Summer is all about embracing natural textures, effortless beauty, and low-maintenance styles that withstand the heat. If you have natural curls, summer is the perfect time to flaunt them with fun, breezy, and stylish hairstyles that keep you cool while looking stunning. Whether you’re heading to the beach, brunch, or a summer wedding, we’ve gathered the hottest easy and cute styles that will keep your curls fresh and fabulous all season.
1. Loose Waves with Gold Hair Accessories
This elegant yet simple hairstyle is perfect for a summer night out or a special occasion. The long, flowing natural curls are styled into soft waves, giving off a relaxed yet polished vibe. Gold hair cuffs are delicately placed along twisted sections, adding a touch of sophistication. This look works especially well for those with long or short hair, as the accessories elevate even the simplest waves.
If you have short hair, use a few gold cuffs along mini twists or braids for a similar aesthetic. This style also pairs beautifully with a chic summer dress and minimalistic gold jewelry for a cohesive look.
2. Bold Braided Updo with Accessories
For those who love a statement look, this natural curls updo is bold, regal, and perfect for summer. This intricate braided style features thick braids twisted into an updo with gold accents woven throughout. It’s ideal for black women who want a protective style that keeps their hair off their neck while still making a fashion statement.
Pair this hairstyle with large hoop earrings and a structured summer blazer for a high-fashion look. This updo is also perfect for weddings, festivals, or formal events.
3. Half-Up Twisted Bun with Loose Curls
This simple yet elegant look is perfect for everyday summer outings. A small twisted bun sits at the crown, while the rest of the hair cascades in soft waves with delicate braids adding texture. It’s a great choice for someone who wants an easy yet stylish summer hairstyle.
This is an ideal style for a casual school look or a brunch date. Pair it with a flowy maxi dress and natural makeup to enhance the effortlessly chic aesthetic.
4. Bohemian Braids with Beach Waves
A blend of braids and beach waves creates the ultimate summer hairstyle. Small cornrows along the scalp add structure, while the ends are left loose and wavy for a carefree, boho look. The subtle highlights woven throughout add dimension, giving the hair a sun-kissed glow.
This hairstyle looks amazing with a straw hat or scarf for extra summer vibes. Perfect for a tropical vacation or a day at the beach!
5. Messy Curly Half-Updo
Soft, voluminous curls styled into a messy updo make this one of the most effortlessly romantic hairstyles for summer. This cute and aesthetic look is perfect for a casual date night or a weekend adventure. Loose tendrils frame the face, creating a soft and feminine feel.
Enhance the natural volume with a texturizing spray. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with bangs for an even more relaxed and stylish appearance.
6. Side-Parted Curly Hair with Braided Detail
This look blends natural curls with a stylish slick side-part and a small braided section pinned back with a hair accessory. It’s a perfect mix of cute and trendy, great for both casual summer outings and dressier occasions. The dark curls cascade beautifully, giving the hair a voluminous yet defined appearance.
This look is ideal for those with short hair or long curls. You can enhance the shine by using a lightweight serum and add a claw clip in the back for a quick updo version.
7. Beaded Braided Half-Up, Half-Down Style
Bohemian meets Y2K in this easy and intricate braided style. Small cornrows are woven into the scalp, transitioning into long, textured waves. The added beads and colorful accessories give this hairstyle a playful, beachy feel, making it perfect for summer vacations.
This hairstyle pairs effortlessly with a flowy beach dress or a crop top and denim combo. Add a scarf for a unique twist, or wear this look to a festival with statement earrings.
8. Cornrows with Curly Ends
This natural curls updo blends structured braids with cascading curls for an effortlessly chic look. The precisely sectioned cornrows add definition, while the loose curls keep it soft and romantic. This style is perfect for black women who want a protective style that still showcases volume.
Pair this look with a minimalist outfit and let your hair be the star of the show. If you want an extra pop, weave in gold or silver hair cuffs.
9. Long, Voluminous Braided Curls
For those who love bold, aesthetic hairstyles, this blend of natural curls and intricate braids is a head-turner. The mix of tight and loose textures creates movement, while the caramel and auburn tones bring warmth to the look.
If you’re looking for a wig or extension-friendly hairstyle, this is a great option. The color variation makes it particularly flattering for summer, whether you’re heading to brunch or a music festival.
10. Sleek Braided Ponytail with Loose Curls
This slick high ponytail with cascading curls is a showstopper. The tight cornrows in the front add a sleek, polished feel, while the long curls give a glamorous effect. It’s the ultimate hot summer hairstyle that works for both day and night events.
This look is perfect for formal occasions or a stylish night out. Pair it with gold hoop earrings and a sleek dress for an effortlessly elegant vibe.
11. Messy Bun with Braided Details
This effortlessly cute and simple hairstyle is perfect for summer days when you want a relaxed yet stylish look. The tousled natural curls are loosely pulled into a messy bun, while small braids frame the face, adding a touch of bohemian charm. This look gives off an aesthetic that feels both undone and intentional.
Use a claw clip to secure the bun for an extra trendy touch. Pair it with layered jewelry and a sundress for the ultimate laid-back summer vibe.
12. Artistic Cornrow Braids with Wavy Curls
This natural curls updo is a true work of art. The intricate swirled braids create a sculptural effect along the scalp, while the long, wavy curls provide softness and movement. The mix of dark roots and honey-blonde tones enhances the texture, making it a head-turning style for the season.
This is a hot look for summer vacations or music festivals. Add bold earrings and a fitted crop top to elevate the aesthetic.
13. Playful Beaded Pigtails with Loose Curls
A cute and youthful hairstyle that combines braids with cascading curls. The small front braids are adorned with gold beads, adding a playful and stylish touch to this easy summer look. This style is fun, flirty, and perfect for casual outings.
This style pairs well with school or weekend outfits. Use a scarf to add extra personality, or try it as a tutorial look for social media trends.
14. Romantic Half-Up Twisted Curls
This dreamy natural curls hairstyle gives off major fairy-tale vibes. The half-up look is styled with soft twists at the crown, while the cascading curls frame the face beautifully. This is a simple yet elegant option for date nights or summer weddings.
Pair it with a strapless dress and statement earrings for an effortlessly aesthetic ensemble. If you have bangs, let them fall naturally for an even softer, whimsical look.
15. Double Braided Space Buns
A sporty and stylish updo, this double braids style is both functional and fashionable. Thick Dutch braids are woven from the scalp into two twisted buns at the nape of the neck, with a few loose curls left to frame the face. This is a great easy hairstyle for hot days when you want to keep your curls secure but still look trendy.
This style is perfect for summer workouts, beach trips, or even an edgy evening look. Add colorful elastics or beads to make it even more playful.
16. Braided Crown with Defined Curls
This chic and structured braided style is a blend of precision and effortless beauty. Two tight scalp braids lead into soft, defined natural curls, creating a modern and elegant half-up, half-down look. This is an excellent simple yet eye-catching style for any summer event.
Use a lightweight mousse to keep the curls bouncy and frizz-free. If you have short hair, adapt this look by braiding only the front section and letting the rest fall naturally.
17. Effortless Beach Waves with Mini Braids
The ultimate beach hairstyle, this look features natural curls styled into loose waves, with small braids adding a subtle touch of structure. Perfect for a vacation or a day spent outdoors, this hairstyle enhances the hair’s texture while keeping it relaxed and free-flowing.
Apply a sea salt spray for a more tousled, sun-kissed effect. This is an ideal low-maintenance style for those who want a simple and easy look.
18. Half-Up Braided Ponytail with Voluminous Curls
This style combines multiple braids with a voluminous natural curls updo, creating a trendy and bold half-up ponytail. The contrast between the sleek braids and bouncy curls makes this look perfect for summer festivals or night-outs.
For added drama, secure the ponytail with a claw clip to create a higher, fuller effect. Pair it with statement earrings for a stylish edge.
19. Cornrow-Inspired Braids with Loose Waves
This intricate braids look is all about detail and structure. Small, tight cornrows at the front transition into natural curls, making it both a protective and stylish option for summer. This look is great for those who want an easy and cute hairstyle that lasts through hot and humid days.
Enhance the look with metallic or colorful hair accessories to bring out the detail in the braiding pattern.
20. Playful Curly Ponytail with Face-Framing Bangs
This hot and youthful look is all about embracing volume and movement. A curly ponytail with defined bangs creates a flirty, fresh summer style that works for both casual and dressier occasions. The soft, bouncy curls give off an effortless aesthetic.
This look pairs perfectly with pearl accessories for a vintage touch or with a scarf tied around the ponytail for a playful twist.
21. Soft Braided Pigtails with Loose Curls
This effortlessly cute hairstyle blends relaxed natural curls with two loosely braided pigtails. The bangs softly frame the face, adding a romantic and carefree summer vibe. This style is perfect for casual days, beach outings, or festivals.
For an extra aesthetic look, leave a few tendrils out and spritz some texturizing spray for added volume and definition.
22. Bohemian Twists with Voluminous Curls
This hot and bold look features long, natural curls interwoven with twisted braids, creating a soft yet structured style. The golden hues add warmth and dimension, making it a go-to choice for summer vacations or nights out.
This look works beautifully with large hoop earrings and neutral-toned outfits. If you prefer short hair, you can achieve a similar look with shoulder-length twists.
23. Blonde Half-Up Claw Clip Hairstyle
For a simple and effortless approach, this half-updo secured with a claw clip is a must-have summer look. The contrast between dark roots and blonde natural curls gives the style depth, while the loose curls create a relaxed yet put-together vibe.
Use a pearl-styled claw clip for a chic upgrade, and pair it with minimal jewelry for an elegant finish.
24. Elegant Curly Updo with Face-Framing Tendrils
This natural curls updo is the epitome of glamour and elegance. Perfect for formal occasions, this style features voluminous curls swept into an updo with soft tendrils adding a feminine touch. It’s an ideal hairstyle for weddings, special events, or summer evenings.
If you love the look but have short hair, you can recreate the updo with the help of a wig or clip-in extensions for added volume.
25. Half-Up Braided Style with Long Waves
This intricate half-up look blends braids with long, wavy natural curls, creating a cute yet structured style. The small braids along the scalp add detail, while the loose waves keep it flowy and relaxed.
Pair this style with a floral dress for the perfect beach or summer festival vibe.
26. Twisted Half-Up Curls for a Boho Summer Vibe
For those who love aesthetic, effortless beauty, this twisted half-up style is the epitome of summer elegance. Soft, cascading curls are paired with subtle twists and a delicate braid woven into the length, creating an ethereal yet modern look. The loose waves add dimension and movement, making this the perfect easy go-to for both casual and formal settings.
Use a claw clip for an even more effortless take on this look. A spritz of lightweight curl-enhancing spray will help maintain definition and volume.
27. Sleek & Defined Curly Ponytail for a Glam Look
A voluminous ponytail with natural curls is a classic summer favorite, and this version takes it to the next level with slick roots and soft, defined curls. The combination of structured and free-flowing elements makes it an incredibly flattering style that suits both daytime and evening occasions.
Use a bit of edge control or strong-hold gel to smooth out the top and enhance the polished look. If you’re heading to the beach, opt for a leave-in conditioner to prevent frizz.
28. Elegant Curly Updo for Summer Nights
If you’re looking for a natural curls updo that’s romantic yet practical, this structured yet loose style is the answer. The soft curls pinned into a detailed updo create a voluminous, effortlessly chic look that’s perfect for a wedding, formal dinner, or summer event.
Leave a few tendrils loose around your face to soften the look. A lightweight setting spray will ensure the style holds up in humid weather.
29. Trendy Braided High Ponytail with Defined Curls
This braids and curls combo is not only a protective style but also a major summer trend. A high ponytail with natural curls is great for staying cool while still looking stylish. The black women beauty community loves this look because it’s bold, feminine, and practical for summer.
Add some sleek baby hairs for a polished finish. If you’re new to styling braids, a tutorial can help you achieve this look effortlessly.
30. Boho Chic Loose Curls with Mini Braids
For an effortless beach or festival-ready style, loose natural curls combined with delicate braids make for a playful, flirty summer look. This hairstyle feels effortless and trendy, with just the right balance of casual and chic.
A sea salt spray can enhance the tousled effect. This style pairs beautifully with a lightweight summer scarf or gold accessories for a bohemian feel.
Whether you prefer natural curls, slick styles, or cute updos, these summer curly hairstyles are all about embracing texture, volume, and effortless elegance. Experiment with accessories like claw clips, gold cuffs, and scarves to elevate your look. What’s your go-to curly hairstyle for summer? Let us know in the comments!
