Is your hair prepared for the kind of summer where you’re the main character? This year’s Trends 2025: Summer Highlights Ideas focus on looks that are beautiful in any light, because they are the light. Imagine hair that looks like it’s been through a lot, glows in the sun and shines naturally. Whether you’re dipping your toes into color for the first time or mapping out your fifth highlight session of the year, I’ve rounded up ideas that feel fresh, real, and incredibly wearable.
Whether your hair is a rich brown with a touch of ash or bright blonde on long layers, you’ll feel summery without going overboard. If you’ve seen the recent trend of full Pinterest boards and busy salon chairs, you’ll agree: these aren’t your usual summer highlights. These are statement strands.
Let’s dive in.
Soft Vanilla Ribbons on Shadow Roots
The effect is very relaxed by the sea, as if the hair went from dark brown to light blonde with a kiss of summer air. The placement of the ribbons ensures the face is brightened gently, so it’s ideal for those who want a quick change with the seasons.
I always choose products that help keep my hair’s blonde and creamy contrast—such as Pureology’s Strength Cure Blonde Purple Shampoo. It softens your hair and that’s important to avoid making your hair brassy.
What appeals to me most is the balance—it’s both soft and defined, as well as low-effort but still curated. It makes me think of how great I felt last July, with my hair looking fantastic just by being in the sun. That’s the vibe.
This is a great summer highlight because it doesn’t require much maintenance. It’s a good option if you want the excitement, but not the stress.
Dimensional Bronze Melt for Medium Length Hair
This look is a cozy-luxe version of light brown, with a creamy bronze blended into the hair like a cinnamon swirl at shoulder length. It blends nicely with natural waves and gives your hair lots of volume.
I love that this style lets you wait a little longer before having to touch up your roots. If you want your hair to stay shiny and smooth between salon visits, use IGK’s Expensive Amla Oil Hi-Shine Topcoat.
If you want to update your appearance but don’t want it to look too finished, I’d go with this. The vibe? Luxurious with zero edge. It’s great for hair that falls around the shoulders and needs a boost.
If you’re a brunette and want a subtle change, this is a great choice. No blonde ambitions required—just a love for dimension.
Honeycomb Brunette Layers with Curtain Bangs
Now this one? She’s a moment. Long, partly tangled waves feature light, shaggy bangs and golden highlights that fall down on layer upon layer of brunette hair.
The truth is, bangs and this color both need upkeep. If you’re styling your bangs, I suggest using Olaplex No.9 to protect your hair and once a week, add the Amika Flash Instant Shine Mask to keep your golden color vibrant.
A stylist on TikTok said this color is like “burnt sugar in espresso” and that’s exactly what it looks like to me. Accurate. I can practically picture a bonfire on the beach after the sun goes down because of the lovely, deep beats.
If you’re looking for hair color ideas for brunettes to try this summer, this is one to bookmark. And maybe send to your stylist. Immediately.
Sunlit Waves with Mocha Blending
With this color, brunettes can enjoy a warm look that blends from soft mocha to sandy tones and looks like seafoam on wet sand. It’s dimensional but muted, modern but super approachable.
If your hair tends to fade fast in the sun (hi, UV damage), I’d say grab a UV protectant like Bumble & Bumble’s Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer. One spritz and your color stays glowy—not dull.
I’ve always loved looks that don’t demand perfection. The style is best in humid weather, gives a nice air-dried look and highlights green or hazel eyes better than any other style. There’s a certain self-assurance about this color—it’s similar to quiet luxury being stored in a bottle.
Everyone loves dirty blonde, but mocha melts my heart like this? Totally underrated. This could end up being the biggest surprise of the summer.
Golden Frame Layers for Blue Eyes
This is your modern blonde reboot. Imagine a soft blonde hair color falling over natural brown, with a glow that hugs the face. It’s giving “girl-who-just-came-back-from-Italy” energy in the best way.
If you’re a blonde, try not to overdo it—Kristin Ess The One Purple Shampoo is a great way to keep your hair warm without it going completely silver.
This frame really brings out the eyes and makes any makeup look a bit more vibrant. You seem to have always been this way, only with the bonus of fantastic color choices.
These ideas are like a light bronzer for your hair, making your style soft, brighter and suitable for every day. Don’t sleep on it.
Golden Brunette with Effortless Glow
I’d call it a combination of bronzed from the beach and everyday glam. The waves are gentle, the color is smooth and the light brown hair color is what makes this look perfect—it adds a bit of warmth and brightness without becoming too blonde.
I recommend using a moisturizing color-protect shampoo and I always use the Davines MINU Shampoo. It’s mild and helps your highlights stay bright in areas with lots of chlorine or salt.
To me, this is the first time I’ve ever tried a highlight look. It’s beginner-friendly but doesn’t skimp on impact. If you’ve felt hesitant to try lighter burnett hair color for summer without highlights, this is your gentle reminder.
Shine sprays can give your hair that extra shine you’re looking for. I spray the Color Wow Extra Mist-ical Shine Spray to make my hair look like it was just styled at the salon.
Face-Framing Blonde Flickers on Deep Base
There’s something about this one that makes it seem like you’re up to something. Having blonde hair around your face adds a bit of attitude and makes the style easy to wear.
There’s no need for bleach-induced stress—this is all about making your hair look healthy and shiny. I enjoy using dpHUE Gloss+ in Dark Brown to make my base color deep, but without hiding my highlights.
I love that you don’t need a complete balayage to see a difference. And it photographs so well—hello, Instagram glow-ups!
This style definitely has a “chill girl who likes pricey things” vibe which I’m totally into for 2025.
Feathered Caramel Layers with Mid-Length Sweep
This one takes me straight to sunset patio hangs. This cut is full of dimension, movement and softness because the low lights are woven in so well.
You can use Color Wow Dream Coat as a smoothing blowout cream to keep your feathered style full and smooth on any day, especially when it’s humid.
If you’re searching for balayage highlights ideas for short brown brunettes in summer, this is the one for you. It’s elegant but not uptight, soft but not flat.
Every time I choose this color, people tell me I got a blowout, even though I didn’t. It’s that flattering.
Bright Blonde Waves for Summer Wanderlust
Okay, she’s bright. This is for the brave blondes who want their hair to be the main accessory of summer. The light icy colors instantly make you look like you’re on vacation, especially when teamed with loose waves.
Look after your color here—it’s important to use Redken Blondage Purple Mask at least once a week to keep it looking perfect and icy.
I remember that when I went blonde, even simple tank tops looked more put together. It’s a color that takes care of most of your outfit’s style.
If you’re looking for something more fun, pink highlights on your blonde hair are a great way to go. Add pastel tips and you’re festival-ready.
Choppy Blonde Bob with Rooted Depth
Here’s a way of writing that isn’t afraid to make a statement. The hair color is dirty blonde, with chunky, textured waves and darker roots to keep it easy to care for. It’s modern, chic, and totally made for movement.
I suggest using the OUAI Wave Spray and a diffuser if you want to air-dry your hair. You want those bends to hold definition.
You’ll love this cut if you’re looking for summer highlights that don’t require daily maintenance. I’d sleep in a pineapple bun and still have enough texture to enjoy brunch right away.
It’s playful, a bit flirty and makes me feel like a cool girl from the coast. Definitely one of my summer favorites.
Chic Blonde Blend with Structured Waves
There’s something undeniably regal about this look. Waves are styled just how they should be and the smooth mix of light top hair with dark roots gives the whole look warmth and interest. It’s modern elegance with a sunlit twist.
The Oribe Bright Blonde Shampoo and Conditioner set will give you rich, soft hair and make sure your highlights stay soft and not stiff.
I’ve noticed this approach adds depth to shoulder length cuts while still keeping them neat. It’s popular at salons because it meets all the requirements.
If you want to change your look for fall, just add a few lowlights in September and you’ll have a fresh new style.
Soft Buttery Blonde Bob with Shadow Roots
The sunshine and silk effect of this buttery blonde bob is absolutely lovely. The great thing about this balayage is that the highlights are gently applied at the roots, keeping your blonde hair rich and natural-looking.
No doubt, this one requires maintenance. Using the Amika Bust Your Brass Intense Repair Mask once a week will keep your hair blonde and still soft.
When I had a similar hair color, I couldn’t stop touching it. A short blond hair cut and a little lip gloss are all you need to feel like you can take on anything.
It’s also very photogenic, making it perfect for snapping brunch pictures or quick Instagram selfies.
Color-Blocked Highlights with Major Contrast
This look stands out the most from the bunch and I can’t help but love it! The front pieces are very contrasting, just like something you’d find in the Y2K-meets-2025 style, with bright blonde against dark brown hair.
If you decide to use heat, use a good color-safe heat protectant like Bumble & Bumble Glow. Sleek and styled is the best way to wear this look, so you’ll probably need to use heat tools.
The way this song mixes old and new is something I really like. It’s bringing confidence, creativity and a touch of being the main character.
And we should admit—it doesn’t just stick to summer highlights, it makes them better.
Warm Hazelnut Balayage for Brunettes
If you’re a brunette and want a summer glow, this is a great way to get it without going blonde. The warm Hazelnut ribbon mixes with the soft chocolate which helps the whole display appear classic and warm.
By using Kristin Ess Signature Gloss in Warm Brunette as your conditioner, you can make that shade last longer between visits.
I personally gravitate toward this vibe in late summer when the sun’s been playing with my natural color, and I want to just enhance—not transform—it.
It’s also an ideal pick for hair color ideas for brunettes for summer balayage highlights ombre short styles, especially if you’re easing into something dimensional.
Neutral Brunette with Delicate Vanilla Lows
If I were to pick just one “wear everywhere” summer favorite, this would be it. Just a bit of vanilla around the face gives the neutral brown a lift and it’s easy to grow out if you want to change your look.
You can use this style with minimal care—the Verb Glossy Shine Spray adds just a little shine without making your hair feel heavy.
One great thing about this one is that it can be worn for any occasion. It’s ideal for work, but you can also use it to capture the warm light of golden hour if you’re going out with friends.
Brunettes often look at grey and ash-blended highlights for summer balayage, but this creamy beige shade is both underappreciated and very stylish.
Sleek Hazelnut Shine with Subtle Gradient
The fine and well-defined appearance increases the natural charm of these burnett hair color ideas―there is just a delicate hint of lightened tips. It’s shiny, mature and very glamorous without being overdone.
If you’re a fan of a smooth finish like I am, you should use a humidity shield—Living Proof’s No Frizz Humidity Shield is my favorite for hair that shines.
It’s a color that shows you’re tough, but also has a romantic side. This is a great way for brunettes to get summer balayage highlights without making a huge change to their look.
Also? I have to give extra praise for the gloss on this nail polish.
Creamy Rooted Blonde with Wave Texture
Talk about a bombshell blonde moment. At the roots, the hair is a rich blonde, but as you move up, it becomes creamier and brighter, adding lots of depth.
I’d apply the Kérastase Blond Absolu Masque Ultra-Violet once a week to keep the color from turning brassy and to nourish my hair.
It’s for those who like a gentle touch and a sense of being. It’s gentle but high-impact. I notice this look in every trendy European vacation video and it’s for a good reason.
Consider this as summer looks that will last—you won’t need to visit the salon as often.
Sun-Drenched Blonde Ombré with Edgy Ends
This look is all about fun—a deep dark brown hair base with a lightening of blonde at the ends. It’s youthful, artsy, and playful in the coolest way.
Having Pureology’s Color Fanatic on hand is important if your ends are lighter than the rest of your hair. It nourishes without flattening the texture.
If you’re looking for something that combines the best of both styles, this is for you. Because the color is deep at the base, it’s easy to maintain and the bright tips are perfect for a fun occasion.
What are some great hair color ideas for brunettes looking for summer balayage highlights ombre short? Bookmark this one immediately.
Smoky Beige Blonde for Blue-Eyed Brightness
This shade is a lovely beige-blonde that really stands out against blue eyes. The color is cool, but it still looks comfortable which is exactly what I like about this style—it doesn’t stand out, yet it draws people in.
I usually suggest using Moroccanoil Treatment Light to add extra shine and depth to the hair. That smooth, satiny finish is half the magic.
If I’m being truthful, this style of blonde hair highlights on long layered brunettes is always expensive-looking, regardless of what you wear.
We shouldn’t forget about the styling—these curls are loose and defined, giving hair volume without appearing too styled.
Layered Honey Highlights on Brunette Base
This style finishes things by offering maximum versatility. Being a light brunette, the look has pieces of honey and beige mixed in, highlighted in the sunshine as someone moves.
If you want your hair to stay lush, I’d suggest using Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate after being in the sun or using heat tools.
This is a great choice for summer balayage highlights, whether your hair is short or long and brunette. It brightens your skin without making you look washed out and feels light and fresh.
It looks fantastic on medium skin tones and adds a lot of depth to your layers without making them look bulky.
