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Summer hairstyles should be both functional and stylish. This year, crank up the heat with these celebrity-inspired looks that can withstand heat, humidity and long days at the beach. From crown braids to classic beachy waves, discover new summer hair ideas you'll want to try ASAP, with all of the best styles from trendsetters like Zendaya, Priyanka Chopra and Margot Robbie — and they're surprisingly easy to recreate at home.
Whether you have long, layered hair down to your waist or a shorter, shoulder-grazing bob — these are the trendiest ways to style your hair this season. Is there a better way to show off your new summer hair color? We think not. Here are the most fun and flattering summer hair styles, haircuts and updos to keep you cool in the summer heat.
1
Beachy Waves
Channel a day spent at the beach with long, undone waves like Zendaya. Try letting your hair air dry using a salt spray to mimic the effects of ocean water, and throw in a few curls with a curling wand.
2
Half-Up Box Braids
Summer is the perfect time for protective styles. Go for a half-up bun like Tessa Thompson for an effortless, chic look.
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3
Balloon Ponytail
For an updated twist on a high ponytail, tie off sections with elastics and fluff out the segments to keep them voluminous. This style is fun on its own, but keep it romantic and flirty by curling long curtain bangs in the front like Priyanka Chopra.
4
Loose Ponytail
This is the ultimate soft and sweet summer style. Gather your hair into a low pony at the nape of your neck, and leave out a few wavy face-framing pieces for dimension. Blunt bangs like Margot Robbie's top off the look.
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5
Wet Look for Short Hair
Look like you've just stepped out of the ocean by working in a high-gloss pomade. After working the pomade through, wear your mane down like Jennifer Lopez, or slick it straight back for an edgy look.
RELATED: 34 Gorgeous Ways to Style Short Hair
6
Deep Side Part
Who says side parts aren't cool anymore? Lana Condor shows that the style is still sophisticated. Slick the rest of your hair down for a modern take on the part.
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7
Curly Updo
Let your natural curls shine this summer with an elegant updo that showcases your natural style. Andra Day's curls look defined and voluminous in this easy style that is perfect for even the hottest summer days.
8
Single Braid
Once the humidity hits, every day feels like a bad hair day. On the worst days, take a tip from Kristen Bell and try out this cute hairstyle. Simply add one braid on one side of your head and then top it off with your favorite summer hat.
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9
Wrapped Ponytail
Regina King brings the glamour with this simple upgrade to a low ponytail. To recreate this look, grab a pack of hair ties and secure one at the nape of your neck. Continue tying one band after another beneath your original tie, until you reach your desired length. Alternatively, you can achieve the same look with wrapped metallic cord or wire.
10
Straightener Curls
Yes, you read that right — your straightener can actually give you the most natural-looking beachy waves. For hair like Laura Dern's, start with your flat iron at your roots as usual — but instead of of pulling straight down, twist hair around the straightener as you go.
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11
French Braided Bun
Tiffany Haddish is ready for summer. With an elegant reverse French braid wrapping into a low bun, it's easy to copy her style for any activity. Just make sure you don't forget to bring a few extra bobby pins to keep it all together.
RELATED: 50 Easy and Beautiful Updo Hairstyles
12
Space Buns
Gym, beach, running errands — this funky style works for any low-key occasion. Plus, it's much more fun than a regular bun. If you want to tone down Kendall Jenner's double bun look, secure your buns at the nape of your neck instead of the crown of your head.
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13
Hair Accessories
It's no secret that stylish hair clips are a great way to add spice to any look. If you're looking for a grown-up way to incorporate barrettes into your hair, try pinning one side back just above the ear, like Kerry Washington.
14
Curled Ponytail
Update your classic pony with some curls, just like Constance Wu. This look is looks polished for nighttime, but is also an easy daytime style.
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15
Braid Down the Back
Keep hair off your back — and off your shoulders — like Gina Rodriguez. Put your hair in a high ponytail, braid straight back, and secure. Use a hairspray to give your hair a sleek, clean look.
16
Half-Up Half-Down
Blake Lively doesn't let tousled waves get in her way. Using bobby pins, tightly pull back the top layers of hair to keep focus on the beachy waves.
RELATED: 20+ Half-Up Hairstyles That Are So Trendy Right Now
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17
Wispy Updo
Spray your crown with hairspray before brushing it straight back and securing the ends into a baby bun. Don't forget to pull out a few wisps around your ears for a wind-blown, Meghan Markle-inspired look.
18
Random Braids
There's no rhyme or reason to Salma Hayek's hairstyle — and that's what makes it perfect for summer. After your hair air dries, braid a few strands around your scalp and let them hang freely.
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19
Top Knot
Get inspiration from a pro (a.k.a. Kerry Washington): A tight top knot isn't only stylish, it's functional — in higher temps, the higher the hair, the cooler you stay.
20
Hipster Bun
A new-age hybrid between the half-up, half-down and top knot hairstyles, Mandy Moore's hipster bun looks even better with a few beach waves on the ends.
Katie Berohn
ELLE Beauty Editor
Katie Berohn is the Beauty Assistant at Good Housekeeping, Woman's Day and Prevention magazines, all part of the Hearst Lifestyle Group. She graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder, with a major in journalism and minor in technology, arts, and media, and earned her Master’s Degree at NYU’s Graduate Program of Magazine Journalism. In addition, Katie has held editorial internships at Denver Life Magazine, Yoga Journal, and Cosmopolitan, a digital editorial internship at New York Magazine’s The Cut, a social good fellowship at Mashable, and has freelanced for HelloGiggles. When she’s not obsessing over the latest skincare launch or continuing her endless search for the perfect shade of red nail polish, Katie can be found in a hot yoga class, trying everything on the menu at New York’s newest restaurant, or hanging out at a trendy wine bar with her friends.
Blake Bakkila
Freelance Writer
Blake Bakkila has been writing about everything from pop culture to lifestyle products for more than eight years. Her work has appeared on GoodHousekeeping.com, WhattoExpect.com, Health.com, and in the print and digital versions of Real Simple and People.