look. I find it beautiful that the hair twists on itself, looking like a soft ribbon and the rest of it flows down in lovely curls. The buttery blonde tone amplifies the femininity — it’s playful without being too precious, and it’s begging to be worn for brunch or bridal season.
For this look, I’d prep with a volumizing mousse (try Kenra Volume Mousse Extra 17) to give it shape without stiffness. Use a dryer with a round brush, then curl the ends gently with a curling iron to get softer hair. Spray shine spray on the hair and add a little hair wax to the bow shape to hold it in place.
This kind of style makes people notice, yet it doesn’t take much effort. I had this on at a summer engagement party and the photos turned out beautifully. It sits right in the middle of what you’d find on Pinterest and what you’d actually wear on the street.
If you want a look that’s both stylish and young, this bow twist is perfect for you.
Rose-Like Half-Up Curl Cascade
This look takes texture to a whole new level. The back features a rose-shaped twist which opens into a waterfall of soft, full curls that hang down. The caramel color makes the makeup stand out nicely and suits events at sunset or in the evening. You look like you belong there and are the center of attention, as if you’re the party itself.
A styling cream will keep your curls looking bouncy and free from frizz and I like using Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother. Use a little Kenra Dry Oil Conditioning Mist to enhance your hair’s smooth shine.
It gives me a glamorous look, but with a gentle twist, like hair that doesn’t need to speak to be noticed. I like that it has elegance, but it’s still a little wild and that’s what I love most about it.
This style is especially good in humid weather, provided you use a strong-hold setting spray.
Messy Volume Pony with Loose Texture
There’s something effortlessly sexy about a messy, high-volume ponytail. The crown is loose, but not too messy, thanks to teasing and the rest of the hair is lightly tousled for a soft touch. The ends fall with movement and style and the half-up style helps the look stay light and new. It’s ideal when you want to look nice on a hot day and stay cool.
I use a mix of IGK Beach Club Texture Spray and Batiste XXL Volume Dry Shampoo, as they give my hair hold and volume both. Try to finger-comb your hair and pull out a few strands from around your temples.
I pick this outfit when I’m feeling in the mood for something cute and laid-back such as when I’m going for rooftop drinks or a sudden dinner. It looks great with a sundress, jeans or just a swimsuit and big shirt.
Let it be a bit messy — don’t make it too neat. Let it breathe.
Classic Everyday Braid with Low Shine
This is the classic three-strand braid we all know, but it’s now cooler, cleaner and perfect for summer simple hairstyle 2025. The braid is created low and tight for a neat and simple effect. That straightforward style stays with you all the time: for running errands, when it’s hot and even when you’re dancing late at night. A stylish top, a solid base and not too much fuss.
If you want a smooth shine and no flyaways, spray Color Wow Extra Mist-ical Shine Spray on your braids. It’s a good idea to start with a detangler like It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In for easy parting.
This is my go-to when I need structure. If I’m wearing a satin top or bold earrings and want my hair to look simple yet strong, this is the hairstyle for me. It also makes a good foundation for styling your hair in braids the following day.
If you want a basic, no-fuss style — she’s your girl.
Elegant Loose Braid with Soft Face-Framing Volume
This style is business on the back and goddess-like on the front. The crown is thick and then the braid is made, letting it relax a bit for a softer touch. The lighter highlights on dark roots give the style a nice depth and make it look as if it took lots of effort, but it really doesn’t.
Whenever I need to style this much hair, I go for Oribe Thick Dry Finishing Spray — it makes the braid look full and natural. Gently pull a little at the top of your hair before braiding and pinch the sections to finish the look.
This one feels a little whimsical, a little editorial. I’ve put it on for a holiday, added some big sunglasses and linen and it looked great. If you want to add a little extra, use hair pins decorated with crystals or pearls.
It’s amazing how little effort is required to keep this look stylish and put-together.
Sleek Braided Power Ponytail
This is the super clean braid you’ve seen on Instagram and it’s just as impressive in person. The crown is ultra-smooth and it ends with a classic three-strand braid, tightly and neatly done. It’s well-made, it’s simple and it lets me run the meeting with style. The high volume at the top is achieved with slicking and a braid helps hold everything in place when it’s hot.
Before braiding, use the Dart Pomade Stick to control your hair and brush it with a boar bristle brush. Finish off your style with Tresemmé Tres Two Freeze Hold Hairspray to make it last against humidity.
I choose this look when I want to channel my CEO side — it’s neat, stylish and untroubled by any wind, sweat or commotion. If you want a casual look, try it with a T-shirt or if you want to dress it up, a nice blazer will do the trick.
It’s a braid that makes people look twice and I’m not going to lie. Worth it.
Textured Braid with Natural Volume
It combines order and gentleness in a perfect way. The thick hair at the richer roots and easy, laid-back braid make it seem relaxed and natural. You’d wear this braid when you’re wandering through a vineyard or reading a book, even when it’s warm and there are fairy lights nearby. It’s airy, a little undone, but absolutely intentional.
Spray Dry Finish Working Texture Spray on your hair to keep it from falling flat and finish with a light layer of Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray. It’ll hold the volume while letting the texture breathe.
This is my favorite when I’m looking for a romantic and convenient outfit. It’s a mix of braids and beachwaves — and is perfect for any occasion from a picnic to a proposal.
Also: braid fluffing is essential. Gently tug each loop to get a full yet soft overall look.
Twisted Copper Half-Up Flow
This color and this style together create a mood all their own. Hair is waved from the crown to the ends and is brought around the head in a small bun at the back. It’s neat, but with movement. Controlled, but not tight. Basically, this is the style for when you want to seem organized, even if you’re not.
Spray Amika The Wizard Detangling Primer on damp hair before you style it to make your hair softer and shinier. Gently curl the middle section of your hair and don’t forget to use a bit of flexible hairspray to hold the twist in place.
To me, this style is pure confidence. The twist seems like a piece of art, but it’s also something you can wear all the time. I wore it to a gallery opening and it didn’t show any damage after many air kisses and glasses clinking.
It also makes the color pop which is really what we’re after.
Structured Ponytail with Soft Curls
When you combine structure with summer softness, you get a ponytail like this. The hair is high on top and combed back, with the ends turning into soft and bouncy waves. This style is model-off-duty, but adding just a little effort makes it look planned. The best part? The elastic wrapped in hair — it adds a neat and polished look.
I start by spraying Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray to prevent frizz and end the look by curling my hair and using Verb Ghost Hairspray for a soft hold.
I love wearing this outfit in the summer, whether I’m at work, having lunch late or running a few quick errands and want to feel presentable. It stays in place and feels fresh hours later.
You can pull gently at the crown to make your hair look fuller if you’re aiming for a casual elegant style.
Romantic Twist Pony with Face-Framing Layers
Here’s the most relaxed twist ponytail, with a loose wrapping and fullness at the sides, plus long, front pieces that look modern and romantic. Because the style is a bit messy and unfinished, it’s perfect for summer. Whether you’re wearing linen or lace, this style fits the vibe.
Apply Gisou Honey Infused Hair Oil to your ends to help keep your hair soft and healthy, especially when it’s warm outside. Spraying Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray at the roots before styling is another thing I love to do.
I often pick this style when I’m aiming for elegance but don’t want to look too formal. There’s a very feminine touch to it and it really makes your earrings stand out.
It’s a “meet-the-parents” kind of look. Approachable, classic, but subtly showstopping.
