Sun Kissed Highlights for Brunettes Summer 2025: Trendy, Low Maintenance Hair Inspo You’ll Love

Is your brunette hair excited to be in the sun this year? Sun Kissed Highlights for Brunettes Summer 2025 are definitely the stars of the show — and they’re far from plain. From soft caramel partials to bold face-framing blonde ribbons, this season’s styles are all about looking like you just spent a week basking in golden hour (without the sun damage). If you like your hair low-key, natural or just want to experiment, these highlight ideas are perfect for brunettes who want a natural-looking glow — and I’ve got the photos to show you. Let’s look at the most vibrant colors that are popular this season.

Effortless Contrast with Straight Blonde Ribbons

There’s something quietly luxurious about a sleek, deep brunette base contrasted by fine, cool-toned ribbons of blonde — it whispers Sun Kissed Highlights for Brunettes Summer 2025 without yelling for attention. They are put in key areas around the face to brighten it and make it appear as if you’d spent a week at the beach, rather than in a salon. And because they blend so naturally into the length, it gives total low maintenance blonde energy — like you didn’t even try (but we know you did).

I always advise using a sulfate-free shampoo that has toning properties and if you’re on the cooler side, try one with a hint of violet or silver. If you want to keep your blonde hair bright and not brassy, try Garnier Olia Brilliant Shine Enhancing Shampoo because it’s not expensive. Weekly use of a hydrating mask helps keep your skin from fading due to sun exposure. After all, summer hair needs TLC.

For me, this is a smart way to lighten your hair without going all the way. It’s bold yet subtle partial, and it suits almost every skin tone. To be honest, it has a similar feel to the front pieces we saw in the early 2000s, but it’s now more mature and fits this year perfectly.

If you style this with a power blazer and gold hoops, leave your hair loose and you’ll walk in looking radiant.

Romantic Summer Layers with Caramel Lights

This hair makes you want to plan a sunset dinner. Long hair, wavy texture and a touch of caramel highlights that blend into dark brown. It’s about saying “I just visited the Amalfi coast” even if you never went. The way the highlights are applied here is very dimensional — they curl around the face and end at the tips which gives the hair a natural look we all want in spring and summer.

Because wavy textures need moisture, I’d suggest using a leave-in conditioner and an oil to tame frizz for your ends. The drugstore Garnier Olia’s Sleek & Shine Moroccan Oil Treatment gives your hair shine and keeps it light.

I really like that this look is so easy to put together. You can get away with just scrunching your hair and going about your day. It gives a fresh look to fall hair colors, but it’s perfect for summer.

Anyone who wants their hair to look polished even when it’s not styled should try this style. It’s a vibe, not just a color.

Subtle Beach Brunette with Natural Curls

Curly girls — I haven’t forgotten you. I love this mid-length curl style and the golden lowlights just make it even more amazing. The stylist here didn’t overdo it, instead bringing out the natural warmth in the curls, so this is a perfect example of highlights for brunette curly hair. It gives off a lived-in feel, is easy to wear and is perfect for a morning coffee and a walk on the beach.

During the summer, when it’s warm and dry, your curls need moisture most. Garnier’s Curl Nourish Butter Cream Leave-In Treatment is a great option because it’s inexpensive and moisturizes while giving shape to your hair. It keeps your hair color looking great and prevents it from frizzing in the heat.

I’ve noticed that many brunettes are afraid to lighten their curly hair, but this example shows that you can still be bold without going too light. The way the color holds each ringlet gives the curls a lot of depth and makes them stand out.

Let’s face it — boho style is relaxed and fun, but let’s make it stylish. It’s not trying hard, and that’s exactly why it’s perfect.

Modern Cool Brunette with Face-Framing Highlights

Here’s the perfect way to look trendy and wearable all at once. The multi color blonde highlights in these waves add a touch of movement and style. The perfect summer blonde for people who like balance is this one, because it has a cool-neutral tone that isn’t too warm or too cold. The way the frames are placed is very sharp, carefully chosen and looks great on round or long faces.

Every three weeks, try using a light purple shampoo to preserve the brightness. UV protectants are important too and Garnier Olia’s Multi-Tone Summer Shield Mist is our favorite for keeping our hair color intact after a visit to the salon.

This hairstyle is like an upgraded version of your college highlights—it’s neat, tidy and looks great. And you know what? I believe this style suits both a sharp suit and a loose beach shirt.

Versatility matters, and this look has it in spades.

Soft Golden Blend for Long Hair Days

With highlights for brunettes and a soft caramel base, this look is long, voluminous and full of sunshine. It’s dreamy, glossy, and definitely what you want when you’re craving natural movement with a pop of light. With this blend, you have dimension, glow and a little drama, but everything remains subtle.

The reason this style doesn’t end up too “brassy” is because of tone — your colorist should give you a warm-neutral caramel that isn’t too yellow or red. A gloss treatment every six weeks will help your hair look shiny and healthy without causing too much damage to the ends.

You’d toss this hair over your shoulder when you laugh so hard you can’t help it. It’s romantic, but still very real-life. No fantasy filter needed.

And if you’re like me and obsessed with spring hair turning into summer hair, this is that sweet transitional space where both seasons shine.

Buttery Caramel Waves That Scream Summer Luxe

This color reminds me of the meeting of beachy and bougie — it has large, wavy locks with caramel and blonde highlights mixed into a beautiful brunette base. The bleach is put in boldly but gently and the final result looks like it came from a high-end salon, not from home. The change is easy and gives the hair lots of depth, so it’s perfect for anyone looking for sun kissed highlights for brunettes in 2025.

After being in the sun, choose color-safe and hydrating products to preserve your hair’s richness. You might like to try the Garnier Olia Deep Nourishing Conditioner that contains floral oils. It locks in your hair’s tone and prevents it from drying out while still feeling light.

I love this look because it suits many skin tones and brightens up your face. I’ve noticed this style works well on brunettes, no matter their skin tone and it always gives them a natural glow.

Great for those who adore long hair and want the look of blonde without the hassle of maintaining it all over. It’s giving “I’m expensive” but chill.

Bold Dimension with Chunky Golden Fringe

Okay, here’s a head-turner. This hairstyle takes the theme of sun kissed highlights for brunettes this summer and uses it — with big, wavy hair and a bang that’s both retro and modern. The thick placement of the gold pieces adds a lot of movement and the different shades of gold look lovely over the dark background. This is not for wallflowers — it’s a statement.

If you want to keep the light colors cool, you’ll need to take extra care of your hair. Every 4–6 weeks, apply Kristin Ess Signature Hair Gloss in Winter Wheat to your hair to refresh your color without harming it.

I find that this style is both fun and a little bold. It’s similar to editorial shoots where the model looks so confident that no caption is needed. An all-black outfit will still make you the brightest person in the room when you wear this.

If you’re considering bangs but aren’t sure, this style is a safe way to see how they look.

High-Contrast Glam for the It-Girl Energy

Nothing makes a statement like contrast and this ensemble is full of it. The lightest parts of the hair are brightened, while the darker parts stay rich, creating a strong 90s vibe that’s now updated for highlights on brunettes in the summer of 2025. This style is bold: it’s meant for the girl who’s always on and knows how to pose. Thanks to the multi color effect, the phone looks more detailed and the selfies come out best when lit well.

Since the blonde color is brighter than the base, brass can easily start to appear. Apply a blue-based toning mask such as the Redken Color Extend Blondage Express Anti-Brass Mask, to your hair once a week. It cools down yellow and keeps things fresh.

I’ve tried something similar a few years ago and the compliments kept coming. It highlights your cheekbones, slims your face and makes you look like the cool girl who didn’t care but did. Think modern glam meets DIY confidence.

If you’re looking forward to spending your summer on rooftops or walking around the city in comfortable outfits — this is the one for you.

Choppy Bob with Ashy Silver-Laced Lights

This one’s for my short-hair lovers. I’m all for a bob with some depth and silver-ash lowlights. She has a city-girl look but it’s made more natural by the brightness around her face. Such delicate partial streaks are brilliant because they give the hairstyle form and structure without dominating it. A great option for anyone interested in highlights for brunettes short hair that can be worn any time of year.

You won’t have to fill your fridge with products to keep the meat fresh. I rely on Garnier Fructis Sleek Shot In-Shower Styler to make my cut smooth and defined with almost no work. Before using the flat iron, spray on some heat protectant and you’re all set.

I’m a sucker for hair that says “cool without trying,” and this one nails it. The slightly longer length means you don’t need to style it much which is what we all look for when things get busy in summer.

Also, you could easily change the color to suit fall hair by adjusting the tone just a bit. Keep that in mind for September refreshes!

Classic Straight Lob with Sun-Kissed Gloss

This look is the definition of understated elegance. A simple lob with layers that are all the same length and blonde highlights visible in a chocolate brown base. It’s simple, easy to wear and perfect for summer girls who like a polished look without hassle. Light is reflected just where it should be, mainly at the jawline and the ends, giving the face a soft but clear outline.

If you want this look, try Garnier Sleek & Shine Flat Iron Perfector, a lightweight straightening balm. It tames stray hairs and shields your locks from heat damage, all without leaving a residue — especially important when humidity is high.

I think this style is perfect for anyone just starting to use highlights on their brown hair to hide gray — it’s natural, stylish and very flattering.

Sometimes less is more, and this hair proves it.

Summer Glow Balayage with Dimensional Ribbons

Balayage that appears lit by the sun and styled with art is truly special. This way of styling hair does just that — by adding long layers with gentle highlights in golden ash tones. It’s a total mood for anyone dreaming of natural looking brightness that grows out seamlessly and never screams for a retouch. This is my favorite way to highlight straight brunette hair.

Surprisingly, upkeep for this color is easy — so it’s a great choice for those who like to keep things simple or for DIY types. Use Garnier Olia’s Color-Resist Gloss every other wash and add a UV leave-in if you’re outdoors a lot. The blend will thank you.

I really love this color for its effortlessness. It’s one of those looks that fits just as well in a sundress at a barbecue as it does with denim and hoops at a downtown hang. Looking good without the hassle — and that’s a great summer achievement.

If you like, you can make this your fall color too — just darken the base in September and you’re ready for fall.

Chunky Blonde Layers Made for Playful Energy

This is your sunshine in strands look. Soft waves have thick, golden blonde highlights that cover a base of soft dark hair. If you’re a brunette who wants a bold look this summer, this contrast uses highlights to make a statement but without the full-bleach effect. The face-framing layers are just what you need — they enhance your look without any streaks.

I always pick a mousse and a ceramic wave iron to keep my hair light and bouncy. Add Garnier Fructis Curl Construct Mousse to the mix and you’ll enjoy volume that’s bouncy and soft.

This is the style for the person who can always suggest a great brunch and plan an impromptu trip. It’s lighthearted, pretty and really enjoyable — and it has a touch of glamour.

Great with glasses, gloss, and a bold attitude.

Velvety Chocolate Caramel Blend with Loose Waves

Similar to chocolate with caramel swirls, this hairstyle gives you a creamy effect — a dark base, light ribbons in the middle and waves that fall softly. It’s not trying to be blonde. It’s trying to be rich. The style is most impressive because of its movement which looks best in summer light or during golden hour photos. If you’re looking for just a hint of caramel for your brunette hair, this is the product.

This works beautifully with smoothing creams and shine serums. Apply a small amount of Garnier Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum onto wet hair and with a wide-barrel curling wand, wave your hair to define and deepen your curls.

I find that the best way to use this color is on longer hair, so the ribbon effect stands out. So if you’re concerned about choosing a light shade, this blend proves you can still feel summery without lots of brightness.

Great for making the move from spring to summer hair and also for trying out a richer color before fall.

Layered Volume with Buttery Blonde Pop

This one brings the drama with grace. The cut is layered and the multi color highlights move from buttery gold to neutral blonde, all resting on a base that provides lots of body and lift. The cut allows the color to dance, so you see it differently every time you look at it. This is what sun kissed highlights for brunettes summer 2025 looks like at its best.

Use a volume spray and a round brush to blow dry your hair so it’s fluffy, not frizzy. I suggest using Garnier Root Amp Volumizing Spray Mousse to get volume without any sticky feeling.

It’s the kind of style you see in shampoo ads — relaxed, lively and easy to do. It’s easy to go from wearing it to a wedding to wearing it on a stroll in the park.

I think this style deserves the title of quiet luxury summer hair. Luxe, but not loud.

Toasted Caramel Striping for Sharp Movement

We’re finishing off with a strong wave — a sharp, clean cut and clear toasted caramel striping that adds depth to the hair. The highlights are just a few but strong, placed evenly so that the hair has a nice, smooth look. It’s bold without chaos, dimensional without being overdone. You get a shiny and stylish look right away — ideal for brunettes with gray hair who want their hair to look younger and more vibrant.

To maintain the sharp stripes, have the color refreshed every 8–10 weeks and don’t wash your hair too often. Dry shampoo is your best ally and Garnier Invisible Dry Shampoo with Rice Starch is a lightweight favorite.

A side part or tucking the hair behind one ear would make this style look great on medium to thick hair.

And if you don’t care for trends but still love beauty, this style is just right for you.

Golden Flicks with Effortless Flow

The movement of this hairstyle is what stands out — thick waves are dappled with highlights that sparkle like honey during golden hour. The layers are thick but feel light and the blonde highlights smoothly match the brunette underneath. It has a casual vibe, but it’s so subtle that people always notice it. If you want a natural summer glow with little effort, this style is perfect for you.

Because of the finely ribboned color, I’d recommend using Garnier Olia’s Nourishing Hair Gloss in Golden Honey once a month to maintain the tone and keep your hair soft. If you prefer air-drying, a diffuser and curl spray will help add movement to your hair.

There’s a cinematic softness here that I love. It looks sunkissed without needing a vacation. You can wear this style with a chunky knit in early fall or with a bikini in June and it would look just as good.

Sometimes you don’t need a full color transformation. You just need this.

Soft-Waved Brunette Bob with Flickering Dimension

A chin-length bob styled with dark waves and hints of caramel and blonde gives you a modern look that’s both stylish and wearable. The highlights are so subtle they seem like candlelight — ideal for brunettes who want to try highlights but don’t want to make a big change.

The secret to maintaining this style is to use a texturizing cream and I always have Garnier Fructis Smooth Air Dry Anti-Frizz Cream in my summer bag. It shapes the space loosely to give the color the main role.

A bob works for every face type by emphasizing the cheekbones and giving definition without looking too forced. The combination of low maintenance blonde and extra volume adds a lot of depth.

It’s playful, practical, and surprisingly cool-girl polished. Don’t skip this one.

Silky Straight Brunette with Ashy Glow

Here we see the queen of smooth hair — a center-parted brunette style with soft, ashy blonde highlights. It feels expensive, clean, and undeniably on-trend. If you like polished hair but want a little bit of summer sun for brunettes in 2025, this is for you.

Flat irons and shine sprays will make your hair look great. I always use Garnier Sleek & Shine Flat Iron Perfector, as it leaves my hair shiny without harming the color.

This look screams dinner-date-ready with barely any effort. It’s timeless, modern, and ideal if you’re into DIY upkeep without salon-level panic.

Not every summer style needs to be beachy. A quiet, confident and strong glow-up can be the most beautiful.

Dimensional Blonde Streaks with Voluminous Shape

This look is all about shape and streaks. The main brunette color is brought to life by adding voluminous waves and dimensional multi color blonde ribbons. It brings out that summer blonde feeling, but it’s also something you can wear every day. You know there are days when you just want to leave your hair alone, yet you still want to look put together? This is that.

I always spray a bit of Garnier Curl Renew Reactivating Milk Spray to keep my curls or waves bouncy and toned and it helps my color stay vibrant.

It can be worn to a festival, on a date or even when you’re getting glam for a Zoom call. I also believe it’s a great way to move into spring by adding a soft caramel highlight later.

It’s one of my absolute faves from the season.

Classic Contrast Lob for Summer Statement

The contrast is bold, but it’s placed well — this lob has blonde streaks close to the face, mixed into soft waves that stop just below the shoulders. It’s sleek but not stiff, bold but still subtle. This is perfect for people who like a bold part, some attitude and a hint of shine that’s on trend.

Matte makeup goes perfectly with this look, as do neutral colors. I’ve been using Garnier Nutrisse Color Reviver in Cool Blonde to prevent the front of my hair from getting brassy.

If you pick the right spot and shade, this idea is a great way for brunettes to hide gray.

It’s clean, modern, and totally wearable even when you’re two weeks overdue for a salon visit. That’s magic.

Bronzed Mid-Length Layers with Seamless Highlights

The rich mocha brown fades into soft bronzed caramel in this mid-length cut which relies on balance. Soft highlights are carefully placed to make every side of the wave look better. This really is what natural highlights look like for brunettes. Low drama, high payoff.

You can wear your hair this way with a middle part or by flipping it for a bigger look. Keep your hair looking shiny by using a conditioner that protects your color. I suggest trying Garnier Whole Blends Honey Treasures Conditioner as it helps your hair stay soft and doesn’t fade your color.

I often hear compliments when I wear this color — it highlights your features without making you look overdone. You should choose this if you’re not sure about light colors, but still want to dress for the season.

If you’ve been hoping for a sign — this is it.

Cool Blonde Strands with Soft Curl Definition

The contrast here is clear — ash blonde hair is layered over deep espresso and a bit of curling highlights its shine and depth. The layers are subtle, but the definition is clear. This is for anyone who wants sun kissed highlights for brunettes in summer 2025, but with a cool added touch.

Since brass is something you want to avoid, a purple leave-in like Garnier’s Blonde Care Anti-Brass Milk should be applied once a week. Just enough to maintain the tone without drying.

You can see this style at beach brunches and on rooftops these days. It’s trendy, looks great and is perfect for olive or neutral skin.

A modern-day bombshell move without the effort. Need I say more?