Summer is the perfect season for teens to try out new and exciting hairstyles that reflect their fun-loving spirit and sense of adventure. Whether you’re headed to the beach, hanging out at summer camp, or just spending the day at home with your friends, these adorable summer hairstyles for teens will keep you feeling cool, confident, and completely stylish. The following hairstyles are all easy to recreate, versatile for different hair types, and suitable for all kinds of summer events—from relaxed outdoor BBQs to fun pool parties. Let’s dive into these cute looks and explore why each one is a must-try this season.
1. Braided Crown Elegance
Braided Crown Elegance is a romantic and timeless hairstyle that makes any teen feel like summer royalty. This look involves parting the hair and weaving a braid (or two) around the head to mimic the shape of a crown. The result is both regal and sweet—perfect for outdoor garden parties, summer dances, or even a day at a music festival. What makes this hairstyle truly stand out is how it instantly lifts your overall look without requiring heat or complex tools. It can be worn tight and polished or looser with wisps and flyaways for a more carefree, boho vibe. Paired with floral accessories or fresh flowers woven into the braid, the Braided Crown Elegance transforms everyday hair into a magical statement. It suits all hair types and works especially well with medium to long lengths, adding volume and structure around the face while keeping hair off the neck—a must for staying cool in the sun.
2. Messy Top Knot, Including Bangs
The Messy Top Knot, Including Bangs is the ultimate effortless-chic hairstyle for teens who want something casual yet fashionable. The top knot sits high on the head and is intentionally tousled to create that “perfectly imperfect” look. Adding bangs—whether they’re full, side-swept, or curtain-style—softens the overall effect and adds a playful edge. This hairstyle is incredibly functional for summer heat, keeping the hair up and off the shoulders. It works especially well for second or third-day hair, making it ideal for teens on the go or traveling. It’s a great choice for beach days, road trips, or spontaneous photo shoots with friends. A spritz of dry shampoo or texturizing spray enhances volume and grip, giving the messy top knot more staying power. The contrast between the pulled-back bun and soft bangs adds dimension and attitude, turning a simple look into a standout style.
3. Double Braids
Double Braids offer a youthful and energetic aesthetic that perfectly suits the carefree mood of summer. These symmetrical braids are typically parted straight down the middle, with each side styled into a French braid, Dutch braid, or classic three-strand braid. Not only do they look adorable, but they also serve a functional purpose—keeping your hair secure and tangle-free throughout the day. Whether you’re running, swimming, biking, or dancing at a summer campfire, double braids stay in place without the need for constant readjustment. This hairstyle flatters nearly every face shape and works on most hair lengths beyond chin level. You can personalize your double braids by incorporating ribbon, colorful hair clips, or even a few glitter strands for a festival-ready look. They’re especially great for thick or textured hair, as they manage volume while adding definition. Double Braids aren’t just cute—they’re a summer essential for active teens.
4. Ponytail with Bubble Braid Brings
The Ponytail with Bubble Braid Brings is a modern and fun twist on the classic ponytail. This hairstyle starts with a high or mid ponytail, and then several elastics are spaced out along the length of the pony to form ‘bubbles.’ Each section is gently pulled outward to create a rounded, puffed look that resembles a line of little bubbles. It’s eye-catching, creative, and completely Instagram-worthy. Ideal for long hair, this style gives the illusion of extra length and volume while keeping things playful. It’s great for making a statement at summer parties or even just standing out at the mall. Bubble braids allow for endless creativity—use pastel elastics for a soft, dreamy look or neon ones to amp up the energy. Teens love this hairstyle because it blends the practicality of a ponytail with the charm of a trend-forward style. It’s also easy to do, which makes it great for last-minute glam before heading out.
5. High Bun Using a Braided Accent
The High Bun Using a Braided Accent takes a regular top bun and elevates it with a beautifully braided detail. This could be a single braid wrapping around the base of the bun or several mini braids incorporated into the bun itself. This hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between classic elegance and youthful creativity, making it ideal for summer weddings, formal dinners, or even graduations. It looks intricate but is surprisingly easy to pull off with a little practice. Teens love it because it adds flair to the everyday bun and gives them a chance to showcase their braiding skills. This style works on all hair textures and is especially flattering when paired with a few loose strands framing the face. Add shimmer spray or a decorative pin to the braid for extra glamour. It’s a versatile and practical updo that keeps you cool while still looking like you put in maximum effort.
6. Fishtail Braise 
Fishtail Braise is a gorgeous, textured braid that offers a more sophisticated alternative to the traditional three-strand braid. Created by weaving small sections of hair from the outer edges of two main sections, the fishtail braid results in a rope-like pattern that looks both intricate and modern. It’s perfect for long hair and can be styled to the side, down the back, or incorporated into an updo. For a relaxed beachy vibe, you can gently tug at the braid to loosen it and create a softer, more lived-in look. Teens love this style because it works for both casual and formal occasions. From ice cream runs to summer banquets, the Fishtail Braise is a versatile pick. It pairs beautifully with sundresses, oversized sunglasses, and even swimsuits. A touch of texturizing spray makes it even easier to grip and braid, while adding volume and keeping the braid secure all day long.
7. Double-Braced Pigtails
Double-Braced Pigtails are the ultimate cool-girl style with a sporty edge. These pigtails are usually tight at the scalp and structured using elastics to form sections that are “braced” or bubbled. This unique twist gives them more shape and helps control flyaways, which is a bonus during hot or humid days. The braces create visual interest and add a dynamic flair that elevates traditional pigtails into something more fun and contemporary. Teens love them for how secure and energetic they feel—ideal for summer sports, amusement park trips, or dance-offs in the backyard. The double-braced structure works well with straight or slightly wavy hair and can even be customized with ombré or highlighted strands for a more dramatic effect. This style is about boldness, energy, and unfiltered summer confidence.
8. Long French Braided Braids
Long French Braided Braids are elegant and practical, combining classic French braiding technique with the beauty of long, flowing hair. Starting near the scalp, the braid gradually gathers more strands as it moves down, resulting in a structured, polished look that keeps hair tidy and neat. This is especially helpful on windier days or when participating in outdoor activities. The longer the hair, the more dramatic and eye-catching the braid becomes. This look is a favorite among teens because it offers sophistication without sacrificing youthfulness. It transitions beautifully from daytime beachwear to nighttime events. You can wear it sleek and tight for a clean appearance or gently pull sections for a romantic, voluminous version. Add in metallic or pearl hair cuffs for a whimsical touch or keep it classic with clear elastics for a minimalist effect.
9. Sand Beach Waves with Texture
Sand Beach Waves with Texture are the quintessential summer hairstyle, capturing the essence of ocean air, salty breeze, and carefree spirit. This look is achieved by using sea salt sprays, braiding damp hair and letting it air dry, or using a curling wand with minimal heat. The result is loose, tousled waves that mimic natural beachy texture. Teens love this style for its laid-back charm and its ability to look great even when it’s slightly messy. It’s the go-to look for days when you don’t want to fuss with your hair but still want to look effortlessly stylish. This style flatters all face shapes and hair lengths, and it works beautifully on colored, sun-kissed hair that naturally gets lighter in the sun. For extra dimension, teens can add a light gloss or spray to give that glowy, wet-sand finish.
10. Halved Up Half-Down Bun
Halved Up Half-Down Bun is a beloved teen favorite that blends the best of both worlds: the ease of having hair partially tied up and the softness of leaving the rest down. This style works wonderfully for medium to long hair and can be styled on both straight and wavy textures. The top section is gathered into a messy or polished bun, while the bottom half flows freely. This keeps the hair out of your face while still letting you enjoy the natural bounce and movement of your hair. Teens love this hairstyle because it’s cute, quick, and perfect for any casual or semi-formal event. Whether you’re heading to brunch, a picnic, or a rooftop hangout, the Halved Up Half-Down Bun brings freshness, balance, and style. Add fun accessories like scrunchies, clips, or decorative pins to personalize the look and make it pop.
11. Double-Braided Bunches
Double-Braided Bunches combine the charm of classic pigtails with the structure and texture of braids, finished off with playful, voluminous mini buns. This hairstyle starts with parting the hair down the middle, braiding each section—either as French, Dutch, or simple three-strand braids—then coiling each braid into a bun on either side of the head. The result is a super-cute, energetic style that feels young, confident, and summer-ready. It’s an ideal choice for teens who want something a little different but still easy to manage. The buns can be neat and tight for a sporty edge, or you can gently pull out the braids and fluff the buns for a more relaxed, boho-inspired look.
What makes Double-Braided Bunches so fun is how customizable they are. You can accessorize them with scrunchies, ribbons, glitter hair spray, or colorful elastics to match your outfit or mood. This hairstyle is fantastic for all kinds of summer outings, from carnivals and outdoor festivals to casual get-togethers or photoshoots with friends. It’s also a surprisingly practical style that stays in place all day, keeping your hair secure even if you’re dancing, running, or spending time at the beach. For teens with long or medium hair, it’s a creative and stylish way to keep cool while looking cute and confident all summer long.
Conclusion
These 10 adorable summer hairstyles for teens offer a perfect mix of practicality, creativity, and charm. From structured braids to effortless waves and trendy buns, there’s a look here to match every personality, outfit, and summer plan. Each style allows teens to express themselves through hair in fun and exciting ways while staying comfortable in the summer heat. Whether you’re a fan of intricate braids or carefree textures, these hairstyles are easy to replicate and adaptable for various hair types and lengths. So go ahead—grab your favorite accessories, spritz some sea salt spray, and let your hair reflect the sunshine-filled vibes of the season. Summer is the time to be bold, carefree, and absolutely adorable, and these hairstyles are here to help you do just that.