19 Prettiest Summer Hairstyle Ideas For Black Women

As the temperatures rise and the days get longer, finding the perfect summer hairstyle becomes a key part of embracing the season for Black women.

From the carefree bounce of curly hair to the sleek sophistication of braided hairstyles, the options for expressing personal style and staying cool are endless.

But with so many choices, it can be overwhelming to decide on the best summer hairstyles for black hair.

That’s where we step in; this post is dedicated to bringing you the most stylish hairstyles that not only stand the test of the summer heat but also enhance your natural beauty.

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1. Bantu Knot-Out with Defined Curls

Bantu knots are not just a hairstyle; they’re a fabulous way to twist your hair into miniature, taut spirals that can later unfurl into beautifully defined curly locks.

Known for their versatility, Bantu knots work wonderfully on various hair textures and lengths. You start by sectioning your hair into even parts, using a comb to get sharp, clean lines.

Each section is then twisted tightly around itself until it coils up into a knot, resembling a mini bun.

This style can be rocked as is, giving a bold and cultural-rich vibe, or you can unravel the knots after a day or two, revealing a head full of bouncy, defined curls.

For the perfect knot-out, it’s essential to keep your hair well-moisturized. Apply a leave-in conditioner or a curl-defining cream to each section as you go, ensuring that every strand is coated for maximum hydration and hold.

Once your knots are set and dry, carefully unravel them to avoid frizz. The result? A glorious mane of curls that frame your face with volume and flair.

2. Flat Twists with Knotless Roots

Flat twists with knotless roots offer a sleek, tension-free way to style your hair this summer. This method begins similarly to traditional knotless braids, where you divide the hair into three sections.

Start by braiding at the base, gradually incorporating thin strands to achieve a seamless transition from your natural hair to the braiding hair.

This technique ensures a natural-looking root without the bulkiness of knots, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a more refined look.

To achieve the flat twists, you start with two strands of hair, adding more hair to each twist as you go along.

This process is akin to regular twisting but with the added step of integrating new hair to create a flat appearance.

The key here is to maintain small sections for manageability and to ensure the twists lay flat against the scalp, providing a comfortable, yet stylish hairstyle.

One innovative approach to starting the twists involves using a crochet needle and rubber bands. First, secure the hair with rubber bands, then crochet the braiding hair through, splitting it into two equal strands for a natural look.

This method hides the rubber bands and gives the roots a more natural appearance, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the hairstyle.

3. Afro Puffs with Braided Design

Afro puffs are a fun and versatile hairstyle that you can jazz up with some creative braided designs. This style is perfect for those days when you want to keep your hair away from your face yet still make a stylish statement.

To start, you’ll part your hair into sections, depending on how many puffs you desire. Each section is then tightly pulled back and secured into a puff, using a band that’s gentle on your hair.

4. High Ponytail with Bantu Knots

Imagine elevating your summer look with a high ponytail combined with Bantu knots, a style that effortlessly blends tradition with modern flair.

This hairstyle starts by pulling your hair up into a sleek high ponytail, a classic look that exudes confidence and grace.

The twist, however, comes with the addition of Bantu knots, strategically placed within the ponytail or around its base, introducing a cultural richness and texture that’s both eye-catching and meaningful.

Creating this look requires sectioning parts of the ponytail and twisting these sections into small, tight coils that are then wrapped around themselves to form the Bantu knots. It’s a playful yet sophisticated way to incorporate traditional elements into your summer hairstyle repertoire.

The beauty of this style lies in its versatility; you can adjust the number of knots, their placement, and even their size to suit your personal taste and the occasion.

5. Braided Mohawk with Beads

Embrace the boldness of summer with a Braided Mohawk with Beads, a hairstyle that’s all about expressing your unique personality and style.

This look combines the edginess of a mohawk with the elegance of braids, and the playful addition of beads adds a fun, summer-ready vibe.

Perfect for black women looking to stand out, this hairstyle is not just a statement; it’s a celebration of creativity and individuality.

6. Crochet Twists with Curly Ends

This hairstyle is a fantastic blend of easy maintenance and chic flair, perfect for black women looking to switch up their look with minimal effort.

Starting with cornrows as a base, the crochet method involves looping pre-twisted hair through your braids using a crochet needle.

The beauty of this technique is its simplicity and the speed at which you can achieve a full head of twists.

What sets this style apart are the curly ends, adding a playful and feminine touch to the overall look. These curls can range from loose waves to tight spirals, depending on your preference.

To keep your crochet twists looking fresh all summer long, it’s essential to maintain the scalp’s health.

Regularly applying a light scalp oil can prevent dryness without weighing down your hair. Additionally, sleeping with a satin scarf or bonnet will protect your twists and curly ends from frizz and tangling.

Crochet Twists with Curly Ends are not just about convenience; they’re about expressing your unique style while protecting your natural hair. This summer, let your hair do the talking with this effortlessly chic and versatile hairstyle.

7. Defined Finger Coils

Diving into the world of Defined Finger Coils, you’re looking at a fabulous way to flaunt your natural texture with a twist of elegance and fun.

This hairstyle is all about celebrating the beauty of curly hair by creating tight, springy curls that radiate from every strand.

Starting this style is surprisingly simple but requires a bit of patience and care. You’ll work with small sections of damp hair, applying a curl-defining product to each section to ensure that the coils keep their shape and stay moisturized.

Then, using your finger, you’ll wrap each section around itself, twirling down to the ends to create a coil. The key here is to maintain consistent tension and to ensure each coil is neatly formed for that polished look.

Once all your hair is coiled, you can either air dry or use a hooded dryer to set the style. The beauty of finger coils is that they can last for several days with the right care, making them a fantastic low-maintenance option for those busy summer days.

To keep your coils looking fresh, consider sleeping with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, which helps reduce frizz and maintain moisture.

Defined Finger Coils are not just a hairstyle; they’re a statement. They exude confidence and celebrate the versatility of black hair, making them a perfect choice for anyone looking to add a bit of pizzazz to their summer look.

8. Pineapple Updo with Scarf

Embracing the essence of summer with a Pineapple Updo with Scarf is like stepping into the role of a tropical goddess.

This hairstyle, which is both a nod to effortless beauty and a testament to the versatility of natural hair, can be achieved in just a couple of minutes using minimal products. Imagine starting with your beautiful fro and transforming it with nothing more than a DIY spray made from a mix of conditioner and water.

The key here is to choose a lightweight conditioner that won’t weigh your hair down, making it perfect for a refreshing spritz that keeps your hair hydrated and easy to manage.

The magic truly begins when you secure your hair with a thick hair tie, preferably one that’s already stretched out for ease of use.

These types of hair ties are a game-changer for holding up voluminous, curly hair without causing tension or discomfort.

By looping the hair tie just once, you allow for a loose ponytail that maximizes volume and gives you the iconic pineapple look.

9. Boxer Braids with Feed-in Cornrows

This style is a fantastic blend of the classic boxer braids with the added volume and length of feed-in cornrows, making it a top pick for anyone looking to elevate their summer hair game.

The process involves starting with your natural hair and gradually adding extensions to create a seamless transition that adds both thickness and length to your braids.

What’s great about this method is the ability to customize the size and length of your braids, allowing you to create a look that’s uniquely yours.

Plus, the addition of feed-in hair helps to protect your natural locks by reducing tension at the roots, which is especially important during the summer months when your hair needs all the TLC it can get.

To keep your Boxer Braids with Feed-in Cornrows looking fresh, it’s important to moisturize your scalp and hair regularly.

A light oil or spray can help to keep your scalp hydrated without weighing down your braids. And when it comes to nighttime care, wrapping your hair in a silk or satin scarf can prevent frizz and keep your braids neat.

10. Marley Twists with Highlights

Diving into the world of Marley Twists with Highlights offers a fresh, vibrant twist on a classic protective style, perfect for those summer vibes.

This hairstyle is all about combining the traditional Marley twist technique with streaks of color for an eye-catching look.

By weaving in strands of lighter shades, you can create a dimensional, sun-kissed effect that’s both stylish and fun.

What’s fantastic about Marley twists is their versatility. You can go for chunky, bold twists or keep them thin and delicate, depending on your personal style.

The highlights add a playful touch, allowing you to experiment with color without the commitment of dyeing your natural hair.

To achieve this look, start by selecting extensions that match your hair texture for the twists and a contrasting color for the highlights.

This ensures a seamless blend that looks natural and feels comfortable. The process involves twisting your hair with the extensions, carefully incorporating the highlighted strands to distribute the color evenly throughout your hair.

It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate the classic Marley twist and make it your own.

11. Glossy Half-Up, Half-Down with Curls

Embrace a look that’s effortlessly chic and perfect for any summer occasion with the Glossy Half-Up, Half-Down with Curls hairstyle.

This style strikes the perfect balance between elegance and playfulness, making it an ideal choice for black women looking to showcase their curls in a stylish way.

The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its simplicity and the stunning impact it creates. You begin by dividing your hair into two sections.

The top half is pulled back and secured at the crown of your head, creating a beautiful pouf that adds volume and dimension.

This method allows your face to shine brightly while the curls cascade down your back or over your shoulders in a waterfall of glossy perfection.

12. Voluminous Faux Locs with Curls

Embrace the beauty of Voluminous Faux Locs with Curls this summer, a hairstyle that perfectly combines the timeless elegance of locs with the playful bounce of curls.

This style is a fantastic choice for those looking to add volume and texture to their look without the long-term commitment of traditional locs.

By integrating curls into the faux locs, you achieve a dynamic and versatile hairstyle that’s both protective and stylish.

The process involves wrapping your hair with synthetic extensions, meticulously creating locs that look natural and feel lightweight.

The addition of curly ends gives this style a unique twist, allowing for movement and a soft, feminine touch.

What’s great about this hairstyle is its low maintenance. Once installed, the locs require minimal upkeep, letting you enjoy your summer without worrying about daily styling.

13. Butterfly Braids with Box Braids

Step into the enchanting world of Butterfly Braids with Box Braids, a hairstyle that beautifully marries intricacy with elegance.

This style is perfect for those who adore a detailed and textured look, providing a stunning visual appeal that’s both unique and captivating.

As you embark on creating this hairstyle, you’ll intertwine thin wisps of hair into the braids, mimicking the delicate wings of a butterfly.

The process starts by sectioning your hair into precise parts, each destined to become a box braid. The addition of the butterfly effect involves skillfully pulling out small sections of hair along the length of each braid, which are then lightly curled to create a soft, winged appearance.

This technique is not just about aesthetics; it also offers a playful twist to the traditional box braids, giving you a fresh and stylish look that’s perfect for summer outings and special occasions.

To maintain the beauty and longevity of your Butterfly Braids with Box Braids, it’s crucial to keep them moisturized.

A light spritz of water and oil mixture daily can help keep the braids hydrated and the wispy strands shiny, ensuring your hairstyle remains as stunning as when first styled.

This hairstyle stands out in a crowd and truly allows your personality and style to shine through, making it a fabulous choice for those looking to make a bold fashion statement this summer.

14. Single Braids with Cuffs

Stepping into the spotlight with Single Braids with Cuffs offers a dazzling way to adorn your summer hair.

This hairstyle is not just about embracing the timeless appeal of single braids; it’s about elevating the look with the chic addition of cuffs.

These small but impactful accessories can transform your braids from simple to stunning, providing a metallic sheen that catches the light beautifully.

When incorporating cuffs into your braids, the key is to distribute them thoughtfully along the length of each braid.

You can opt for a uniform look by spacing the cuffs evenly, or create a pattern that speaks to your personal style. The beauty of this hairstyle lies in its versatility.

Caring for your braids with cuffs involves minimal extra effort. It’s important to keep your scalp moisturized and to gently cleanse your braids to maintain their freshness.

At night, wrapping your hair in a silk or satin scarf can protect your braids and keep the cuffs from tangling.

This hairstyle is a celebration of creativity and individual expression, allowing you to play with different cuff designs and colors.

15. Headband with Defined Curls

Embrace a chic and effortless summer look with the Headband with Defined Curls style. This hairstyle is perfect for those days when you want to add a touch of elegance while keeping things simple and manageable.

Start by defining your curls with a curl-enhancing cream or mousse, ensuring each curl is hydrated and bouncy. Once your curls are set, select a headband that complements your outfit or mood.

To achieve the best results, gently pull back the front sections of your curls and slide the headband in place, allowing the rest of your curls to cascade beautifully around your shoulders or back.

This method helps to keep your hair off your face during those warm summer days, while still showcasing the volume and texture of your natural curls.

16. Lemonade Braids with Colored Beads

A hairstyle that perfectly captures the essence of fun and creativity.

Ideal for those who love to add a splash of color to their look, this style not only turns heads but also keeps your hair neatly tucked away during the hot days.

Starting with the classic side-swept cornrows, the addition of brightly colored beads at the ends of each braid brings a playful and artistic touch to your overall appearance.

To achieve this look, begin by choosing beads that complement or contrast with your outfit, allowing you to personalize your hairstyle to match your summer vibe.

The braiding process involves integrating these beads into your braids at various points or just at the ends, depending on your preference.

17. Senegalese Twists with Blunt Ends

This style stands out for its sleek, smooth twists that end in a blunt fashion, giving a neat and polished finish that’s both modern and sophisticated.

The beauty of Senegalese twists lies in their versatility; they can be styled in numerous ways, from high ponytails to stylish updos, making them a fantastic option for any summer event.

When creating Senegalese twists, the focus is on ensuring each twist is uniform and tight, providing a long-lasting style that can carry you through the entire season.

To keep your Senegalese Twists with Blunt Ends looking their best, it’s crucial to maintain the health of your hair and scalp.

Regularly applying a light oil or spray can help keep your scalp moisturized and your twists shiny, ensuring your hairstyle remains vibrant throughout the summer.

Additionally, wrapping your hair at night with a silk scarf can protect your twists from frizz and tangling, preserving the sleek appearance of your blunt ends.

18. Bantu Knots with Colored String

Bantu knots are a striking and versatile hairstyle, and adding colored string takes this classic look to the next level, particularly during the summer months.

For this style, you’ll begin by sectioning your hair into desired parts, each twisted firmly into a knot.

Maintaining this hairstyle is quite straightforward. Ensure your hair and scalp are well-moisturized before styling to keep your hair healthy.

At night, cover your hair with a silk scarf to protect the knots and the string from frizz and unravelling.

19. Short Afro with Fresh Cut Designs

Embracing a short Afro introduces a canvas ripe for creativity, especially when incorporating fresh cut designs.

This style is not just about cutting hair short; it’s about transforming your look with artistic and bold designs that make a statement.

Starting with clean, moisturized hair is crucial. Using a spray bottle to keep your hair damp, followed by nourishing it with Jamaican castor oil, ensures your Afro remains hydrated and healthy.

Final Thoughts

Each hairstyle discussed not only embraces the natural texture and beauty of Black hair but also offers protective benefits, ensuring hair remains healthy and vibrant throughout the summer months.

By focusing on styles that enhance natural beauty without the need for extensive daily upkeep, the post empowers readers to experiment and embrace their individuality with confidence.