Summer is the perfect time for reinvention. Whether it's a resolution, a new wellness pursuit (because, January) or a fresh look, there's no better time to shed the year that was and re-emerge a brighter version of yourself. A summer hairstyle is the perfect place to start, in my opinion. Whether it's a subtle update to your existing cut, or a complete colour overhaul, few things have the power to immediately shift your energy. From easy air drying to Alex Cosani baby blonde, find every summer hairstyle worth referencing below.
CUTS
According to stylist Anthony Nader, the ideal summer haircut doesn't subscribe to a particular length or shape. If low maintenance is your thing, stay close to your preferred styling preferences, and don't opt for anything that requires a strong or precise shape. Instead, stick to soft shapes that will grow out easily. "A great haircut always starts with a strong foundation, giving you extra miles for a longer lasting style that's easy play with," he adds.
The shag
It wouldn't be a summer hair trend story without IT girl Alex Cosani. Her shaggy blonde looks a little DIY in the best possible way. Ask for shorter layers around your face and an almost grown out fringe. This style fares well in salt water; the more textured and unkept, the better.
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'70s layers
Full, bouncy 70s layers and strong bangs aren't going anywhere anytime soon (especially thanks to princess Sabrina Carpenter). If you love heat styling, or own an Airwrap, this is one for you. Characterised by long layers and a thick curtain fringe, this look is soft but very much a statement.
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And if you want that 70s feeling without the OTT glamour, keep it short and smooth like Suki Waterhouse.
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French layers
"Caroline is the ultimate example of long hair that's calculated but effortless," Nader explains. "She has an overgrown fringe and a few inconsistent shorter pieces around the face that give it shape without too much structure." If you like the ease of longer hair, this look is perfect.
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Long bob
I love a chin length bob, but not being able to tie your hair up in summer, most notably post swim, is tricky. Laura Harrier's length is on trend but also perfect. It falls just below the shoulders (so its great for wavy and curly hair texture) but the piece-y sections around the face givt it direction, and keep it from feeling too suburban.
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Brat length
Been thinking about letting your hair grow out? Revisiting clip in extensions and a triple barrel tong for party season, even? Let Charli XCX be the blueprint. The longer, the better.
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Ballerina band
Okay, it's not a cut nor a style, but the easiest and cheapest way to change your hair this summer with zero attachments is to buy a headband. Let Juliette Labelle be your inspiration.
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COLOURS
According to Nader, a summer hair colour should be quiet and easy. "I love a shade that doesn't look like it's been coloured. Anything under-the-radar." Whether that's your natural shade, close to it, or leaning into the effects of sun and salt, find inspiration in the below.
Straw blonde
If you're blonde, you'll know cool tones are hard to hold onto during the summer months. Instead of fighting it, embrace the warmth like Gabbriette. You can either ask your stylist to fake it with a gloss or toner, or do away with purple toners. Just keep your hair hydrated with plenty of deep conditioning treatments.
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Lived-in blonde
Mostly blonde but a little bit brown, lived-in blonde is the easiest way to maintain light hair in a low maintenance way. "Anja is my ultimate blonde YSL muse," shares Nader. "Her hair is very natural looking; I'd ask for hand painted colour in light and dark shades to enhance your face shape and hair cut. I don't want to use the word balayage... this is more of a French balayage — no stripes or signs of foils, ever."
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Cinnamon
Daisy Edgar-Jones was 2024's ultimate hair muse. The bangs are one thing, but her high shine cinnamon hue is also really special. It's clean and simple without falling flat. "I love Daisy's hair; she has a solid brunette base that always looks healthy," Nader adds. "The slight warmth adds a beautiful reflection, I find it's flattering on the complexion, as well. If you do want more dimension, ask for very fine highlights through the mid-lengths and ends."
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Cool chocolate
Jill's icy brunette is perfection. Go for a dark hue with a neutral undertone. Rich, glossy and expensive. Yes.
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