Sun Kissed Highlights for Brunettes Summer 2025 – Stunning Balayage & Hair Color Ideas

Sunlit Blonde Ribbons on Dark Waves

For a beachy, boho-inspired style, sunlit blonde ribbons against dark waves create a gorgeous contrast that is effortlessly cool. The soft, wavy feel coupled with those bright, sunlit strands gives a laid back, vacation ready feel that is ideal for summer.

summer hair color for brunettes highlights sun kissed brown

To prevent those blonde ribbons from going brassy, a weekly purple mask such as the Redken Color Extend Blondage Express Anti-Brass Mask can be a wonder-worker. And if you are going for that beachy texture, a little bit of Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray will give you that perfectly undone, wavy look.

The thing I like most about this style is its flexibility. You can leave it sleek and straight for a more sophisticated look or scrunch it up for that beachy wave thing. Either way, those blonde ribbons are just the right amount of summer sunshine for brunette hair.

Effortless Updo with Sun-Kissed Tendrils

A relaxed updo and soft sun kissed tendrils are the perfect casual summer style. The delicate, sunlit strands complement the face perfectly, giving that perfect touch of brightness to darker brunette hair. It’s that perfect “I just threw my hair up but still look fabulous” feeling that is perfect for those lazy summer days.

summer hair color for brunettes highlights sun kissed blonde

In order to maintain those lighter pieces soft and hydrated, the SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Multi-Action Leave-In is a must. Not only does it detangle but also adds moisture without weighing down the hair, a must for those loose, face framing tendrils.

I am in love with how this look is effortless and chic. You can wear it at the beach or dress it up for a casual dinner, so it is a great summer style that never disappoints.

Sleek, Straight, and Ashy Brown

For those who are looking for more polished look, sleek, straight hair with ashy brown tones is a bold option. This style makes things simple yet sophisticated with soft cool-toned highlights that add depth but do not overdo it. It’s a contemporary, minimalist approach to sun-kissed hair – low-key but impossible to ignore.

summer hair color for brunettes highlights sun kissed brunette

Maintaining sleek, straight hair requires some extra care. A smoothing serum such as the Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum is a wonder in keeping frizz away and adding shine. And if you’re going to use heat tools, do not forget to use the Gisou Heat Protecting Spray to maintain those highlighted strands healthy.

What I love about this look is the fact that it is so effortlessly chic. It’s ideal for the ones who wish to experiment with the sun-kissed trend without making a drastic change.

Classic Blonde Money Pieces on Ash Brown Waves

Blonde money pieces around the face are a timeless means of taking brunette hair to the next level without going full-on highlights. This hairstyle is based on contrast – ash brown waves with bright golden blonde streaks that attract all the attention to the face. It’s bold, eye-catching, and right for making a statement this summer.

summer hair color for brunettes highlights sun kissed brown

For that perfect blend of blonde and brunette, a purple shampoo like Amika Bust Your Brass Cool Blonde Shampoo can make sure those blonde strands shine without washing out the brunette base. And if you are going for that glossy finish, then the Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil is a must-have.

This is a dramatic look and contrast, and it is the type of style that will make people turn their heads whether you are going to the beach or the city streets.

Warm Beige Blonde on Voluminous Waves

Warm beige blonde highlights on big waves add a bit of old Hollywood glamour to contemporary brunette hair. The warm tones give depth and dimension and the voluminous waves give that lush, bouncy look that is so glamorous.

summer hair color for brunettes highlights sun kissed blonde

To keep that amount without weighing hair down, Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast is a game changer. It gives body and texture with no sticky residue, and it is ideal for those big, bouncy waves.

There’s something so timeless about this style. It’s like the best of beachy and polished all in one, but still carefree with a touch of glam that makes it feel sophisticated and luxe.

Rich Ashy Brown with Subtle Blonde Highlights

If you are after that perfect summer glow but not too bright, rich ashy brown with subtle blonde highlights will be a beautiful choice. The ashy undertones maintain the look down to earth and contemporary, and the soft blonde pieces add a touch of brightness that is so easy and natural.

summer hair color for brunettes highlights sun kissed brunette

For ashy tones, the Redken Shades EQ Gloss treatment is perfect for maintaining brassiness at bay and for adding shine. And if you are in need of a little touch-up between salon trips, the IGK Mixed Feelings Leave-In Blonde Toning Drops can help keep those cool tones.

This look is ideal for anyone who is looking for a soft, low-key summer pick-me-up. It’s soft, subtle, and has a little shimmer to keep things spicy.

Golden Beige Balayage on Long, Flowing Layers

Summer goddess hair is the golden beige balayage on long, flowing layers. This style adds the richness of brunette and imbues it with warm sunlit shades that flow through the hair without a hitch. The result? A glowing beachy effect that flows perfectly with each step.

summer hair color for brunettes highlights sun kissed blonde

To keep that sunlit glow without losing the moisture, the Joico K-Pak Color Therapy Luster Lock Treatment is a lifesaver. It helps to set those golden hues in place without making hair hard and frizzy. And if you’re in the mood for that extra bit of shine, then a few drops of Biosilk Silk Therapy Original can give you that silky and polished finish.

The thing I like best about this style is its dynamism. Whether you are lounging by the pool or going for a summer night, those golden beige highlights catch the light and they’re giving the sun drenched gleam that’s impossible to miss.


Sun Kissed Highlights for Brunettes Summer 2025 – Radiant Hair Color Ideas