Summer has a rhythm of its own, right? The days become longer, the air becomes lighter, and for some reason, everything is just a little bit easier—so your hair should be too. Whether you’re running late for work, lounging by the pool, or planning a breezy weekend brunch, simple hairstyles can elevate your entire vibe without taking over your morning routine. But what is that perfect balance between cute and casual look? Let’s discuss the naturally beautiful hairstyles that scream “I woke up like this” – but better.
From sleek minimalist ponytails to romantic waves, and easy updos, here’s a collection of summer simple hairstyles you can actually do, no overthinking required. I’ll deconstruct what makes each look special, give you practical advice, and share the little tricks I’ve learned from following beauty trends as if it’s my full-time job. Let’s get inspired.
The Sleek Bubble Braid That Screams Minimal Chic
This bubble braid is everything – sleek, fun, and something you can totally pull off even if you’ve got two-day-old hair. The trick is in its structure: evenly placed elastics on a low ponytail will give you those voluminous “bubbles”, which will make your simple summer hairstyle look like it was done on purpose. What I love the most is how the soft front tendrils frame the face, without making the shape complicated. With a sleeveless black top and minimal gold jewellery, it feels clean and elevated – basically, ready for anything.
Slick the hair down with a lightweight styling balm (try Ouai Matte Pomade) to keep flyaways at bay. I’ve discovered that a boar bristle brush is a wonder to achieve that close-to-the-head sleekness without making hair stiff and crunchy. End with a shine spray such as Color Wow Extra Mist-ical Shine Spray for the glassy look.
This is my go to when I want to appear like I planned ahead… even if I totally didn’t. I’ve worn this to beach bars, day parties, and even work events – no one will ever know it only took five minutes and a few clear elastics.
And if you are wondering how to look put together without the stress, this is your sign. It’s a simple updo that works well with long hair and even medium length hair if you are smart with your sectioning. Honestly, it’s the ultimate summer power move.
Soft Waves That Whisper “Just Got Back From the Beach”
That easy, “I live on the coast” vibe? This is that in hair form. The medium hair easy casual wave is relaxed, touchable, and is like it was kissed by salt air. The subtle ruffle at the ends adds movement without being too put together. There’s no hard curl or heavy product, it’s relaxed, like your favorite oversized sweatshirt.
To make this work, I always begin with a little IGK Beach Club Texture Spray – not too much, just enough to give it hold without stiffness. I twist with a flat iron and then gently rake with fingers after cool. Key tip? Don’t overthink the part. Let it drop where it likes – that gives it the casual and not over-styled look.
This look is basically summer in a hairstyle. When I put it on, I feel like I’m never further than five minutes from an unplanned road trip or a rooftop rosé. It works especially well if you have medium hair straight or soft waves, and it’s one of the best simple hairstyle in summer options when you want effortless with edge.
Can we all agree this is how we would like our hair to look after air drying it?
The Blunt Bob With a Preppy Twist
If you’re one of those people who prefers a clean silhouette, this chic bob with a soft headband may be your summer look. The cut itself is classic – chin length, sharp and shiny but the cute accessory takes it to a relaxed level that is ideal for everyday wear. The equilibrium of structure and softness makes it that Korean-inspired sweetness that’s been popping up on TikTok and Pinterest all year.
What’s underrated here is how low-maintenance it can be. I use Kristin Ess Blow Dry Mist before styling to save time, and a flat iron to lock shine in. If you are struggling with frizz, a couple of drops of Moroccanoil Treatment Light will do wonders.
To me, I love this for running errands or meeting up with friends. It’s got that put-together-for-school or even a party vibe, but is still chill enough for coffee dates and iced matcha runs. If you’ve got short hair and you’ve been dying for some styling inspiration, this might be it.
Bonus: this hairstyle does not get in your face without tying it up – a little win that feels huge when the heat index rises.
Messy Bun That Feels Effortlessly Intentional
When the temps go up and you need to take something off your neck but still totally chic – this textured messy bun is the move. It’s the ultimate easy updo that manages to strike a balance between “woke up like this” and “ready for brunch with the girls.” The piecey front strands soften the whole look and the contrast between pulled back and face framing makes it versatile for either a casual afternoon or something more dressy like dinner with guests.
To keep the bun voluminous and not too tight, I always use a texturizing spray first (try Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray, worth every penny). It provides just the right amount of grip, especially for medium hair that needs a little bit of assistance to keep a style. A few hidden bobby pins and a flexible hairspray (like L’Oréal Elnett) will lock the whole thing in without crunchiness.
To be honest, this is one of those looks that never fail to get compliments – even though it takes literally five minutes. I have worn it to parties, park picnics and once even to a wedding when I had no time for a blowout. It’s versatile like that.
And if you have medium length hair that is easy to twist and pin, it’s a no-brainer. This one is like a secret weapon for those “I don’t know what to do with my hair” days.
Curly Ponytail With Headband Vibes
This is the kind of hair that does not have to try to make a statement. The natural curly hair texture gathered back with a wide headband creates confident, effortless vibe. It’s soft and structured, defined and playful – and just perfect for hot weather. If you’ve been searching for easy summer natural hairstyles that will really make your coils pop, then this is a must-try.
To maintain the curls juicy and defined, I prefer using Pattern Beauty’s Curl Gel – it does not flake up. I smooth down the edges with Eco Style Olive Oil Gel, and then finish with a satin headband to lock it in. And if you need day-two volume? Flip and fluff with a wide tooth comb or pick, and spritz a little water with leave-in.
I love the way this style holds the curls up and out there but at the same time looks casual. Perfect for school, errands, or just because you’re feeling cute around the house. It’s also a killer choice for simple summer hairstyles for Black women—low effort, high reward.
If you’re team texture and want a way to switch it up without heat styling, this look is as easy as it is empowering.
Blunt Ends and Park Vibes
A clean, straight blunt cut such as this one always turns heads – especially with a breeze and attitude. The simplicity of the line says a lot and it is one of the most underrated simple hairstyles summer casual. The movement, the confidence, the fact that it’s low effort and high payoff? Yes, please.
This style lives on a clean cut, so regular trims are necessary to keep it fresh – not stringy. I normally blow dry it straight with T3 AireBrush Duo and then run the ends through with Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother for that silky finish.
To be honest, I always feel a little more badass when I wear my hair like this. There is something about the structure and minimalism that makes even a chill bench at the park look like a fashion statement. Perfect for medium hair, especially if you’re in the mood for something sleek without having to heat style every day.
Let the wind take it from here. Summer has a knack of styling this one for you.
Glossy Jet-Black Shine with Total Ease
There is a certain power in the shiny jet-black hair worn straight and free. It has a kind of presence. This look is timeless, polished, and—if you’re like me—absolutely made for golden hour selfies. It belongs to the category of long hair straight but does not feel heavy and high-maintenance.
The secret weapon here is Kérastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Original Hair Oil – a few drops after styling will give an impression that your hair drinks diamonds for breakfast. I also swear by Satin pillowcases to prevent the frizz and the shine.
