As a hairstylist who's been part of the vibrant music festival scene for years, I'm thrilled to guide you through crafting the perfect festival hairstyle. Whether you're planning to dance under the stars at Coachella or sway to the tunes at Lollapalooza, your hair is an expression of your style and spirit. Let's dive into the latest trends and my own tried-and-true tips to ensure your hair is as unforgettable as the music.
Embracing the Trends: Festival Hairstyles I Adore
Braids and Braid Variations: Braids hold a special place in my heart and my toolkit. They're versatile and timeless. This season, I'm enamored with knotless braids for their sleek look, and boxer braids for their edgy vibe. For a touch of whimsy, I love weaving in some baby braids or mini bubble braids.
Buns and Updos: I often recommend buns and updos to clients who want to keep their hair manageable yet stylish. Messy buns have an effortless appeal, but why not try space buns or braided buns for a twist? A personal favorite is the crown braid, which adds a regal touch to any outfit.
Ponytails and Pigtails: High ponytails and braided pigtails are not only practical but can be incredibly chic. Experiment with bubble braids or combine a half-up braid with a messy low bun for a playful, yet sophisticated look.
Accessorizing Your Festival Hair: A Stylist’s Secret
Adding Flair with Accessories
I always say accessories can transform a good hairstyle into a great one. Flower crowns, bandanas, and hair chains are my go-to for adding a festival vibe. For a more unique approach, consider adorning your braids or curls with rhinestones or hair gems.
Fun with Temporary Hair Color and Glitter
Here's a fun fact: Glitter was first used in cosmetics in the early 1970s, around the same time music festivals gained popularity. Today, adding glitter or temporary hair color is a fantastic way to make your hair sparkle and stand out. Be creative with stencils or go for a full-on glitter extravaganza. Remember to choose hair-friendly products and wash them out properly afterwards.
Hair Care and Styling Techniques: A Stylist’s Perspective
Creating Texture and Volume
In my experience, texture and volume are key for a hairstyle that lasts all day and night. I swear by texturizing sprays and mousses for that extra grip. Don't shy away from using a curling wand or flat iron to add some waves, creating that perfect beachy look.
Maintaining Your Style at the Festival
A pro tip: always carry a mini hairspray. A strong hold spray is essential for keeping your style intact, especially when you're out dancing. Dry shampoo can be a lifesaver for freshening up greasy roots, especially if applied the night before.
For sleek updos, I rely on gels or waxes for added shine and hold. And if you're in the mood for color, why not try an ombre or balayage? Just make sure to use color-safe products to keep your hair looking vibrant and healthy.
Final Thoughts and Style Inspiration
Remember, festivals are a playground for self-expression. Whether you choose braids, buns, ponytails, or a mix, the key is to wear your hair with confidence. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and accessories until you find the one that truly captures your festival spirit.
In my years as a stylist, I've learned that the best festival hairstyles are not just about following trends but about creating a look that feels uniquely you. So go ahead, let your hair down (or up!), and immerse yourself in the music and magic of festival season.
Keep exploring, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep having fun with your hair. Your perfect festival hairstyle is waiting for you to discover it. And remember, Snazzy Lair is here to elevate your style, one click at a time.
#22 Pastel Rainbow Sleekness with Quirky Space Buns
This captivating hairstyle is a festival dream with its pastel rainbow hues, showcasing a gradient from lavender to mint, flowing into long, sleek locks. The playful space buns, wrapped with coordinating colored yarn, add a quirky, youthful edge to the look. I’m enamored by the creative use of color that brings a soft yet vibrant energy, perfect for anyone looking to make a statement at a festival.
The icy blonde shade of this tousled bob is pure festival chic, accented with playful pops of color from woven threads and braids, which add a crafty, personalized touch. Bangs are cut in a soft, straight-across style that frames the face beautifully, enhancing the laid-back yet fashionable vibe ideal for festival frolics. What I adore most are the subtle layers throughout, creating a texture that looks just as good in motion as it does cascading over a relaxed festival ensemble.
Here we see a luxurious, long mane with a dramatic transition from a silver-gray base to a riot of rainbow colors, embodying the festival spirit of freedom and fun. The deep side part allows for a voluminous cascade of waves, a bold contrast to the sleek silver, showing off the skillful blend of hues. What strikes me is the seamless flow of colors, reminiscent of a painter’s palette, which adds an air of enchantment and is bound to be a showstopper at any event.
This edgy bob is a festival-ready canvas showcasing a prism of rainbow shades, with a daring undercut etched with swirls for an added element of surprise. The straight, chin-length cut provides a sleek contrast to the vivid colors, creating a look that's as bold as it is playful. I'm especially fond of how the undercut design peeks out, a subtle nod to the creativity and individuality that's celebrated at festivals.
This hairstyle is a daring fusion of an undercut and chunky, emerald green and white braids, adorned with silver chains for a touch of festival glitz. The shaved sides provide a stark, edgy contrast to the softness and intricate texture of the voluminous braids. I'm captivated by the harmonious blend of boldness and traditional braiding technique, a true embodiment of contemporary festival style.
The hairstyle captures the essence of festival flamboyance with its duo of thick, Dutch braids infused with metallic pink and holographic strands, creating a mesmerizing iridescent effect. Adorned with playful charms and beads, the braids are a creative expression that mirror the eclectic spirit of festival fashion. I'm drawn to the way these whimsical elements intertwine with the natural hair color, crafting a look that's both enchanting and functional for any festival-goer.
#8 Textured Silver Ash Dreadlocks with Festival Beads
This avant-garde hairstyle boasts a silver ash base, giving way to an array of textured synthetic dreadlocks and braids, each adorned with beads and silver accents to catch the festival lights. The long, free-flowing locks are a bold statement, celebrating the unbridled creativity that festivals inspire. I'm particularly enamored with the juxtaposition of the sleek bangs against the wildness of the dreadlocks, creating a dynamic and unforgettable look.
This whimsical look flaunts pastel pink and baby blue hues, blending into long, straight tresses that give off a dreamy, cotton-candy vibe. Twin buns perched atop add a playful touch, echoing the carefree spirit of festival culture, while the choppy bangs frame the face for a touch of modern edginess. I find the mix of soft colors with the structured bangs and buns creates a delightful contrast that's both eye-catching and festival-ready.
The jet-black waves provide a luxurious backdrop to the electric pops of purple, adding a surprise element that's perfect for festival flair. Twin space buns sit playfully atop the head, adding a youthful and fun twist to the overall look. I admire the way the subtle color infusion adds vibrancy without overwhelming, making it a versatile choice for those looking to express their style with a mix of boldness and subtlety.
#11 Sun-Kissed Dutch Braid Crown on Balayage Waves
This sun-kissed blonde mane exudes festival spirit with its loose, flowing waves and a Dutch braid crown that adds a touch of elegance. The dimensional balayage technique enhances the voluminous curls, creating a seamless transition from the darker roots to the icy blonde tips. I'm particularly fond of the way the braid accentuates her cheerful expression, making it a perfect, carefree look for any festival-goer.
The striking hot pink hue of this hairstyle sets a vibrant, electric tone, complemented by a tight side braid that transitions into a playful, high ponytail. The long, sleek tail, banded with small sections to create bubbles of volume, adds a dynamic element to the silhouette. I'm charmed by the contrast between the sharp braid and the soft ponytail, a combination that's as eye-catching as it is perfect for any festival scene.
In this hairstyle, the tight, scalp-hugging Dutch braids create a neat, symmetrical framework for the face, enhanced by the incorporation of soft pink extensions for a pop of playful color. Each braid transitions into a lengthy, tightly coiled rope that drapes elegantly over the shoulders, adding a striking visual element to the overall look. The contrast of the natural dark roots against the pastel pink gives a modern twist to classic braiding, making it a fresh choice for festival fashion enthusiasts.
This hairstyle is a playful medley of beachy waves and whimsical buns, punctuated by streaks of bold electric blue extensions that add a modern, festival-ready twist. The buns are strategically placed to add volume and texture, making the style as dynamic as it is fun. As a hairstylist, I appreciate the creative interplay of natural tones with vibrant colors, ensuring this look stands out in a crowd while still maintaining a touch of elegance.
The luxurious waves of this hairstyle flow in a vibrant gradient, transitioning from a rich magenta to a cool, pastel purple, embodying the essence of festival boldness and creativity. Each curl catches the light, showcasing the depth and dimension of the vivid colors, while the long, layered cut enhances the hair's natural volume. I'm particularly captivated by the seamless color blend which gives a sense of movement, perfect for catching the eye amidst the energy of a festival crowd.
This playful hairstyle bursts with festival energy, featuring bubblegum pink waves that fall into long, voluminous curls, perfect for a day of music and dance. Twin top knots add a whimsical touch, reminiscent of playful animal ears, which amplifies the fun, carefree festival aesthetic. The depth of the soft pastel color, paired with such lively styling, makes this look a delightful standout in any festival crowd.
#17 Neon French Braid Explosion in Pink and Yellow
The hairstyle flaunts a high-contrast combination of neon yellow and hot pink, with a central French braid that adds an edgy twist to the vibrant locks. Slicked back sides lead up to the vivid braid, which bursts into a cascade of fluorescent color, embodying the electrifying energy of festival life. I'm particularly delighted by the playful interweaving of colors within the braid, showcasing a skillful balance between boldness and precision.
#18 Pastel Pink to Aqua Blue Straight Locks with Twisted Buns
This enchanting hairstyle features long, straight tresses that transition from a pastel pink to a serene aqua blue, reminiscent of a summer sky. The look is playfully accented with two high, twisted buns wrapped in coordinating colors, adding a touch of festival whimsy. As a hairstylist, I admire the soft gradation of hues that gives a gentle nod to the carefree spirit of festival-goers, while the length offers versatility for various styling throughout the event.
#19 Ash Blonde Ombre Elegance with a Top Knot Twist
The hairstyle presents a sophisticated ash blonde ombre, its shades melting from a natural brunette root into an elegant, cool-toned blonde with seamless transitions. Soft, cascading waves add volume and movement, highlighting the dimensional color, while the top knot bun offers a chic, playful twist ideal for a festival setting. I'm particularly impressed by the contrast of the structured bun against the free-flowing waves, creating a balanced look that's both stylish and functional.
#20 Neon Green and Blue Braided Festival Extravaganza
This hairstyle is a vibrant tapestry of color, with braids and twists in neon green and electric blue that evoke the exhilarating spirit of festival culture. Incorporating synthetic hair into the braids adds length and a playful variety of textures, from smooth plaits to fluffy twists. The contrast between the bright extensions and the natural hair color is striking, reflecting a sense of bold individuality that's perfect for standing out in a lively festival crowd.
The hairstyle showcases a beautiful cascade of crimped waves, blending from a natural brunette at the roots to a sun-bleached blonde, evoking a beachy, bohemian vibe. Small, delicate braids are interspersed throughout, adding texture and an element of intricate detail to the overall relaxed look. As a hairstylist, I adore the effortless transition of color and the added flair of the braids, perfect for someone seeking a laid-back yet stylish festival hairstyle.
#22 Pastel Rainbow Sleekness with Quirky Space Buns
This captivating hairstyle is a festival dream with its pastel rainbow hues, showcasing a gradient from lavender to mint, flowing into long, sleek locks. The playful space buns, wrapped with coordinating colored yarn, add a quirky, youthful edge to the look. I'm enamored by the creative use of color that brings a soft yet vibrant energy, perfect for anyone looking to make a statement at a festival.
Amy is an hairstylist and the editor-in-chief at Snazzy Lair, where her expertise and leadership are instrumental in shaping the direction of the publication and ensuring its continued success. With over a decade of experience in the hairstyling industry, Amy has honed her craft to perfection. She possesses an innate talent for transforming hair into works of art, and her dedication to her clients' satisfaction knows no bounds.
