There’s nothing like changing your look with the seasons. While your fall palette may be darker and moodier, spring calls for florals and summer is a time to let loose. Beyond wardrobe, your hair tells a major story when it comes to your seasonal identity.

When deciding on your summer haircut, you want to consider styles that not only look great, but also are practical choices for the summer heat. This means keeping hair out of the way to reduce heat buildup while still maintaining variety and flair. Here’s some hair inspiration that will help you beat the heat and look good while doing it.

Cute Summer Haircuts

From heat-resistant styles to cuts that are seasonally fly, here are 11 summer haircut ideas that you can execute during the season.

Braided or Regular Bob

The bob is a timeless haircut that’s versatile for both relaxed and braided hair. For a braided bob, you can create box braids or feed-in braids, then trim them to shoulder length for a sharp, stylish finish. A regular bob can be cut straight or angled, and works with both natural and straightened textures. The bob is a great summer option because it’s low-maintenance, keeps hair off your face, and can be styled in various ways, from sleek and polished to messy and textured.

Lob

A lob is a longer version of the bob that usually hits just around the shoulders. It’s perfect for those who want to keep some length but want a lighter, cooler cut for the summer months. You can style it straight, wavy or curly, making it incredibly versatile and fun for the warmer season.

90s Pixie Cut

The 90s pixie cut is a short, edgy style that all the baddies wore in the 1990s, featuring soft, layered bangs and a cropped back. To achieve this look, ask your stylist to cut your hair into a short, layered bob with the sides and back trimmed short and the top left longer. This hairstyle is great for summer as it’s breezy and easy to maintain, keeping you cool while still offering an effortlessly chic vibe that works for both casual and formal occasions.

Kinky Twists 

Kinky twists are a protective hairstyle created by twisting two strands of hair together to form defined, textured twists. They are typically done using extensions to add volume and length, but also can be achieved with natural hair. To install, separate your hair into small sections, apply a bit of styling gel or cream for hold, and then twist each section until it’s secure. Kinky twists are fantastic for summer because they protect your natural hair, require minimal upkeep, and provide a cool, stylish way to manage your hair in hot weather.

Cornrow Bun

The cornrow bun combines sleek, tight cornrows with a stylish updo. To create this look, cornrow the hair into neat rows, starting from the front of the head and working your way to the back. Gather the cornrows into a high or low bun, securing it with a hair tie or bobby pins. This hairstyle is ideal for summer because it’s both practical and stylish, keeping hair off your face and neck while offering a polished, elegant look that’s easy to maintain in hot weather.

Mohawk or Fauxhawk

For a daring summer look, a mohawk or fauxhawk can be a show-stopping option. This style involves shaving or trimming the sides while leaving the center longer and styled upwards or outwards. It’s bold, freeing, and an excellent way to stay cool while showcasing a creative, standout hairstyle.

Passion Twists

A surprisingly lightweight style, passion twists are a looser and softer variation of Senegalese twists. This style involves twisting hair extensions around your natural hair, creating a voluminous, bouncy look. To install passion twists, part your hair into sections, then add the extension hair and twist it tightly to form the twists. Passion twists are perfect for summer as they are lightweight, low-maintenance, and can last for weeks, keeping your hair protected while allowing you to stay cool in the heat.

Halo Braid

A halo braid is a stunning, crown-like braid that wraps around the head. To create this style, part your hair in the middle or slightly to the side, and braid both sections tightly. Then, gently pull the braids to loosen them before pinning them around the crown of your head, securing them with bobby pins. Halo braids keep the hair neatly tucked away while giving a regal appearance. They’re perfect for summer because they keep hair off your shoulders and neck while offering a chic, protective style that is ideal for hot weather.

Tapered Cut

A tapered cut features short sides with longer curls on top, creating a modern, clean look. It’s stylish, easy to manage, and keeps you cool during the summer. The tapered sides can be shaped to your preference, and the curls on top allow for versatility in styling, whether you want them defined or more natural.

Bantu Knots

Bantu knots are small, coiled buns made by sectioning the hair and twisting each section into a knot. To achieve this look, first dampen your hair with a leave-in conditioner or styling cream. Section your hair into small parts, then twist each section until it spirals into a knot. Secure with bobby pins if needed. Bantu knots are a fun, bold hairstyle that helps keep hair off the neck and face during hot summer days, offering both style and comfort. They also create beautiful curls when taken out, adding versatility to the look.

Afro

When in doubt, keep it natural. A short, rounded afro is a bold and beautiful way to showcase your natural curls while not thinking too hard. It’s a great summer cut because it’s easy to maintain, adds volume, and allows your scalp to breathe in the heat. It’s a classic, timeless look that exudes confidence and personality.