10 Easy Summer Hairstyles to Match Your Favorite Dresses

Summer is the season of sun-kissed skin, vibrant dresses, and effortless style. Whether you’re heading to a beach picnic, a garden party, or a casual brunch, the right hairstyle can elevate your summer dress and keep you cool in the heat. This article explores 10 easy, breezy hairstyles designed to complement popular summer dress styles, from flowy maxis to chic sundresses. Each hairstyle is simple to create, requires minimal tools, and is perfect for hot weather and outdoor fun. With step-by-step instructions, styling tips, and dress pairings, you’ll be ready to shine all summer long.

Why Summer Hairstyles Matter

Summer calls for hairstyles that are both functional and fashionable. The heat and humidity can make heavy, intricate styles uncomfortable, so light, airy looks that keep hair off your neck and face are ideal. These 10 hairstyles are designed to match the carefree vibe of summer dresses while enhancing their aesthetic. From bohemian braids to sleek updos, each style is versatile enough for various occasions and hair types, ensuring you look polished without spending hours in front of the mirror.

1. Messy High Bun with a Maxi Dress

Best For: Flowy, bohemian maxi dressesHair Type: Medium to long, straight or wavyTools Needed: Hair tie, bobby pins, texturizing sprayTime: 5 minutes

Why It Works: The messy high bun is a summer staple that exudes effortless charm. Its slightly undone look pairs perfectly with the relaxed, flowing silhouette of a maxi dress, creating a boho-chic vibe ideal for beach outings or casual dinners.

How to Create:

1. Gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure with a hair tie.

2. Lightly tease the ponytail with your fingers or a comb for added texture.

3. Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base to form a bun.

4. Secure with bobby pins, leaving a few strands loose for a messy effect.

5. Spritz with texturizing spray to hold the style and add volume.

Styling Tip: Pull out a few face-framing tendrils to soften the look. Add a floral hair accessory or scrunchie to match the vibrant patterns of your maxi dress.

Dress Pairing: Opt for a floral or tie-dye maxi dress with sandals and layered necklaces for a carefree, festival-ready outfit.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The high bun keeps hair off your neck, making it ideal for hot days, while its relaxed style complements the laid-back nature of summer.

2. Fishtail Braid with a Sundress

Best For: Fitted or A-line sundressesKeyboard Type: Medium to long, straight or wavyTools Needed: Hair tie, combTime: 10 minutes

Why It Works: The fishtail braid is a playful, intricate-looking style that’s surprisingly easy to master. Its woven texture adds a touch of elegance to the flirty, feminine vibe of a sundress, making it perfect for picnics or daytime dates.

How to Create:

1. Brush hair to remove tangles and divide it into two equal sections.

2. Take a small strand from the outside of the left section and cross it over to the right section.

3. Repeat on the right side, crossing a small strand to the left.

4. Continue alternating sides, keeping the strands small for a tight braid or larger for a looser look.

5. Secure the end with a hair tie and gently tug at the braid to loosen it for a softer effect.

Styling Tip: Start the braid slightly off-center for a modern twist. Add a ribbon or small hair clip to tie in the colors of your sundress.

Dress Pairing: A pastel or polka-dot sundress with espadrille wedges and a straw hat creates a charming, summery ensemble.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The braid keeps hair contained and cool, and its beachy aesthetic is ideal for outdoor adventures.

3. Low Chignon with a Slip Dress

Best For: Sleek, minimalist slip dressesHair Type: Medium to long, straight or curlyTools Needed: Hair tie, bobby pins, hairsprayTime: 7 minutes

Why It Works: The low chignon is a timeless, elegant updo that complements the understated sophistication of a slip dress. Its sleek finish adds polish to evening events or upscale brunches while keeping you cool.

How to Create:

1. Smooth hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure with a hair tie.

2. Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it into a small bun.

3. Tuck the ends under and secure with bobby pins.

4. Smooth any flyaways with a light mist of hairspray.

5. For extra flair, wrap a thin strand of hair around the base of the chignon to hide the hair tie.

Styling Tip: Use a shine serum for a glossy finish. Add a delicate hair pin or pearl accessory for a touch of glamour.

Dress Pairing: A silk or satin slip dress in a neutral or jewel tone, paired with strappy heels and statement earrings, creates a chic, effortless look.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The low placement keeps hair off your shoulders, and the polished style is humidity-resistant, ideal for warm evenings.

4. Half-Up Crown Braid with a Wrap Dress

Best For: Flattering, cinched wrap dressesHair Type: Medium to long, wavy or curlyTools Needed: Bobby pins, small hair tiesTime: 8 minutes

Why It Works: The half-up crown braid is a romantic, bohemian style that highlights the flattering neckline of a wrap dress. It keeps hair partially down for a soft look while securing the top section for comfort in the heat.

How to Create:

1. Part your hair down the middle and take a 2-inch section from each side near the temples.

2. Braid each section into a small, tight braid, securing the ends with small hair ties.

3. Cross the braids over the top of your head like a crown, pinning them in place with bobby pins.

4. Loosen the braids slightly for a fuller look.

5. Curl or tousle the remaining loose hair for added texture.

Styling Tip: Weave tiny flowers or beads into the braids for a whimsical touch. Use a lightweight mousse to enhance the volume of the loose hair.

Dress Pairing: A wrap dress in a bold print or solid color, paired with ankle boots or sandals, creates a versatile, summery outfit.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The half-up style balances airiness with structure, making it ideal for breezy outdoor events.

5. Beachy Waves with a Shirt Dress

Best For: Casual, button-down shirt dressesHair Type: Short to long, any textureTools Needed: Curling iron or sea salt spray, heat protectantTime: 10 minutes

Why It Works: Beachy waves are the epitome of summer hair, adding a relaxed, tousled vibe that pairs perfectly with the laid-back charm of a shirt dress. This low-maintenance style is ideal for everyday outings like farmers’ markets or coffee runs.

How to Create:

1. Apply a heat protectant to dry hair.

2. Using a curling iron, curl 1-inch sections of hair, alternating directions for a natural look.

3. After curling, gently run your fingers through the curls to break them up.

4. Spritz with sea salt spray and scrunch for added texture and hold.

5. For no-heat waves, braid damp hair loosely the night before and unravel in the morning.

Styling Tip: Leave the ends straight for a modern, undone look. Add a wide-brimmed hat to tie the outfit together.

Dress Pairing: A lightweight cotton or linen shirt dress, belted at the waist and paired with sneakers or slides, creates a cool, casual look.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The loose waves are low-effort and thrive in humid conditions, making them a go-to for hot days.

6. Sleek High Ponytail with a Midi Dress

Best For: Structured, tailored midi dressesHair Type: Medium to long, straight or curlyTools Needed: Hair tie, brush, gel, hairsprayTime: 5 minutes

Why It Works: The sleek high ponytail is a bold, confident style that complements the polished silhouette of a midi dress. Its clean lines and lifted look make it perfect for summer weddings or professional events.

How to Create:

1. Brush hair to remove tangles and apply a small amount of gel to smooth flyaways.

2. Gather hair into a high ponytail at the crown and secure with a hair tie.

3. Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the hair tie, securing with a bobby pin.

4. Mist with hairspray for a sleek, long-lasting finish.

5. For curly hair, embrace natural texture for a softer high pony.

Styling Tip: Use a boar-bristle brush for extra smoothness. Add a statement hair tie or scarf for a pop of color.

Dress Pairing: A fitted midi dress in a solid color or subtle print, paired with block heels and a clutch, creates a sophisticated summer look.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The high ponytail keeps hair off your face and neck, offering a cool, polished option for humid days.

7. Double Dutch Braids with a Skater Dress

Best For: Playful, flared skater dressesHair Type: Medium to long, any textureTools Needed: Comb, hair ties, styling creamTime: 12 minutes

Why It Works: Double Dutch braids are sporty and youthful, adding a fun, energetic vibe to the flirty silhouette of a skater dress. This style is perfect for festivals, amusement parks, or casual summer adventures.

How to Create:

1. Part hair down the middle with a comb to create two even sections.

2. Starting at the forehead, begin a Dutch braid on one side by crossing strands under each other, adding hair as you go.

3. Continue braiding to the nape of the neck and finish with a regular three-strand braid, securing with a hair tie.

4. Repeat on the other side.

5. Apply styling cream to tame frizz and gently tug at the braids for a fuller look.

Styling Tip: Tie the braids with colorful elastics to match your dress. Leave the ends loose or curl them for a softer finish.

Dress Pairing: A bright or patterned skater dress with sneakers or flat sandals creates a youthful, carefree outfit.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The braids keep hair secure and cool, ideal for active days in the sun.

8. Twisted Low Bun with an Off-the-Shoulder Dress

Best For: Romantic, off-the-shoulder dressesHair Type: Medium to long, straight or wavyTools Needed: Hair tie, bobby pins, hairsprayTime: 6 minutes

Why It Works: The twisted low bun is a soft, romantic updo that highlights the elegant neckline of an off-the-shoulder dress. Its simple yet refined look is perfect for garden parties or summer date nights.

How to Create:

1. Part hair slightly off-center and gather it into a low ponytail at the nape.

2. Divide the ponytail into two sections and twist each one tightly.

3. Wrap the twisted sections around each other to form a bun and secure with bobby pins.

4. Pull out a few loose strands around the face for a romantic touch.

5. Mist with hairspray to hold the style.

Styling Tip: Add a velvet ribbon or floral pin to the bun for extra elegance. Use a lightweight gel to control flyaways.

Dress Pairing: An off-the-shoulder dress in a soft pastel or floral print, paired with dainty jewelry and wedges, creates a dreamy summer look.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The low bun is cool and comfortable, and its romantic vibe enhances the femininity of summer dresses.

9. Side Braid with a T-Shirt Dress

Best For: Casual, sporty T-shirt dressesHair Type: Medium to long, any textureTools Needed: Hair tie, combTime: 7 minutes

Why It Works: The side braid is a laid-back, versatile style that matches the easygoing vibe of a T-shirt dress. Its asymmetrical look adds a touch of flair to casual summer outings like barbecues or beach trips.

How to Create:

1. Brush hair to one side and gather it over your shoulder.

2. Divide hair into three sections and begin a standard three-strand braid.

3. Continue braiding to the ends and secure with a hair tie.

4. Gently tug at the braid to loosen it for a relaxed, beachy look.

5. For extra texture, tease the braid slightly with your fingers.

Styling Tip: Add a bandana or scrunchie to the end of the braid for a pop of color. Spritz with sea salt spray for a windswept effect.

Dress Pairing: A loose T-shirt dress in a bold color or graphic print, paired with sneakers or flip-flops, creates a fun, effortless look.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The side braid is quick, keeps hair out of the way, and adds a playful touch to casual summer style.

10. Loose Low Ponytail with a Tiered Dress

Best For: Breezy, tiered dressesHair Type: Short to long, wavy or curlyTools Needed: Hair tie, curling iron (optional), texturizing sprayTime: 5 minutes

Why It Works: The loose low ponytail is a soft, romantic style that enhances the whimsical, voluminous silhouette of a tiered dress. Its simplicity makes it ideal for farmers’ markets, art fairs, or casual summer gatherings.

How to Create:

1. If desired, add loose curls to hair with a curling iron for extra texture.

2. Gather hair loosely at the nape of your neck and secure with a hair tie.

3. Pull out a few face-framing strands to soften the look.

4. Spritz with texturizing spray to add volume and hold.

5. For a bohemian touch, wrap a ribbon or scarf around the base of the ponytail.

Styling Tip: Leave the ponytail slightly loose for a relaxed vibe. Add a floral crown or headband to match the dress’s airy aesthetic.

Dress Pairing: A tiered dress in a light fabric like cotton or chiffon, paired with flat sandals and a woven tote, creates a charming, summery outfit.

Why It’s Summer-Perfect: The low ponytail is lightweight and breezy, keeping you cool while complementing the flowy nature of tiered dresses.

Tips for Summer Hair Care

To keep your hairstyles looking fresh in the summer heat, follow these tips:

• Protect from Sun Damage: Wear a hat or use a UV-protectant spray to shield hair from sun exposure.

• Combat Humidity: Apply an anti-frizz serum or lightweight gel to keep styles smooth.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and use a hydrating shampoo to maintain hair health.

• Minimize Heat Styling: Opt for no-heat styles like braids or ponytails to reduce damage.

• Refresh with Dry Shampoo: Use dry shampoo between washes to keep hair fresh and voluminous.

How to Choose the Right Hairstyle for Your Dress

Matching your hairstyle to your dress enhances your overall look. Consider these factors:

• Neckline: Updos like the chignon or high bun highlight high necklines, while loose styles like beachy waves complement open necklines.

• Dress Style: Boho dresses pair well with braids or messy buns, while structured dresses suit sleek ponytails or chignons.

• Occasion: Casual outings call for relaxed styles like side braids, while formal events suit polished updos.

• Hair Length and Texture: Adapt styles to your hair—short hair can rock low ponytails, while long hair suits intricate braids.

Conclusion

These 10 easy summer hairstyles—messy high bun, fishtail braid, low chignon, half-up crown braid, beachy waves, sleek high ponytail, double Dutch braids, twisted low bun, side braid, and loose low ponytail—are perfect for pairing with your favorite summer dresses. Designed for hot weather and outdoor fun, they’re simple to create, keep you cool, and enhance the vibe of popular dress styles like maxis, sundresses, and slip dresses. Whether you’re heading to a beach party, a wedding, or a casual brunch, these breezy looks ensure you stay stylish and comfortable. With minimal tools and a few minutes, you can transform your summer wardrobe into a head-to-toe masterpiece. So, grab your hair ties, embrace the season’s carefree spirit, and let your hair and dress shine together.

FAQs

1. What makes a hairstyle “summer-friendly”?Summer-friendly hairstyles are light, keep hair off the neck or face, and withstand heat and humidity. They’re often quick to create and complement the relaxed vibe of summer fashion.

2. Can these hairstyles work for short hair?Yes! Styles like the loose low ponytail, beachy waves, and sleek high ponytail can be adapted for shorter hair. For braids or buns, use extensions or modify for a partial style.

3. What tools do I need for these hairstyles?Basic tools include hair ties, bobby pins, a comb, hairspray, texturizing spray, and a curling iron for some styles. Most are minimal and affordable.

4. How do I prevent frizz in humid weather?Use an anti-frizz serum or lightweight gel before styling. Opt for updos or braids to keep hair contained, and finish with a humidity-resistant hairspray.

5. Are these hairstyles suitable for curly hair?Absolutely! Curly hair adds texture to styles like the messy bun, fishtail braid, or loose ponytail. Use a styling cream to define curls and reduce frizz.

6. How long do these hairstyles take to create?Most take 5-12 minutes, depending on the style and your skill level. Simple looks like the low ponytail are quickest, while braids may take slightly longer.

7. Can I wear these hairstyles for formal events?Yes! The low chignon, sleek high ponytail, and twisted low bun are elegant enough for weddings or upscale events, especially with added accessories.

8. What accessories pair well with these hairstyles?Try floral pins, ribbons, scrunchies, or pearl clips for a summery touch. Bandanas and headbands also add flair to casual styles.

9. How do I maintain these hairstyles during outdoor activities?Use hairspray or texturizing spray to hold styles in place. For active days, choose secure styles like braids or high ponytails to prevent slipping.

10. Can I combine these hairstyles with hats or headscarves?Definitely! Beachy waves and low ponytails pair well with wide-brimmed hats, while braids and buns complement headscarves for a boho look.