20 Cool Summer Hairstyles for Long Hair: Light and Stylish Looks to Beat the Heat
Summer’s here, and long hair doesn’t have to weigh you down. Whether you’re heading to the beach, brunch, or just soaking up the sun, the right hairstyle can keep you cool and looking cute.
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From loose waves to braided crowns, these breezy summer hairstyles are all about comfort with a twist of style. We’ve handpicked 20 fresh looks that are light, low-fuss, and ready for anything the season throws your way.
Say goodbye to sweaty strands and hello to fun, airy styles that let your hair breathe. Let’s get you summer-ready—one hairstyle at a time.
1. Boho Bubble Braid with Daisy Accents
Sunlight catches every golden wave of this voluminous bubble braid, giving it a dreamy, fairytale finish. Sections are softly tied off with ivory ribbons, adding texture and charm without making the style feel too structured.
Loose daisy flowers peek through the loops, bringing a gentle, nature-kissed vibe that’s made for summer days in the open air.
This look works beautifully on long hair, especially with warm blonde tones. Whether you’re heading to a garden party or simply chasing golden hour, this braid brings softness, elegance, and whimsy in equal measure.
2. Iridescent Ocean Braid with Crystal Chains
This futuristic take on a summer hairstyle feels straight from a dream. A soft, waterfall-style braid flows into a smooth bubble braid, giving structure without overpowering the delicate look.
Long, silver-blonde strands shimmer with iridescent tinsel, catching every hint of sunset light. Crystal chains and sparkling clips add ethereal charm, cascading gently along each side.
Set against the ocean horizon, this look suits anyone wanting to add a bit of fantasy to their summer wardrobe. Whether you’re heading to a coastal event or capturing golden hour content, this style turns long hair into a work of wearable art.
3. Voluminous Summer Pony with Soft Face-Framing Waves
This high ponytail brings effortless charm to long hair with its loose waves and airy volume. Pulled back just enough to lift the crown, the style still lets soft strands frame the face for a flattering, lived-in touch.
The tousled curls add movement while keeping the look fresh and lightweight—just what summer calls for. Whether you’re out for a sunny stroll or catching up with friends, this hairstyle works with everything from breezy dresses to casual denim.
It’s the kind of ponytail that feels polished without trying too hard, keeping you cool and camera-ready all day.
4. Sunset Sparkle Ponytail with Butterfly Charms
This dreamy high ponytail blends summer romance with a touch of fantasy. Long, flowing strands cascade in soft waves, while the sleek crown adds structure and lift.
Scattered throughout the length are tiny crystal butterflies, catching the sunset glow and creating a glimmering trail with every movement.
The playful yet polished look pairs beautifully with statement sleeves and soft pastels. Whether you’re headed to a rooftop party or an evening beach stroll, this hairstyle delivers a magical presence that’s hard to miss. It’s sweet, bold, and built to shine through golden hour.
5. Loose Twisted Braid with Beachy Highlights
This effortlessly chic style blends a relaxed twist with cascading waves for a soft, feminine feel. The braid starts loose at the crown and flows into tousled lengths, showing off the natural contrast of honey and sandy blonde tones.
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Wisps around the face keep the look casual, while the texture adds depth without feeling overdone. It’s an easy go-to for warm summer days when you want to stay cool without sacrificing style.
Whether paired with a sundress or denim, this hairstyle brings out the natural beauty of long hair in the most carefree way.
6. Sandy Blonde Waves with Soft Center Part
This laid-back summer hairstyle keeps things cool and effortlessly stylish. Long, sandy blonde strands fall in gentle, natural waves that flow past the shoulders.
The center part adds symmetry, while the face-framing layers bring lightness around the cheeks and jawline.It’s low-maintenance yet polished, with subtle balayage highlights catching the sun at every angle.
Whether you’re running errands or hitting up a weekend festival, this beachy look is easy to wear and never goes out of style. It’s the kind of hair that speaks for itself—casual, confident, and kissed by summer.
7. Romantic Rosette Half-Up Waves with Pearl Pins
This enchanting half-up style turns long red hair into a seaside fairytale. Twisted rosettes form an elegant crown at the back, accented with delicate pearl pins that shimmer softly in the breeze.
The rest of the hair flows freely in loose, beachy waves, adding softness and movement to the structured top. It’s a beautiful option for summer evenings, whether you’re attending a wedding or watching the sunset by the water.
The combination of floral detail and flowing texture gives this hairstyle a magical feel without going over the top.
8. Regal Half-Up Curls with Gold Chain Drapes
This lavish hairstyle brings a royal vibe to summer nights. Glossy, dark curls flow freely while the top half is swept back into elegant rolls, giving volume and lift. Gold chains and amber beads drape across the crown, adding a bold statement that complements the rich texture of the waves.
It’s a standout look for formal events, garden galas, or sunset celebrations. The dramatic mix of vintage glam and boho flair makes this hairstyle a head-turner.
With every movement, the golden accents catch the light, creating a mesmerizing shimmer that feels powerful and graceful.
9. Braided Bubble Half-Up with Color Pops
This playful summer hairstyle brings energy and creativity to long hair. Small side braids curve neatly into a half-up bubble braid, tied with colorful bands that add a pop of fun.
A hint of bright ribbon weaves through one braid, making the look even more vibrant. The rest of the hair is left loose in soft, natural waves, giving it a light and breezy finish.
It’s a great choice for outdoor adventures, birthday parties, or just making everyday feel special. This style is easy to wear, stays in place, and turns heads with its cheerful charm and creative twist.
10. Bohemian Garden Braid with Gold Leaf Charms
This botanical-inspired braid brings earthy elegance to long summer hair. A loosely structured braid flows down the back, adorned with gold leaf accessories and delicate gemstone details.
The side twists add texture, blending seamlessly into the main braid for a soft, romantic finish. It’s a look that fits beautifully at garden weddings, nature retreats, or any day you want to feel extra graceful.
The mix of natural texture and decorative accents creates a harmonious balance between boho spirit and timeless charm. Each movement lets the metallic pieces shimmer gently in the light.
11. Galaxy Braid with Star Charms on Lilac Locks
This cosmic-inspired braid transforms long, pastel-purple hair into a starlit masterpiece. Starting with voluminous twists at the crown, the braid cascades into a sleek, tapered plait, adorned with silver stars and delicate strands of shimmer.
Each piece sparkles under twilight skies, giving the look a dreamy, otherworldly finish. It’s a bold yet graceful choice for summer nights out, music festivals, or stargazing on the rooftop.
The rich color paired with celestial accents brings fantasy and edge together in a hairstyle that feels truly out of this world.
12. Fiery Fauxhawk Braid with Sunset Highlights
This bold summer hairstyle makes a fearless statement with its sculpted fauxhawk braid. Twisted loops stack vertically along the center, creating an edgy silhouette that still feels feminine.
The vibrant copper and gold tones shimmer in the sunlight, echoing the colors of a desert sunset. Loose curls at the ends soften the look and add flow.
Perfect for music festivals or creative outdoor gatherings, this style is built to stand out. It combines fierce structure with fluid movement, giving long hair a powerful look that still feels grounded in summer fun.
13. Rainbow Bow Cascade on Wavy Brunette Hair
This cheerful half-up style turns long, wavy hair into a playful summer display. A large orange bow tops the crown, while a cascade of colorful bows runs neatly down the back, tying soft sections together in a whimsical pattern.
Each bow brings its own pop of personality, from pastels to brights, all standing out beautifully against rich brown waves. It’s a fun pick for summer picnics, birthday parties, or simply spreading joy.
This look celebrates color, creativity, and carefree energy—perfect for warm days when you want your hair to feel as happy as the sunshine.
14. Braided Rosewood Ribbon Braid for Garden Glam
This romantic hairstyle wraps elegance and vintage charm into one stunning braid. Rich chestnut strands are woven into a voluminous plait, threaded with a deep rosewood ribbon that trails softly at the ends.
The twisted crown at the top adds depth and dimension, while the ribbon detail brings a regal, feminine touch. Ideal for summer weddings or garden soirées, this look pairs beautifully with off-shoulder gowns and delicate jewelry.
It’s graceful, timeless, and designed to turn heads in the most enchanting way possible.
15. Enchanted Garden Waves with Pearl Crown Twist
This fairy-tale hairstyle flows with grace and charm, combining soft golden waves with a delicate crown braid adorned with pearl accents. The half-up design gently lifts the top while letting the rest of the hair cascade in airy, voluminous curls.
Each strand catches the sunlight, adding a warm, ethereal glow that pairs perfectly with nature-inspired settings. It’s a dream choice for romantic summer events, especially garden parties or boho weddings.
This look brings together timeless elegance and natural softness, creating a style that feels both magical and effortlessly feminine.
16. Vintage Glam Waves with Beaded Veil and Soft Bangs
This timeless hairstyle channels old Hollywood elegance with a modern twist. Glossy waves fall in smooth, structured curves, while soft, wispy bangs frame the face with charm.
A jeweled netted veil crowns the look, adding sparkle and mystery that elevate it from classic to captivating. Perfect for formal events or upscale summer evenings, this style blends retro beauty with contemporary flair.
The combination of vintage texture and statement accessories creates a head-turning finish that’s both graceful and bold.
17. Imperial Lotus Braid with Pearl Drapes
This majestic hairstyle draws inspiration from traditional court elegance, blending artistry with precision. Two thick braids frame the face, intricately coiled and joined at the crown beneath a regal lotus-shaped headpiece.
Pearls cascade delicately across the forehead and sides, creating a harmonious balance of softness and grandeur. Paired with embroidered silk and ornate detailing, this look transforms long hair into a ceremonial statement.
It’s a celebration of heritage and high fashion, perfect for cultural festivals, formal performances, or editorial moments where elegance meets storytelling.
18. Regal Twisted Mohawk with Emerald Accents
This powerful and artistic hairstyle blends sculptural structure with intricate detail. The elevated mohawk features voluminous natural coils stacked in bold sections, while the sides are slicked and twisted into rope braids.
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Emerald pins and vine-inspired embellishments weave through the style, echoing the rich tones of the deep green velvet gown. Ideal for upscale summer events, fashion editorials, or cultural celebrations, this look embodies elegance with edge.
It honors natural texture while pushing creative boundaries, turning long hair into a crown of confidence and royal flair.
19. Galactic Platinum Weave with Precision Fishtails
This futuristic hairstyle is a true work of sculpted artistry. Platinum strands are meticulously arranged in a sleek grid pattern across the crown, intersected with metallic embellishments and crystal inlays.
The sides fall into ultra-smooth fishtail braids that flow like silk cables, blending softness with high-tech structure. Paired with a sculptural silver outfit, this look is made for runway moments, avant-garde editorials, or cosmic-themed events.
It’s equal parts architectural and ethereal—where fashion, fantasy, and futuristic elegance collide in striking harmony.
20. Cozy Side Braid with Soft Volume on Copper Hair
This warm and effortless look features a full, thick side braid draped gently over one shoulder, showcasing the rich copper hue of the hair. Subtle teasing at the crown adds soft volume, while wisps near the face keep the style relaxed and romantic.
The texture of the braid pairs beautifully with a chunky knit sweater, giving the whole look a cozy, lived-in charm. Whether you’re spending the day outdoors or curled up with a good book, this braid brings easy elegance to long hair.
It’s a simple yet striking choice that highlights both color and softness in every strand.
Aria Winslow
Zara Montoya, a trailblazing hairstylist and innovative beauty expert, is the dynamic Editor-in-Chief of StyleStrands Magazine.
Drawing from her two decades of transformative experience in high-end salons and fashion runways, Zara curates cutting-edge hair trends and timeless techniques.
Her groundbreaking approach to hairstyling has inspired countless individuals to reimagine their personal aesthetic and embrace bold self-expression.
Zara’s guiding principle: Every strand tells a story, and your hair is the most personal canvas of creativity.
