19 Summer Hairstyles For Long Hair 2025: Cute, Easy Ideas With Braid, Bun, Ponytail, Half Up

When the summer heat rolls in, the last thing you want is your long hair weighing you down. But just because it’s hot out doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. From quick and easy braids to elegant updos and flowing curly waves, 2025 is bringing major hair inspo to the table. Whether you’re headed to a backyard BBQ, beach getaway, or even a wedding, these looks are all about being fun, functional, and fabulous. This guide features a curated collection of the season’s must-try styles, each paired with practical tips and styling suggestions.

Let’s dive into the best summer hairstyles for long hair 2025 and make this your chicest season yet.

Twisted Braided Top Bun

This voluminous braided bun blends a classic crown twist with a modern updo finish, ideal for those humid days when you want your hair off your neck but still styled to perfection. The dual texture of the tight side braids contrasted against the thick, crown braid swirled on top creates visual intrigue. Loose face-framing pieces soften the look, making it a great choice for oval or heart-shaped faces. This updo is equally suitable for a day at the office or an elegant wedding affair.

To recreate this updo easy style, start with textured hair for better grip. Use a tail comb to part and section your crown, braid it tightly, and swirl into a bun, securing with bobby pins. Apply a strong-hold spray to keep everything in place. Maintenance is minimal: just fluff up the braid each morning for volume.

Romantic Dutch Braid Ponytail

This braid starts at the crown and flows down in thick Dutch plaits, ending in a full ponytail. It’s the epitome of Cute, structured yet effortless, and the added lift at the top gives it a youthful flair. This hairstyle transitions easily from casual lunch dates to evening cocktails. Ideal for long, thick hair and for women who love volume and drama without the fuss.

Begin with brushed-through hair. Section the crown and create a Dutch braid down the center, tying off at the nape and leaving the tail free-flowing. Tease the braid gently for thickness. Use texturizing spray for hold and a soft finish.

Soft Glam Beach Waves

No summer hair list is complete without curly waves that scream “beach day but make it polished.” These voluminous waves with subtle highlights offer a sun-kissed, lived-in feel. This simple yet elevated look is perfect for almost any face shape and works well for brunch or even a garden party.

To achieve this quick and easy look, use a large barrel curling iron and alternate curl directions for a natural finish. Run your fingers through the curls with a smoothing serum and lock it in with a lightweight hairspray. Touch up with a wave wand when needed.

Tousled Boho Half Up Style

Messy yet magnetic, this half up style plays with volume and texture for that effortlessly cool vibe. The teased crown and loosely gathered top section add height, while soft waves and bangs around the face keep it flirtatious and relaxed. It’s the ultimate casual look for festivals, beach dates, or lazy summer Sundays.

Use dry shampoo for lift and grip, then backcomb the crown and secure the half up section with bobby pins or a hair clip. Use a curling wand for loose texture and let the front pieces fall naturally. Refresh with sea salt spray for added movement.

Classic Glam Hollywood Curls

Big, defined waves bring vintage glamour to 2025 with this bombshell look. The layers blend seamlessly to add movement, making this down style the ultimate choice for formal events or wedding guest appearances. It’s especially flattering for long face shapes and enhances highlighted or balayaged hair.

To style, blow dry hair smooth and use a large curling iron to curl away from the face. Pin each curl until cool to set the shape. Brush through with a paddle brush for that Old Hollywood wave and add shine serum to finish.

Cornrow-Inspired Curly Ponytail

This edgy and artistic style combines braids and curly texture in one bold ponytail. Multiple tight scalp braids funnel into a high, voluminous curl, creating a stunning contrast. This is a fun option for summer nights out or a statement pool party look.

Braid the crown in sections and secure with elastics. Use a curling wand or pre-curled extensions for the ponytail. Edge control gel helps keep flyaways neat, while a bit of oil adds shine. Re-braid the top every few days to keep it neat.

Braided Waterfall Waves

For those who love a fairy-tale aesthetic, this braids half up half style feels both magical and romantic. A thick waterfall braid transitions into soft waves that tumble down the back. Perfect for wedding season, sunset dinners, or just embracing your inner goddess.

Braid the top crown area and secure under layers of wavy down hair. Use a curling iron for defined waves and mist lightly with setting spray. This style holds up best with a bit of volume mousse at the roots.

Half-Up Knotted Flower Braid

This intricately knotted floral-style half up half down look is a total showstopper. Styled to resemble roses at the back, it’s delicate, ethereal, and ideal for romantic summer events or even as a wedding hairstyle. The rest of the hair falls in soft, curly waves to complete the enchanted aesthetic.

Start by sectioning small chunks from the sides and twist them into intricate knots. Secure with clear elastics and pins. Curl the remaining hair in loose spirals and set the entire style with a flexible hold spray.

Loose Side Fishtail Braid

A side-swept fishtail braid never goes out of style. It’s equal parts elegant and casual, giving off those soft, countryside summer vibes. The subtle volume at the roots adds romance and softness to the overall shape.

Divide your hair into two sections and alternate small pieces from each side to create the fishtail. Tug slightly on the edges of the braid to make it appear fuller. Finish with a satin ribbon or wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for a polished look.

Double Braided Pigtails

These youthful, fun pigtails offer a sporty spin on traditional braids. Neatly woven from the crown and secured at the ends, they’re an easy go-to for days when you want hair out of your way but still totally adorable. Great for workouts, hiking, or a quick and easy weekend look.

Part hair down the center, then create French or Dutch braids on both sides. Use clear elastics and tug gently for volume. Keep face-framing pieces loose to soften the look.

Side French Braid Elegance

This laid-back yet refined braid style is a summer essential for brunch dates, open-air cafés, or casual strolls downtown. Starting at the side and weaving diagonally down, the French braid transitions into a relaxed tail that’s both cute and functional. It’s great for thick hair and brings focus to the cheekbones and jawline.

To recreate, part hair deeply and begin a side French braid, working down diagonally. Secure with a small elastic and gently loosen the braid for volume. A touch of dry texture spray adds hold and bounce.

Hollywood Silver Waves

Silver is trending hard for 2025, and these icy curly waves are a glamorous nod to modern vintage. The swept-back crown and polished curls exude confidence and sophistication—ideal for formal events or rooftop evenings. Works especially well with cool-toned makeup and bold brows.

Use a curling wand for uniform spirals, then comb gently for softness. Apply serum for shine and hairspray to finish. This style works beautifully on straight hair that holds curl.

Crown Braided Half-Up

The thick halo braid gives a princess-core finish to this half up half down look, with soft waves cascading below. It’s the perfect blend of fun and elegance, and works beautifully for garden parties, wedding guests, or a summer photoshoot.

Braid two side sections and wrap them across the back of the head, pinning securely. Curl the rest of your down hair in medium waves and apply a light mist of hairspray to hold.

Double Dutch Braids

A sporty, quick and easy option for days at the beach or running errands, these classic Dutch braids keep your hair secure while still stylish. Ideal for active days or humid weather, they suit almost any face shape.

Split hair in the middle and Dutch braid both sides to the ends. Tug slightly on each segment for volume. Pair with a casual outfit and you’re good to go.

Soft Natural Texture with Bangs

For that barely-styled beauty, this beachy down look is effortlessly chic. The center part and subtle bangs frame the face perfectly, giving a youthful and natural finish. Great for golden hour photos or casual weekend outings.

Use a wave spray or braid damp hair overnight for no-heat texture. Finger-comb for volume and apply a soft hold spray. Best on naturally wavy or lightly curly hair.

Festival Fusion Braids

This ultra-textured braid fusion blends traditional Dutch and fishtail styles with bubble ponytail elements. It’s a fun, adventurous look perfect for summer festivals, concerts, or road trips. Each section adds its own playful vibe.

Section your hair into multiple parts and create varied braids and bubbles. Secure each with clear elastics. Add accessories like rings or beads for flair.

Side Braided Top Knot

This bold style features a chunky crown braid feeding into a textured top knot—a standout updo that still lets length flow freely. It’s perfect for casual Fridays or wedding guests wanting something relaxed but unique.

Start with a deep side part and create a large French braid across the crown. Gather the upper section into a loose bun and curl the rest of your down strands for soft texture.

Ladder Braids with Volume

An architectural twist on summer styling, this unique double-braid combo builds volume down the sides and ends in a plaited rope that’s full of personality. It’s a head-turner at any backyard party or creative shoot.

Braid tight sections at the crown, leaving the middle loose. Secure with elastics and fluff out each section. Finish with a medium-hold spray for structure.

Sleek Cornrow Confidence

These sharp, close-to-the-scalp braids offer a minimalist yet powerful look. Ideal for warm weather, updo protection, or high fashion moments, this style suits confident, bold personalities. It also provides a protective style benefit for textured hair.

Use edge control to smooth flyaways. Create clean partings and braid tightly down. Maintain shine with oils and wrap at night to protect the pattern.

From intricate braids half up half to breezy curly down styles, the summer hairstyles for long hair 2025 lineup is all about blending practicality with personality. Whether you need an updo easy look for a formal night or a quick and easy twist for weekend errands, there’s something here for everyone. Feel inspired? Drop us a comment and let us know your favorite style or if you’ve tried any of these yourself. Let the sunshine in, and let your hair shine too!