Whether you’re attending a wedding reception, birthday bash, holiday soirée, or cocktail event, one thing’s certain: your hairstyle should match your sparkle. Party hairstyles are all about making a statement while staying practical enough to last all night.
In this guide, we’ll explore show-stopping hairstyles for parties, each one carefully chosen to flatter different hair types, lengths, and themes — and each one detailed enough to try at home or take to your stylist.
1. Hollywood Waves
Old-Hollywood glam never goes out of style. These soft, polished waves add instant sophistication and elegance to your party look.
Why It Works:
Hollywood waves are perfect for medium to long hair and flatter all face shapes. The look is timeless, romantic, and works with gowns, cocktail dresses, or even tailored jumpsuits.
How to Get the Look:
- Start with clean, dry hair and apply a heat protectant.
- Use a 1 to 1.25-inch curling iron to curl hair in the same direction on each side.
- Pin each curl with a clip and allow to cool completely.
- Remove pins and brush through the curls gently with a paddle or boar-bristle brush to shape them into waves.
- Set with a light shine spray and firm hold hairspray.
- Tuck one side behind the ear for that classic red carpet finish.
Variations:
- Side part for vintage glam
- Middle part for a modern twist
- Add a sparkly hair clip or comb for extra glam
Best For:
- Straight or wavy hair
- Medium to long lengths
- Formal or semi-formal parties
2. Voluminous High Ponytail
A high ponytail doesn’t have to be basic. When styled right, it’s bold, bouncy, and fierce — perfect for dance floors and all-night events.
Why It Works:
It’s youthful, edgy, and instantly lifts the face. Plus, it keeps hair out of your way — ideal for energetic events like birthday parties or club nights.
How to Get the Look:
- Add volumizing mousse or texture spray to roots.
- Flip your head and gather hair high at the crown.
- Secure tightly with a hair tie.
- Wrap a small strand of hair around the base to hide the elastic and pin it in place.
- Use a curling wand to add waves or curls to the ponytail for extra bounce.
- Finish with shine serum and a light mist of hairspray.
Variations:
- Bubble ponytail with elastic ties
- Curled ends for a glam finish
- Slicked sides for a sleek look
Best For:
- Medium to long hair
- Naturally thick or styled with extensions
- Modern parties, birthdays, rooftop events
3. Elegant Low Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
Chic, easy, and effortlessly elegant, the low bun is a go-to for classy gatherings.
Why It Works:
It’s refined but not boring, and it works on almost every hair type. Whether you’re going to a formal dinner party or a wedding reception, a low bun always looks intentional and put together.
How to Get the Look:
- Part your hair down the center or slightly to the side.
- Leave out 1–2-inch face-framing sections.
- Brush the rest of your hair into a low ponytail at the nape.
- Twist into a bun and secure with bobby pins.
- Use a curling wand to curl the front pieces away from your face.
- Set with light hairspray and add a jeweled hairpin for sparkle.
Variations:
- Sleek low bun with no loose pieces
- Messy textured bun for a soft romantic look
- Side bun for asymmetrical elegance
Best For:
- All hair lengths (even short with extensions)
- Straight, wavy, or slightly curly textures
- Elegant parties, weddings, galas
4. Half-Up Twisted Crown
Boho meets glam in this half-updo that frames your face beautifully while showing off your length.
Why It Works:
It’s youthful, playful, and gives you the best of both worlds: your hair is styled yet still flowing. It works great with curl, wave, or braid textures and is perfect for themed parties or garden events.
How to Get the Look:
- Curl your hair in loose waves using a large curling wand.
- Take a 1-inch section from each side of your head, just above your ears.
- Twist each section back and pin them at the center back of your head to create a crown shape.
- Overlap them slightly or braid one side for more texture.
- Tug gently at the twists to create volume and fullness.
- Finish with a floral pin or pearl clip for a romantic touch.
Variations:
- Add a waterfall braid or fishtail braid
- Twist only one side and clip for an asymmetrical look
- Incorporate ribbon or metallic thread
Best For:
- Medium to long hair
- Wavy or curled textures
- Garden parties, outdoor events, bridal showers
5. Glamorous Slicked-Back Wet Look
The runway-inspired wet look is daring, sexy, and surprisingly wearable for night events.
Why It Works:
It adds instant edge and confidence. If you’re wearing a bold outfit, open neckline, or statement earrings, this sleek style lets them shine.
How to Get the Look:
- Start with clean or second-day hair.
- Apply a generous amount of gel or pomade starting from the roots to mid-length.
- Use a fine-tooth comb to slick hair back tightly toward your crown or behind the ears.
- Optional: Clip the sides with pins and leave the length straight or softly waved.
- Finish with high-shine serum or gloss spray for that wet finish.
Variations:
- Slicked-back ponytail
- Tucked behind one ear with a bold earring
- Slicked half-up, half-down for added drama
Best For:
- Medium to long hair
- Straight or wavy textures
- Cocktail parties, fashion events, red carpet-inspired nights
🎉 Party Hair Care & Prep Tips
To make any of these hairstyles pop and last all night:
- Start with clean hair: Use a clarifying shampoo and a lightweight conditioner
- Add volume: Apply mousse at the roots or blow-dry upside down for lift
- Protect from heat: Always use a heat protectant before styling tools
- Shine it up: Finish with a gloss spray or shine serum for that luxe finish
- Secure with strong hold: Use pins, clips, and hair ties designed to last all night
🧠 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Party Hairstyle
When picking your party hairstyle, consider:
- Your hair length and texture
- The vibe of the party (elegant, wild, themed, casual)
- Your outfit’s neckline and jewelry
- How much time you have to prep or style
The goal is to choose a look that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and ready to celebrate — whether that’s with sleek sophistication or messy-chic boho flair.