Special occasions call for special hairstyles. Whether it’s a wedding, prom night, or a fantastic party, you want to look your absolute best, and your hair plays a big part in that. But don’t stress – we’ve got some fantastic hairstyles for special occasions that are easy to rock. From elegant updos to flowing curls, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll share some easy special occasion hairstyles for those who prefer simplicity. So, let’s dive into the world of beautiful hairdos that’ll make you the star of the show!
Wedding Wonders: Hairstyles for the Bride
1. Classic Updo
Opt for an elegant wedding updo for maximum impact while walking down the aisle. This timeless look is gorgeous whether worn casually with jeans or in concert with sophisticated ball gowns.
Details make all the difference for an elegant bridal updo. Adding small beads, hair accessories, or flowers can transform an ordinary updo into something truly stunning. Plus, these extra touches will keep your veil or floral crown secure in its place!
You can add an air of romance and boho chic to your bridal updo by leaving some hair strands hanging loose, perfect for brides who wish to feel more feminine and bohemian on their big day. Ensure your stylist understands how to pin it up so the loose strands remain natural-looking on your big day!
Though brides-to-be may be tempted to wear their hair loose on their wedding day, an updo may be more suitable if you have long locks. An updo allows brides with longer locks to tuck away loose strands more easily while still looking amazing. Also, it elongates the neck while drawing attention to your face and shoulders.
The updo may require professional assistance as it requires numerous twisting and pinning steps – however, the result makes all that hard work worthwhile! With its striking silhouette and versatility, this look will turn heads wherever it goes – especially if accented with flowers or a halo hairpiece!
2. Romantic Waves
Suppose you’re searching for a bridal hairstyle that exudes romance without being too formal or structured. In that case, the romantic waves are an effortless, relaxed style that looks beautiful, especially on brides with naturally curly locks! Add a tiara, crown, or some flowers pinned sideways as a gorgeous hairpiece for added glamor!
This romantic hairstyle looks enchanting when worn with a tulle skirt or gown. The softness provided by loose tendrils flowing around the face adds softness as they play up the movement of the dress as it travels down the aisle. Large barrel curls twisting away from the front make a wonderful accent to any fun-loving bride’s wedding look, perfectly complementing her pearl and diamond headpiece and making her a vision of elegance on her special day.
The romantic wave style can easily adapt to any hair length, from long to medium or short. You need healthy and hydrated strands from the outset to achieve it. To create this style successfully, it’s also beneficial to work with a stylist with experience in making it so they can help you create volume-enhancing texture for a special event like your wedding day.
For a subtler take on this wedding hairstyle, create beachy, looser curls that can be swept to one side for an easygoing and relaxed feel. When styling this look, use quality hairspray to keep those curls in place and prevent them from falling flat or frizzing out! For an elegant take on this hairstyle, pin back your top half and reveal face-framing tendrils that can be swept to one side for a romantic but sophisticated aesthetic. This look is easy to create and will pair perfectly with an elegant dress!
3. Half-Up, Half-Down
If you prefer something simpler for your wedding hairstyle, a half-up, half-down look can still create that stunning frame around your face. Simply tease your crown and gather side hair into a topknot or ponytail from both sides; pin in place before adding any flowers as accents.
A classic up-and-down style may work best if your wedding gown features flowers or crystal embellishments. For instance, you can feature floral vines to create a Khaleesi feel that would look fantastic when combined with a flower crown or headpiece.
Brides with long hair can create an eye-catching half-up half-down bridal look by twisting and braiding side strands to form a halo effect, perfect for photo moments throughout their special day. Criss-crossing braids will complement their stunning gown, providing an elegant frame for photo opportunities throughout their special event.
4. Braided Beauty
The story goes like this. As Braided Beauty reclined on the beach, she fell asleep to the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore. While sleeping, a tiny starfish magically braided her locks into lovely braids. She was delighted to discover a completely new style when she woke up later that day!
This cute and playful style is ideal for an outdoor wedding, pinning small flowers or colored clips into the braids for an eye-catching effect. Additionally, this look works particularly well on those with natural or wavy locks.
When selecting the stylist who will do your braids, be sure to ask about their experience and which types of braids they specialize in. Someone who knows what they’re doing should have no trouble fulfilling that role excellently. Furthermore, check if they use Kanekalon braiding hair, which tends to be less irritating than other synthetic fibers.
Stunning Styles for Prom Queens
Prom season can be exciting and daunting for teens between running for prom queen, finding that dream dress, and choosing your campaign colors – not to mention all its associated expenses! But we are here to help: we have collected some of our favorite prom hairstyles as inspiration to give you that much-needed boost of energy during this crucial period in your life.
1. Hollywood Glamour
Old Hollywood glamour enchants us all. From cinched waists and finger waves to the extravagant ballgown skirts of old Hollywood movies – it is hard not to fall in love with these classic looks. Whether you want to emulate them on your big night or simply add some Hollywood flare into everyday fashion, there are numerous ways to do that!
You can achieve this style by embracing bolder elements. For instance, incorporate mirror accents or gold-framed photos into your decor to evoke feelings of grandeur and luxury. Also, utilize large statement pieces such as vases, pedestals, or lamps as part of the drama of your space.
Sequined accessories are another great way to achieve the Hollywood glamour look, adding shimmer and shine while instantly elevating any ensemble. Furthermore, bold jewelry pieces and sleek hairstyles will help complete this glamorous ensemble.
If you prefer something less extreme, add subtle details to your ensemble. A silver choker necklace or gold-framed mirror could add subtlety, while metallic blush lipstick gives your outfit an irresistibly feminine aesthetic. Prom is the ideal time and place to channel old Hollywood glamour, so take full advantage of it on your big night by adopting some iconic style elements of this legendary era.
2. Sleek High Ponytail
A sleek ponytail is an evergreen classic style perfect for prom. Easy to recreate, this refined updo works great with any type of hair – from curls to waves. Additionally, pairing one with a statement hair bow adds visual interest.
If you want to upgrade your sleek ponytail, add volume by backcombing the strands near the crown for an eye-catching prom look. For added femininity and drama, add small flower buds at the base.
Sleek ponytails work for nearly every hairstyle, but they look lovely when combined with soft Hollywood curls. This hairstyle makes an excellent prom choice as it strikes an ideal balance between elegance and youthfulness – an ideal combination of style and sophistication!
To create this style, begin with clean hair treated with heat protectant and curl it using a large barrel curling wand. Once cool, gently finger-comb through to separate and remove any bumps before creating a high ponytail and securing it with a hair tie – use hairspray afterward for optimal hold!
Try creating a low ponytail at the nape of your neck for an elegant and romantic look. This feminine style pairs beautifully with soft floral print dresses, making for an easy transition from formal occasions to more relaxed affairs.
3. Messy Bun with Braided Crown
This breathtaking prom look combines two trendy trends into one stunning style: A high middle bun surrounded by an elegant crown braid. This braid starts thicker near the bun and gradually thins as it wraps around your head. It makes a striking and elegant style perfect for any princess! A few bobby pins can help secure this hairstyle at the back, and adding some flowers will also give the braid an aesthetic appeal!
This unique crown braid goes beyond traditional French crown styles with its close-set flat twists that are curvier than typical braids and its eye-catching ombre highlights that add even more flare. Perfect for casual events, from hanging out with friends to attending concerts all night!
You can add an eye-catching flourish to this crown braid by including tiny rose buds in your hairstyle. This will add feminine flair and look especially lovely with lace dresses. There are numerous tutorials online if you need help; simply keep working the small flowers into the braid as you go, and they won’t just sit atop your head!
A half-crown braid could be ideal if you’re not quite ready to commit to full-crown braids but still wish to look like royalty. Starting from a regular fishtail braid and transitioning into a half-French braid before finishing in a cute rolled crown shape, this style is very straightforward and wearable with any outfit!
4. Tousled Bob
A messy bob is your ideal style if you want a look that exudes seduction and boldness. Pair it with bold red lips and jet-black eyeliner for an eye-catching appearance; complete the look with an all-white shirt and some unique jewelry for maximum effect!
If your hair is naturally curly, opt for a tousled bob with tons of voluminous curls for an eye-catching and feminine style. The wavy texture shows off the movement in your locks while being ultra-flattering across different face shapes. To keep these waves in place without becoming stiff and crunchy, use a styling product that adds hold without stiffening up your locks too much.
Consider adding highlights or lowlights to create a gorgeous, bouncy bob. This will give your color an attractive natural look close to that of your natural hue while giving an enhanced, vibrant effect. Alternatively, opt for a dramatic change with ombre hair, which has recently become extremely fashionable.
One of the greatest features of this wavy tousled bob is how straightforward its care can be; all it requires is some backcombing and texturizing product to maintain soft waves with subtle touches of blonde at its ends for maximum visual appeal.
When selecting your prom style, don’t be intimidated to explore various lengths and colors until you find one that best complements you. Try something bold like a choppy shoulder-length bob with feathered bangs for an edge and modern touch; just make sure the cut suits your style and facial structure.
Special Event Hairstyles: Effortless Elegance
1. The Effortless Chignon
The classic, elegant updo of the chignon makes an unforgettable impression when worn to special events. This hairstyle can be styled in countless ways for any special occasion: braided chignon or flower crown can add flair. No matter which way it’s worn, this look pairs nicely with statement jewelry and luxurious lashes for an impressive appearance.
To achieve this classic yet effortless style, begin with a high ponytail and pull out some face-framing strands of hair to frame your face. When the ponytail is secure, gently pull its ends toward the back of your head to form a looser version of a chignon; add hair spray if necessary to help hold its form in place.
You can add a more formal flair to this romantic style by tucking some eye-catching pearl details into a traditional chignon, creating a wedding-worthy style. This adds an eye-catching glam that pairs especially beautifully with pearl-encrusted earrings or bracelets.
If you don’t own any pearls, try tucking rhinestone or opalescent pins under your hairline to achieve the same upscale chignon look. Their delicate glitter will add the right shimmer for any special occasion – from walking down an aisle to attending an event.
Another way to elevate a classic chignon is to add a lovely bow at the base of your bun. A timeless satin bow works well, or try something more daring and unusual that shows off your personality. Tie your bow so it peeks out from behind your chignon like an unexpected accent element.
If you want a playful twist, try decorating your chignon with flower crowns or flower-embellished bobby pins to instantly transform it into a bridal or feminine style. This approach would work especially well at romantic garden weddings or formal gala events that attract many guests.
2. Statement Hair Accessories
Accessorize your hair with statement clips and pins to create a glamorous yet subtle look. From gold hair clips pinning back a short bob to rhinestone bobby pins accentuating half-up/half-down ponytails, simple accessories can elevate your look while preventing tutsang. For an extra sexy twist, add shimmery metallic barrettes that complement your entire ensemble and add a feminine flourish to evening ensembles.
You can make an impressionable statement with a small yet discreet accessory like a pearl headband or tiara. Remember that elegance is all about confidence and exuding your style without over-expressing it; it should speak for itself and reflect who you are. Vintage classics, modern minimalism, or any combination thereof should all contribute to creating elegance.
Barrettes and rhinestone bobby pins are an easy and elegant way to elevate an everyday hairstyle or ponytail. Wear them when you’re in a rush or don’t want to dedicate too much time to styling your locks for maximum impact and add color and sparkle with each criss-cross pattern, pinning or stacking them along your head to achieve an eye-catching stacked effect.
3. Slicked-Back Glam
Slick-back ponytails are the ideal party hairstyle for women looking to exude elegance and femininity at any event. A timeless classic that works well with any ensemble, it requires only minimal styling effort when pulling it back into a ponytail. Simply slick your locks before gathering them into a ponytail to reduce frizz or flyaways and stop any unruly strands from being in your way!
Pairing the classic slicked-back hairdo with a long braid creates an enchanting and feminine style, perfect for building confidence, power, and poise when taking on any challenge! This bold yet feminine style brings two hot beauty trends together into a stunning combination. This striking combination creates an eye-catching style that will leave an impressionable statement about who you are as an individual and that you are ready to face whatever life throws at you!
Add a jeweled clip or a diamante pin to spice up your party hairstyle with extra pizzazz. It will certainly stand out amongst the crowd and ensure you make an impressionable statement. Slicked-back wavy hairstyles offer women who wish to showcase their natural beauty while emphasizing their feminine side an elegant way of showing it off. Simply apply gel or pomade to slick back your locks, and then use a volumizing product before creating a deep side part secured with a jeweled barrette for an effortlessly beautiful finish.
4. Voluminous Curls
Big, voluminous curls are an iconic party look. Their feminine bounce makes them the ideal accessory to almost any ensemble and is easy to achieve with just two tools – a wide barrel curling iron and volumizing hairspray. When choosing your curling iron size, be mindful that using larger-sized models gives you bigger coils, which hold their shape better.
Once your hair has been curled, pin it up to let it relax before backcombing your bouncy curls for added body. Backcomb them lightly using either a paddle brush or fingers – this step gives your curls more texture and volume and helps open up your face for a sexy glow! Finally, to bring out their full potential, use a firm yet flexible hairspray formula to maintain their shape while providing a soft, touchable finish to complete this look!
Another effective way to give voluminous curls added dimension and interest is separating your hair into sections and twirling it for a vintage-inspired style, such as victory rolls from post-World War II. To recreate this style, part your hair on one side before twisting some strands behind your head with bobby pins for this easy updo that adds some personality and character. Perfect for holiday parties when adding an unexpected pop of personality!
Whether your hair is down or up, these simple styling tricks will help create a stunning party-worthy look! So go ahead, give these tricks a try, and don’t be shy to show off those gorgeous locks!
Easy Special Occasion Hairstyles
Not everyone has hours to spend on their hair, and that’s perfectly fine. Here are some stylish yet easy special occasion hairstyles:
1. The Low Bun
The low bun is simple yet sophisticated for formal events and dinner dates. To achieve it, apply leave-in conditioner or smoothing gel along your strands before gathering your hair into a ponytail at the base of your neck and tucking or pinning its tail backward. Use an added touch like a scarf or wrap to hide its elastic band, allowing shorter strands and curls to fall over the top. Add beautiful accessories like silk scarves or pearl pins for an off-duty model look, while texturizing spray will tame flyaway locks!
The chignon bun is one of the elegant yet effortless special event hairstyles, whether at work or on date night. Easy to create and perfect for all hair lengths – especially longer locks – longer lengths give greater versatility. You can tuck the tail inside before making a small twisted loop at the base of the ponytail and pull more of your hair through for added drama!
This effortless look requires extra preparation; simply allow your hair to air-dry before creating this stylish yet casual low bun style. Once achieved, however, this sleek yet simple style can make any event memorable! Additionally, those with long natural locks may benefit from this look to show off their length without becoming overburdened with hair accessories.
2. Side Swept Waves
Celebrities have been sporting elegant side-swept waves on the red carpet, adding old Hollywood glamor to special event hairstyles. Long hair can easily achieve this look; just brush, tease, and pin it into a low ponytail on one side for easy styling with face-framing tendrils to complete this timeless style. If you want more extravagance, you could also opt for hair extensions.
This style looks especially chic when worn with soft pink lipstick like actress Joelle Kayembe. To achieve it yourself, long, straight hair that falls past your shoulders should be allowed to dry naturally or set into rollers before backcombing for extra volume. For an everyday version, a texturizing spray may also create a messy wave effect that creates this stylish look.
One variation of this style involves creating a deep side part and braiding each section of your hair into thick cornrows, leaving out any ends for an edgy, pokey finish. Alternatively, you could pin up and use edge cream to control flyaways. Either way, it is an elegant yet sophisticated way of styling short hair; just be sure to add texture beforehand with hair powder or texturizing spray for maximum impact!
A-list celebrities love the Veronica Lake-inspired vintage waves look on red-carpet events, and this stunning style will surely steal the show at your special event. Suitable for most facial structures and hair lengths, this versatile look can even feature side-swept bangs or full bangs for an ultra-feminine finish!
3. Fishtail Braid
Fishtail braids are an effortless choice when finding elegant special event hairstyles, from formal to casual dinner dates and everything in between. This style is versatile, and its ease of customization means you can transform its appearance using different accessories!
Start by sectioning off your hair into two equal sections and taking thin strands from both areas, one from either. Move one across to the right section from the left and tuck it under, becoming part of its left section as you continue this pattern all down your hair; be careful to tug gently to tighten strands – the more force applied, the bigger will be your fishtail braid!
Once your fishtail braid is complete, use clear elastic to secure it and keep the focus on its beautiful design. This style works best with some added volume, so backcomb your roots or use a volumizing spray to give your hair more thickness and make for a fuller fishtail braid.
Fishtail braids may seem tricky to master, but their results make the effort worthwhile. Ideal for girls with medium to long locks in good condition, fishtail braids make a statement hairstyle suitable for any special event or party. If you’re having difficulty getting the braid right, practice on smaller versions before trying on your whole head of hair at an event.
4. Classic Ponytail
Ponytails are also a part of special event hairstyles, providing a sleek appearance while keeping hair out of your face and off your neck. Furthermore, this hairstyle can be tailored to meet any look imaginable; adding braids for an elegant effect or wearing one with a headband are just two possibilities. For something different, try twisting or knotting your ponytail for something fun or playful!
Add decorative accessories like cuffs to your ponytail to elevate its appearance quickly and efficiently. Gold or silver-tone cuffs can easily be attached around the base of your ponytail for a bold yet simple statement that transforms from basic to bold in seconds!
The classic ponytail is ideal if you want a timeless style that’s easy to achieve and looks fabulous for formal events. This look is easy, but you can add a slight curve with some gel for a sophisticated touch that will help make your hair appear fuller and volumized.
Add beautiful braids to your ponytail for a unique style by adding them as boho braids for a bohemian-inspired look. This style would not look out of place on the catwalk or at a festival and can help show your individuality! This style allows you to experiment with braid colors for an eye-catching texture look!
Flipping up the ends is another creative addition to your ponytail that adds a retro touch, perfect for both low and high ponytails. Medium or thick-haired women who can secure this style should see the most benefit.
No matter your style preference – from simple ponytails to adding some creative elements – these special occasion hairstyles will leave an unforgettable impression on everyone who sees them. Remember, keeping hair healthy and hydrated is key to any successful style.
The Magic of Professional Hair Stylists
While there are many DIY hairstyles for special occasions, don’t underestimate the magic that professional hair stylists in Denver can bring to your look. They have the expertise to create customized styles that perfectly match your outfit, theme, and personal preferences. Whether you’re the bride, the prom queen, or the partygoer, consulting with a professional hairstylist can ensure you look and feel your best on your special day.
Special occasions allow you to showcase your style and personality through your hairstyle. Whether you opt for a classic updo, romantic waves, or a trendy Hollywood glamour look, your hair can be your ultimate accessory. Remember, you don’t have to be a hairstyling expert to look fabulous; plenty of easy yet stylish options exist. So, for your next special event, embrace the world of easy special occasion hairstyles and shine like the star you are!
AUTHOR BIO
Claire Taylor is the Marketing Manager for The Hive hair salon in Denver. With a passion for helping clients discover their perfect look, she is dedicated to spreading the buzz about The Hive’s top-notch services. Whether you’re seeking a stylish Pixie Cut, Shaggy Layers, or a bold Balayage, The Hive team is here to make your hair dreams a reality.