10 Easy Updos to Beat the Summer Heat

Summer brings sunshine, outdoor adventures, and, inevitably, soaring temperatures that can make long hair feel like a burden. Keeping your hair off your neck and shoulders is a practical way to stay cool and comfortable while still looking stylish. Updos are the perfect solution, offering versatility, elegance, and ease for everyday wear or special occasions. This article explores ten easy updos designed to help you beat the heat, each requiring minimal tools and time. From casual messy buns to polished chignons, these hairstyles are beginner-friendly, heat-proof, and suitable for various hair types and lengths. Whether you're heading to the beach, a summer wedding, or just tackling a hot day, these updos will keep you cool and confident.

Why Choose Updos for Summer?

Updos are a summer essential because they lift hair away from your skin, reducing sweat and discomfort in high temperatures. They’re also low-maintenance, helping you avoid frizz caused by humidity while keeping your look polished. These hairstyles are adaptable to different settings—casual, professional, or formal—and can be customized to suit straight, curly, wavy, or coily hair. With minimal styling tools and products, you can create chic updos that withstand summer’s heat, making them ideal for anyone seeking practicality without sacrificing style.

Below, we present ten easy updos to beat the heat, complete with step-by-step instructions, tool lists, and tips for customization. Each style takes 5–15 minutes and requires basic skills, ensuring accessibility for all.

1. High Messy Bun

Concept

The high messy bun is a classic, carefree updo that keeps hair off your neck while embracing a relaxed, effortless vibe perfect for casual summer days.

Tools Needed

• Hair tie

• Bobby pins (4–6)

• Texturizing spray (optional)

• Comb or fingers

Instructions

1. Gather Hair: Brush or finger-comb hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Secure with a hair tie.

2. Create the Bun: Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base, forming a bun. Don’t aim for perfection—stray strands add to the messy look.

3. Secure: Tuck the ends under the bun and pin with bobby pins, placing them at various angles for stability.

4. Finish: Pull out a few face-framing strands for softness. Spritz with texturizing spray for added volume and hold.

Customization Tips

• For curly hair, skip brushing to preserve natural texture.

• For fine hair, tease the ponytail lightly before twisting for extra volume.

• Add a scrunchie or ribbon for a pop of color.

Best For

Beach trips, picnics, or casual outings. Works on medium to long hair.

Time Estimate

5–7 minutes

2. Sleek Low Bun

Concept

A polished low bun at the nape of the neck offers a sophisticated look that’s heat-proof and ideal for professional or formal settings.

Tools Needed

• Hair tie

• Bobby pins (6–8)

• Hairbrush

• Hairspray or gel

• Fine-tooth comb

Instructions

1. Smooth Hair: Brush hair to remove knots and apply a small amount of gel or hairspray for a sleek finish.

2. Form Ponytail: Gather hair into a low ponytail at the nape, using a fine-tooth comb to ensure smoothness. Secure with a hair tie.

3. Shape Bun: Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it into a compact bun. Tuck the ends under and pin securely with bobby pins.

4. Set Style: Spritz with hairspray to tame flyaways and add shine.

Customization Tips

• For thick hair, split the ponytail into two sections before twisting to manage bulk.

• For short hair, use extra pins to secure shorter strands.

• Add a pearl or metallic hair clip for elegance.

Best For

Office settings, summer weddings, or evening events. Works on short to long hair.

Time Estimate

7–10 minutes

3. Braided Top Knot

Concept

A braided top knot combines a chic braid with a high bun, adding texture and flair while keeping hair securely off your neck.

Tools Needed

• Hair tie

• Bobby pins (4–6)

• Small elastic band

• Comb

• Texturizing spray (optional)

Instructions

1. Section Hair: Gather the top half of your hair into a high ponytail at the crown, leaving the bottom half loose temporarily.

2. Braid Ponytail: Braid the ponytail and secure the end with a small elastic band.

3. Form Knot: Wrap the braid into a small bun and pin with bobby pins. Then, gather the remaining hair into a second ponytail below the bun, twist it, and wrap it around the braided knot, pinning securely.

4. Finish: Tug gently at the braid for a fuller look and spritz with texturizing spray.

Customization Tips

• For coily hair, use a styling cream to smooth the braid.

• For long hair, create a larger knot by incorporating all hair into one braid.

• Add a floral hair pin for a summery touch.

Best For

Festivals, brunches, or casual gatherings. Works on medium to long hair.

Time Estimate

10–12 minutes

4. Twisted Chignon

Concept

The twisted chignon is an elegant, low updo with soft twists that exude romance, perfect for keeping cool at formal summer events.

Tools Needed

• Hair tie

• Bobby pins (6–10)

• Hairbrush

• Hairspray

• Comb

Instructions

1. Prep Hair: Brush hair to detangle and gather into a low ponytail at the nape, securing with a hair tie.

2. Create Twists: Divide the ponytail into two sections. Twist each section tightly until it begins to coil, then wrap both twists around the base of the ponytail in opposite directions to form a chignon.

3. Secure: Tuck ends under and pin generously with bobby pins to hold the shape.

4. Finish: Smooth flyaways with hairspray and pull out a few strands for a soft look.

Customization Tips

• For wavy hair, skip brushing for natural texture.

• For fine hair, tease the ponytail base for added fullness.

• Add a decorative comb or barrette for sophistication.

Best For

Weddings, galas, or date nights. Works on medium to long hair.

Time Estimate

8–10 minutes

5. Double Bun Updo

Concept

Playful and quirky, the double bun updo features two small buns stacked or side-by-side, offering a fun way to stay cool and stylish.

Tools Needed

• Hair ties (2)

• Bobby pins (6–8)

• Comb

• Texturizing spray or gel

• Small elastics (optional)

Instructions

1. Part Hair: Use a comb to part hair down the middle or slightly off-center from forehead to nape.

2. Form Ponytails: Gather each section into a high or mid-level ponytail (one on each side or one above the other). Secure with hair ties.

3. Create Buns: Twist each ponytail into a small bun and pin with bobby pins. For extra hold, secure ends with small elastics before pinning.

4. Finish: Apply texturizing spray or gel for texture and pull out a few strands for a relaxed vibe.

Customization Tips

• For curly hair, let natural curls peek out for volume.

• For short hair, create mini buns with shorter sections.

• Add colorful hair ties or clips for a festival look.

Best For

Concerts, picnics, or casual outings. Works on short to long hair.

Time Estimate

7–9 minutes

6. French Twist Updo

Concept

The French twist is a timeless, elegant updo that sweeps hair upward into a sleek roll, ideal for formal occasions and heat relief.

Tools Needed

• Hairbrush

• Bobby pins (8–12)

• Hairspray

• Fine-tooth comb

• Hair clip (optional)

Instructions

1. Smooth Hair: Brush hair to remove knots and gather it toward one side at the nape, as if making a low ponytail.

2. Twist Upward: Hold hair taut and twist it upward along the back of your head, tucking loose ends into the twist as you go.

3. Secure: Pin the twist vertically with bobby pins, inserting them into the roll to hide them. Use extra pins for thick hair.

4. Finish: Smooth the surface with a comb and spritz with hairspray for hold and shine.

Customization Tips

• For thick hair, use a hair clip to hold the twist temporarily while pinning.

• For fine hair, tease the base for volume before twisting.

• Add a jeweled pin or flower for a bridal look.

Best For

Weddings, formal dinners, or professional events. Works on medium to long hair.

Time Estimate

10–12 minutes

7. Side Braid Bun

Concept

A side braid bun combines a loose braid with a low bun, offering a bohemian-inspired look that’s breezy and heat-friendly.

Tools Needed

• Hair tie

• Bobby pins (4–6)

• Small elastic band

• Comb

• Texturizing spray (optional)

Instructions

1. Part Hair: Create a deep side part and gather hair to the opposite side at the nape.

2. Braid Hair: Loosely braid the hair, securing the end with a small elastic band.

3. Form Bun: Wrap the braid into a low bun at the nape or slightly off-center, tucking the end under. Pin with bobby pins.

4. Finish: Pull gently at the braid for a fuller look and spritz with texturizing spray for texture.

Customization Tips

• For coily hair, use a leave-in conditioner to ease braiding.

• For long hair, create a larger bun by wrapping the braid multiple times.

• Add a floral crown or headband for a festival vibe.

Best For

Beach weddings, garden parties, or casual dates. Works on medium to long hair.

Time Estimate

8–10 minutes

8. Half-Up Twisted Bun

Concept

A half-up twisted bun combines loose, flowing hair with a small bun on top, offering a romantic, heat-relieving style for summer.

Tools Needed

• Hair tie

• Bobby pins (4–6)

• Comb

• Hairspray or texturizing spray

• Curling iron (optional)

Instructions

1. Section Hair: Gather the top half of your hair (from temples to crown), leaving the bottom half loose.

2. Twist Section: Twist the gathered hair loosely and wrap it into a small bun at the crown. Secure with a hair tie and bobby pins.

3. Style Loose Hair: Leave the bottom hair natural or add loose waves with a curling iron for softness.

4. Finish: Spritz with hairspray or texturizing spray to hold the bun and tame flyaways.

Customization Tips

• For wavy hair, enhance natural waves in the loose section.

• For short hair, create a mini bun with shorter top sections.

• Add a bow or barrette for a feminine touch.

Best For

Brunches, dates, or semi-formal events. Works on short to long hair.

Time Estimate

6–8 minutes

9. Space Buns

Concept

Space buns are playful, double high buns inspired by festival fashion, perfect for keeping hair off your neck with a bold, youthful vibe.

Tools Needed

• Hair ties (2)

• Bobby pins (6–8)

• Comb

• Texturizing spray

• Small elastics (optional)

Instructions

1. Part Hair: Create a center part from forehead to nape using a comb.

2. Form Ponytails: Gather each section into a high ponytail on top of the head, securing with hair ties.

3. Create Buns: Twist each ponytail into a tight bun and pin with bobby pins. Optionally, secure ends with small elastics before pinning.

4. Finish: Spritz with texturizing spray and pull out a few strands for a messy look.

Customization Tips

• For curly hair, let curls fluff out for voluminous buns.

• For fine hair, tease ponytails for fuller buns.

• Add glitter gel or colorful clips for a festival flair.

Best For

Music festivals, beach days, or casual hangouts. Works on short to long hair.

Time Estimate

7–9 minutes

10. Rope Braid Updo

Concept

A rope braid updo twists hair into a textured, high bun, offering a unique, heat-proof style with a touch of sophistication.

Tools Needed

• Hair tie

• Bobby pins (4–6)

• Comb

• Hairspray

• Small elastic band

Instructions

1. Gather Hair: Comb hair into a high ponytail at the crown and secure with a hair tie.

2. Create Rope Braid: Divide the ponytail into two sections. Twist each section clockwise, then wrap them around each other counterclockwise to form a rope braid. Secure the end with a small elastic band.

3. Form Bun: Wrap the rope braid into a bun and pin with bobby pins, tucking the end under.

4. Finish: Smooth flyaways with hairspray and gently tug at the braid for texture.

Customization Tips

• For thick hair, create two rope braids for a fuller bun.

• For coily hair, use a styling gel to define twists.

• Add a metallic cuff or pin for a modern look.

Best For

Workouts, outdoor events, or semi-formal occasions. Works on medium to long hair.

Time Estimate

8–10 minutes

Tips for Perfect Summer Updos

• Combat Humidity: Use anti-frizz serum or lightweight hairspray to tame flyaways in humid conditions.

• Protect Hair: Apply a heat protectant if using styling tools, and avoid tight styles to prevent breakage.

• Accessorize: Incorporate summer-inspired accessories like floral pins, scrunchies, or headbands to enhance your look.

• Prep Hair: Start with second-day hair or add texturizing spray for better grip and hold.

• Stay Cool: Work in a cool, air-conditioned space to avoid sweating during styling.

• Practice: Try each updo once or twice before your event to perfect the technique and timing.

Conclusion

Summer’s heat doesn’t have to compromise your style or comfort. These ten easy updos—from the carefree high messy bun to the elegant French twist—offer practical, stylish solutions to keep you cool and confident. Designed for all hair types and skill levels, these hairstyles require minimal tools and time, making them accessible for busy summer days or special occasions. By incorporating simple techniques and personalized touches, you can create heat-proof looks that withstand humidity and shine in any setting. Embrace these updos to beat the heat and elevate your summer vibe, ensuring you look and feel your best under the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What hair types work best for these updos?All updos are adaptable to straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair. Customization tips for each style address specific needs, like adding gel for coily hair or teasing for fine hair.

2. Can I do these updos on short hair?Yes, styles like the sleek low bun, double bun, and half-up twisted bun work well on short hair. Use extra bobby pins to secure shorter strands.

3. How do I prevent updos from slipping in humid weather?Use texturizing spray or dry shampoo for grip, secure with strong bobby pins, and finish with anti-frizz hairspray to combat humidity.

4. What tools are essential for these updos?Basic tools include hair ties, bobby pins, a comb, and hairspray. Optional items like texturizing spray or curling irons enhance specific styles.

5. How long do these updos last in the heat?With proper securing and light hairspray, most updos last 4–8 hours, depending on activity level and humidity. Re-pin loose strands if needed.

6. Can I do these updos without heat styling?Yes, all styles can be done without heat tools. Use natural texture or products like gel or spray for hold and definition.

7. Are these updos suitable for formal events like weddings?Styles like the twisted chignon, French twist, and sleek low bun are elegant enough for weddings or galas, especially with accessories like pearls or flowers.

8. How do I make updos look fuller with fine hair?Tease the hair at the roots or ponytail base before styling, use texturizing spray, and opt for looser styles like the messy bun or braided top knot.

9. What accessories pair well with summer updos?Try floral pins, scrunchies, metallic clips, headbands, or ribbons for a summery vibe. Choose lightweight accessories to avoid weighing down the style.

10. Can I sleep in these updos to save time?Avoid sleeping in tight updos to prevent breakage. Looser styles like the high messy bun may hold overnight but may need touch-ups in the morning.