Party hairstyles play a crucial role in completing your overall look for any event. These styles add both style and confidence.
Whether it’s a formal gala, a casual birthday party, or a themed holiday celebration, the right hairstyle can enhance your appearance and complement your outfit.
Choosing the perfect party hairstyle involves considering key factors like your hair type (straight, wavy, or curly), the event type (formal or casual), and your personal style.
Several accessories like hair ribbons and bows can be added to ponytails and buns to elevate your style.
A well-chosen hairstyle not only reflects your personality but also ensures you feel comfortable and confident throughout the event.
Let’s discuss some of the best party hairstyles for women in this article:
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1. Classic Curls
Classic curls offer timeless elegance that is ideal for formal events like weddings or proms.
You can use a curling iron or heated rollers to create voluminous curls that work best on medium to long hair.
This style suits wavy or straight textures and can be enhanced with hairspray for all-night hold. I’d suggest adding accessories like sparkling hairpins or floral crowns for a personalized touch.
This hairstyle is perfect for all seasons. It’s a versatile look that adapts easily to various events, whether it’s a cocktail party or a night out.
2. Sleek Straight Hair
Sleek straight hair is a polished, elegant style for women attending formal occasions such as galas and corporate events.
It is best suited for long and straight hair. This look can be achieved using a straightener and smoothing serum for shine. Add heat protectant to prevent damage.
Sleek styles complement winter weddings and are often paired with accessories like hairpins or headbands for an added touch of glam.
You should use hairspray to maintain the sleekness. This hairstyle pairs well with a cocktail dress or formal gown.
3. Messy Bun
The messy bun is a casual yet chic hairstyle that is perfect for relaxed gatherings like birthday parties or informal holiday events.
It works well on medium to long hair, whether straight, wavy, or curly. Create this look by gathering your hair loosely at the crown and securing it with pins or a band.
Add texture with a volumizing mousse, and pull out a few strands to frame the face for a soft and effortless vibe.
This style suits summer and spring parties. I’d recommend pairing it with floral accessories to elevate the look.
4. High Ponytail
This ponytail hairstyle blends elegance and ease, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
This style is achieved by gathering the hair high on the crown and securing it tightly. It is suitable for long, straight, or wavy hair.
You can use a straightener for a smooth finish or add curls for texture. Hair products like mousse and hairspray ensure a lasting hold.
Furthermore, adorn with hairpins or a sparkling headband for added flair. It’s a versatile option for a night out or a summer cocktail party.
5. Chignon
This hairstyle exudes classic sophistication that makes it ideal for formal events such as weddings, galas, or evening parties.
This updo suits medium to long hair, especially straight or wavy textures. Secure the hair in a low bun at the nape of the neck, using pins for a smooth and elegant finish.
Add hair gel or mousse for hold and shine. You can accessorize with flowers or jeweled clips for added glamor.
This look is perfect for winter and autumn parties as it offers a refined silhouette for any occasion.
6. Fishtail Braid
This braid hairstyle is a trendy yet elegant choice for both casual and formal occasions. It suits women with long hair, whether straight or wavy, and adds texture with its intricate pattern.
You can achieve this look by braiding small sections of hair from both sides and securing it at the bottom.
Use hairspray for hold, and accessorize with delicate clips or flowers for a soft and romantic touch.
The fishtail braid can be dressed up or down depending on the event. It is ideal for spring or summer weddings and beach parties.
7. Half-Up, Half-Down with Curls
This hairstyle is the perfect blend of sophistication and ease, making it ideal for casual or formal events.
It is best for medium to long hair with wavy or curly textures. This style involves curling the lower half of the hair and pinning the top section back.
I’d recommend using a curling iron and heat protectant to create defined curls, and finish with hairspray for hold.
You can add a floral headband or jeweled hairpins to elevate the look for spring and summer weddings or outdoor parties.
8. Dutch Braid Crown
The Dutch braid crown offers a whimsical and fairy-tale look. It is perfect for outdoor weddings, themed parties, or summer festivals.
This hairstyle works best on medium to long hair, with wavy or curly textures. Braid each side of your hair and pin them around the crown of your head, using clips or pins to secure them.
I suggest adding a floral accessory or a delicate headband for added charm. Use hairspray or mousse to hold the braid in place and ensure that it lasts through your event.
9. Low Knot Bun
The low knot bun is a simple yet elegant updo that is ideal for formal events like galas, corporate dinners, or weddings.
Suitable for medium to long, straight, or wavy hair, this look involves twisting the hair into a knot at the nape and securing it with bobby pins.
You can use gel for a smooth finish, and hairspray to maintain the style. A subtle accessory, like a jeweled clip or a flower, can add sophistication.
This style pairs well with a formal gown and is suitable for any season.
10. Loose Waves
Loose waves provide a soft and romantic look, making them perfect for casual events like brunches, birthdays, or beach parties.
This style works on medium to long hair, especially wavy or curly textures. Use a curling iron to create gentle waves. Apply a texturizing spray for volume and movement.
Finish with hairspray to maintain the waves. Hairpins or headbands can enhance the look and make it suitable for spring or summer parties.
It’s a go-to style for relaxed yet stylish gatherings.
11. Finger Waves
This hairstyle brings a retro vibe that is perfect for women at formal, vintage-themed events like cocktail parties or galas.
This style works well on short hair with straight or wavy textures. You can create defined waves using styling gel and a fine-tooth comb. Then, set the look with hairspray for an all-day hold.
Finger waves pair beautifully with bold makeup and sparkling accessories like jeweled clips or headbands. They are ideal for winter or autumn events and offer a glamorous 1920s-inspired aesthetic.
12. Pixie Cut with Hairpins
A pixie cut adorned with sparkling hairpins offers a chic and edgy look that is perfect for cocktail parties or evening events.
This hairstyle works best on short, straight, or wavy hair. Use texturizing mousse or gel to define the layers and create volume.
I’d suggest finishing the look with bold, statement hairpins or clips for added sophistication. This low-maintenance style is ideal for casual or semi-formal occasions. It is versatile for both summer and winter parties.
13. Side-Swept Curls
Side-swept curls add a touch of drama and glamor to any party. They are ideal for formal occasions such as weddings or galas.
Best suited for long, wavy, or curly hair, this style involves curling the hair and sweeping it to one side.
Use a curling iron and heat protectant, then secure the curls with pins. Finish with hairspray for hold.
You can also add a jeweled clip or flowers for an elegant finish. This look is perfect for winter or autumn events.
14. Crown Braids
This hairstyle creates a regal and romantic look that is ideal for outdoor parties, weddings, or themed events.
This style works well on medium to long hair, particularly wavy or curly textures. Braid each side of your hair and pin them across the crown of your head to create the appearance of a crown.
Use mousse for volume and hairspray to hold the style in place. On my suggestion, accessorize with flowers or delicate hairpins for a touch of elegance.
Crown braids are a great choice for spring or summer parties.
15. Textured Ponytail with Braids
This hairstyle adds an edgy twist to the classic ponytail by incorporating small braids. This look works best on medium to long hair with straight or wavy textures.
Braid a few small sections before tying the hair into a high or low ponytail. Use a texturizing spray to enhance volume and finish with hairspray for hold.
Perfect for casual or themed parties, this versatile braided ponytail hairstyle is ideal for summer events, outdoor concerts, or casual holiday parties.
16. Voluminous High Bun
The voluminous high bun exudes elegance and sophistication. It is perfect for formal events like galas or weddings.
This trendy updo suits long, straight, or wavy hair. You can use volumizing powder or mousse to create lift at the crown, and secure the bun with pins. Finish with hairspray for a long-lasting hold.
I’d suggest adorning the bun with a floral headband or jeweled clips for added flair. This style works well for autumn or winter events. It offers a polished look that pairs well with formal gowns.
17. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid offers a soft, romantic style, ideal for outdoor or beach parties. This hairstyle works best for women with medium to long, straight, or wavy hair.
Create cascading sections by braiding the hair while allowing some strands to fall freely, resembling a waterfall.
Use hairspray to maintain the braid, and accessorize with floral clips or crowns for a spring or summer look.
This style is perfect for garden parties, weddings, or casual gatherings as it offers a whimsical touch to any outfit.
18. Sleek Low Ponytail
A sleek low ponytail offers a modern and sophisticated look that is perfect for formal events like corporate parties or black-tie weddings.
This hairstyle works best on long, straight, or wavy hair. Use a straightener for smoothness and an anti-frizz serum for shine.
Secure the ponytail at the nape of the neck and finish with hairspray for hold. You can add a sparkling hairpin or a bold accessory to enhance the look.
It’s a great choice for winter or autumn events, as it pairs well with elegant gowns.
19. Tousled Half-Up Top Knot
This playful style combines the ease of a top knot with the casual charm of loose waves. It is perfect for informal parties or outdoor events.
It is suitable for medium to long, wavy, or curly hair. This look is achieved by gathering the top section of your hair into a knot while leaving the rest down.
You can use a curling iron to create waves, and finish with texturizing spray for volume. I’d suggest accessorizing with hairpins or floral clips for a spring or summer party.
20. Retro Beehive
The retro beehive offers a bold and high-volume look that is perfect for themed or formal events. This hairstyle suits medium to long hair with straight or wavy textures.
Tease the crown of your hair to create height, then smooth it into a beehive shape and secure it with pins.
Use hairspray to maintain the volume, and finish with a headband or jeweled clips for added drama. This style is perfect for winter or autumn parties, especially those with a vintage theme.
DIY vs Professional Styling: Which is Best?
Opting for a professional stylist is ideal for formal events like weddings, galas, or proms where intricate hairstyles like updos, chignons, and complex braids are required.
A stylist ensures precision, long-lasting hold, and access to professional-grade tools such as ceramic straighteners, professional curling irons, and high-quality styling products.
DIY styling is perfect for casual parties, birthdays, or holiday events where a less formal, yet stylish look suffices.
Always finish DIY looks with hairspray to ensure they last throughout the event, and heat protectants to avoid damage if using styling tools.
Maintenance Tips for Party Hairstyles
- Maintaining your party hairstyle throughout the event depends largely on the right use of products.
- Hairsprays provide a firm hold, especially for intricate styles like updos or braids, ensuring they last longer.
- Mousse or volumizing sprays add body and texture, making styles like loose curls or waves appear fuller.
- For sleek styles, serums and gels help manage frizz and add shine. Always apply a heat protectant before using tools like curling irons or straighteners to prevent hair damage.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep your hairstyle in place without making it look stiff.
- To ensure your hairstyle lasts throughout a long event, start with clean, dry hair and use long-lasting styling products.
- For curled or wavy hairstyles, let the curls cool completely before applying hairspray, as this helps them set properly. Use bobby pins and clips to secure any loose sections.
- For an added touch of durability, use hairpins with hair elastics for ponytails or buns. Avoid touching or adjusting your hair too frequently, as this can loosen the style.
Conclusion
Whether you’re attending a formal gala, casual gathering, or themed event, choosing the right party hairstyle can elevate your overall look.
Whether opting for a DIY hairstyle or consulting a professional stylist, the right products and techniques ensure your style lasts throughout the event.
Keep your look fresh and chic by using accessories like hairpins or headbands, and always secure your hairstyle with the right hairsprays and styling tools for a polished finish.
FAQs
1. What is the best hairstyle for a formal event?
For formal events like weddings or galas, classic styles like chignons, sleek straight hair, or side-swept curls are perfect. These styles exude sophistication and can be paired with accessories like jeweled clips or headbands.
2. How do I make my party hairstyle last all night?
Use long-lasting styling products like mousse, volumizing spray, and hairspray. Secure the style with bobby pins or clips, and avoid touching your hair frequently to maintain the look.
3. Can I achieve professional-looking hairstyles at home?
Yes, with the right tools like a curling iron, straightener, and products such as heat protectants and hairspray, you can create professional-quality styles at home for casual or semi-formal events.
