21 Summer Hairstyles for Medium Hair: Perfect Styles for Every Occasion
Summer is the season for fun, fashion, and fresh hairstyles. If you have medium-length hair, you’re in luck! This versatile hair length allows for endless styling possibilities, from playful beach waves to elegant updos. Unlike longer styles, medium hair is easier to manage in hot weather while still offering plenty of room for creativity.
In this guide, you’ll discover 21 stunning hairstyles perfect for every summer occasion, whether you’re heading to the beach, attending a garden party, or just enjoying a casual day out. These styles are designed to keep you looking stylish and comfortable despite the heat. Let’s explore the best looks to rock this sunny season!
Why Medium Hair Is Ideal for Summer
Medium-length hair strikes the perfect balance between long and short styles. It provides enough length for creative styling while remaining lightweight and manageable during hot, humid months.
The versatility of medium hair makes it perfect for transitioning from casual daytime looks to elegant evening styles. You can easily wear your hair loose with soft waves for a relaxed vibe or twist it into a chic bun for formal occasions. Plus, it’s easier to maintain compared to long hair, making it a practical choice for summer adventures.
21 Summer Hairstyles for Medium Hair
Beachy and Casual Styles (1-7)
Relaxed and effortlessly chic, these styles are perfect for sunny days and breezy summer vibes.
Beach Waves
Why choose it: Beach waves are the epitome of a carefree summer vibe. This effortlessly chic style adds texture and volume, perfect for medium-length hair.
Who it suits: Ideal for all hair textures and face shapes.
How to achieve it: Use a curling wand and wrap small sections of hair loosely. Finish with a texturizing spray for that tousled look.
Maintenance tip: Avoid heavy styling products that weigh down the waves.
Half-Up Messy Bun
Why choose it: This playful style keeps hair off your face while still looking stylish and fun.
Who it suits: Perfect for medium to thick hair textures.
How to achieve it: Gather the top half of your hair into a loose bun and secure it with an elastic. Let a few strands fall naturally for a messy look.
Maintenance tip: Spritz with a light hairspray to keep the bun in place without stiffness.
Twisted Crown
Why choose it: The twisted crown adds a bohemian flair, making it ideal for summer festivals or casual outings.
Who it suits: Best for wavy or straight hair types.
How to achieve it: Take small sections from each side of your head, twist them back, and pin at the crown.
Maintenance tip: Use bobby pins with a strong grip to secure the twists all day.
Side Braid
Why choose it: A side braid is simple yet elegant, perfect for keeping your hair tidy on windy beach days.
Who it suits: Great for all face shapes and hair textures.
How to achieve it: Sweep your hair to one side and create a loose braid. Secure with a hair tie.
Maintenance tip: Tug gently at the braid to loosen it for a fuller, boho look.
Braided Headband
Why choose it: This natural-looking braid mimics a headband, keeping your hair out of your face stylishly.
Who it suits: Works well for medium-length hair and fine textures.
How to achieve it: Take a section from one side near the temple, braid it, and pin it across the crown like a headband.
Maintenance tip: Use a small amount of styling cream to control flyaways.
Low Ponytail with Loose Waves
Why choose it: Casual yet polished, this style is versatile enough for both work and weekend outings.
Who it suits: Best for medium to thick hair.
How to achieve it: Curl your hair into loose waves, gather it at the nape, and secure it with an elastic.
Maintenance tip: Use a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain the waves throughout the day.
Double Dutch Braids
Why choose it: Secure and stylish, this hairstyle is ideal for active summer days or outdoor adventures.
Who it suits: Great for medium to thick hair textures.
How to achieve it: Part your hair down the middle and create two Dutch braids on each side, securing them with elastics.
Maintenance tip: Sleep with a satin pillowcase to prevent frizz and maintain the braid structure overnight.
Elegant and Formal Styles (8-14)
These polished hairstyles are perfect for weddings, summer parties, and formal occasions when you want a sophisticated look.
Low Chignon
Why choose it: The low chignon is a timeless and elegant hairstyle that exudes sophistication.
Who it suits: Best for straight or wavy hair and oval or heart-shaped faces.
How to achieve it: Gather your hair into a low ponytail, twist it into a bun, and pin it at the nape of your neck.
Maintenance tip: Use strong bobby pins and finish with a firm-hold hairspray to keep it secure throughout the event.
French Twist
Why choose it: A sleek and classic updo that elevates your look instantly.
Who it suits: Ideal for fine to medium hair textures.
How to achieve it: Gather your hair at the back, twist it upwards, and tuck the ends in while pinning securely.
Maintenance tip: Spritz with a shine-enhancing spray for a polished finish.
Pinned-Back Curls
Why choose it: Romantic and feminine, pinned-back curls are perfect for weddings and evening events.
Who it suits: Best for curly or wavy hair textures.
How to achieve it: Curl your hair with a curling iron, then pin small sections at the back of your head for a cascading effect.
Maintenance tip: Apply a lightweight curl-defining cream to enhance and hold the curls.
Half-Up Braided Crown
Why choose it: This beautiful combination of braids and loose waves creates a regal yet relaxed look.
Who it suits: Suitable for all hair textures.
How to achieve it: Braid two sections from either side of your head and pin them at the back to form a crown. Leave the rest of your hair loose.
Maintenance tip: Use a texturizing spray for grip and volume.
Sleek Straight Lob
Why choose it: A sleek straight lob is a chic and modern style perfect for formal events.
Who it suits: Best for fine to medium hair textures and oval or square face shapes.
How to achieve it: Flat-iron your hair and apply a shine serum for a glossy finish.
Maintenance tip: Use a heat protectant to prevent damage from straightening.
High Bun with Face-Framing Strands
Why choose it: This chic bun with face-framing strands strikes the perfect balance between polished and playful.
Who it suits: Best for thick hair and round or oval faces.
How to achieve it: Gather your hair into a high bun, leaving out a few strands around your face. Curl the strands for a soft effect.
Maintenance tip: Secure the bun with strong elastic and bobby pins.
Twisted Low Bun
Why choose it: A creative twist on the classic low bun, this style is elegant and unique.
Who it suits: Great for medium-length hair with wavy or straight textures.
How to achieve it: Divide your hair into two sections, twist each section, and secure them together at the nape in a bun.
Maintenance tip: Finish with a light-hold hairspray for a soft, romantic finish.
Playful and Creative Styles (15-21)
Fun and imaginative hairstyles for adventurous summer days.
Bubble Ponytail
Why choose it: This playful style adds a modern twist to the classic ponytail.
Who it suits: Best for thick hair.
How to achieve it: Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure sections with elastics to create “bubbles.”
Maintenance tip: Tug gently at each section to add volume and texture.
Space Buns
Why choose it: Fun and quirky, space buns are great for music festivals or casual summer outings.
Who it suits: Ideal for medium to thick hair.
How to achieve it: Divide your hair into two sections, twist each into a bun, and secure with elastics.
Maintenance tip: Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep the buns intact.
Waterfall Braid
Why choose it: This cascading braid adds a whimsical touch to your look.
Who it suits: Best for wavy or straight hair.
How to achieve it: Braid a section of hair near your temple, allowing strands to fall through like a waterfall.
Maintenance tip: Use a texturizing spray for grip and hold.
Loose Waves with a Scarf
Why choose it: Adding a scarf to loose waves creates a vibrant, summer-inspired look.
Who it suits: Ideal for all hair textures.
How to achieve it: Curl your hair into soft waves and tie a colorful scarf around your head.
Maintenance tip: Use a lightweight curl cream to maintain wave definition.
Fishtail Braid
Why choose it: This intricate braid is a trendy and elegant option for summer.
Who it suits: Best for medium to thick hair.
How to achieve it: Divide your hair into two sections and cross small pieces from each side to form the braid.
Maintenance tip: Secure with a small elastic and tug gently to add volume.
Side-Swept Curls
Why choose it: Voluminous curls swept to one side create a dramatic and glamorous look.
Who it suits: Great for medium-length hair and oval face shapes.
How to achieve it: Curl your hair and pin one side behind your ear.
Maintenance tip: Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray.
Twisted Half-Updo
Why choose it: Simple yet elegant, this style combines twists with a half-up look.
Who it suits: Suitable for all hair textures.
How to achieve it: Twist two sections from each side and secure them at the back with bobby pins.
Maintenance tip: Add a decorative clip for a polished finish.
Hair Accessories to Elevate Summer Hairstyles
Headbands
- Add a touch of elegance or boho charm to your hairstyle.
Scarves
- Perfect for adding color and securing hair during windy beach days.
Claw Clips
- A trendy way to keep hair off your neck while still looking stylish.
Floral Pins
- Ideal for weddings or garden parties for a romantic touch.
Hair Wraps
- Stylish and protective for casual summer looks.
How to Keep Your Summer Hairstyles Looking Fresh
Hydration and Nourishment
- Drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated from within.
- Use a deep-conditioning mask once a week to prevent dryness and frizz.
Avoiding Sun and Heat Damage
- Wear a hat or scarf to protect your hair from harsh UV rays.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner with UV protection before going outdoors.
Minimizing Product Buildup
- Use a clarifying shampoo once every two weeks to remove residue from styling products.
- Avoid using too many heavy serums or oils, which can weigh down your hair.
Summer Hairstyling Hacks for Effortless Looks
Quick Fixes for Frizz and Flyaways
- Keep a small bottle of anti-frizz serum in your bag for touch-ups.
- Use a toothbrush with hairspray to tame baby hairs along your hairline.
Overnight Styling Tricks
- Braid damp hair before bed for effortless waves in the morning.
- Twist hair into a loose bun overnight to wake up with natural volume.
Hair Accessories to Elevate Your Look
- Claw Clips: Perfect for securing loose updos with minimal effort.
- Silk Scarves: Adds a chic, vintage-inspired touch to any hairstyle.
- Floral Pins: Ideal for romantic, summer-inspired hairdos.
Tips for Maintaining Summer Hairstyles
Humidity Control
- Use an anti-frizz serum to combat the effects of summer humidity.
- Lightweight leave-in conditioners can help keep your hair smooth.
Heat Protection
- Always apply a heat protectant before using hot styling tools.
- Opt for heatless styles whenever possible to prevent damage.
Lightweight Hair Products
- Choose mousse or texturizing sprays that provide volume without making your hair sticky.
Accessorize
- Summer is the perfect time to experiment with headbands, floral clips, scarves, and claw clips.
Rock Your Best Summer Hairstyles!
Medium-length hair gives you the perfect canvas for fun, trendy, and effortless summer hairstyles. Whether you prefer beachy waves, stylish braids, or playful updos, there’s a perfect look for every occasion. Which summer hairstyle will you try first? Experiment with different styles, embrace the season’s carefree vibes, and don’t forget to protect your hair from the summer heat. Stay stylish, stay cool, and have fun with your summer hair!
