20 Stunning Summer Hairstyles for Black Women – Trendy & Chic Looks
Summer is the season for fun, sunshine, and plenty of outdoor adventures, but it can also be a challenging time for your hair.
For Black women, maintaining a balance between keeping hair healthy and looking stylish is key during these hot months.
Summer calls for hairstyles that are not only chic but also practical, protecting your hair from the heat, humidity, and sweat.
This guide will walk you through 20 summer hairstyles that are perfect for Black women—from protective styles to natural looks and even accessorized masterpieces.
Whether you’re lounging by the pool, attending an outdoor wedding, or just beating the heat while running errands, there’s a hairstyle here for every occasion!
The Power of Protective Styles for Summer
1. Box Braids
A timeless favorite, box braids are perfect for summer and never go out of style.
These versatile braids are low-maintenance and protect your natural hair from harsh elements like sun, wind, and humidity.
Whether you prefer long, flowing braids or short, chic ones, box braids can be customized to fit your personality. You can experiment with different lengths, colors, or even ombre effects to add variety.
For extra flair, accessorize with beads, shells, or colorful strings to make the look uniquely yours.
2. Knotless Braids
Similar to box braids but designed to be lighter and gentler on your scalp, knotless braids are gaining popularity as a go-to summer style.
They’re created without the traditional knot at the root, which reduces tension and makes them more comfortable for daily wear.
This technique gives a more natural appearance and allows for easier styling, whether you want to wear them loose, in a ponytail, or styled into an updo.
Knotless braids are perfect for hot summer days when you want a stylish, lightweight look without compromising on comfort.
3. Faux Locs
If you’re dreaming of locs but don’t want the long-term commitment, faux locs are the perfect alternative.
Made from synthetic or natural hair wrapped around your natural strands, they create the look of real locs while allowing you to switch things up whenever you’re ready.
Faux locs are not only stylish but also serve as a protective hairstyle, shielding your hair from UV rays, humidity, and harsh weather.
You can opt for a bohemian vibe with messy, textured locs or go for a sleek, polished look. Add accessories like cuffs, cords, or charms to make a bold summer statement.
4. Cornrows
Cornrows are a classic and multifunctional protective style for summer that has stood the test of time.
These close-to-the-scalp braids are versatile and can be styled in endless ways, from straight-back cornrows for a clean and simple look to intricate patterns for a more eye-catching style.
Cornrows are perfect for keeping your hair out of your face and ensuring your scalp stays cool and sweat-free.
Whether you’re hitting the beach or attending a summer barbecue, cornrows can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion.
5. Wigs
Wigs are a summer lifesaver when you want to switch up your look without committing to a permanent style.
Lightweight and breathable wigs, like lace front or closure wigs, allow you to rock luxurious lengths, bold curls, or even vibrant colors without putting stress on your natural hair.
They’re perfect for days when you want to give your hair a break from styling or need a quick, effortless look for an event.
To stay comfortable in the heat, choose wigs made with breathable materials and opt for shorter styles or looser textures.
6. Crochet Braids
Crochet braids are a quick and convenient alternative to traditional braids, making them a fantastic option for summer.
This style involves attaching pre-braided or pre-twisted hair to your natural hair with a crochet needle, cutting down on installation time.
Crochet braids let you experiment with a variety of textures and styles, such as curly, wavy, straight, or even faux locs.
They’re lightweight, stylish, and easy to maintain, making them perfect for busy summer schedules. Plus, you can customize the volume and length to create the exact look you want.
7. Marley Twists
Marley twists are not only a stunning protective style but also lightweight and ideal for warm summer days.
Made with Marley hair, which mimics the texture of natural Afro hair, these twists have a soft, natural look that’s easy to style. You can keep them long and flowy or pin them up into chic buns and updos.
For an extra touch of glamour, decorate your twists with hair cuffs, threads, or beads.
Marley twists are not only beautiful but also practical, offering protection for your hair while keeping you cool during the summer heat.
Effortless Natural Hairstyles
8. Twist-Outs
A twist-out offers beautifully defined curls and lots of volume, making it ideal for both casual hangouts and formal summer events.
This style not only enhances your natural texture but also provides versatility — you can wear it loose or style it into an updo.
Plus, it’s easy to maintain with minimal restyling needed throughout the week.
9. Braid-Outs
Braid-outs are a fantastic alternative to twist-outs, offering a slightly different curl pattern with a bit more stretch.
This style is perfect for days when you want to add variety to your look while keeping your hair soft and manageable.
For extra hold and definition, apply a light styling gel or cream before braiding. The result? Long-lasting, bouncy waves with a polished finish.
10. Wash-and-Go
For those who prefer to keep it simple, the wash-and-go is an effortless style that celebrates your hair’s natural curl pattern.
After washing, apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner or curl cream to hydrate your strands and combat frizz.
Let your hair air-dry or use a diffuser for added volume. It’s a quick, refreshing look that works for any summer occasion.
11. High Puff
The high puff is a go-to style that combines simplicity with chicness. To achieve this look, gather your hair at the crown of your head, secure it with a hairband or scarf, and fluff it out for maximum volume.
This fuss-free style is perfect for hot summer days when you want to look polished without spending too much time styling.
12. Frohawk
Bold, edgy, and eye-catching, the frohawk is a statement hairstyle that’s perfect for summer events or nights out.
To create this look, pin up the sides of your hair with bobby pins or clips, leaving the center section free to show off your curls.
The frohawk is versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on your mood or occasion.
13. Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a protective style that’s both stylish and low-maintenance.
These small, coiled knots are perfect for summer, as they keep your hair off your neck and out of your face.
Plus, when you take them down, they double as a stunning curl set, giving you defined, springy curls for a whole new look.
14. Tapered Cut
A short, tapered cut is a bold and fresh choice for summer. This style not only keeps you cool but also highlights your natural features and curl pattern.
Use a small amount of styling cream or gel to define your curls and add a touch of shine.
Whether you’re heading to the beach or a summer party, a tapered cut will have you looking sleek and stylish with minimal effort.
How to Accessorize Your Summer Hairstyles
15. Headscarves
Headscarves are both fashionable and functional, making them a must-have accessory for summer.
They protect your hair from UV rays, reduce sweat buildup, and prevent frizz, all while adding a bold pop of color or pattern to your outfit.
You can tie them in various ways—think chic turban styles, classic knots at the nape, or even a playful bow on top.
Plus, headscarves are perfect for those days when you want to skip styling and still look polished.
16. Headbands
Headbands are a versatile and fun way to elevate your hairstyle while keeping your hair out of your face.
From wide bands for a retro vibe to embellished pieces for a touch of glam, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re rocking a simple wash-and-go, a sleek ponytail, or a braid-out, headbands can instantly jazz up your look.
Choose soft, stretchy fabric headbands for comfort or sparkly designs for a summer festival vibe.
17. Hats
Hats are not just a stylish addition to your summer wardrobe but also a practical way to protect your scalp and hair from the sun’s harsh rays.
A floppy sunhat pairs beautifully with maxi dresses, while a trendy bucket hat adds a cool, laid-back vibe to any outfit.
To keep your hair neat and protected under your hat, pair it with twists, cornrows, or a low bun.
Hats are an easy go-to for beach days, casual outings, or even a quick bad-hair-day fix.
18. Hair Clips
Decorative hair clips are the ultimate quick-fix accessory for adding flair to your hairstyle. Whether you opt for pearl, metallic, rhinestone-studded, or brightly colored clips, they can match any summer vibe.
Use a few clips to pin back one side of your hair for a simple yet chic look, or stack multiple clips for a bold statement.
They’re perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions, offering a touch of elegance or fun.
19. Beads and Cuffs
Beads and cuffs are a creative and eye-catching way to accessorize braids and twists.
Adding gold-tone cuffs can give your hairstyle a regal feel, while colorful beads provide a playful, youthful vibe. Mix and match different shapes, sizes, and colors to customize your look and make it unique.
Whether you’re heading to a summer festival or a casual picnic, beads and cuffs are a surefire way to stand out and add personality to your style.
20. Flowers
Channel your inner island goddess by incorporating flowers into your summer hairstyles.
Fresh blooms like hibiscus, orchids, or plumerias create a natural, tropical look, while faux flowers offer a long-lasting, reusable option.
Tuck them into braids, twists, buns, or puffs for an instant touch of summer magic.
Flowers are perfect for beach days, weddings, or outdoor parties, giving you a dreamy, goddess-like vibe that’s guaranteed to turn heads.
Summer Hair Care Tips
Styling your hair is only half the battle; keeping it healthy during summer is just as important. Here are some quick tips for maintaining gorgeous, healthy hair all summer long:
- Hydrate Your Hair: Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep your strands from drying out.
- Protect Your Ends: Apply a lightweight oil or serum to prevent split ends and seal in moisture.
- Shield from UV Rays: Use a leave-in conditioner with UV protection, or wear hats and scarves when spending long hours outdoors.
- Reduce Heat Styling: Opt for heat-free styles whenever possible to protect your hair from damage.
- Deep Condition Weekly: A deep conditioning treatment keeps your hair soft and manageable.
Elevate Your Summer Look
Summer is the perfect season to experiment with your hair while prioritizing its health.
From protective styles like box braids and crochet twists to natural looks like wash-and-go’s and high puffs, there’s no shortage of ways to stay stylish and protected.
Don’t forget to accessorize and adapt your hair care routine to keep your locks thriving all summer long.
Now it’s your turn to slay! Which hairstyle are you excited to try? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag us on Instagram (@trimizy) to show off your summer hair look!
