Summer Hairstyles for Long Hair

Summer is the season of sunshine, spontaneous plans, and salty air – and your hair should be ready for every moment. If you’ve got long hair, the warmer months offer endless styling opportunities, from loose waves kissed by the sea breeze to chic updos that keep you cool on scorching days.

But let’s be honest: long hair in summer can be a bit of a hassle. Heat, humidity, and busy social calendars mean you want hairstyles that are not only beautiful but also practical. Whether you're heading to a beach day, a garden party, or just running errands under the sun, we’ve got the ultimate guide to summer hairstyles for long hair that’ll keep you feeling cool and looking gorgeous.

1. Beachy Waves: The Ultimate Summer Look

Is there anything more quintessentially summer than tousled, beachy waves? This effortless style suits almost every face shape and gives your long hair volume and texture without feeling too “done.”

How to Style:

• Use a sea salt spray on damp hair, scrunch it in with your hands, and let it air dry for a natural finish.
  
  
• For more defined waves, use a large-barrel curling wand and then brush them out with your fingers.
  
  
• Try braiding your hair loosely overnight to wake up with heat-free waves.
  
  

Style Tip: A middle part gives beach waves that laid-back, modern vibe. Add a spritz of texturising spray for extra hold.

2. The Classic High Ponytail

When temperatures rise, getting your hair off your neck is key. A high ponytail is sleek, stylish, and takes just minutes to create.

How to Style:

• Pull your hair up high on the crown of your head and secure with a strong hair tie.
  
  
• For a more polished finish, wrap a small section of hair around the base to conceal the hair tie.
  
  
• Add a touch of hairspray to keep flyaways at bay.
  
  

Style Tip: Slick back the front using a little gel or mousse for a super-sleek “clean girl” look that’s trending this summer.

3. Braids for Days

Braids are your best friend when it comes to long summer hair. They’re stylish, protective, and ideal for keeping your hair neat in the heat.

Top Braided Styles:

• Classic French braid – timeless and perfect for daytime outings.
  
  
• Fishtail braid – adds texture and works beautifully on long lengths.
  
  
• Side braid – casual, romantic, and easy to do.
  
  
• Double Dutch braids – sporty and secure, great for festivals or beach days.
  
  

Style Tip: Pull apart (or “pancake”) your braid once it’s done to create a fuller, softer look.

4. Low Bun with a Twist

For an easy, elegant updo that’s perfect for everything from BBQs to evening events, the low bun is your go-to.

How to Style:

• Pull your hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a bun at the nape of your neck.
  
  
• Secure with bobby pins and gently pull out a few strands around your face.
  
  
• For a more romantic look, braid your ponytail before wrapping it into a bun.
  
  

Style Tip: Add a silk scarf around the bun or use embellished pins for a little glam.

5. Half-Up, Half-Down Styles

Can't decide between tying your hair up or leaving it loose? The half-up, half-down look offers the best of both worlds.

How to Style:

• Pull the top section of your hair into a small ponytail or bun, leaving the rest to flow freely.
  
  
• You can keep it sleek or curl the bottom half for extra bounce.
  
  
• For something more boho, twist or braid the top sections before securing.
  
  

Style Tip: Accessorise with claw clips, barrettes, or scrunchies in bright summer colours.

6. Messy Buns and Top Knots

There’s a reason the messy bun is a go-to summer hairstyle—it’s quick, cool, and effortlessly stylish.

How to Style:

• Flip your head upside down, gather your hair into a bun on top of your head, and secure it loosely with a hair tie.
  
  
• Let some pieces fall out naturally around the face and neck for that laid-back effect.
  
  
• For extra volume, gently backcomb your ponytail before twisting it into a bun.
  
  

Style Tip: A touch of dry shampoo at the roots can add grip and volume, especially on second-day hair.

7. Bubble Ponytail: Trendy and Playful

The bubble ponytail is a fun update on the traditional pony, and it works wonderfully on long hair.

How to Style:

• Start with a standard ponytail.
  
  
• Add additional hair ties every few inches down the length of your ponytail.
  
  
• Gently pull at each section to create the “bubble” effect.
  
  

Style Tip: Use clear or coloured elastics depending on your outfit – this one’s great for parties and festivals.

8. Wet Look Hair: Sleek and Bold

If you’re in the mood to turn heads, go for the wet-look style. It’s high fashion meets summer cool.

How to Style:

• Start with damp or dry hair.
  
  
• Apply gel or wet-look styling cream through the roots and mid-lengths.
  
  
• Use a comb to create a defined parting and slick everything back.
  
  

Style Tip: Pair with bold earrings and a strong lip colour for maximum impact.

9. Loose Plaits with Texture

If you love that “undone” summer look, soft, loose plaits are perfect.

How to Style:

• Part your hair in the middle and create two or three loose plaits.
  
  
• Leave the ends unbraided for a more relaxed feel.
  
  
• Loosen the plaits with your fingers for volume.
  
  

Style Tip: Add small accessories like rings, cuffs or ribbons woven into your plaits for a whimsical summer twist.

10. Accessorise for Extra Style

Summer hair isn’t complete without a few standout accessories to complement your look.

Must-Have Summer Hair Accessories:

• Silk scarves – tie around buns, wear as a headband, or wrap around ponytails.
  
  
• Claw clips – perfect for throwing your hair up quickly on a hot day.
  
  
• Wide headbands – retro, practical, and ideal for taming frizz.
  
  
• Hair rings and beads – great for adding flair to braids and plaits.
  
  
• Sun hats and visors – fashionable and protective.
  
  

Long Hair, Don’t Care

Long hair gives you so much to work with in summer, whether you're after something simple and sleek or wild and whimsical. The key to great summer hairstyles is mixing style with practicality: keep things cool, comfortable, and suited to your day.

Don’t forget to care for your hair, too. The sun, saltwater, and humidity can be harsh, so nourish those lengths with hydrating treatments, leave-in conditioner, and a UV protectant spray to keep your hair healthy and glossy all season long.

Whether you’re poolside, partying, or picnicking in the park, your hair can be just as summery as the rest of you. So shake it out, tie it up, braid it down, or let it flow – just make it fabulous.

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