In summer, you can add fun highlights to your hair that reflect the sun and the cool evenings. Whether you’re craving bold neon streaks, soft sun-kissed strands, or subtle caramel tones, the hottest summer 2025 hair color trends are all about embracing contrast, dimension, and effortless beauty. Therefore, why not try some trendy highlights this season to make people notice you wherever you are? Let’s dive into the best summer highlight ideas that will take your hair game to the next level.
Red and Black Contrasts for Bold Summer Vibes
Red and black highlights? Now that’s a statement. The vibrant red strands woven through dark, silky black hair create an edgy, striking look that’s perfect for those who love to stand out. It has a strong contrast, yet it is adaptable and can be worn in many different ways. It is an excellent way for brunettes to try bold colors without going all red.
To maintain your hair’s color all summer, I suggest using Redken Color Extend Magnetics shampoo. It ensures the reds stay bright and the black does not become faded. Always remember to use a hair mask weekly, since red hair dries out more quickly and easily under the sun.
When I first saw the combo, it made me think of punk rock with a modern twist. There’s something about it that says: “Of course I’m cool, let me show you.” The combination of red and dark colors is both bold and fascinating, so it’s perfect for summer evenings.
Soft Blonde Ombre for Effortless Summer Chic
It’s impossible to deny that the change from dark roots to light ends is mesmerizing. Ombre hair gives you a sun-kissed look on medium-length hair, but without turning it completely blonde. If you’re looking for something that’s both rich and summery, this is it.
To keep this style, the blonde has to stay bright and the brunette needs to stay rich. If you want to avoid brassiness, try Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo. A weekly application of Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask can prevent your hair from getting dry and splitting.
It reminds me of those days at the beach, when the sun gives your hair those unique and lovely highlights. The style has a simple, California-inspired look that never goes out of fashion.
Golden Brown Babylights for a Subtle Glow
The way to keep your look simple is with golden brown babylights. With these light highlights, your hair seems glazed by the sun and has depth for a rich brunette style. They are perfect for summer, as they match your hair color and make it look soft and radiant.
To avoid fading your highlights, apply Pureology Hydrate Shampoo which is sulfate-free. It helps maintain your hair color without drying it out.
I enjoy how this style uses sunlight to highlight the model’s face in a natural way. It’s almost like your hair gets a summer glow from within, without appearing overdone.
Purple and Plum Peekaboo Highlights for Bold Brunettes
If a girl wants to add some color to her hair without going all the way, these peekaboo purple and plum highlights are perfect for summer. Cool, dark plum colors make their way through a soft brunette, adding curiosity and a cheeky touch to any hair.
Since purple colors fade fast, using a color-boosting shampoo from Celeb Luxury like Viral Colorwash Purple can help you maintain the color. And for shine? Just a little Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil makes frizz disappear and adds a nice shine.
I love how the purple shades play with light—you can only see the color when you look at it from a certain direction. It’s a surprise, but it’s also very stylish and ideal for those who want to add a hint of summer style.
Blonde Money Piece with a Neon Twist
If you’re looking for a new summer look, a bright neon streak through your blonde money piece could be just what you need. The combination of icy blonde and hot pink is striking, bold and suitable for summer festivals. The idea is to enjoy yourself and let your hair express your personality.
For the blonde, use Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo and for the neon pink, use Arctic Fox Semi-Permanent Hair Dye in Virgin Pink.
The first time I noticed this style, I pictured myself at a summer festival, listening to music and spending all night under the stars. It’s that relaxed and adventurous feeling that is so summery.
Platinum Money Piece with Silver Waves
This platinum money piece, paired with dark and smoky silver hair, is a real eye-catcher. If you want to stand out with a fashionable and sophisticated look this summer, this is for you. Platinum face-framing highlights reflect light on your skin, making you look cheerful and healthy and the dark waves add volume and give the look a natural finish.
To keep your blonde hair looking icy and your darker tones rich and sultry, I suggest using Fanola No Yellow Shampoo and Olaplex No. 6 Bond Smoother.
This outfit reminds me of a summer night under the moon, with everything appearing slightly more magical. It offers a strong statement, remains daring and allows you to be noticed without being too much.
Chic Blonde Balayage on Short Waves
If you’re not sure about having all your hair dyed blonde, a balayage is a good compromise. The light blonde streaks merge with the dark roots, making the hair appear golden and summery. Persons with darker hair will find this is a safe way to use a lighter shade.
If you want to prevent your blonde hair from turning brassy, use Kevin Murphy Blonde.Angel Treatment to tone and condition it. When styling your hair every day, using Amika The Shield Anti-Humidity Spray will keep your waves looking great.
I love this hairstyle because it’s careless, flirtatious and great for when you want to run your fingers through your hair and feel the summer breeze. It’s also very easy to take care of which is why it’s popular for summer days when you want to relax.
Classic Money Piece for Effortless Dimension
Who says simple can’t be stunning? This well-known money piece adds a touch of brightness to the front, instantly making the face look brighter and the hair look sunkissed. The way the blonde and dark tones are formed creates a style that’s both simple to wear and easy to love.
To keep this hairdo looking fresh all through the season, apply some Ouai Hair Oil to tame the areas that were highlighted. If you’re planning to be at the beach, remember to use Sun Bum 3-in-1 Leave In to defend your hair from the sun.
This style is similar to a perfect summer accessory—it’s not too noticeable, yet it catches the eye and makes people think, “I bet she just got back from a trip.”
Honey Blonde Waves with Dark Roots
If having that golden glow is on your wish list, then these honey blonde waves are just what summer 2025 is about. The cool caramel reflects into the dark roots, bringing about a style that is not only in fashion but is also easy to care for. It allows brunettes to get a lighter color without turning their hair completely blonde.
If you want your hair to stay that rich honey color, use Joico Color Endure Shampoo. There are no sulfates in this shampoo and it contains antioxidants to keep your hair shiny and moist.
It reminds me of golden hour, with the sun highlighting every strand of hair and making it shine. It has a cozy feel and is ideal for enjoying a glass of rosé while the sun sets in summer.
Red Ombre Ends for a Pop of Color
Why not go bold this summer? This ombre hair color adds a bold touch to long and dark hair. The roots begin with a strong gradient and by the time you reach the ends, the color morphs into a flashy red which gives the style its summer spirit.
Because red tones are quick to fade, Matrix Keep Me Vivid Shampoo is a great way to keep your red hair vibrant. And for styling? Applying Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray will give your hair body and texture without making it feel heavy.
I appreciate that this look is both stylish and fun, with everyone eager to talk when they see it. It’s bold, unapologetic, and totally unforgettable.
Soft Ash Blonde Highlights on Long Layers
If your look is more effortless and natural, soft ash blonde highlights on layered long hair are sure to please. The ashy colors mix smoothly with brunette, resulting in a gentle and noticeable sunkissed look. It’s ideal for those who want to try blonde without making their hair too light.
If you want to avoid brassy ash blonde, I suggest using Redken Color Extend Blondage Purple Shampoo. It takes away the warmth from the blonde without dimming its brightness. You can keep your long layers healthy and shiny all summer with It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product.
This outfit is casual and breezy, giving it that summer and night vibe everyone loves. And the best part? It looks attractive and does well without much effort from the owner.
Bold Blonde Stripes on a Classic Bob
Why settle for subtle when you can go bold? The bold contrast between the blonde and brown in this bob gives it a confident and fierce appearance. The short, blunt bob brings more attention to the blonde highlights against the dark hair.
If you want to maintain your blonde hair’s shine and color, Amika Bust Your Brass Cool Blonde Shampoo is an ideal choice. Since blunt bobs require regular sharpening, CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray helps keep the ends smooth and stylish.
The focus of this look is contrast and boldness, so it looks dramatic and exciting all summer long. Also, it is the ideal method to give a traditional bob a modern update.
Platinum Blonde Streaks with Dark Roots
Choose these platinum blonde pieces descending into black roots if dramatics are what you’re after. The difference between the two materials gives the outfit an edgy and stylish appearance. Also, the dark roots mean you don’t have to visit the salon as often.
Because platinum blonde is a diva, you need to take special care of it. With Matrix Total Results So Silver Shampoo, your blonde hair will stay icy and won’t turn yellow. If your hair is dark, apply a bit of Moroccanoil Treatment to make it shinier and help control frizz without making it heavy.
This style is daring and fashionable, combining the style of rockers with that of high fashion. The hair is so striking that it gets noticed even without effort.
Ash Blonde and Mocha Melt for Long, Sleek Hair
If you want a mix of cool and warm colors, this ash blonde and mocha melt is perfect for your long, straight hair. The cool and classy ash blonde pieces are placed against a base of warm and rich mocha for a contrast. It’s just right for the season, since it’s both edgy and elegant.
To avoid your hair from looking brassy, apply Fanola No Yellow Mask once a week. If you want your hair to look salon-perfect, just a few pumps of Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection Cream will do the trick.
I really like how this hairstyle uses light and dark to highlight the difference between the ash blonde and the mocha base. The style appears modern as well as classic, attracting attention in a subtle way.
Face-Framing Blonde Money Piece on Dark Hair
If you prefer something bright but not too blonde, a money piece around your face is ideal. The light blonde highlights brighten the face, while the rest of the hair is still dark. It’s a beautiful way to change your style with just a little effort.
To keep your bold blonde and the dark base looking glossy and rich, use Wella Professionals Color Fresh Mask in Pearl Blonde. It’s perfect for toning while also nourishing the hair. To get a shiny and sleek look, you can spray on OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Weightless Healing Dry Oil.
This style is easy to pull off and great for anyone who wants to experiment with a bright blonde. It’s playful yet polished, and the best part? It’s low-maintenance yet totally eye-catching.
Elegant Honey Blonde Updo with Caramel Highlights
For parties under the summer sun or evening weddings, this updo looks incredibly classy with its honey blonde and caramel highlights. The tightly braided sections give the whole hairstyle a sweet and romantic atmosphere, while the warm caramel color adds more dimension. Made for brunettes looking to add a new look without completely turning blonde.
If you want your hair to keep its caramel tone, I suggest using Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner. Because it doesn’t contain sulfate, it deeply moisturizes the hair and prevents it from looking frizzy. A little Ouai Hair Oil will make your updo shiny without making it look heavy.
This outfit looks classic and trendy which makes it ideal for casual summer parties.
Platinum Ice Stripes on Black Hair
Talk about contrast! The contrast between the platinum stripes and the black base makes the style look bold and fashionable. The icy blonde streaks are great for people who want to attract attention and stand out over the summer.
To keep platinum blonde looking good, you have to put in a lot of effort. Fanola No Yellow Shampoo prevents brassiness in your hair and the Living Proof Restore Smooth Blowout Concentrate will keep your platinum parts smooth and fuzz-free.
If you’re looking for something bold and daring, this is the style for you.
Textured Bob with Cool Blonde Balayage
A summer style that looks trendy and does not require too much care is this blonde-tipped bob with a textured edge. The stacked bob is light and the ash blonde highlights add some shiney brightness, but their base color is still clearly visible. This is for anyone looking to add a light hint of fragrance to their clothing without too much bleach.
If you want to keep your blonde pieces bright and textured, try Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray and Joico Blonde Life Brightening Masque.
The way you are dressed reminds me of a French girl: cool, slightly messy and always stylish. It’s ideal for summer when you want to let your hair down and head out.
Sandy Blonde Waves with Brunette Base
Nothing is more summery than blonde waves shining on a brunette base. The idea is to have dark roots blend with lighter ends, so the look is as if you’ve been at the beach for days.
If you want those curls to retain their springiness and form, you should get Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Gel. If you want your hair to shine in the summer, Kenra Shine Spray adds just the right amount of shine without making it heavy.
This look just screams beachy, carefree summer days. It looks like you just rolled out of bed, although you took 30 minutes to style your hair.
Long Layers with Blonde Money Piece
If you want your hair long and still want highlights around your face, a blonde money piece with a dark brown base is the best option. The blonde highlights on the face brighten the complexion and the smooth layers at the ends help the hair look elegant.
To maintain your blonde color without damaging your long hair, try using Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate Shampoo and Conditioner. It helps the hair grow stronger and prevents the blonde from becoming brassy.
I think the style is stunning because it blends form and friendliness together, with the streamlined layers adding depth and the yellow pieces giving it a flirty touch. The combination of style and fun makes it ideal for the upcoming summer.
Electric Pink Highlights on Jet Black Hair
Ready to go bold this summer? Electric pink highlights on black hair are the best way to stand out. By using pink on dark hair, there’s now a punk and summer twist to the style. It stands out, it’s bold and it’s a style that everyone notices.
To maintain the bright and bold pink, you need to use a color-depositing shampoo such as Celeb Luxury Viral Colorwash in Hot Pink. The pink is kept from fading, keeping its intense color just like on the first day you dyed it. If your hair is already silky, the CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray will protect and enhance the shine.
I feel like this is a festival look, with a neon sign shining under the summer sunset. With this hair, you feel like you’re the main character and people notice you and your style just by looking at you.
