The Best Summer Hairstyles for Black Women – 13 Trendy Looks to Try!
Summer is the perfect time to switch up your hairstyle, embrace your natural texture, or even experiment with bold protective styles. For Black women, the season brings a wave of creativity, confidence, and an open invitation to beat the heat with hairdos that are both stunning and functional. Whether you’re vacation-bound, hitting brunch with the girls, or looking for the perfect gift idea for a beauty-loving friend, the right hairstyle can transform your entire vibe. In this post, we’ve rounded up 13 trendy summer hairstyles for Black women that not only help protect your hair from sun damage but also serve serious looks. Each style is versatile, easy to maintain, and ideal for women from all walks of life—plus, we’ve included product recommendations where it makes sense to elevate your look even more. Let’s dive into these gorgeous summer styles that’ll turn heads and keep you cool all season long.
1. Sleek Low Bun with Baby Hairs
source @meciyaalaidit
A sleek low bun is the ultimate go-to for effortless elegance during hot summer days. This hairstyle tucks your hair neatly away, making it perfect for professional settings, weddings, or just running errands without worrying about frizz. Baby hairs can be styled with edge control to add softness and personality. This look requires minimal maintenance and works well for both relaxed and natural textures. For an even sleeker finish, a satin wrap and a firm hold gel like the Got2b Glued Styling Gel can lock everything in place beautifully.
2. Goddess Braids for a Regal Summer Vibe
source @officialafrovarieties
Goddess braids are thicker, raised cornrows that offer a regal and powerful aesthetic. They’re perfect for the summer because they keep hair up and off your neck while protecting it from harsh sun exposure. These braids can last for weeks with proper care and are perfect for vacations or long summer trips. The best part? They can be accessorized with gold cuffs or beads for added flair. For gifting, a braid care set with a hydrating mousse and a silk scarf would make any braid lover smile.
3. Passion Twists That Radiate Boho Charm
source @styledbylasha
Passion twists combine the beauty of traditional twists with a looser, more carefree texture that’s ideal for summer. Lightweight and bouncy, these twists are a great alternative to heavier faux locs or box braids. They offer a natural, lived-in look that’s beach- and festival-ready. With the right extensions and a leave-in spray like ORS Olive Oil Nourishing Sheen Spray, maintaining the shine and softness is easy. These make a lovely gift for friends who love low-maintenance, versatile styles.
4. High Puff for Maximum Volume and Minimal Effort
source @hergivenhair
If you want to show off your natural curls while staying cool, the high puff is a classic. This updo gathers your curls at the crown for a voluminous, show-stopping look. It’s ideal for humid weather because it celebrates shrinkage and volume. To keep edges sleek, use a strong edge control and a soft-bristle brush. A curly hair care bundle with a detangling spray and curl pudding makes a thoughtful gift for anyone embracing their natural crown.
5. Braided Crown for a Touch of Elegance
source @landtanacrownbraids
The braided crown is a timeless style that wraps around the he
ad like a halo, offering both beauty and functionality. It’s excellent for summer events like weddings or brunches and works well with accessories like floral pins or statement earrings. This protective style minimizes manipulation and keeps strands in place all day. Pair it with a lightweight hair oil to add shine and reduce frizz. It’s also a wonderful hairstyle to recommend for teens and young adults heading into formal summer events.
6. Feed-In Cornrows for Sleek Simplicity
source @mystique_beauty_obsession
Feed-in cornrows are perfect for those who love a sleek, close-to-the-scalp style that’s practical and chic. Unlike regular cornrows, feed-ins start small and gradually thicken, giving a natural-looking progression that flatters all face shapes. They’re lightweight, protective, and easy to maintain with a daily scalp spray. Consider gifting a scalp care kit that includes a gentle cleansing tonic and cooling mist for those who wear braided styles regularly.
7. Afro with a Side Part for Bold Volume
source @premium_extensions
Nothing says summer confidence like a full, glorious afro. Adding a deep side part gives it structure and makes the style pop even more. This look embraces texture in its natural form and is perfect for photo ops, summer concerts, and casual get-togethers. Keep it hydrated and defined with a water-based curl refresher. A detangling brush or wide-tooth comb makes a great gift paired with a moisturizing leave-in conditioner.
8. Box Braids in a Bright Summer Hue
source @boxbraidstyles
Box braids are the ultimate protective style—and summer is the best time to experiment with color! Whether it’s honey blonde, fiery red, or electric blue, colorful braids can make your look unforgettable. They’re perfect for poolside lounging or cross-country road trips. Be sure to use a braid sheen spray to keep the extensions looking fresh. If you’re shopping for a friend, a braid accessory kit with beads, cuffs, and a braid bonnet is a fun and useful surprise.
9. Flat Twists into a Bun for Office-to-Beach Style
source @iamporschadanielle
Flat twists are a fantastic style for transitioning from the office to weekend fun. When gathered into a bun, they create a polished, elegant look that holds up well under summer humidity. This low-tension style is gentle on edges and easy to refresh throughout the week. Use a moisturizing gel to keep the twists smooth and frizz-free. A satin-lined cap or pillowcase makes a perfect gift to preserve this style overnight.
10. Faux Locs for Island Girl Vibes
source @deeestylezzz
Faux locs exude vacation energy—they’re carefree, striking, and full of personality. Whether styled long and flowy or in a chic updo, faux locs give the appearance of real locs without the commitment. They’re also great for protecting natural hair from sun and saltwater. Use a loc-friendly mousse and scalp oil to keep them fresh. A crochet faux loc kit is an amazing gift for a DIY queen who loves to do her own styles.
11. Tapered Cut with Finger Coils for Chic Shape
source @urbanchic_76
A tapered cut adds structure and edge to curly or coily hair, especially when styled with finger coils. This look is easy to maintain and super breathable during the warmer months. It offers a modern silhouette that flatters the neckline and highlights facial features. Use a curl-enhancing cream and a styling sponge for the perfect coils. For someone embracing the big chop, a starter styling kit makes a fantastic and thoughtful gift.
12. Pineapple Updo for Overnight Curls in Style
source @afrohairuae
The pineapple is more than a sleep-time style—it can also be worn out for a casual, cute look. By gathering your curls at the very top of your head, you get a playful and functional style that protects your curls overnight or during summer activities. Add a patterned scarf or scrunchie for flair. Recommend a microfiber towel and silk scrunchies as a gift set for anyone looking to reduce frizz and maintain curl integrity.
13. Jumbo Twists with Gold Cuffs for Glam Appeal
source @adannamadueke
Jumbo twists are not only stylish but quick to install and easy to maintain. They offer a bold, elegant look while being super gentle on your scalp. Add gold cuffs or colored thread for that extra pop that’s perfect for beach days or late-night outings. They’re also great for gifting purposes—look for ready-to-install twist packs or a twist-maintenance bundle including mousse, oil, and a soft bonnet.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect summer hairstyle is about more than just looking good—it’s about feeling confident, comfortable, and ready to take on the season in style. From bold braids to natural curls, these 13 trendy looks offer something for every Black woman, whether she’s looking for a statement style or a low-maintenance protective option. Many of these looks are not only stylish but also make fantastic gift ideas for beauty lovers who enjoy switching up their look or caring for their natural hair. With the right tools and a bit of creativity, summer hair can be just as radiant and unforgettable as the season itself. So go ahead—pick your favorite, try something new, and share the love with a thoughtful gift that complements her next show-stopping hairstyle.
