Summer’s heat, cold drinks and poolside music mean we should all go for an easy, carefree look. Let’s face it, styling your hair for hours before a swim or sunbathing isn’t something most people enjoy. Imagine your makeup could take you from the beach to a photo shoot without you needing to fix it. How do you manage frizzy hair, show off your natural texture and still look like you’ve been by the pool?
These Easy Simpl Pool Day Hairstyles 2025 help you go with your hair’s natural style instead of against it. Whether your hair’s fine and straight or textured and coily, whether you’re into summer long hair updos or looking for simple ways to refresh your short hair, this guide will speak to you like a girlfriend with a glam plan.
Slick-Back Drama: Wet Look Reimagined
This style turns the usual “just out of the water” hair into something stylish, as if it’s always looked that good. The hair is smoothed down and appears shiny, like you’ve just come out of the pool. If your hair is thin or medium in length, this style works well and won’t cause any frizz. It’s also a great way for people who want a quick and easy way to look glamorous.
If you’d like to try this style on dry hair, apply a little IGK Mistress Hydrating Hair Balm to damp strands and comb them back with your fingers. It gives your hair a strong hold, but without making it feel heavy—great for summer.
I really enjoy this style when I’m not dressing up, but I still want to feel put together. It’s best to wear it with some big sunglasses and a light cover-up. No stress, no heat tools, no nonsense.
Chris Appleton, who works with many celebrities, says using a light oil spray to set the style gives the hair a radiant glow. He thinks it’s the “glass hair” of the beach and I don’t mind that one bit.
Volume Queen: Natural Texture in Full Glory
Feeling confident with your natural hair is amazing and this huge, round halo of volume really stands out. The idea is to highlight your 4c or coily hair by letting it stand up above the waterline. Here, it’s all about moisture, the shape you want and lots of boldness. It’s unapologetically curly hair and ridiculously cute.
A tip I always use: apply Pattern Beauty’s Leave-In Conditioner before you go to the pool. It helps protect the coils from salt and chlorine, while keeping them in good shape.
I avoided this much hair until I understood—it’s not about controlling it, it’s about shaping it. The freedom in wearing your hair out like this? It’s next-level.
Tracee Ellis Ross has said that her hair is much more than hair—it’s her strength. This style? Feels exactly like that.
Twist-Braided Ease with a View
If you want to wear braids but don’t want full box or cornrowed hair, try this twist-updo combo. A braid that’s tucked into an up-pinned style is a perfect mix of easy and safe. It makes the style neat above the ears and highlights your neck. If you’ve got medium or summer long hair and want to swim without worrying about styling, this is just right for you.
I really like Mielle’s Pomegranate & Honey Coil Sculpting Custard for twist sets, as it gives them shine and definition without making them flake.
I use this style on vacation mornings when I expect wind, water and a cocktail or two. It stays neat without trying too hard.
Pro tip from stylist Felicia Leatherwood? “Twists are the cheat code. You can wear them whether you are dressing up or down and they will survive being in the water. Sold.
Flowy Layers and Effortless Waves
She’s giving timeless, soft glam by the pool. The style has summer long hair curly, with loose waves flowing down the back, but the feel is barely there. It’s for hair that’s thick and healthy, but wants to be free and still look polished. It’s also perfect for anyone with a layer cut or using extensions that look seamless.
The only care tip? Saltwater spray. I always have the Ouai Wave Spray in my beach bag, scrunch it into my hair and I immediately get defined waves. It looks great on thick hair when it’s air-dried outside.
This hairstyle makes me feel I am part Bond girl and part surfer. It’s equal parts confidence and comfort.
Need a hack? After you’ve been swimming, flip your hair to the side and let it dry as it is. Instant asymmetry and extra movement—trust me.
Glam Barbie Meets Poolside Mermaid
High-impact color meets beach-proof styling in this radiant combo. Platinum hair with soft waves looks amazing on the beach. A down hairstyle with slight bends looks great on long hair, whether it’s curly or straight and will draw attention. And this one? Definitely not shy.
To help blondes stay bright after spending time in the sun or pool, I suggest using Redken Blondage High Bright Shampoo after your swim. Pair with a UV spray like Sun Bum’s 3-in-1 Leave In, especially if you’re swimming often.
You can tell this style is confident and cute, but it’s also carefully planned. I think of this as someone enjoying iced lemonade and covered in glitter.
According to celebrity stylist Riawna Capri, looking after your summer blonde should be a priority, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. And I completely agree.
Breezy Layers for Laid-Back Vibes
A look that lasts, doesn’t need fixing and stays fresh all day—it moves with the breeze and fits the easygoing vibe of pool time. The cut gently frames the face with a movement that’s easy and ideal for those who want to keep their hair long but not have it weigh them down. It’s not overdone, but the effect is so striking that you’ll notice it in your holiday pictures.
The first step in caring for this style is to use lightweight products that won’t make it heavy. I use Verb Ghost Oil to give my hair shine and manage frizz and it doesn’t weigh down my hair. A mid-length trim every two months will keep the shape fresh, especially if you’re in and out of saltwater.
I often put this on when I want to feel like I haven’t done anything, but still want to look like I know something. What’s nice is that it’s easy to keep up with, yet it still looks well thought out.
According to Anh Co Tran, healthy movement in long hair happens when the layers match your actual hair type. Preach.
Playful Curls with Wispy Bangs
Curly hair looks fantastic when kept short in this style. The curls are clearly defined and the bangs make the whole look softer. It’s playful, light and just right for keeping you cool in the sun. Let’s face it—having curly bangs is a statement that still feels accessible.
I apply SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie to my hair before going into chlorinated water or strong sun to keep it hydrated and easy to touch. It keeps your curls in place and moisturized which is very important during the hottest time of year.
I’ve always loved seeing this style on someone who wants to express their character. There’s something so energetic about it—it instantly feels alive.
Celebrity stylist Vernon François describes short curls with bangs as “soft yet strong” style. I completely agree—it’s the texture and a touch of charm that make it great.
Sleek Ponytail with Gloss Factor
This ponytail is sleek, parted and has a high shine—it will make your long hair look great by the pool. With a smooth finish and center part, it’s easy to wear this style from the beach to a dinner party. It’s the perfect summer look for anyone who loves a fitted look.
If you’re after silky hair, try Color Wow’s Dream Coat Supernatural Spray. It prevents humidity from making your hair frizzy and gives you a healthy glow, even when it’s very hot outside.
I now find that I can feel “done” without even trying, thanks to this. If I’m not in the mood for hair on my shoulders but still want to look good, this is how I do it.
According to Stylist Justine Marjan, the secret is to prepare your hair well because sleek hair isn’t easy to fake. You build it with care.” A bit of serum, a bit of stress and you’ll have a radiant look.
Soft Waves with a Bucket Hat Twist
Waves that are not too perfect meet the perfect partner for any pool day: the hat. A black bucket hat both defends your scalp and helps hold your unstyled summer long curls in place. It’s soft, it has a nice texture and it brings back Y2K style with a current twist. This one’s a vibe on its own.
The best way to get this look without heat? Put Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Sea Salt Spray on your damp hair and twist it into loose sections. Let them air dry, then finger separate for movement.
This is what I pick when I’m too tired to style but still want to look nice. It covers your roots, keeps your color looking great and makes you cuter in just seconds.
Thick hair is shaped well by this style, so you don’t have to struggle with your volume. It’s low-lift, high-reward.
Classic Pool French Braid
Summer french braids are easy to do and look great, so they’re still around. With this style, everything stays put and you can wear it wet or dry. If you have long hair or layers that often escape in humid weather, it’s perfect for you.
To avoid stiffness and still have smooth hair, spray Briogeo’s Farewell Frizz Rosarco Milk Leave-In Conditioning Spray on your hair before braiding. It will moisturize and leave your hair feeling soft, but it won’t weigh it down.
I’ve always loved this braid and for good reason. Even after I’ve been in the pool, I feel like I’m put together. Bonus: it protects ends from UV damage and tangling.
According to Jen Atkin, braiding your hair while it’s still damp will help lock in moisture and reduce frizz when you go out in the sun. I do it all the time—it works.
Cloud Curls with a Side Lift
This look for 4c and natural hair is all about adding volume, shape and drama in a great way. Tight curls are styled up, creating a clear crown shape that gives a bold yet simple look for summer. It’s great for curly hair that’s short or medium and it’s perfect for letting your coils relax poolside and shine without worrying about shrinkage.
My favorite way to get the lift without crunch is with Camille Rose Curl Love Moisture Milk. It nourishes without flattening, which is key when you’re going for bold but touchable.
I always feel empowered when I wear my hair like this—as if I’m walking a celebration of my hair texture. It maintains its design when it’s hot and makes a great impression.
Stylist Nai’vasha explains that once you stop trying to change your curls, they naturally do what you want them to. Let the cloud form.
Sleek Tribal Braids with Defined Parting
These braids are both carefully designed and practical. A sleek, clean look is created by this style’s laid edges, neat rows and length that reaches the hips. Here, you can forget about frizz—it’s your best shield for pool time. If you have thick hair or like to wear extensions, it’s perfect and it’s also great for travel when you want to keep your hair simple.
I make sure to use Alikay Naturals Essential 17 Hair Growth Oil and massage it into my scalp before wearing protective styles. It smells incredible, too.
I rely on this look to look great and not have to restyle for a whole week. Pool, beach, party—it handles it all.
Braiding artist Susy Oludele regularly shares that symmetry can make your face more attractive and it’s obvious in this style.
Minimal Wet Bob for a Clean Statement
Less is everything here. If you want to look like a model off the runway, try a damp and flat bob styled straight back. It’s a solid go-to for short hair or easy short hair that needs no drama—just a strong vibe and low lift. Plus, it looks just as nice when it’s wet as it does when it’s dry.
The trick I like best is to put Ouidad’s Advanced Climate Control Heat & Humidity Gel on damp hair and let it air dry. It stops the halo frizz before it begins.
Putting this on, I feel like a Bond girl with a simple look. Your hair will fall perfectly in line with your face.
If you have thin hair, this look is perfect—it gives hair more structure and depth, especially when the ends are kept sharp.
Low Messy Bun for Lazy Luxe Days
You can still look great at the beach and this easy low bun shows that. Loose roots on one side and a low coil at the back make this style look both elegant and relaxed by the pool. It’s dreamy for medium hair and works on layered cuts too—it’s just the right amount of undone.
I give my hair a little spritz of Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray before twisting to keep it in place and looking matte, even when it’s hot.
I wear this when I’m moving between the pool, the bar or the beach and dinner and want something easy. It’s polished without pretending.
According to Kristin Ess, the best buns look as if you barely styled them, but they look perfect. That’s the whole energy here.
Regal Crown Bun for Poolside Royalty
This lifted updo creates a big effect and makes sure all your hair is safe. Having locs, 4c hair or braids underneath, a rounded bun on top gives your hair height, shape and sun protection. I love that the modern queen doesn’t have to scream “I came to slay” because she says it so calmly.
I like to apply TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer to the roots and the area where I braid to keep moisture under my braids. It stops your hair from drying out in the sun and keeps it soft when you release it.
This helps me feel both earthy and higher than I really am. It’s all about freedom—the style I love for pool days since it’s easy and looks great.
Whitney Eaddy, a stylist, says, “Your hair is special—treat it as the beauty it is.” This look honors that perfectly.
Knotted Nape Twist for a Clean Chic Finish
This low chignon is understated elegance. Bring your hair together at the nape, leaving a few pieces free, for a basic bun that looks polished and won’t bother you. This cut works well for medium hair or long layers and it’s at once useful and a little elegant.
If you’re looking for a polished hold, I suggest using the Gisou Propolis Infused Polishing Primer. A little goes a long way to fix frizz and it doesn’t make your hair stiff or fall apart in humidity.
It only takes two minutes to pull this look together and it makes me feel organized right away. It’s the definition of poolside grace with structure.
According to Harry Josh, your bun should look good enough for running errands or walking the red carpet. This one? Checks both boxes.
Fluffy Top Knot for Maximum Chill
This playful updo is how you’ll want your hair to look while having fun in the sun. The bun is placed high and not too tight which adds a bit of fun volume and keeps the face cool. Ideal for summer long hair updo needs or for thick, unruly textures that just want to be tamed (without killing the vibe).
I use the Kitsch Satin Scrunchie at this step because it doesn’t pull your hair and doesn’t leave a crease which is great for soft curls or waves.
There’s something so honest about this look. Like, “Yes, I’m living my best summer, no, I didn’t try too hard.” We all hope for that natural summer energy by July.
According to Stylist Lacy Redway, it’s best to do a top knot on dry hair for a good hold and then gently pull it to add volume. I second that—don’t overthink it.
Pineapple Puff with Blonde Flair
All the volume, none of the drama. If you have natural or curly hair, this high puff helps keep your hair shaped, defined and lifted all at once. Because the blonde ombré is at the ends, it’s not too intense—your curls are showing off just the right amount.
I use Taliah Waajid Curl Sealer to fix the softness, then brush my edges with a boar bristle brush and apply gel.
This puff is my safety net on summer vacations. It only takes a few minutes, makes me feel great and still holds my curls up when they’re ready for a break from the heat.
Stylist Whitney Eaddy suggests you should turn your ponytail upside down first, then re-tie to prevent your pony from flattening your crown. Game changer.
High Blonde Pony for Beach Barbie Energy
This long hair ponytail stands out with its sharp and bright contrast. A clean, brushed finish at the top makes the style look lifted and dramatic instantly. It looks great on extensions and is made for those beach club times when you want to look like Malibu Barbie, without the upkeep.
I finish my style by misting Sun Bum Protecting Anti-Frizz Oil Mist which gives me shine and helps keep my color from fading.
Honestly, this is my flirtiest go-to. It’s sporty, snatched and helps cool my neck during the heat while still looking good.
Justine Marjan, a hair expert, says that hiding the elastic by wrapping a small section of hair around the base always gives your hair a better look.
Pixie Confidence with Summer Edge
There’s nothing better than a pixie cut when it’s hot outside. This look is cut close and has movement at the top which makes it easy and very cool. No matter if you’re reading or swimming, you’ll have no distractions and total confidence in this design.
I like to use Kristin Ess Weightless Shine Air Dry Crème to keep my hair’s texture clean, because it’s shiny and won’t weigh down my hair.
It always seems to me that this look captures confidence in its simplest form. You’re not hiding anything—just showing up bold and breezy.
According to hair artist Anh Co Tran, a great pixie is just as powerful as a short but strong sentence. This cut lives that truth.
