18 Cute And Low-Maintenance Summer Styles For Medium Hair

Summer heat can make hair styling a challenge, especially when you’re dealing with medium-length locks. But don’t worry! You don’t have to sacrifice style for comfort during those hot, sticky days. These cute and easy-to-maintain hairstyles will keep you looking fresh while requiring minimal effort and products.

1. Beachy Waves with Sea Salt Spray

Channel your inner mermaid with effortless waves that scream summer vibes! Just spritz some sea salt spray on damp hair, scrunch, and let air dry.

No heat tools needed, which means less damage and more time enjoying the sunshine. Perfect for beach days or casual outings.

2. Half-Up Top Knot

Running errands but want to look put-together? The half-up top knot saves the day! Gather the top section of your hair and twist into a messy bun.

Leave the rest flowing free for a style that’s both practical and adorable. Takes just 30 seconds but looks like you made an effort.

3. Braided Crown

Feel like royalty with this bohemian-inspired style! Create two braids on either side of your head and pin them across the top like a crown.

The braided crown keeps hair off your neck during hot days while looking absolutely gorgeous. Add tiny flowers for special occasions or festivals.

4. Sleek Low Ponytail

Sometimes simplicity wins! A sleek low ponytail works for both office meetings and poolside lounging. Smooth hair with a tiny bit of serum before gathering at the nape.

Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic for an elevated touch. Instant polish with minimal fuss.

5. Messy Bun with Face-Framing Pieces

The ultimate lazy girl style that somehow looks perfectly intentional! Twist hair into a loose bun and secure with pins or a scrunchie.

Pull out a few strands around your face for that casual, sun-kissed look. Works even better on second-day hair with a bit of texture.

6. Side-Swept Waves

Glamorous yet effortless, side-swept waves bring the drama without the work! Part hair deeply to one side and use a large-barrel curling iron for loose waves.

Mist with light-hold hairspray and you’re ready for summer evenings out. The asymmetrical style adds instant intrigue to any outfit.

7. Twisted Side Braid

Forget complicated braiding techniques! This simple twisted side braid looks intricate but takes just minutes to create. Gather hair to one side, divide into two sections, and twist them around each other.

Secure with a cute elastic or hair accessory. Perfect for keeping cool while looking chic.

8. Slicked-Back Wet Look

Embrace summer’s moisture with this runway-inspired style! Apply gel or mousse to damp hair and comb straight back from your forehead.

The slicked-back look is both cooling and fashion-forward. Bonus: it works great for swimming days when you’ll be in and out of water.

9. Bandana Updo

Add instant summer vibes with a colorful bandana! Fold it into a headband, wrap around your head, and tuck hair ends underneath.

This retro-inspired look keeps hair completely off your neck during hot days. Choose bright patterns for fun beach days or solid colors for a sophisticated touch.

10. Bubble Ponytail

Turn a basic ponytail into something special! Create a regular ponytail, then add elastics every two inches down the length. Gently pull each section outward to create ‘bubbles.’

This playful style stays put during activities while looking totally Instagram-worthy. Kids especially love this fun option!

11. Double Dutch Braids

Channel your inner athlete with sporty double Dutch braids! Part hair down the middle and create an inverted braid on each side.

This style keeps every strand secure during workouts or beach volleyball games. Looks even better as it gets slightly messy throughout the day.

12. Twisted Headband Tuck

Use a pretty scarf or stretchy headband for this vintage-inspired look! Place the headband over your head, then tuck and roll sections of hair around it.

The result is a gorgeous updo that takes minutes to create. Great for those humid days when hair just won’t cooperate.

13. Low Messy Chignon

Sophisticated yet unfussy, the low chignon works for everything from office to evening events. Gather hair at the nape, twist into a loose knot, and pin in place.

The beauty is in the imperfection—let wisps escape for that effortless summer vibe. Looks even better with subtle highlights catching the light.

14. Pineapple Updo

Curly-haired beauties, this one’s for you! Gather your curls high on top of your head in a loose pineapple shape secured with a scrunchie.

This protective style preserves your curl pattern while keeping hair off your neck. Sleep in it for perfect second-day curls with minimal morning styling.

15. Side-Parted Tuck

Elegance meets simplicity with this understated style! Create a deep side part, then tuck the heavier side behind your ear, securing with a decorative pin.

The asymmetrical look frames your face beautifully while keeping hair controlled. Perfect for summer dinner dates or outdoor concerts.

16. Twisted Ponytail

Elevate the classic ponytail in seconds! Divide hair into two sections, twist each one, then twist them together before securing with an elastic.

The result looks intricate but requires minimal skill. The twisted texture helps hide any frizz caused by summer humidity.

17. High Messy Bun with Scarf

Beat the heat with a bun that sits high on your head, allowing maximum air circulation! Twist hair into a loose bun and secure with pins.

Wrap a colorful silk scarf around the base for extra style points. The scarf absorbs sweat while adding a pop of color to your summer outfit.

18. Layered Bob with Beach Waves

Let your layered cut shine with minimal styling! Apply mousse to damp hair, scrunch, and let air dry for natural-looking waves that enhance your layers.

The movement created by the layers keeps the style looking fresh even in humidity. A truly wash-and-go option for busy summer days.