Styling long hair in the summer can be a challenge, especially when the temperatures rise and humidity wreaks havoc on your carefully done look. If you’ve ever found yourself giving up on hairstyling altogether during heatwaves, you’re not alone. I’ve spent many sweaty summers trying to tame my thick, long, slightly wavy hair. Through trial and error, a few pro tips, and years of figuring out what actually works in real life (and not just on Pinterest), I’ve curated six of my absolute favorite easy hairstyles for hot summer days.
These looks are quick, cute, and require minimal effort—perfect for busy mornings, beach outings, or even casual evenings out. Whether you’re trying to avoid the dreaded sweaty neck or simply want something fun and fresh, these hairstyles are your go-to guide for staying cool and stylish all summer long.
1. Messy Top Knot
The messy top knot is the ultimate go-to summer hairstyle that balances style and functionality with minimal effort. It’s a look that radiates ease and confidence while keeping you cool and comfortable during the hottest days. This hairstyle is perfect for second-day or even third-day hair, as it works best with a bit of texture or natural oil, helping the knot stay in place. The appeal of the messy top knot lies in its undone, carefree charm—it doesn’t need to be perfect to look perfect. You simply gather all your hair into a high ponytail, twist it loosely, and wrap it around itself to create a bun at the crown of your head. Fasten it with a scrunchie or hair tie, and let a few strands fall freely around your face and nape. Those loose pieces create a soft, lived-in frame that flatters most face shapes. If you have layers or bangs, let them peek out intentionally to enhance that effortlessly chic vibe. A little dry shampoo or sea salt spray can give it some extra lift and grip. The messy top knot is ideal for mornings when you’re running late, beach days when you want to keep your hair up and off your shoulders, or even rooftop dinners where you want to show off a statement pair of earrings. It’s stylish, heat-proof, and has that “I woke up like this” cool factor that works no matter your outfit.
2. Ponytail with a Hair Scarf
The ponytail with a hair scarf is the embodiment of casual elegance—a hairstyle that instantly elevates a basic ponytail into something more fashionable and expressive. This style works for all hair lengths, but it’s especially charming with medium to long hair that allows the scarf to cascade down in unison with your locks. Start by brushing your hair into a high or mid-level ponytail, securing it tightly or loosely depending on your preference. Then, take a long scarf—silk, cotton, or linen all work beautifully—and tie it around the base of the ponytail. Let the scarf tails hang freely, adding a burst of color and movement that dances with the breeze. What’s beautiful about this style is how customizable it is. You can opt for a bold, floral scarf for a tropical vacation vibe or a muted, monochrome pattern for a more sophisticated look. This hairstyle not only adds visual interest but also helps tame frizz and flyaways without relying on a ton of hair products. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you still want to look polished—whether you’re heading to the beach, going on a picnic, or strolling through a farmer’s market. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to incorporate accessories into your everyday hair routine and express your personality through patterns and textures.
3. Half-Up Half-Down French Plait
The half-up half-down French plait blends the best of both worlds: the structure and security of an updo with the softness and femininity of loose hair. This hairstyle is perfect for hot days when you want to keep hair out of your face but still want to showcase your length and natural waves or curls. To create this look, section off the top half of your hair from temple to temple and begin a French braid starting from the crown of your head. Continue braiding until you reach the middle of the back of your head, and then secure it with a small, clear elastic. The remaining hair should fall freely down your back, giving the overall look a balanced, romantic appeal. The beauty of the half-up French plait is in its versatility—it works well on straight, wavy, or curly hair and can be worn with casual clothes or dressed up for a night out. This style gives off a slightly bohemian, free-spirited vibe while keeping your strands in check on sweaty summer days. It’s a fantastic choice for events like outdoor weddings, garden parties, or just when you want to feel a little more put together without trying too hard. The added texture of the braid also keeps the style secure throughout the day, making it both beautiful and functional.
4. Messy Low Bun
The messy low bun is an effortlessly elegant hairstyle that works just as well for casual outings as it does for semi-formal summer events. Unlike a sleek chignon or polished bun, the messy low bun embraces a more relaxed, textured look that’s ideal for beating the heat without sacrificing style. To achieve this look, gather your hair loosely at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun. You can either use a scrunchie or a few bobby pins to hold it in place. The key is not to overthink it—the messier and more undone it appears, the more charm it holds. Allow a few tendrils to escape from around your ears and forehead to soften the look and frame your face. If you have bangs or layers, let them naturally fall into place. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with sundresses, sunglasses, and minimal makeup, making it the perfect style for those sweltering days when less is more. It’s also excellent for office days or dinner outings when you want something quick yet stylish. The low placement of the bun ensures comfort, especially during humid weather, and it’s also helmet-friendly for bikers or those commuting with hats or headgear. With its blend of comfort, chicness, and ease, the messy low bun is a staple for any summer hair routine.
5. Headband
The headband is the ultimate summer savior—an accessory that doubles as a stylish statement and a functional fix for frizz, sweat, or unruly strands. It’s one of the quickest ways to switch up your look and can work wonders whether your hair is down, pulled into a ponytail, or styled in a bun. The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its adaptability. Choose a thick, stretchy fabric headband for a sporty vibe during workouts or beach days, or go for a satin or embellished headband for a touch of glam at brunch or casual parties. Slip the headband over your crown and position it near the hairline, tucking any flyaways underneath. This instantly lifts the hair off your face, giving you a refreshed, wide-awake appearance—perfect for those hot days when you need to feel more put together with minimal effort. Headbands also offer a solution for dealing with oily roots or flattened hair on ultra-humid days. They work with short, medium, and long hair and are particularly helpful when transitioning between washes or hairstyles. This effortless yet trendy accessory can totally transform your look and is a staple for anyone seeking comfort, control, and flair in one simple step.
6. Beach Waves
Beach waves are the quintessential summer hairstyle. There’s something eternally charming about tousled, textured waves that look like you just stepped off the sand, even if you’re miles from the ocean. Beach waves exude a relaxed, sun-kissed vibe that’s perfect for summer, and they work on almost every hair length—from short bobs to long mermaid-style hair. Achieving this look can be done with or without heat. The easiest heat-free method is to braid damp hair into two or more plaits before bed and undo them in the morning. You’ll wake up with soft, natural-looking waves that you can separate with your fingers and spritz with sea salt spray for added definition. For quicker styling, use a large-barrel curling iron or flat iron to create gentle, alternating curls. Once styled, rake through your hair with your hands to loosen the curls and give that windblown finish. Beach waves are ideal for everything from casual coffee runs to rooftop dinners. They bring volume, texture, and life to your hair without the heaviness of more structured styles. Plus, they pair beautifully with summery outfits, swimsuits, or boho-chic accessories. Whether you’re going for a low-key or glamorous vibe, beach waves give you that perfect summer glow.
Conclusion
Hot summer days don’t have to mean boring, pulled-back hair or the dreaded heat-styling marathon. These six easy hairstyles for hot summer days offer stylish, practical, and most importantly—comfortable—options for beating the heat while still looking your best. Whether you’re in the mood for a playful ponytail wrapped with a scarf or channeling effortless glam with a messy low bun, these looks are designed to adapt to your lifestyle and climate. Each hairstyle can be tweaked to fit your hair type and personal aesthetic, making them as versatile as they are beautiful.
So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by the summer sun or simply need a quick, cute solution before heading out the door, try one of these go-to hairstyles. They’ll keep you cool, collected, and chic from sunrise to sunset—and might even become part of your year-round routine. Summer might bring the heat, but your hair doesn’t have to suffer for it. With just a few minutes and the right style, you can turn any sweaty day into a good hair day.