I'm looking for a low-maintenance haircut— a hairstylist has recommended these 6 summer styles for me.

      With summer finally arriving, I'm carefully planning my next haircut. As a beauty editor who follows hair trends professionally, it’s easy to get caught up in TikTok hair fads. I consider myself a low-maintenance hair person, so I’m looking for a haircut that requires minimal effort and will last throughout the season with little styling involved. When the weather is warm, I prefer spending less time on my hair and more time enjoying the sunshine. Practically speaking, when it’s hot, the last thing you want to do is spend hours blow-drying your hair. If you're also in need of some summer haircut inspiration, you’re in the right place. I reached out to Jonny Eagland, hairstylist at Nicola Clarke Salon, for some summer haircut recommendations to bring to your stylist.

      1. Soft Layered Bob

      Bob haircuts will remain trendy for the summer of 2026, and a soft, layered bob is ideal if you desire a low-maintenance yet versatile option. “A soft layered bob offers softness and movement, and it’s short enough that you won’t need to tie it up in the heat, looking stunning when blow-dried,” Eagland explains. “In the salon, request a bob with soft internal layers to achieve shape, while keeping the outline neat for that classic bob appearance.” At home, you can blow-dry with a round brush for added volume, or let it air dry for a laid-back finish. If you’re considering a bob, summer is the perfect time for a fresh cut.

      2. Modern Mullet

      If you’re on the lookout for a unique short hairstyle, don’t dismiss the mullet, which is being reimagined for 2026. “The mullet is making a comeback—longer in the back and shorter on the sides and front,” Eagland shares. “It’s edgy but allows for a subtle change for those wanting to try something new.” This cut is also a great option for transitioning from a pixie cut. “In the salon, ask for a disconnected cut that maintains length at the nape, with a textured, cropped finish on top,” he advises. For styling at home, use a lightweight matte paste for definition, or leave it messy for a more relaxed vibe.

      3. Choppy Shag

      “For those seeking a low-effort style, the textured shag is the cut to embrace this summer,” Eagland comments. “This cut suits everyone, particularly those growing out a pixie who desire longer, messier hair, which is quite trendy right now.” He suggests asking for soft, shaggy layers with plenty of texture in the salon. To style at home, simply spray some salt spray on damp hair, let it air dry, and you’re set.

      4. '90s Layers

      If you wish to maintain your longer lengths, '90s face-framing layers are the haircut to consider for your next appointment. “’90s layers evoke pure nostalgia,” says Eagland. Picture face-framing layers with angles at the front and a blunt finish at the ends for seamless movement. “It looks beautiful either sleek or with a voluminous ‘90s blow-dry,” he adds. He recommends using a large round brush for bounce, but you can achieve the look with a hot brush for simultaneous drying and styling.

      5. Shaggy Layers

      If a full shag haircut feels overwhelming, shaggy layers can add movement and volume to your hair. “Shaggy layers are perfect for summer; this cut is great for those who want minimal effort and plenty of movement in medium to long hair. It’s fantastic for air-drying during warm weather, beach outings, or vacations,” Eagland explains. In the salon, ask for lived-in layers with a choppy, undone finish. At home, simply scrunch in a styling cream or salt spray on damp hair and allow it to air dry, or enhance your air-dried style with curling tongs for a more polished look.

      6. Wispy Fringe

      Considering a fringe for the summer? Eagland mentions that adding a fringe is a wonderful way to refresh your look without making drastic changes. “There are two fringe styles that can transform your appearance without altering your entire haircut,” he notes. “A curtain fringe works well for summer and can be styled up while still retaining a fashionable look with the fringe down. Alternatively, a wispy fringe rests shorter at the brow for a chic look,” he explains. In the salon, request either a center-parted curtain fringe or a feathered fringe cut shorter at the center, resting at the brow. A quick blow-dry of the fringe at home can bring a polished touch in just minutes.

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