Summer is a great reason to put your hair up and feel even better about yourself. When it’s hot and sunny, the last thing you want is your hair sticking to your neck. However, the answer goes beyond working—it’s also stylish, playful and looks great. Updo hairstyles for summer 2025 are going beyond traditional styles. Try to achieve a look that is easygoing, but still polished and fun but refined.
What will a perfect summer updo be like in 2025? Has the classic messy bun been replaced by the neat and tidy pony? And how are bows making their comeback? Let’s break it down with real-life inspo you can recreate or just dream about.
Textured Twist with Face-Framing Pieces
This style gives a classic French twist more volume and adds face-framing layers that look a bit like they’ve been blown by the wind. The top is gently teased to create texture and the back twist is left loose and full of shape, making the style modern. The golden beige highlights in the brown base are really helping to create that summery, sunkissed look every updo wants.
To get this updo to stay in place while still looking messy, dry texture spray is your best friend. I rely on Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray; a few sprays at the top and ends before twisting helps it stay in place and gives it that carefree beach look. Also? Choosing Bobby pins in your hair color helps hide them in your style.
I wore this to a cocktail garden party and I got compliments just as fast as the rosé went around. It’s stylish but relaxed which is just right for the casual but fashionable summer outfits we’ll see in 2025.
The next time I do this, I might add a sprig of baby’s breath or a gold hairpin to the twist. It’s romantic enough, but a small floral or metallic touch would add some extra charm for evening meals or weddings in the summer.
Sleek Mid-Height Pony with Blonde Glam
Talk about power polish. This ponytail sits at the top of the nape and is pulled back so neatly that all the strands look well-planned. It’s not a high pony. It’s not a low one. It’s perfectly mid. The smooth blonde with soft waves at the ends is what really makes it special—it gives the style a flowing look that isn’t too fancy.
Maintaining this level of shine and smoothness? It takes more than just a good flat iron. I use the Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray to keep humidity away and keep my hair smooth. Blondes should focus on hydration and Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother keeps their hair smooth and sleek, without making it flat.
There’s something so high fashion about this look. I’ve had it when I wanted to be more confident before a big meeting and it helped me feel sharper and in control right away. It’s minimalist, sure, but it radiates quiet luxury.
If I were to level it up? A statement earring or a ribbon on the base of the ponytail might be a good idea. The little detail brings out the character of the space without reducing the drama of the design.
Casual High Bun with Soft Texture
It’s perfect for those days when you want to look pulled together, but not too much. There are a lot of one’s own strands sticking out around the face. It’s giving ballet-core meets off-duty model energy. Because the brown is so rich and even, the texture stands out and there’s no need to worry about frizz or fussing with the hair.
It’s usually best to try this bun on hair that’s been washed the day before. A bit of volume powder at the roots (try Schwarzkopf OSiS Dust It) gives it that barely-held look while keeping it secure. And a few loose pieces aren’t mistakes—they’re style statements. I use a 1-inch wand to slightly curl my hair so it has a soft bend.
I wore this bun at a rooftop brunch on a hot day and I still felt pretty effortlessly. Even though the bun claims, “I didn’t work hard,” you actually did enough.
To dress up this outfit for an evening, I’d use a satin scrunchie or a tiny jeweled clip instead of the headband.
Curled Crown Bun with Satin Bow
The curled bun styled with a satin bow is both whimsical, elegant and has a vintage feel—making it perfect for summer. Instead, you should wrap the curls loosely and fix them with pins which creates a lively ribbon look in your updo. A bow isn’t just a pretty touch; it holds the whole outfit together and makes it stand out.
A look like this needs curl-friendly products. I always use the Bumble and Bumble Curl Reactivator and fix the curls with Kenra Volume Spray 25 which protects against humidity. By doing this, the structure remains flexible and won’t give way in the middle of your outdoor event.
This kind of updo has that Bridgerton-meets-coquette energy. At a summer bridal shower, I wore a similar dress and felt like I was the best dressed person there. A bow might seem young, but when teamed with a structured bun, it becomes very elegant.
If you’re craving a little drama, go for a velvet ribbon or even add pearl pins within the curls. These little touches are what make your look look like you chose it, not like you’re wearing a costume.
Textured Half-Up Bow Bun
This look adds a fun touch by forming a bow with the hair which sits on top of softly curled strands. It’s a style that’s new, pretty and just as much Pinterest-core as you want. It’s not a childlike bow because it’s intentionally made from your hair, with hidden pins and finished with wavy hair.
I apply Got2B Glued Styling Gel to each loop before shaping and then I set the whole bow with Sebastian Shaper Plus hairspray. I finish off the curls underneath by spraying Paul Mitchell Soft Spray after lightly waving my hair.
I used this idea for a garden birthday party and it stayed secure even with dancing and wind, while everyone kept asking how it was built. Spoiler: You can do it if you are patient and have a mirror that tilts.
I’m considering doing a brunette version with lowlights when the weather gets cooler. But for now? This is pure sunshine-in-my-hair energy.
Voluminous Platinum Swirl Updo
This hairdo is about creating a lot of volume, movement and elegance with a touch of platinum. The hair is shaped into soft loops that join together to make a bun that appears to have grown at the base of the neck. When you combine blonde with beige, the soft, golden style it creates is lovely for sunny outdoor parties.
For a structure like this to remain stable, it needs strong structure. I prep with the Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse for lift at the roots and finish with L’Oréal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray. Summer heat and humidity don’t stop the ball from gripping as it should. You’ll also need clear elastic or hidden pins—big tools can ruin the atmosphere.
I really like that this updo looks like something a princess would wear, but it’s still down-to-earth. It’s definitely romantic, yet it has a slightly unfinished look that I like. I often picture sunset weddings or outdoor concerts, enjoying my prosecco.
The next time I make this, I could include a few pearls in the pleats. They would add more brightness and to create a stronger fairy-tale style. Just imagine that shimmer during golden hour.
Soft Blonde Knot with Airy Layers
When you want to look neat and relaxed, try this updo. The style has a wonderfully soft feeling, thanks to the extra tendrils that frame both the face and neck. Blond hair, sometimes honey or light blonde, with charming subtle highlights can make any look with light linens or dresses seem like it has been kissed by the sun.
I love how wearable this is. I find it works best on textured hair, so I begin by waving the hair with a flat iron and spraying IGK Beach Club Texture Spray. I twist the sections towards the middle and secure them with matte bobby pins. A light coat of hairspray keeps your hair natural and not stiff.
It feels so easy that it seems like something I’ve always known. When it’s very hot and I want my hair out of the way but still look nice, I do something similar. It’s so low-maintenance, yet it looks like effort.
If I had to change anything? I’d use a teasing comb to add a bit more fullness at the top of the hair. It would give the space more balance and make it look even more relaxed.
Playful Braided Space Buns
The double-braided updo combines two summer favorites, braids and buns, in a stylish way. The hair is combed down the middle and braided near the scalp and then each braid is twisted into a small bun that rests low beside the ear. It’s full of energy, young and perfect for a festival or weekend trip. A brunette base color adds both depth and shine to the style.
I find this method is easiest when I have day-old hair and I like to coat my hands in a little curl cream before braiding. For extra staying power, secure the buns with small spin pins (they really hold better than bobby pins for this shape).
I put on something like this for a walk on the beach that became a sunset hangout and it made me feel very carefree. It’s a classic look, but the parting is clean and the finish is more mature, so it can be worn by adults too.
One tip? If you’re attending a summer fest or picnic, you can add thin gold cuffs to the braids or wrap colored thread at the base to make it more special.
Structured Brunette Bouffant Updo
Old Hollywood meets the present with this gorgeous brunette style. The bun is placed high on the head and made interesting by adding strands in just the right places. Soft curtain bangs sweep forward, adding elegance and femininity. It’s designed to be special, planned and meant for times you want to make an impression.
Because this look needs heat to hold its shape, I use a heat protectant like Tresemmé Thermal Creations and brush it out with a paddle brush before I start building the base. I style each section of the bun with a light cream and secure it with pins shaped like curves for better grip.
I only bring out this one for special occasions such as summer weddings or formal dinners. It feels like I’m walking away from a red carpet event, even though it was just a downtown rooftop bar.
It’s a small expense, but it helps you realize you should shine in the spotlight every now and then. If you’re going to get a bit sweaty, you might as well feel and look amazing.
Flawless Golden Rosette Bun
Let’s call this the floral sculpture of summer updos. The bun is made of golden blonde hair, twisted into a rosette that is positioned low on the head and each loop looks like a petal. It’s carefully crafted, well-managed and absolutely fascinating—just like a piece of art you can wear. An ultra-smooth feel and a professional polish make the result feel even more luxurious.
To nail a finish this glossy, prep is everything. I apply a smoothing cream like Kerastase Discipline Blow Dry and straighten each section of hair with a flat iron. A strong gel helps each part of the hair stay in place as it builds the shiny, sculpted look. This isn’t a time for a messy bun; it’s an elegant style.
I remember seeing a similar look at a gala and I’ve been drawn to it ever since. It’s formal, yes, but there’s a calmness to it. You don’t have to try to look impressive—you just are.
Would I wear it to brunch? Maybe not. But a summer gala or evening event? It’s already on my Pinterest board. Don’t sleep on this level of detail—it’s summer art.
Twisted Crown Bun with Braid Detail
The hair in this updo is soft and textured at the same time. The hair is pulled into a bun in the middle, but the braided band adds the finishing touch. The soft blonde-brown color gives the hair a little extra contrast and movement in the twist. It’s charming, detailed and based on the idea of a summer gala.
Whenever I’m doing braids and buns, I apply a lightweight pomade like Aveda Control Paste to keep everything in place and prevent frizz. I always add a spritz of a shine spray to finish and reflect the golden blonde and Kenra Shine Spray is my favorite.
This one reminds me of a beachside wedding I attended last July—timeless, but with a twist (literally). It stayed beautiful all night long, from the ceremony to the dancing and looked just as good in photos as it did in person.
It is likely among the most flexible styles out there. If you want a boho vibe, choose baby’s breath or add pearl pins for a more elegant look. It works hard and looks effortless.
Rich Cinnamon Roll Chignon
Sleek, neat and very pleasing to see—this chignon wraps up like a delicious cinnamon roll. Because it is a rich brown with a mahogany undertone, this style looks luxurious and comfortable. There are no loose strands and no hassle, just soft hair twisted to sit gently at the back of the head.
This is a heat-styled look through and through. I use the Dyson Airwrap to give my hair soft volume and then I apply a little Sebastian Potion 9 to keep everything in place. Finish off the look by spraying it firmly and your chignon will stay in place—no matter how hot it is.
If you’re like me and always chasing a sleek-but-not-severe moment, this is it. It’s perfect for dinners, dates or any time you want to look elegant without spending too much effort.
A delicate hair brooch tucked at the side? That would be the cherry on top. Something antique-looking would offset the modern structure beautifully.
Sunlit Ash Blonde Soft Twist
It’s the golden hour light that adds a special touch to this simple ash blonde twist. The design depends on softness: soft materials, soft actions and soft shapes. Everything is left loose and natural, yet the look is still thought out and well-balanced. It’s the definition of “less but better.”
Because healthy ends and layered cuts are important, I deep condition with Pureology Hydrate Superfood Treatment every week. I gather my hair loosely with a silk scrunchie at first, then wrap it inward and secure with pins that are not too noticeable. The beauty comes from the flaws, so they don’t have to be perfect.
I usually turn to this on warm days when I want to look nice without overheating. It’s fun and fresh and it matches sundresses, linen blazers or even swimsuit coverups.
If you want to look like a French girl—this one gets it just right.
Textured Volume Bun with Curtain Bangs
Now this is what I call a power bun. The style has a lot of volume, but it’s not too formal—stacked hair creates a lifted look with lots of movement. A long fringe and wispy pieces near the face make the whole look seem relaxed and stylish. The medium brunette color which has neutral undertones, looks lovely with this outfit.
This one takes a little prep—dry shampoo at the roots (I’m loyal to Klorane with Oat Milk), teasing with a brush, and a quick blast of cold air to set before gathering. The bun is formed by sectioning it, not by making a single loop.
I’ve worn a similar outfit to a party on a rooftop and felt like it straightened me up. It’s strong, stylish, but still super wearable.
And if you’re transitioning from day to night? Just add a bold lip and you’re golden. It goes well with both iced coffee and drinks at the end of the night.
High Twist Bun with Sculpted Detail
This high bun is, without a doubt, the ultimate summer style. It stands proudly from the top, with each section sculpted and pinned in place. The light brown color softens the look and the long front pieces add movement to match the height.
I always use mousse to create this kind of volume and R+Co Chiffon Styling Mousse is lightweight. I use a round brush to blow-dry and then twist each section, securing it with curved bobby pins to match the bun’s form.
What I adore most about this one? It’s unapologetically sculptural. I put on something similar for an anniversary and felt just like I was in a magazine shoot. It’s art, but wearable.
If you want to impress this summer, don’t shy away from tall attractions. A bun like this doesn’t whisper—it makes a statement.
Side Braid into Low Wrap Bun
This one will easily become a classic, thanks to its romantic touch. A French braid moves diagonally from the hairline and is then tucked into a neat low bun that is placed above the back of the neck. The ashy blonde color with natural roots gives the hair depth and a touch of beachy style, so it looks cool, easy and perfect for both brunch and your wedding day.
For softness like this, I start with a lightweight serum (I swear by Verb Ghost Oil) to tame frizz while keeping movement. I braid the hair first, then twist the rest into a bun and pin it loosely so the hair doesn’t get too flat. A light spray of flexible hairspray holds your look in place and leaves it looking natural.
This updo makes me think of early morning farmers’ markets or late afternoon garden parties. It means, “I’m put together,” but without it looking like you’re trying. To be honest, it makes me want to put on linen and drink a herbal tea.
Lavender or a pearl pin added into the braid? I’d absolutely go there for a summer soirée.
Coiled Crown Bun with Tousled Curls
Hello, texture lovers—this one’s for you. The crown bun, formed from rounded coils, is what gives this rich chocolate updo its special shape. A bit of rebellion is added by leaving the curls soft and loose around the neck and the top of the head. It’s equal parts regal and relaxed.
Keeping the texture fresh and frizz-free? I put Ouai Curl Creme on my damp hair, let it dry with a diffuser and then style as usual. When it’s done, I pick out a few curls at random and use a small-barrel iron to shape them if I want to. A light pomade can shape your ends and leave your hair soft and neat.
At the beach bonfire, the ocean air and heat didn’t stop my outfit from looking great and it was wonderfully messy by the end of the night. It allowed me to be both formal and informal.
This kind of outfit is like dancing on the beach at midnight without shoes. Dreamy, right?
Sleek Twisted Nape Bun
Minimalist? Sure. Boring? Never. Each strand of hair is carefully placed in this neat and low, twisted bun. The hair is parted in the middle and smoothed down and then twisted into a knot that rests nicely at the back of the neck. The light, ashy champagne color and clean finish give it a summery touch of elegance that’s not heavy.
I use Color Wow Dream Coat here to tame summer frizz and straighten each section with a flat iron. Once it’s super smooth, I gather with a silk hair tie, twist low, and pin. At this stage, it’s important to use elastics and pins that match your hair color.
I find this look perfect for evenings when it’s warm and the dress code is formal. You feel comfortable and at ease and there’s a simple confidence in the way it looks.
One detail I might try? A gold chain was placed above the bun, looking like a hairpin. A little glam without noise.
Textured Low Bun with Loose Volume
The bun in this style gently layers soft waves against light, overall structure. It’s thicker at the bottom and made with sections that loop inside, allowing it to have movement and be light. Looking and moving, these highlights reflect the light in just the right way.
I use a sea salt spray, let my hair dry a bit and finish it off with a large-barrel curling iron for a bend. Don’t brush too much, as finger-combing is what keeps the curls light. I gently fix the sections into a bun and pull out a few strands to get that messy look.
It’s the hairstyle version of champagne bubbles—light, soft, celebratory. I’ve taken this dress to brunch and rehearsal dinners and it always gets people’s attention without me trying.
For summer nights under string lights? This look was made for it.
Vintage-Inspired Side Knot
This hairstyle reminds me of the 1950s, but it’s been updated for the year 2025. The hair is pulled back on one side, leaving the crown with a bit of body and the front strands loose and wavy, so the style doesn’t feel too formal. It’s demure and daring at the same time.
To get that silky finish, I prep with a blowout balm (IGK Good Behavior is magic) and smooth with a paddle brush. The bun is twisted to the side, tucked down low and given a final coat of shine spray. I like to pull out a little hair near the front to make it look more natural.
This one brings to mind a vintage dress I found last year and saved for a special occasion. When you wear a red lip and strappy sandals, this hairstyle makes every summer night special.
It proves that when you dress classically, you’re actually being very modern.
Effortless Ballerina with Lived-In Texture
I fell in love with the first picture right away—it’s like a ballerina bun that spent some time on the beach. The bun is shaped high and full, yet it is not too tight. The style is wrapped in a large, soft swirl and the small pieces around the face give the style a little movement. The balayage technique applied from lowlights to highlights adds a bright, sunny look to your hair, just like summer.
I use the Oribe Swept Up Volume Powder Spray at the roots to keep the bun looking neat without making it helmet-hard. It adds a bit of texture and age to my face, so my makeup doesn’t slide off in humidity. A tiny mist of shine spray at the end (like R+Co’s Moon Landing) finishes it off without flattening the volume.
Personally, this kind of updo is my summer go-to when I want to look put together, but still effortless—like I casually threw it up while sipping iced coffee (even if it took two tries and a detangler brush).
This piece looks great with hoops and minimalist gold jewelry, along with a tank dress. The look is planned but not overdone which is exactly how I want to feel this summer.
Twisted Volume with Beachy Elegance
It’s a luxurious style because it’s detailed and neat, but it still feels light and airy. The twists add a lot of volume to the top and caress the nape with gentle curls and the side pieces are what make the style really stand out. Absolute perfection. This look is giving summer soirée, maybe even “maid of honor at a garden wedding.”
It looks best when your hair is healthy and well-shaped. I always apply Moroccanoil Treatment Light to blonde hair before curling, to ensure the hair is smooth and ready. I use Kenra Professional Volume Spray 25 to hold the style in place and it doesn’t budge, whether you’re on the dance floor or in a summer breeze.
I think it’s the way everything is just a little bit messy, but still under control, that makes it special. It doesn’t look overly perfect or stiff. Just soft and warm and made to go with you as you move.
If you’re heading to an event, this is a power move. And if not? You’ll still look as if you’ve just finished a photoshoot in Capri.
Parisian-Inspired High Bun with Whispy Veil
The high updo in this style makes you look like a cool girl hanging out at a rooftop café. It’s styled high enough to add height and the bun is fluffy and not too perfect. What makes it special are the thin pieces that surround the face, softening the style and giving it a little touch of romance.
You need to use a gentle technique and the proper prepping for this style. I often apply Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer to damp hair to get lightweight moisture. Once your hair is dry, tease the crown lightly for more lift and then wrap the bun with Sebastian Shaper Plus to keep those wisps in place.
Whenever I do this hairstyle, people compliment me and ask me about it. It’s effortlessly French without being fussy.
When you want a laid-back summer evening style, the contrast between your high pony and the loose hair hanging down looks completely effortless. Add a winged liner and you’re golden.
Low Chignon with Glossy Dimension
This one is the definition of refined. A chignon that’s low and sleek at the back looks neat, but it’s far from boring. When the strands are smoothed out, it looks almost like watching ribbons being polished. This is the kind of style you can wear for summer interviews, dinners or even when it’s Casual Friday and you want some sparkle.
Keeping this smooth without stiffness is the key. I apply Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray last before I use heat on my hair to prevent frizz. My favorites for hold are a serum and a flexible spray.
I choose this style when I want to look neat and relaxed. Something about the symmetry and shine just grounds me.
What I love most is its adaptability. If you’re going for formal, try bold earrings or switch to a linen blouse and sandals for a refined-casual look. It’ll never let you down.
Braided Crown with Ribbon Charm
And now, the romantic one. The style creates a boho braid around the hairline, braiding it all the way into a tucked bun—then finishing with a satin ribbon for a hint of balletcore. The entire piece feels like a gentle poem that is moving. You can see that the writer took their time, but the piece feels natural.
Since braided styles get dry fast in summer, I always remember to use Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique as a leave-in heat protectant and moisturizer. It really helps the look stay soft and last longer.
When I see this style, I remember times at summer weddings, where everyone was barefoot and dancing with fairy lights above. That energy is there—it’s gentle, hopeful and has a touch of playfulness.
You might also add a floral pin or some metallic thread in the braid to make it unique. But honestly? The golden ribbon is pure magic on its own.
Sleek Knot with Wet-Finish Drama
This look is all about smooth control and it definitely looks like something from the runway. The low knot is so tight and clear, it seems to have been sculpted. The wet-finish top gives the look a high-fashion feel yet still makes it wearable. It’s the kind of hairstyle that gets noticed for being cool and chic, but not for raising any eyebrows.
Before applying liquid-gloss, I always start with Color Wow Pop & Lock Gloss Treatment and then brush through a gel like IGK Slick & Shine. No flyaways, no fuzz—just pure glassy definition. A boar bristle brush is the best tool for laying your hair down smoothly and safely.
It makes me feel like I’ve sealed a deal or left a meeting at an art gallery in downtown L.A. It’s very satisfying to see clean lines and tight details in a design.
If you’re wearing something simple like a slinky dress or a structured tank, this updo will make it look amazing. 2025 hair will be all about looking polished yet natural.
Voluminous Twist with Cascading Waves
The combination of romance and rebellion in this look is what I’m loving right now. The hair is teased to add volume and then it’s wrapped into a low twist that unfolds into pretty waves. It’s a power ponytail masquerading as an updo. It’s ideal for when you want to look glamorous but not overheat in the summer.
I always use Amika Plus Size Volume & Body Mousse first, since it helps give me the volume I want. That base gives lift without crunch. I go on to use a medium-sized curling iron on the lengths and then spray a little Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray to keep the style and feel airy.
It seems perfect for late-night rooftops and live music, especially when you’re with someone who makes you laugh so hard. It’s a little wild, but still intentional.
And honestly? You might find this your go-to outfit for a dinner date that turns into dancing under the stars.
Curled & Coiled Modern Pin-Up
Big curls, plenty of volume and golden blonde hair all combine for a look that feels retro but is slightly messy. The artist pulls the hair into a looser coil, twists it into a soft knot and the stacked models create a natural tug-and-relax effect. It’s a hairstyle that looks just as beautiful as it feels.
Hold and shine should be used together at this point. I like to use Kerastase Elixir Ultime on my hair beforehand and apply a little heat from T3 Hot Rollers to set my smooth curls. Secure the style as it cools to keep it in shape and then use light bobby pins and a few invisible elastics to arrange it.
This style has serious charm. I attended a friend’s engagement brunch in it and found it stayed in place all day, even with heat, wind and hugs.
It’s the hairstyle you choose when you want to feel elegant, traditional and in charge. You’ll look even better if you add pearl earrings and red lipstick.
Swirled Up-Stack with Dimensional Blonde
This one looks like it required a whole glam team, but it’s actually achievable with the right preparation. An updo consists of twisted sections stacked on top of each other. The different colors in her hair make it look so interesting and the whole style reminds me of a wedding in Santorini.
This look needs hold, but not stiffness. I put Living Proof Full Thickening Cream on first, as it supports the thickness without losing softness. Spritz Tresemmé Extra Hold Micro Mist at the end to keep your hair light and in place.
Really, this style makes you feel like you’re wearing something expensive. It’s elegant but not overdone. And that swirl pattern? Total eye-candy in natural sunlight.
If you’re going to a summer event and want to look your best without dressing up like a movie star, this is the perfect outfit.
Laid-Back Side Twist Pony
You don’t have to make a bun for an updo, as this twisted side pony shows. The hair is loosely moved to one side, twisted at the bottom to form a shape and left to hang in soft, curly layers. It’s romantic, uncomplicated, and crazy versatile.
This one’s low-maintenance in the best way. I find that Davines OI All-In-One Milk creates a smooth look and slight bounce in the hair. You don’t need much—a twist, a clear elastic and a bit of texturizing spray can make a big difference.
When I don’t want to wash my hair but still want to look nice, I put on this style.
Just slip on a big linen shirt, a shoulder bag and oversized sunnies and you’re ready for a coastal-cool look.
