Choosing a party hairstyle is like choosing a party outfit. There are so many different kinds of parties, it’s hard to find something that fits you and the occasion.
But luckily, you’ve come here for inspiration. We’ve got all the confidence-boosting hairstyles that’ll let you walk into any occasion with your head held high. Whether you’ve got pin-straight hair or tight curls, a short crop or long locks, there’s something to suit every hair type and style for something that’ll turn heads!
Are you ready to be the it girl at the party? Check out our list of 40 gorgeous party hairstyles for all hair types!
#1. Twisted Crown Updo
Looking for something regal and refined? Go for a twisted updo crown! This simple style instantly elevates hair type, as long as you’ve got some length, featuring a voluminous twist that wraps around your head like a crown and then twirls into a low bun. Make sure this style stays in place by pinning it down and using hairspray.
#2. Sleek Side Swept Waves
Sleek side-swept waves are the epitome of classic glam. These old Hollywood-inspired waves are full-bodied with elegant movement and a clean and polished finish that looks good at any party, with any outfit, and on medium to long straight (or straightened) hair. Get these waves with a large-barreled wand or even a flat iron. You can brush them out for a softer look. Then, hit it with a shine serum or finishing spray for that sleek look.
#3. Bohemian Halo Braid
Bring your style to a higher place with a Bohemian halo braid! This look is ideal for any outdoor event, keeping shoulder-length (and longer) hair up and off your neck in the summer heat while looking effortlessly fabulous. Get this divine style by using the inverted braiding technique, moving around your head and down to the back, and pinning it into a low knot bun. Use texturizing spray before braiding to get that extra-Boho beachy texture.
#4. Cascading Waterfall Braid
If you’re looking for a stunning party hairstyle with all those fairytale princess vibes, you’ve got to go for a cascading waterfall braid. This intricate braid goes across the front and to the side, flowing down to the back, which means it’s best on long hair, especially waves or curls, to enhance that cascading look. You can add flowers, gems, or other fancy hair pieces to give it that magical finishing touch.
#5. High-Gloss Slicked-Back Straight Hair
Are you all about those sleek and edgy looks? Go for a high-gloss slicked-back style on straight hair! This modern party hairstyle is perfect for any hair length to give you a striking look for a nighttime party or even just a girl’s night out. All you need to do is comb all your hair back using strong-hold gel, letting the back fall free or tying it into a bun or ponytail. Finish it off with some shine serum for that high-gloss look. You can even bring an exotic vibe to this look by pairing it with a sultry smokey eye or another dramatic makeup look.
#6. Romantic Side Fishtail Braid
A romantic side fishtail braid is a cute, soft look perfect for a day out, like a casual spring or summer party. This enchanting party style features a long fishtail braid that looks a lot more intricate than it actually is and is incredibly versatile. You can curl your hair to give the braid a more whimsical and feminine look, keep it sleek and tight for something more polished and modern, or loosen the braid and use some sea salt spray for a beachy aesthetic.
#7. Half-Up Half-Down Curls
Nothing is as effortlessly elegant as curls in a half-up style. This is a super-easy style for any hair type that’s shoulder-length or longer. Put half of your curls up, leaving the rest down. This look blends with any party scene, from formal to casual. You can dress it up with a fancy hairpin or an intricate half updo, or dress it down with just a normal clip for a more laidback look.
#8. Elegant Low Chignon
An elegant low chignon is a classic party hairstyle for more formal occasions. This sleek, sophisticated twisted bun pairs exceptionally well with high-necked tops and dresses. Gather your hair into two ponytails, securing them at the root and ends. Then, tuck and roll the ends, crossing over and securing them to a section behind the other ponytail. Do the same for the other side, and you’ll have an elegant low chignon!
#9. Old Hollywood Curls
Want those retro red carpet vibes? Go for old Hollywood curls! These soft vintage curls are best on medium to long hair of any density, bringing tons of volume and movement for all those old-school glam vibes, especially in a deep side part. All you need to do is curl your hair with a large curling wand, making sure to curl it inward, and then brush it out to create softer curls.
#10. Playful Double-Dutch Braids
Playful double-double douch braids, put the fun back in functionality! These cheeky inverted braids keep your hair out of your face and off your neck during the hotter months when longer hair can be–let’s face it—annoying, making them perfect for casual daytime events. Even better, you won’t need to worry about this party hairstyle being ruined by humidity! And, when you take the braids out, you’ll have some beautiful beachy waves.
#11. Chic High Bun with Wisps
Nothing is as elegant and effortless as a chic high bun, especially with some face-framing wisps. This easy bun is great for any kind of event, formal or casual, and you can dress it up or down to match the occasion. All you have to do is gather all of your hair at the top of your head, twist it into a high bun, and pin it in place. Pull out a few wispy ends, and you’re all set!
#12. Retro Pin-Up Style
Love that vintage 40s look? Go for a retro pin-up style with pin curls and victory rolls. This style is a beautiful hairstyle for a themed party or whenever you want to add a vintage touch to your look. The best way to get these curls is with rollers, while the victory rolls can be made by wrapping sections of hair around your fingers and securing them with bobby pins.
#13. Messy Beach Waves
Messy beach waves are the quintessential summer look, no matter where you’re going or what you’re doing, from a day at the beach to a night out. Everyone can get some of these effortlessly chic party hairstyles, from short to long hair. All you need is a regular-sized curling wand, iron, and sea salt spray for that extra coastal texture.
#14. Sleek Middle Part Low Ponytail
If you’re looking for something clean and polished, there’s nothing better than a sleek, middle-parted low ponytail. This look is highly versatile, meaning you can wear it for a casual daytime event or something more formal at night. It all works! Part your hair in the middle with a fine-tooth comb, pull back to the nape of your neck, and secure everything in a ponytail. You can also use gel to help you hold all your hair back, tame flyaways, and really get that sleek look.
#15. Flirty Pony with Braided Detail
Want something chic and playful? Go for a flirty ponytail with braided detail! This is a cute and creative twist on the classic ponytail for long hair. It’s great for casual or semi-formal occasions, especially summer outdoor parties. All you’ve got to do is braid a side section of your hair back, wrapping the end of it around the base of your ponytail.
#16. Edgy Faux Hawk Braid
Feeling bold? Go for an edgy faux hawk braid. This long style is the perfect look to get all those grunge rocker meets warrior-woman vibe, making it an absolutely excellent choice for a concert or even a daytime sporting event. All you have to do is use the inverted braiding technique to braid your hair’s mohawk section into a fauxhawk-inspired shape. You can pin the side of your hair back or get an undercut to get an even edgier look.
#17. Glamorous Gatsby Waves
Got a formal event you want to drop jaws at? You need a throwback party hairstyle like glamorous Gatsby waves. This medium-length look is the epitome of vintage elegance and looks stunning with any formal outfit for that ultimate glam look. All you need is a small barreld curling iron to create tight, highly-defined curls. Then, brush them out to make waves, setting with a strong-hold hairspray.
#18. Boho Braided Crown with Flowers
A boho braided brown with flowers is the go-to cottagecore party hairstyle for medium to long hair. This whimsical, nature-inspired look is perfect for a festival, wedding, or garden party. The braid brings that delicate Boho-inspired look, with the flowers giving it that romantic flair. Get this look by creating a crown braid. You can use texturizing spray and loosen the braid for that true Boho style. Then, weave flowers into the braids for that romantic, ethereal charm.
#19. Twisted Side Bun
Need something casual but still has all that chic sophistication? Go for a twisted side bun! This is an extremely versatile style. You can curl it for something more formal or loosen it up for a more relaxed, everyday look. All you have to do is gather your hair to the side and twist it into a bun, pinning it just behind the ear. Pull out a few loose strands to frame your face. You can even add a braid for a little extra something.
#20. Tousled Low Pony with Braids
Looking for something effortlessly trendy? You need a tousled low pony with braids. This is an excellent laidback yet stylish look for medium to long hair, ideal for outdoor events, like beach parties, barbeques, or even a Boho-themed event. The best part? It’s extremely easy. All you need to do is put your hair into a low pony, giving the look a few braided accents. You can even put it into a bun, leaving a braided pony hanging down for something unique. Loosen the braids and tousle the ponytail for that stylishly undone look.
#21. Sleek Top Knot
A sleek top knot is modern, elegant, and extremely easy to do if you’re in a pinch for time. This look is great for formal occasions or as a chic and polished way to keep your hair up during a summertime outdoor event. Use gel and a fine-tooth comb to pull all your hair back into a tight top knot bun, securing it with a tiny elastic and hairpins. Use some shine spray for that extra sleek look.
#22. Whimsical Butterfly Braid
Need something light, airy, with a bit of fairytale flair? You need a whimsical butterfly braid. This look is practically made to enchant medium and long hair with a whimsical style for baby or bridal showers, garden parties, weddings, and other outdoor events. The butterfly braid weaves under and over all strands for a more intricate look than traditional braids. Lightly pancake the braids for a looser look that resembles butterfly wings, and add some butterfly pins and clips.
#23. Luscious Layered Curls
Luscious layered curls instantly level up any look for all kinds of occasions, formal, casual, and everything in between. The layers give volume and the perfect base for curls to really shine. You can get this glossy glam look by using a hydrating curl definer on your natural curls or by using a regular-sized curling iron or wand for those really bouncy high-definition curls. Finish with shine spray for that extra luscious aesthetic.
#24. Soft Braided Updo
If you’re looking for a simple updo that’s equal parts graceful and glamorous, you’ve got to try a soft braided updo! This is a flawless formal party hairstyle for weddings, dinner parties, or dances. Create a braid across the top of your head and to the side, and continue the braid all the way down. Then, loosen it for volume and pin it into a bun updo at the nape of your neck. You can also do two braids that connect at the back for a more symmetrical look.
#25. Classic French Roll
A classic French roll is timeless, tasteful, and always trendy. This is a great clean, polished party hairstyle for long, straight hair. All you’ve got to do is bring your hair back into a neat ponytail and create a classic French roll and pinning in place.
#26. Regal Crown Braid
Be the star of the show with a regal crown braid. This marvellous formal style for long hair blends into any party, formal or casual. And, even better than its elegant charm, this braid is super-easy. All you need to do is create two braids resembling a crown and connect them at the back. If your hair is long enough, you can crisscross it and re-wrap it around your head for a more intricate look.
#27. Textured Side Braid
Get an effortless summer-ready party hairstyle for medium to long hair with the textured side braid. This laidback and beachy-inspired braid is ideal for casual daytime events, like going out to a fair, a day at the beach, or a sports game. Use a sea salt spray for that textured base, and braid your hair to the side. You can pancake the braid to loosen it for a more laidback Boho-inspired look.
#28. Shimmering Loose Waves
Shimmering loose waves are an instant boost for straight hair shoulder-length and longer, giving your look a dose of soft glam. The best part about this style is that it looks fantastic anytime, anywhere, and with any outfit. All you need is a large curling iron or wand to create soft, flowy, loose waves. Then, use a shine spray or hair glitter for that shimmering finish.
#29. Intricate Braided Mohawk
If you’re looking for an edgy and outstanding style for your short hair, you’ve got to go for an intricately braided mohawk! This is the ideal nighttime party hairstyle for short, curly, straight, thick, or thin hair. All you need to do is create two braids at the side of your hair, either leaving your short mohawk section out or, if you can, creating a larger braid in the middle for those Viking vibes.
#30. Asymmetrical Bob with Waves
The asymmetrical bob with waves is a perfect blend of classic and modern, with a side of playful vibes, perfect for any summertime occasion, casual or formal. The asymmetrical bob is the perfect contemporary base for a chic look, softened by the waves for that tasteful and timeless flair.
#31. Romantic Rose-Accented Twisted Bun
Go for a romantic rose-accent twisted bun for a dreamy and sophisticated style for a date night, dinner party, wedding, or any semi-formal or formal event. This bun is elegant and flirtatious but an easy updo you can do in seconds if you’re running low on time. All you have to do is pull your hair back into a ponytail and twist it into a bun, pinning it in place. Loosen the bun slightly to create more volume and a rose shape. Finally, add a rose to give it that romantic finishing touch.
#32. Voluminous Bubble Ponytail
Want something simple and stylish? Go for a voluminous bubble ponytail! This is a chic casual party hairstyle for long hair that you can wear to almost any informal summertime event. For this playful pony, style your hair into a high pony and create bubbles with tiny elastics, loosening wherever needed for more volume.
#33. Classic Beehive
Go for a classic beehive, and get all 60s style with high volume and a whole lot of vintage glamour. This high-profile hairstyle is perfect for retro-themed parties and formal events. Get this look by creating a bouffant by backcombing all of your hair and shaping it into a beehive at the crown. Smooth the outer edges a bit so it’s not so messy, and then style your front layer the same way, but swoop it to the side for an extra elegant touch.
#34. Simple Sleek Bob
The simple, sleek bob is all things chic and sophisticated. But even better, this look creates a pristine and polished look you can wear anywhere and with anything. Straighten this haircut for that extra sleek look. Easy elegance? Yes, please!
#35. Chunky Fishtail Braid
If you’re looking for a more whimsical twist on Boho-chic, you need to try a chunky fishtail braid. This chunkier braid is perfect for a beach day, summer barbeque, and just about any other daytime occasion. Just create a regular fishtail braid, using chunker-than-normal pieces for a more voluminous and elegant look.
#36. Edgy Undercut with Top Knot
Got a concert or nighttime party to go to? Rock an edgy undercut with a top knot bun! This look has everything: the bold and grungy undercut and the tasteful top knot. All you have to do is style your short or medium hair in a top knot bun and give yourself an undercut for that perfect blend of edgy and elegant.
#37. Elegant Low Side Bun
An elegant low side bun is classicly refined and easy as pie! It’s the perfect quick style to dress up medium-to-long hair of any texture. Pull all your hair back, part from the middle, or from the side–however you like. Then, twist it and pin it into a low bun. Simple and sophisticated, it’s the best pairing for any formal event, like a wedding, dinner party, or even date night.
#38. Twisted Halo Braid
Looking for a heavenly party hairstyle for your long hair? Go for an angelic twisted halo braid! This graceful braided updo is great for any occasion, from a day out at a festival to a wedding. Create a halo braid, twisting it along the way for added intricacy that gives this look an elegant and ethereal charm. You can also pull out a few wispy ends for extra something.
#39. Bold Pixie Cut with Styled Bangs
Got a hot date or a fancy nighttime event? Wow ’em with something daring and dazzling, like a bold pixie cut with styled bangs! The bold pixie is all things confident in chic, which is perfect for any occasion to give you and your look a much-needed boost! Plus, it looks great with a sleek, curly, or textured finish. Whatever suits your style, girly!
#40. Flowing Mermaid Waves
Flowing mermaid waves can instantly amplify any look with volume, drama, and all those sultry siren vibes. This versatile style blends into any occasion, bringing instant glam vibes wherever you go. All you need is a large curling wand and some sea salt spray for that super under-the-sea look.