Who doesn’t like to lighten up a little when summer approaches? If you’re planning a day at the beach, having brunch with friends, or making a quick trip to the farmer’s market, an appropriate hairstyle will always change the game. But what will you do if your hair is short? Can you still keep things stylish? For sure! This summer, short hair cuts are in vogue because of their alluring style and low maintenance. You can have polished and sleek looks or fun and tousled. Every mood has its vibe! Let’s take a look at some of the chic, low maintenance hairstyles that are practical for summer 2025.
Sleek Pixie with a Polished Finish
Every woman knows that a sleek pixie cut is perfect when you want a polished no fuss look. This ultimate hairstyle is meant for those who want to accentuate their facial features in a neat chic manner during work and casual day outs. This hairstyle highlights the cheekbones and jawline while providing face framing. A bit of volumizing hairspray gives the top some light control which adds polish but won’t feel overly done. It also quick to style which makes it effortless in an already busy morning.
Always use a lightweight hair serum for that sleek finish. Right now, my favorite is Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil—it gives a lovely sheen while keeping hair light. A quick blow-dry while using a round brush will shape set.
Nothing feels as refreshing as a summer pixie cut. It requires no effort to look put together and boosts confidence while simultaneously feeling liberating. Kristin Ess, a well-known celebrity hairstylist, often recommends this cut for someone looking to accentuate their features and requires low upkeep. It’s a statement cut that demonstrates you are ready to tackle anything life throws at you.
If accessorizing is your forte, pairing bold earrings or statement necklaces with a sleek pixie will complement effortlessly. This hairstyle is ready to serve you whether you are heading to a mid-summer soiree or simply enjoying some sunny weather.
Wet Look with a Retro Twist
This summer, the wet look is making a splash. It is sultry, chic, and surprisingly simple to achieve. This style works wonderfully with a short bob or cropped haircut as they are both styled sleek and sculpted to the head showcasing the face. It is an effortless look for a night out or even for more formal occasions. The trick lies in keeping the roots sleek while allowing the ends to have some texture.
To achieve that gorgeous wet look, I recommend L’Oreal Paris Studio Line Clean Gel. It holds the shape without ‘crunching’ the hair. Make certain the edges are smooth so that the top is a mirror shine, and use a fine-tooth comb to apply gel from roots to tips as the gel will need to be concentrated evenly.
This particular hairstyle is glamorous in a different way. It gives off a flashy and confident a la runway feel, plus, it’s very practical for hot summer days when you do not wish to battle the heat and humidity. Celebrity stylist Chris Appleton does say “A sleek, wet look is timeless, it’s the easiest way to look put together with no stress.”
This hairstyle looks sophisticated, which is incredibly elegant, and can be worn with a tailored blazer or paired with a chic slip dress for the ultimate summer evening look.
Bob Hairstyle with Gentle Curls
The stylish bob is a balance of classy and ponytail haircuts. This hairstyle works best for people who want their hair to be easier to manage during the hot season while retaining some length to style in waves and layers.With this style, you have to maintain that effortless yet polished vibe that looks chic and fashionable, and it works best with casual styles. This is perfect for weekend chores and last minute dinners.
I achieve that look the best by using Batiste Texturizing Spray. Volumizing roots and curling them with an inch barrel wand gives you effortless waves. You can break the curls by finger combing which helps achieve a more natural look.
This look is great for summer and has become my go to look. This look works great when it’s warm since your hair usually tends to lose volume and flat in the heat. Holoway says this hairstyle works best for outdoor events and brunch. It is mainly known for its immaculate elegance alongside an airy feel.
This style looks best on those with naturally wavy or curly hair. To rock this look, just add a touch of mousse to accentuate your waves and you are set. This style requires little to no upkeep making it ideal for summer activities.
Elegant Blunt Bob with a Polished Finish
Bobs do not get any more stylish than blunt bobs, which scream contemporary elegance. They are smart and defined, harmonizing beautifully with straight hair or subtly wavy styles. The cut is shoulder length which is easy to style yet exudes effortless glamour. It is perfect for those who want to maintain an aerodynamic shape with little upkeep.
To achieve this look, my go to tools are GHD Platinum+ Styler for straightening and smoothing the hair. It makes the strands glossier, smoother and free of any flyaways which is especially important for a flawless look. To finish, a light spray to the hair using Kenra Platinum Silkening Mist adds a layer of shine.
Blunt bobs are always on-trend and captivating. I appreciate how it highlights your facial structure, and can be styled to achieve a perfectly effortless look. As hairstylist Jen Atkin always says “The perfect way to make a statement without saying a word is a blunt bob.”
When combined with a bold lip and sleek outfit, you are ready for any occasion under the summer sun. This style is great whether you’re exploring downtown or enjoying a cafés oceanfront view, it’s sure to keep you looking polished.
Voluminous Retro Waves for a Glamorous Vibe
If you’re looking to turn heads and channel old Hollywood with a modern twist, these voluminous retro waves are just the ticket. This look focuses on a softer side of romantic elegance, crafting a gentle swirl of waves that feels timeless yet modern. It works wonderfully for a night out or any time you want a touch of extra.
For that bouncy, voluminous effect, I recommend the Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream. It keeps the hair soft and touchable which is ideal for any styling. Gently combed hair with vintage waves can be achieved by curling with a medium-barrel curling iron and brushing through with a paddle brush.
This hairstyle looks amazing and makes you feel self-assured. The waves reflecting light are stunning, and the hairstyle is an easy and quick solution to create movement and volume.
Retro waves can be paired with a bold red lipstick or statement earrings, making it easy for you to capture attention all summer. It’s perfect for special events owing to the effortless elegance, enduring allure, and timeless appeal.
Slicked Back Undercut with an Edgy Twist
The style that perfectly embodies the bold and edgy look for this summer is the slicked back undercut. It simultaneously showcases rebellion and sophistication, complementing those who want to be noticed without hair sticking to their face. The hair on top is styled with high-shine gel to achieve a sleek gloss-like effect, and the sides are closely cropped to preserve the sharp defined finish.
For that coveted shine, I suggest Redken Water Wax 03 Texture Pomade. It delivers a glossy finish while keeping the hair flexible. The best results are achieved by dampening the hair, applying the wax, and combing through to achieve the “slicked-back” effect.
Attitude is the TL;DR of this look. Bold, fearless, screaming confidence—if punk is your thing, then this style is a no brainer. On top of that, it is a practical hairstyle for summer heat, meaning no more sweaty neck hair.
Oversized sunglasses or statement earrings perfectly round off the hairstyle. The bold woman is unapologetic while remaining effortlessly chic. Hand-in-hand with the hairstyle, it embodies freedom.
Textured Pixie Haircuts Emitting A Youthful Charm
A textured pixie gives a chic and effortless impression all at once. It focuses on volume and texture in a way that appears undone, yet polished at the same time. For those with thick hair or for someone wanting a bit dimension to their thick short hair, this look is perfect.
When it comes to carefree tousled curls, I recommend OUAI Matte Pomade. It provides enough texture to create effortless shape and volume to the hair without making it too heavy. A light dab at the ends is perfect.
