10 Hot Weather Hairstyles for Short Hair to Copy Now: From Messy Buns to Sleek Waves
As someone who’s spent countless hours testing, writing about, and even trying out hairstyles (hello, content writer perks!), I know how challenging it can be to find that perfect summer hairdo—especially when you're rocking short hair. You want something stylish, quick, cute, and most importantly, humidity-proof. Whether you're prepping for a beach getaway, a city stroll, or just trying not to melt while running errands, you’ll love this roundup of hot weather hairstyles for short hair.
Let’s dive into the top 10 summer-ready styles that will keep you looking fresh, fun, and fabulous—all without sweating it (literally).
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1. The Effortless Messy Bun with a Twist
You don’t need Rapunzel-length hair to master the messy bun. This version works great for short hair, especially if you’ve got layers or a textured bob.
My tip: Leave a few wavy strands loose for that laid-back, sun-kissed look. Add a scrunchie or mini claw clip for extra flair. It’s my go-to when I need to hop on a video call or head out quickly and still want to look put-together.
Perfect for: Hot, humid days when your hair refuses to behave.
2. Airy Bangs + Mini Top Knot Combo
This combo is a game-changer. Airy bangs give you that light, breezy frame around your face, while a mini top knot pulls the rest back into a chic twist.
Pro tip: This style works wonders with curly or wavy textures. It's ideal for balancing volume and heat while still keeping things playful.
3. Claw Clip French Twist for Short Hair
Don’t underestimate the power of a claw clip—especially when the temperatures rise. I used to think my bob was too short for a twist, but I discovered that a mini French twist held with a claw clip is actually a lifesaver on scorching days.
It’s polished, quick, and keeps the sweat off your neck. Use a tortoiseshell clip for a more elevated vibe.
Perfect for: Workdays, vacation dinners, and anything in between.
4. Beachy Waves with Texture Spray
You can't talk summer hair without talking beach waves. If you have short hair, this look gives you effortless charm with a little edge.
How I do it: I spritz my damp hair with a texture spray, scrunch it, and either let it air dry or diffuse it for more volume. It works whether your hair is naturally wavy or needs a little help with a curling wand.
5. Curly Faux-Hawk with Volume
When I first wore this to an outdoor concert, I got so many compliments that I had to write about it. This bold look is perfect for curly girls who want something a bit more daring.
Pin up the sides and let your curls take center stage. It adds volume and personality—ideal for those humid, high-energy summer nights.
6. Simple Side Braid Tucked Under
This simple yet cute look works wonders when your short strands just won’t cooperate. Braid one side and tuck it under the rest of your hair using a bobby pin or mini clip.
Great for: Day trips, brunch with the girls, or any time you want something easy but still styled.
My Top 3 Amazon Must-Haves for Summer Hair Success
Now that we’re halfway through our sunny hairstyle journey, let me share a few tools I swear by for mastering these looks.
1. Bed Head Wave Artist Deep Waver
If you’re chasing those perfect beachy waves, this styling tool is a total game-changer. It creates deep, defined waves that hold even in humid weather.
Why I love it: It works fast, doesn’t fry my hair, and the results last all day.
Grab yours and bring those beach vibes home—even if you’re just sipping iced coffee on the patio!
These claw clips are my go-to for every style on this list that needs a quick secure hold. They’re small enough for short hair but strong enough to stay put.
Why I love it: The pastel shades are so summery and cute, and they don’t tug or break your hair.
Snag a pack now—you’ll want one in your car, your beach bag, and your bathroom drawer.
3. Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray
This stuff is basically bottled ocean vibes. Spray it on damp or dry hair for that effortlessly tousled look.
Smells amazing, adds just the right grip, and doesn’t leave hair crunchy.
Ready to go full mermaid mode? Add this to your summer styling arsenal.
7. Half-Up Fun Updo with Claw Clip
This style is where messy meets fun. Just gather the top half of your hair, twist it loosely, and secure it with a claw clip.
Why I love it: It keeps things out of your face while still letting your wavy or curly texture shine. I wear this constantly when I’m working from home or heading out to a backyard barbecue.
8. Wet Look Sleek Waves
I first tried this during a trip to Miami, and it instantly became my vacation go-to. The wet look adds a bold, runway-worthy vibe to even the shortest pixie cuts.
How to do it: Use a generous amount of hair gel and comb your hair back or to the side. It’s best for evening events when you want to turn heads.
9. Braided Bangs into Mini Bun
This is such a fun and functional twist if you’ve got bangs. Braid your fringe section and pin it into a mini bun at the crown.
Pro tip: This look is cute and totally helps when you’re trying to grow out your bangs or tame them during hot weather.
10. Pixie Flip with Texture
Don’t think we forgot about the pixie cut queens! The pixie flip is all about adding dimension and volume. Use a light mousse or texture spray to flip the top layers upward and to the side.
It’s fun, fierce, and gives major personality with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts: Make Summer Hair Your Signature
There you have it—10 hot weather hairstyles for short hair that’ll keep you cool, stylish, and confident all summer long. Whether you're heading to the beach, planning your next vacation, or just tackling a busy day, these looks are proof that short hair is anything but boring.
As someone who tests these trends for a living (and for fun!), I can confidently say that styling short hair in summer can be liberating—not limiting. The key is to play around, embrace the messy, celebrate the cute, and never underestimate a good claw clip.