Summer is ending, and that does not mean that your hair must go away with it. The end of the season is actually the perfect time to switch things up — whether you’re heading to one last beach getaway, a rooftop concert, or just craving something new before fall. What then are the styles that remain hot, what is wearable in humid weather, what can be worn in brunch to bonfire? I have rounded up some of the most popular, low maintenance and down right stunning end of summer hairstyles that will keep your vibe going well past Labor Day. Let’s get into it.
Half-Up Braided Crown with a Hidden Bun Twist
This style is the type of plaited magic you fantasize about when your head is saying, please do not sweat through another ponytail. It is a formal half-up look with two thick and tight braided rows carved out along the parting, crossing over each other into a hidden bun that elevates the entire crown. The other long hair is straight and smooth and it frames the face easily. It has a nice symmetry that makes it feel refined yet still airy, ideal to that camp weekend or outdoor concert when you want your hair to stay in place and stay pretty.
You’ll want to prep with a smoothing serum (I like Ouai’s Finishing Crème) and work a touch of dry texturizer through the roots before braiding — that adds grip and keeps it from slipping in humid conditions. It also reduces the nightmare of detangling later to a great extent. To make the braids invisible, take small clear elastics and pin the ends under the top bun using bobby pins.
Frankly, I have been in a similar style on a hot day strolling through Savannah, Georgia, sweaty, yes, but my hair? Still immaculate. It’s like the style floats above your sweat line. Plus, I had two strangers ask me, “how long did that take?” (Ten minutes with a podcast playing.)
I adore how this provides a significant inspo towards a transitional vibe, one foot in summer and one toe in that early-fall vibe. It’s bold without being loud, wearable without being basic. This is something to consider when you go out on your next holiday or even a casual brunch, just leave the braids to speak.
Air-Dried Blonde Layers with a Center Part
Softly disheveled long hair that has a touch of the right amount of blonde dimension is something that is always fresh. It is a style that plays into that no-fuss, California-girl aesthetic without being too hard. The layers are naturally falling with a silky finish and are parted down the middle to allow your features to shine. I love this because it is so simple, there are no fancy curls, no bun, no fuss. Just clean lines, feathered ends, and a confident, “let the wind do its thing” attitude.
To keep this look glossy (but not flat), I recommend a leave-in conditioner like Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique — lightweight, smoothing, and heat-protective just in case you want to polish it with a flat iron. A couple of spritzes of sea salt spray at the ends will give it that slightly wavy texture and make it look all the more natural.
This hair style makes me feel like a cool-girl at the beach bar. You know when you’re sipping something citrusy and someone compliments your hair, and you didn’t even try? That’s the vibe.
If you’re someone who doesn’t want anything fussy but still wants a little inspo to push your summer look forward, this is it. It is simple, minimal care and it takes you straight through a lazy hot afternoon to a dinner with guests without missing a beat.
Textured Space Buns with Grown-Out Balayage
It is light-hearted, coy, and completely wearable even when you are not a Gen Z. The youthful touch is given by two space buns on top, and the soft waves flowing underneath with the perfectly lived-in balayage, dark roots blending into cool blonde. There’s fringe in the front (yes, bangs!) to frame the eyes and keep the look grounded in structure. It is the type of style that goes camp to cocktails, all you need is confidence.
Maintenance in this case is all about definition and contrast, use Amika Curl Corps Enhancing Gel on naturally wavy hair, or wrap some strands around a wand to add some bounce. Dry shampoo at the roots keeps the volume lifted around the buns, and if your hair’s natural, this style holds beautifully even without tons of product.
One stylist once explained to me that this is the perfect combination of fashionable and classic, as you are riding the wave of the trending braids and Y2K aesthetic, but the grown-out color makes it stylish. I have also worn a similar style to a late-summer concert and danced all night and not a single strand has come undone.
It is the hair version of a perfect popsicle, it is fun, refreshing, and extremely Instagrammable.
Sleek Icy Bob with Platinum Shine
Think of that daring thing you have been considering all summer but have been afraid to do? This is your sign. A bob that falls just at the collarbone, sleek as butter, colored a high impact icy platinum that virtually glows in golden hour light. It’s polished, precise, and screams modern confidence. The pointed tips and turned under form make it structured, and the silvery color makes the final days of summer cooler.
This chop requires affection – purple shampoo is your new best friend. I use Fanola No Yellow Mask once a week to prevent brassiness. And never ever flat iron without a heat protectant; even platinum warriors need protection. In a style this smooth, humidity may be your worst friend – anti-frizz sheets or sprays are a must have on hot days when you need to fix your hair.
I did this switch last August, and it was the reset that I did not know I needed. It made me feel more confident in the work place and I received more compliments in one week than I had in a year. There’s power in a bold short cut.
In case you have been feeling that your natural curls or longer styles are not working out so well in the recent past, then this could be your new beginning. Smaller, lighter, neater, the sort of atmosphere of a fresh page.
Loose Braided Pigtails for a Sweet Exit to Summer
When in doubt, braided pigtails always deliver. In this case, they are loose and fluffy, beginning loosely at the head and ending in delicate curls. The middle section maintains the appearance symmetrical, and the fluffy texture adds some casualness to the overall appearance compared to a normal schoolgirl outfit. It is young, not childish, and this is exactly what you require to that picnic, casual beach walk, or spontaneous holiday moment at the end of summer.
The best part? It is simply fabulous on natural textures and long hair – particularly when you leave a couple of face-framing tendrils out on purpose. You don’t want it too clean. A spritz of texturizing spray or a dollop of mousse (I love Bumble and bumble’s Curl Mousse) can really define those sections without weighing them down.
I’m personally obsessed with this style for road trips. It does not lie flat when you lay your head on it, it does not make your neck sweat and it is still cute when you get out of the car. It is one of those I did not think about it, I just got it right looks.
It is a nostalgic, easy, and oh-so-sweet farewell to the season to those of us who are hanging on to the last golden days of August.
Face-Framing French Bob with Light Texture
A softly sculpted bob, particularly one that skims the jawline and moves with a little natural ease, is something quietly strong. This style is a fresh air to anyone who is willing to give up length and heat styling. The ends are rounded a bit, but not so perfect to make them look airy, which is a good choice both in casual walks in the city and spontaneous drinks with friends. The middle section makes it contemporary, and the end product is the summer version of a Parisian cool-girl cut.
This is a gorgeous transitional short cut, in case you are considering cutting it short now in preparation of fall. It dries fast, requires minimal styling and especially shines during hot or humid climates on a light texturizing spray. I have the Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to add some form to mine without crunchiness, a bit of scrunch at the roots and it springs to life.
I got a similar one a few summers ago, and it was my lifesaver during a hot day streak in New York. It was airy on the neck, made my gold jewelry stand out, and was stunning even when I did not even attempt. That is the thing about this style it provides you with freedom.
It is the one the girls who do not want to be light, but not simple, loud, but not rude. A little trim can do wonders when you’re ready to shed a season — and this bob is the haircut version of a deep, exhaling breath.
High Gloss Slicked Ponytail with Soft Waves
It is not the matter of tying it up but the manner of wearing it. This slick back style is evidence that a ponytail is not only a last-minute camp trick, but it can be glamorous and event-ready. The crown is carved, each strand is polished into position and held tightly, and the pony is in soft, S-shaped waves that are elegant and yet effortless. That is that cool girl going somewhere important energy and I am here for it.
To achieve this finish, a firm hold gel such as Color Wow Cult Favorite Hairspray is useful in locking everything in place without flaking. Brush the top with a boar-bristle brush and fasten it with a no-snag elastic. The tail, heat lightly with a wide-barrel iron, then brush out the curls so that they will melt into those smooth waves.
I do it when I am a guest at a late-summer holiday party, perhaps a rooftop party in the city or a fancier-but-not-too-fussy party. This style is resistant to humidity, remains elevated and does not wilt after one hour in the sun.
It is an excellent demonstration of how a hairdo can be convenient and elegant. In case you have been yearning after something new that is simple to whip up but still sharp enough to photograph, this is a summer endgame.
Midnight Teal Mermaid Waves
Spring is no longer the only season to wear color, and this drastic teal long hair makeover is the evidence. The roots remain deep, but as the waves flow down the depths the blue and green colors reflect like the tropical water in the moonlight. It is a bold, colorful, yet somehow cool thing. These natural curls (or styled-to-look-natural) ride that line between edgy and ethereal, and honestly, I’m obsessed.
Vivid colors need love. I would recommend the sulfate-free shampoo such as Pureology Hydrate and cold rinses to maintain the color bright. The fade can also be prevented with a weekly color-depositing mask in teal or mint.
I have not yet experimented with this particular color, but I always get tempted to go mermaid mode when I see such styles. It gives such a fantasy feel, but with the way it’s executed here, it stays grounded. DO go to a concert in this, OF COURSE, but also feel free to wear this to the office with an elegant blazer.
This is the one that is not afraid of a bit more. When you got to go out of summer with a bang–let it be in color.
Rosy Glow Half-Knot with Sunset Balayage
This style is like peach sorbet and sunset skies got together. The hair is long and is waved freely and then tied into a half-up knot – not a tight bun, but a gathered twist that merges with the rest of the hair. However, the color is what takes the show: warm rose and strawberry shades fading into gold pink. It’s dreamy and dimensional, without being too in-your-face.
In order to keep the richness of this tone, I suggest using Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash in Pastel Pink. It adds pigment without drying your hair out. The use of heat styling should be limited – you can normally revive those waves with a spritz of water and a scrunch up in the morning.
There’s a softness here I find irresistible. The appearance is as appropriate on a beach day as it is at a casual dinner party. It is feminine, supple, and alive to the last little love letter to the season.
Not quite in the mood to dress in fall colors? This one will allow you to keep the summer glow a bit longer. And, to be honest, who would not want to extend the ros vibes?
Mini Flip Bob with a Glossy Edge
You understand what it is when something is retro, and yet completely 2025? This is this bob, sharp, short, but with the ends flipped out in a sort of wink to the 60s. The section is straight, the hair is glassy and the ends flick just to create movement but not to lose that perfectly styled look. It is smooth yet casual, and frankly, a fantastic heat-friendly choice when you do not want to style all your length during the hot weather.
To achieve that flip without burning your ends, a flat iron with rounded plates will do the trick, I use the GHD Original Styler, and then seal with a shine mist like IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Spray. It repels moisture, gives shine, and enables that flip to stay without a lot of product.
I have used this style when I wish to feel mature yet a tad naughty. Consider rooftop brunching, out of town visitors or an end of summer gallery night. It is clean, smart, and leaves you something to twirl.
This is the version of the minimalists who do not want to go without some flair. The simple twist on the ends is the difference maker – it is like punctuation on a well-cut sentence.
Soft Waves with a Statement Headband
It is that in-between of casual and done-up, shoulder-length waves left un-tucked, with a bit of bend so that it appears undone, followed by a wide, padded headband that takes the entire style to the next level. It is new, adorable, and makes me feel strong vintage garden party vibes. This is something you can wear with a flowy sundress or something more structured, either way, it is saying, I planned this but I did not put much effort.
It is an excellent summertime standby or a lazy day recipe. I will only curl the middle lengths and leave the ends out to give a more natural curl and then finish it with a flexible hairspray such as the Living Proof Flex Spray. The headband takes all the labor of tying the hair behind and sweating out of your forehead- which makes it convenient to go outdoors.
And, trust me, even if you are not a big fan of accessories, one such statement piece will transform everything. You’ll look instantly put together. And really, this is a day-three hair secret weapon. A small amount of dry shampoo and a wave touch-up and you are good.
This hairstyle is among my favorites when it comes to late summer dinners with guests or even a laid back backyard party. Simple, stylish, and secretly a time-saver.
Romantic Waves with a Bandana Tie-Back
Nothing is more summer soul than long cascading waves and a knotted scarf. This style is a soft wrap of the hair at the crown with a folded bandana that allows those silky long layers to fall freely, yet still feel purposeful. It is relaxed yet high-end, perfect when you want to appear dreamy without bothering with a complete updo. It has big end-of-season main character energy whether you are going to a local market or a view picnic.
The beauty of this style is its flexibility. It works with freshly curled hair or second-day waves. To add bounce, if required, use a wide-barrel wand and seal in a finishing product, such a light oil, like Verb Ghost Oil, to defy frizz and bulk up the softness. That’s all it takes.
This is my favorite to wear on road trips during holidays or on the beach when you are walking around; the scarf can keep your hair in place in the wind and you still look so polished when you get out of the car. And you can coordinate your scarf with what you are wearing and it becomes a vibe immediately.
It is one of those natural and free-flowing looks that never goes uncomplimented. It’s soft, pretty, and impossible not to romanticize.
Polished Power Bun with Slick Bang Sweep
This slick bun and a sharp side-swept fringe is not to be messed with. The hair is tightly twisted up high, sleeked to a glassy finish, and one of the jet-black pieces of hair is swept dramatically across the forehead. It is classic and edgy the style that makes you stand out in any room. Perfect when you need to dress up, go to a gallery night, or simply feel like the most powerful version of yourself.
It requires a bit more preparation, but it is worth it. I apply Eco Style Olive Oil Gel and slick it all down and a rat-tail comb to get that perfect part. To get that perfect slick back look, you cannot do without a boar-bristle brush. And to get that polished shine? Kenra Shine Spray — thank me later.
This style gives high-drama but in the best way. I was wearing something like a fashion event in Miami and people asked me, whether it was done professionally. Spoiler: I didn’t. It just looks that good.
If you’re in the mood to turn heads or wrap up summer with serious grace and attitude, this is a bold, structured take on the updos trend that doesn’t disappoint.
High Blonde Ponytail with a Bubblegum Twist
The height. The blonde. The attitude. It is a high and tight ponytail that falls down in a silky cascade that is almost bouncing with each step. It’s youthful, Y2K-inspired, and totally TikTok-ready. Throw in the sound of a thick hair tie or scrunchie and now this is more than a hair style, it is a mood.
This is the type of style that you want when you are having a hot day and you want everything off your neck yet you still want to look done. Smooth the base with a styling pomade such as Got2b Glued and then wrap a piece of your own hair around the elastic to neaten the look. Then spray the tail with lightweight hold spray and comb through to give it that glassy feel.
I always resort to this look when I have concerts or when I feel like being my inner pop diva. It is sexy, energetic and will not wither even when it is very humid.
This pony isn’t just playful — it’s strong. She is your girl, when you want an easy, fast, and effective way to brighten up your entire appearance.
Double Braids for a Cool Coastal Beat
Two neatly plaited strands going straight down the back- it is the hairdo version of flip-flops and sunscreen. Clean, safe and completely beach- or shopping-ready. This look is crisp because of the middle part and evenly plaited texture, and the bare styling allows it to breathe. It is part practical and part cool with a touch of coastal adventure.
It is a dream of natural textures and protective styling. Apply leave – in conditioner prior to braiding – I recommend Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In – but pay attention to keep the ends neat with mini ties. Bonus: it won t go out of fashion even after a swim in the ocean or a bike ride.
I used it on a week of the coast and it held up through sand, salt, sunscreen you name it. It is liberating to go through a day without touching your hair and still being adorable in all your selfies.
If you’re wrapping up summer near water or you just want a heatless go-to, this is your laid-back end of summer hairstyles essential.
Star-Studded Braided Glam
This braided style is intricately woven to the next level of elegance, the two French braids are neat and well structured, but the magic is the sparkly accents that are woven in. Little jewelled clips or pins show out of the plaits, and the effect is almost celestial. It is daring but sophisticated, ideal on a dressed-up occasion when you still need that touch of summer softness in the line.
To make this work, brush section clean, smooth hair with a little serum to give you something to hold on to, I use Redken Frizz Dismiss Oil, and begin your braid at the crown. Tuck in the sparkle pins as you go. This style will keep your hair out of your back in hot or humid nights, and it will survive an afterparty.
I had something similar to a rooftop party and was surprised by the number of compliments it received. It is something about the trending braids with shine that makes you feel like a modern fairy tale.
It is a fantasy-driven approach to protective styling, and the type of thing that makes you feel a bit more like yourself, just more glowing.
Sleek Length with a Tropical Twist Headband
When you have to get out of the house and you just need something easy, natural, and no fuss, a bright patterned headband on pin-straight lengths is all you need. This look screams vacation-ready but feels city-appropriate too. The hair is super-smooth with the volume turned down and the headband stands out and creates a playful contrast.
This is what I use when I want to tame frizz in a subtle manner. Apply a smoothing shampoo and a flat iron and seal with a coat of Color Wow Dream Coat. You do not even have to style the ends, just brush through and go.
It is a perfect look to have on your final holiday lunch on the terrace or a date in the early evening after a swim. It looks clean without trying, and the headband gives the kind of “pulled together” vibe that doesn’t ask for attention but definitely gets it.
Other times you want something that takes the styling out of your hands and this headband does just that.
Fluffy Candy-Pink Curls with Volume
This coral-pink bob is a firework, it is fun, voluminous, and playful without any apology. The hair is rough and unfinished in a lived in way contrasting perfectly with the electric color. It is the haircut you have after you have stopped playing it safe. And trust me, it pays off.
A color this bold demands care. I never fail to treat my hair in Overtone Extreme Pink Conditioner to maintain rich tones between salon appointments, and heat protection is not optional. When you have short and processed hair, treat it as silk. Hydration masks weekly are key.
This look just makes me happy. It is a bit punk, a bit sweet – and with a strong lipstick, it is invincible. And it is a nice ice-breaker at any musical or artistic event.
Color is freedom, especially when the season’s ending. Why not go bold before fall tones take over?
Playful Low Ponytail with a Bow Pop
When in doubt, add a bow. This pony is low at the nape of the neck, and the natural fall of the hair is allowed, a bright red ribbon being fastened in a large loop. It is not snug or picky, merely a casual reference to summer camp, picnics and barefoot memories. Think fairycore meets cottagecore, with a pinch of flirt.
This is the type of style I resort to when I do not want to battle the heat or deal with heat tools. I will comb my hair, put it up in a satin scrunchie or bow, and possibly put a touch of curl cream in the ends.
It is soft, easy, and it still feels like a complete outfit in itself. I chose this on a nature trek that was turned into an unplanned picnic and it fit. Light, feminine, and a little nostalgic.
Ideal in warm weather, in relaxed time schedules, and when you just feel like being a little sweeter.
Air-Dried and Sun-Kissed Simplicity
Air-dried, untouched hair is so fresh, particularly after a summer of styling and curling and slicking. This last appearance is down to earth: natural, parted in the middle, and softly textured. No product crunch, no tight shapes. Just movement and a hint of sunlit softness.
It is one of my styles that I like to wear after a day at the beach. I will apply a leave-in spray such as Sun Bum Revitalizing 3-in-1 to detangle and hydrate and simply allow the air to do its job. The effect is a sort of a wave and a bend–never quite right, always very pretty.
It is the type of style that allows your face to shine, and allows you room to be you. And that sort of freedom is a luxury at the end of a busy summer.
This is your cue to forego the tools, forego the polish and simply allow your hair to breathe. That last beach sunset deserves softness.
