Okay, listen to me: is it not the time of year when we are all feeling the need of some small change? The summer sun is already mellowing, weekends are already cool, yet the back-to-school vibe and pumpkin-scented everything is creeping back in. And what is better to conclude about the season than with an absolutely new hairstyle?
No matter if you have long mane that requires taming, short hair that seeks volume or you simply want something cute, easy and scroll-stopping to show off at your next pool party, I have gathered 25 real, wearable and wow-worthy end of summer hairstyles ideas 2025 that will give your locks a little something extra. Ready to flirt with a new look? Let’s go.
Retro Romance with a Twist
Loose waves pulled back with a paisley head scarf? I live for this vibe. The look has all the playful charm of the ’70s, with those soft medium length hair tendrils effortlessly framing the face. It’s a low-effort way to romanticize your day—even if you’re just heading to Trader Joe’s or grabbing iced lavender lattes.
Keep the hair moisturized, and particularly the area around the front where the hair curls out of the scarf. I recommend using the Ouai Leave-In Conditioner for frizz-free softness, even if you’re styling on second-day hair.
There is something in this style that makes me feel that I am the main actor in my independent movie. It’s flirty, but not overdone. Feminine, but wearable. The scarf is made to do all the work and the rest? It’s just casual elegance.
I would wear it on late summer dates or on Sunday brunches. And, quite frankly, it is the sort of hair-do, which makes you feel like a Pinterest board come to life.
Workout Chic: Braided Pony Hybrid
This is the one to add some structure with style to the gym girls, the errand queens, and everyone who desires some structure with style. A French braid running into a long hair ponytail? Absolute genius. It keeps it out of your face and has that sculpted and clean kind of look that is very much I am booked and busy.
Tame it with a strong-hold gel, such as Eco Style Olive Oil Gel, to make it keep looking sharp. Apply it on the crown and side parts and then braid it to achieve the extra-smooth look. You’ll thank yourself when the humidity hits.
I tested it on the day that I was rushing out of spin class to a Zoom meeting and it lasted with no flyaways. Plus, it made me feel kind of invincible? Like I was wearing armor, but cute.
Great for a back-to-school vibe, too. Or, simply, because it is a new season, and some people are feeling new discipline.
Back-to-Basics Braided Beauty
Double braids tied with black ribbons? Ugh, the nostalgia. It is not just kids or school uniforms though. This one is all adult-like; slick, refined and with that modern-vintage contrast.
Then you will need to prepare hair with a smoothing serum, we recommend Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser Invisible Oil, and then part and braid. The secret here is to make the lines of the scalp really clean- it will make it all appear more deliberate and trendy.
To me, this look says “sweet but fierce.” I have once walked around the market on the weekend wearing this, and people asked me three times how I did it. Spoiler: it’s easier than it looks.
And oh, this is so gorgeous on brunettes (particularly, dark-haired ones). The braids are highlighted and low-lit in a classy manner.
Slick Twist Pony for Bold Days
This sculptural ponytail is giving “architectural goddess.” The bottom is pulled back nice and tight and the length is braided into a dramatic rope braid that shouts of confidence. It suits best on straight hair, and it is excellent on people who desire something cool but not very complex.
This one needs hold—don’t skip the mousse. R+Co Chiffon Styling Mousse is the product I applied before the twist and it lasted throughout the coffee to cocktails.
I find this style really empowering. It takes that finished editorial look you find on the runways but can do it IRL without a glam squad.
Certainly a fantastic fall back when you have 20 minutes to spare and need to appear powerful. The possibilities: work parties, cocktail party or even a funky take on wedding hair bridesmaid look.
Sunset Space Buns
Can we discuss the amount of happiness this hair-do presents? The mini space buns on the center-parted long hair emanate flirtatious, young vibes that simply remind of the golden hour in summer. It’s casual with just enough edge to turn heads.
To have volume in the buns, apply a dry texturizing spray such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray at the roots prior to wrapping. It will provide the buns with the undone voluptuousness without collapsing at 3 p.m.
Last August I wore it to a pool party and felt like an absolute main character. And the best part is the rest of your hair is left down, allowing you to maintain your length moment but do something playful on the top.
On girls with curly hair this will work as well, you simply need to leave the ends a bit wilder to add character.
Cottagecore Pony with Curtain Bangs
There’s something effortlessly sweet about a soft ponytail with voluminous curtain bangs. The undone, loosened waves gathered together by a scrunchie add only the appropriate dose of nostalgic charm, as though you just emerged out of an old summer diary. It is that type of style which is soft but also structured so that it could be excellent on medium length hair as well as long hair.
I also spray the ends with a light weight wave spray to make this look relaxed, yet not Limp. Attempt Not Your Motherlies Beach Babe Soft Waves- it provides touchable movement with no crunch. And don the blonde hues with a purple-hued heat protectant prior to styling, as well.
On a personal level, I think this is the hair style you just chuck on when you have one of those sunny days where you are like, I am just going to read in the garden; although you may have a balcony as a garden. It is simple yet compliments come in, which is a plus.
And the best part? This can totally double as wedding hair bridesmaid if you’re going for a lighthearted, romantic look. All you have to do is replace the scrunchie with a ribbon or pearl clip and you are ready to go to a ceremony.
Twisted Space Buns with Edge
Now this? This is where playful meets polished. These twisted space buns are not just cute—they’re edgy, elevated, and a little unexpected. Sleek sides and the center part make the buns equalize and it is a great option to consider in case you have a dark hair color and want to maintain your summer look fresh yet a bit aggressive.
Use a wax stick to keep everything in place such as the She Is Bomb Collection Edge Control Stick. It takes care of the flyaways, sets the twist and keeps it down throughout the day, even in August heat.
This look gives me night-out energy. You know that feeling when you are done with your preparation and you go, “Yep, I killed it”? That’s what this hairstyle feels like. It’s a power move wrapped up in two buns.
And hey, if you’re not ready to let go of summer festivals just yet—this is a great transitional look that blends your inner wild child with the poise of 2025.
Glossy Braided Ribbons
Here’s where detail makes all the difference. Two tight braided styles tied with satin bows? Chic and totally wearable. It looks like a “beauty girl who never misses her appointments” and I am living for it. It is the accuracy of the piece and the gloss of the ribbon that brings this back-to-school staple to the level of the “TikTok hair inspo board.”
If you’re into curly hair or coily textures, this style protects your ends while letting you shine. I will always prepare it using Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner- this product makes the braid crispy and hydrated.
I did wear this same outfit to a rooftop dinner, and a stranger on the sidewalk wanted to tell me, “your hair is a work of art.” Not kidding. So yeah, it’s a vibe.
Plus, it’s a great school style or even video-call hair if you want to look like you tried (but didn’t stress). Low effort, max payoff.
Wavy Side Braid Elegance
Who says you can’t mix textures? This is one of my favorite combinations: loose soft waves and one braided strand on one side. It is the long hair style that says elegance without saying nothing. Its asymmetry takes it out of the ordinary, so it will be ideal whether you are on a dinner date or golden hour selfies.
You’ll want a curling wand with a large barrel (1.25″) to create those soft waves. Spray a shine-enhancing mist, such as Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine, over the top – it adds that photo-friendly radiance.
Personally, this is one of my to-dos when I am feeling like I want to wake up as a model. You know the one I mean; the one that seems to be 5 when it really is 25? That.
It is also a beautiful choice when you are bridesmaid at a wedding and you do not want to look too done up, yet you still want that entrance when you walk in.
Braided Crown with Ribbon Twist
This look is straight-up storybook magic. The braided crown woven with emerald green ribbon? It is nearly elven, as though you might any minute stroll into a meadow, or at any rate a fashionable tea-shop where they have matcha in glass teapots. It is soft, feminine and really wearable, particularly by brunettes and dark hair color.
This one’s about prep. IGK Good Behavior Blowout Balm is a smoothing primer that makes hair look sleek before you begin weaving. And don’t skip the ribbon! It’s what takes this from nice to unforgettable.
I actually recreated this for a friend’s engagement brunch, and it stole the show (not even sorry). It pictures well and provides movement and color in a manner that does not seem costume-y.
And hey, it is simple after you get the knack of it. Do it once, and you will be doing it with all your late-summer activities or even an outdoor wedding hair bridesmaid look that is just slightly outside-the-box.
Side Braid for Freckled Glow
Loose and textured, side-braided yet undeniably boasting something timeless, this hairstyle, in particular, is best viewed in combination with glowing skin and that natural warmth of auburn locks. This fits so well in the kids category or even preteen look, yet it can also be versatile enough in the adult world who is in need of softness and comfort. The pieces that frame the face are so fine that they make the braid look airy and a bit ethereal.
This type of texture is best when the hair is pre-styled with a mousse designed to bring out curls such as Not Your Mother Curl Talk. Allowing it to air dry and then braiding it down will ensures that it does not appear stiff.
I love this appearance because it combines innocence and inner strength. It takes me back to lemonade stands, chalk pictures and sunsets in late summer. However, the softness does not mean that it is not secure enough to wear during the whole day or to use during the active weekend.
It is a perfect choice in case you are looking for something that is youthful yet not repetitive. And, if you have curly hair, all the better- the braid becomes an story in beautiful texture all its own.
Sleek Braid with a Pop of Pink
Shall we pause over this color tale: pale rose to icy blonde twined up in a braided rope held by a stereotypical black ribbon. This style doesn’t yell for attention—but it turns heads. The romantic color palette is perfectly balanced with the smooth and glossy texture, which makes it look like editorial and everyday at the same time.
To tame the sleekness, then apply a shine serum such as Color Wow Pop + Lock High Gloss Finish. It locks in color with an increase in that mirror-like finish. It is particularly important when you have fantasy colors and you need to make them last longer and salon-fresh.
Personally, I believe this to be the look that is everything when you are into medium length hair and need to portray the image of having your life together. I had a brunch-date-turned-photo-shoot experience in a variation of this, and it lasted through golden hour to after dark.
Also can we discuss how adorable this would be in school or even a themed video shoot? It’s like balletcore got a little grown-up and a whole lot cooler.
Festival Side Microbraid
This one is a whole mood. Waves, volume, a side braid so fine it borders on being a secret–with that certain nonchalant bounce which only the end of summer can produce. Perfect for long hair girls who want something with subtle edge, this hairstyle has a carefree vibe that practically screams “see you at the sunset stage.”
Use a triple-barrel waver (like the Bed Head Wave Artist) and run through the waves with your fingers afterward to soften. And nether leave out a texture mist, which is my current obsession to hold that windblown appearance, Kristin Ess Dry Finish Working Texture Spray.
This look is an infinite number of times that I have done this style when I want to feel cool, but not too much, you know? Add some sunnies and a crop top, and you are all set with the entire yes, I surf… but also I read poetry aesthetic.
It is your pool party to rooftop party transition look. It holds, it moves, it never tries too hard.
Double Ponytail Glam
Cue the drama. Two big ponytails, which are brushed out to create big waves, will make you feel an immediate main-character vibes. It’s youthful, bold, and unapologetically flirty. And, in case you are wondering, but can I pull this off after I am over 25, the answer is yes. Yes, you can. It applies on medium hair, long hair, and all the lengths in between.
Volume is key here. I would apply Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast at the roots and brush each pony out with a round brush to provide that fluffy finish. Curling iron optional but encouraged for extra bounce.
I rocked this look at a beachside birthday dinner and got so many “omg your hair!” compliments. It adds fun vibes and only a hint of edginess- when mixed with Statement earrings or bold lipstick.
Also? It’s surprisingly easy to create. No complicated sections, no braid skills required. Just two elastics, a brush, and a little confidence.
Messy Space Buns with Grown-Up Energy
It is not your childhood space bun aesthetic, this is the 2025 adult version. It is dishevelled, rough, and split down the middle, and has a cool girl at the farmers market aesthetic. There are loosely hanging tendrils that just make it ideal for medium haired brunettes who wish to have that undress look but not all the way loose.
To achieve that texture, I always run the Ouai Matte Pomade between my fingertips before wrapping the buns- this provides them with hold, but not stiffness. Bonus: it smells like a vacation in Saint-Tropez.
The best thing about this look is its versatility. I have done sweat pants and I have done heels; and it goes either way. It’s chic chaos, and I love it.
It’s also a lifesaver for those days when your hair’s not cooperating but you still want to look intentional. Which, we all know, is equivalent to every Monday at 9 a.m.
Platinum Defined Curls
Literally there is nothing as powerful as a complete head of worked out curly hair in a beautiful blonde color. This look is big, bold, and unapologetically luxe. The curls are applied in even coils, which nevertheless appear natural-looking-as though you had gone to bed dripping with glamour. And honestly? It is so versatile among formal night outs and excuse me, ultra-relaxed coffee shop sessions.
To care for these curls, hydration is everything. Pattern Beauty has a Curl Gel and Leave-In Conditioner which I use together. You will have definition without crunch and the smell alone is worth it.
I tried this curl pattern a few years back (yes, with a wig!), and it made me feel like a goddess strutting through a heatwave. If you’re looking for that end-of-summer glow-up? This is it.
In this format, blonde shades truly cannot go unnoticed, and, frankly speaking, this is what August hair fantasies are composed of.
Copper Knotless Braided Bun
Please hold a minute to the genius of knotless box braids pulled together in a high bun. It is protective, fashionable, and has the attitude of “I came to kill, but also hydrate.” It has such a coppery red, which is so warming, and it will be simply gorgeous on all summer skin tones, not to mention the parting detail? Chef’s kiss. This is braided beauty with structure and soul.
To extend life and Add Sheen, apply a light oil such as the Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil. Massage the scalp and the length of the braids and tie it down at night using a silk scarf.
I also love how brunettes and darker shades just let the copper ring in these forms. And it is the ultimate relaxed style to travel or to attend multi-day events when you want to appear made-up with no effort.
This is a forever favorite whether you are going to a wedding, pool party or you simply want to give your edges a rest.
Silver Siren Waves
This slate-silver color is such a moment in cool-toned medium length hair. It is not your grandmother grey, it is ice, it is drama and it is sort of the hair version of a statement earring. The large waves add motion and mass and the color? It cools you down even when the weather won’t.
The color does need some slight maintenance though, nothing you cannot cope with, though. To prevent the yellow tones, I use the Amika Bust Your Brass Cool Blonde Shampoo two times a week. Pair with a nourishing conditioner to avoid dullness.
When I encounter this type of look in the wild, I also just presume that the individual has a Pinterest board of bespoke playlists and linen Jumpsuits. It’s effortlessly cool, but not try-hard.
Video, photo ops, or when you want to resemble that your aura is located between the ice queen and the modern muse.
Sleek Low Ponytail With Glossy Finish
When in doubt, go sleek. It is impossible not to agree that this straight ponytail is ultra-smooth and straight, and it gives such a serious red carpet vibe yet remains almost wearable enough to be a Tuesday meeting. It is center-parted and pulled together in a shiny ponytail, it is the minimalist fairy tale, and it is a clear example of how elegance never needs to work too hard.
To make it stay this glassy, I cannot live without the Mizani Thermasmooth Shine Extend Anti-Humidity Spritz. Before locking in the style with a quick run of flat iron, the look defies any frizz brought by a heatwave.
I have worn this twice (with a slip dress and little jewelry) and I promise you I felt like a Vogue cover. It is refined and potent and somehow even cool to the feel.
Also? A complete victory of wedding hair bridesmaid in case you are aiming at undressy glam.
Blonde Pixie Rebel
Now we’re talking attitude. This pixie short haircut is daring, carefree and swaggering. The dishevelled touch and the light platinum highlights add a rebellious touch to it and make an otherwise simple tee look like a fashion statement. It’s cropped, but not stiff—free-spirited, but still sharp.
To add that lived in feel to it apply a molding paste such as the TIGI Bed Head Manipulator. Tooth-paste it between your fingers and back-comb the roots to give a cool, deliberately undress finish.
I think it is so power-wise of girls who decide to get the pixie. I once tried a wig version and frankly, it was the feeling that I can run a start-up, a marathon, and a group chat before lunch.
In case you have been dying to get a chop, then this is your sign. It is airy, contemporary, and the silhouette of choice when it comes to 2025 energy that falls on the side of confident.
Snatched High Glam Ponytail
Talk about drama! What I refer to as full glam realness is this ultra-tight snatched high ponytail with cascadingbrushed-out waves. The shiny top is replaced by the perfection of long hair that has bounce, body and a lot of attitude. It is that type of style that can transform a simple blazer into a complete runaway outfit.
To maintain this appearance, you need the appropriate preparation- apply a smoothing serum, such as Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame, and fasten everything with a boar bristle brush. The wave may be formed by large barrel iron and pressed by cool air blast.
I adore this look when I have a high-impact evening, or I wish to feel a little bit of quiet strength. It gives structure, drama, and elegance—without ever feeling fussy.
We can simply put it this way: it was basically created to be used at weddings and parties as well as in video close-ups.
Soft Ginger Volume Bun
Okay, but how come something so undone, can be this breathtaking? This is a large, disheveled bun in a gorgeous red color that strikes the right balance between undress and romantic. The curls are piled high with loose tendrils framing the face, making it an ideal pick for wedding hair bridesmaid, garden parties, or just pretending you’re in a period drama.
The secret behind this appearance is to add grip and volume. Apply a volumizing dry shampoo, such as Batiste Divine Dark at the roots, tease and then finger wave into the required shape.
This one is personal to me- it is the hairstyle that I always save to my mood boards but never really go through with. Until I did. And girl, it was worth it. It’s messy in the best way, like romantic chaos.
The ideal choice for those that prefer a touch of softness to their structure, it also works with all face shapes.
Undercut Pixie with a Side-Swept Fringe
We love a bold queen. There is nothing coy about this short hair appearance, which is all edge and dimension with a slicked undercut and a side-swept platinum fringe that literally hovers above the eyes. It’s fierce, fashion-forward, and ideal for anyone who wants to make a statement heading into 2025.
To maintain contrast and control, I’d recommend using Evo Crop Strutters Paste—it’s perfect for texturizing and defining that dramatic sweep while keeping the undercut sharp.
This is the type of cut that screams confidence. I understand that not all of you are prepared to cut it off, but in case you were lingering around the thought of short hair change, now is your time.
Add some hoops, smear that liner and leave the hair to speak for itself.
Sleek Side Braid with Soft Strands
This classic braided look just never gets old. One, thick side braid with some softly curled pieces around the face? Absolute goddess energy. It suits medium hair through to long hair, and on brunettes, it is absolutely breathtaking when those who prefer a fuss-free lifestyle still need to make an entrance.
You will desire to apply some styling cream before plaiting. I would recommend Verb Curl Foaming Gel even to straight textures- it provides light hold and silky finish. Finish off using a small elastic or twirl a strand of hair around the root to add finishes.
It is one of those five-minute styles that looks like fifteenth because I am constantly dependent upon it. It is ideal on a lazy Sunday, when running errands, or last minute rooftop invites.
The best part? It is heat free and protects your strands so they have a break yet they still look 10/10.
Layered Braided Fusion
In case of the multi-dimensional, layered braided style, we are ending on a high note. It is a mix of sizes of braids; box, feed-in, three strand and they all collaborate to a masterpiece of a textured work. This one is for you, when you have long hair or extensions and desire something that would be protective.
In order to maintain a healthy scalp and strands, massage in a light leave-in scalp treatment such as Camille Rose Cocoa Nibs & Honey Ultimate Growth Serum. It soothes while encouraging hair health under the style.
This braid combination provides me with all I want: shape, brightness, protection and character. It feels intricate, like something you’d see in a fashion editorial—but it’s still wearable day to day.
Great for transitioning into fall too. You may wear it underneath a broad-brimmed hat or a hoodie and your preferred oversized sweater.
Summer may be fading, but your hair? She’s just getting started.
These end of summer hairstyles ideas 2025 are not exactly trends, but a tiny change, a dose of confidence, and a love letter to your future self. And if you want to make a full monty and change your short hair look, or you just put your long hair together with a gentle ribbon braid, every appearance is an opportunity to experiment, to do something novel, something you.
And do it, so screenshot it, save the inspo, share it with your stylist or simply give it a go in front of the mirror. One bun, braid or twist could be your next favorite hairstyle.
Let me know if you’d like a Pinterest-friendly summary or IG caption block next!
