Christmas is just four weeks away – and party season is officially here!
Time to reach for heated rollers, bejewelled accessories and strong-hold hairspray – but what will your clients be wearing this festive season? We spoke to three stylists who gave their tips for perfect party hair…
Clare Hansford at Headmasters for L’Oreal Professionnel
We’re seeing a lot of big hair this Christmas, and I’m a huge fan of the classic tong set. I start with a big blow-dry to create volume at the roots, then use a tong to define the mid-lengths and ends. This style is so versatile - it looks stunning on day one and can evolve into different looks over the next few days. It’s the ultimate party season style, giving clients the freedom to enjoy a fresh, glamorous look throughout their festivities.
When it comes to party hair, preparation is everything! I always tell my clients that the key to long-lasting, gorgeous hair is in the prep. I love using L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Pli as my go-to styling aid, it’s like a primer for the hair, giving it structure and memory, so it holds on to the style all night long. It’s as if you’re setting the foundation with a lightweight hairspray before you even start styling, ensuring the hair looks great however long they’re on the dancefloor.
Top three tips for party hair
- Keep it simple, you want it to last all night and beyond.
- Use the key products as your foundation and spend time prepping the hair.
- Make sure they pop some travel-sized hair products in their handbag for touch-ups throughout the night.
Victoria Clancey at The Hair Movement, Sidcup
This season, it’s all about chic, low-maintenance party hair that’s bold without trying too hard. We’re styling each guest’s look to match their vibe and what they’re wearing, because party hair is an extension of the outfit. Personally, I’m into the less-is-more approach right now - sleek, polished styles that highlight natural textures without going overboard. Soft, effortless waves for a touch of glam or low, smooth buns with a few loose pieces around the face are my go-to’s. They feel effortless yet bring that confident, natural beauty vibe.
The secret to great versatile hair is versatility - the best party hairstyles are the ones that can effortlessly shift as the night unfolds. I love starting with a polished but slightly messy bun then, as things get livelier, let the bun down into a flicky ponytail for a softer, bouncier look. It’s the ideal transition – still stylish but with a more relaxed, carefree vibe that matches the energy of the night.
Top three tips for creating party hair
- Prep for all-night style: Start with a good foundation to keep your style in place. The Hair Movement So Smooth Finishing Cream and Davines Medium Hairspray are my go-to duo. They give a smooth finish and flexible hold so your style stays intact without feeling stiff.
- Go for a transformable look: Opt for styles that can evolve as the night goes on. For example, a sleek bun that can be loosened into soft waves or a ponytail later keeps things fresh and exciting.
- Add a touch of glam with accessories: Hair accessories can take a look to the next level. Think delicate clips, sparkly pins, or a statement headband that complements (not competes with) the outfit. Accessories not only add that wow-factor but also help keep the style in place all night.
Elle Foreman at Tribe Salons, Clapham, London
This season, we are seeing a lot of textural contrasts. by combining sleek, polished looks with undone, natural textures. We’re seeing a revival of '90s-inspired, half-up, half-down styles with slick back looks, detailed face-framing braids or strands. Intricate edges, wisps and patterns on baby hairs around the face are delicate touches that bring an elevated, sophisticated feel to any look, adding dimension and softness that feels both modern and refined.
The secret to amazing, wearable party hair lies in achieving a balance between structure and movement. Start with styles that enhance your natural texture or build volume using a lightweight mousse or texturising spray, shaping a silhouette that flatters your face. Add structure by slicking sections of hair away from the face to refine the shape. Finish with the delicate details, securing them with a light-hold hairspray for a polished yet effortlessly chic look.
There are some great celebrity references, from Dua Lipa for seamlessly balancing a bold, edgy look with a glamorous, polished edge, while Zoë Kravitz and Hailey Bieber often wear a glam sleek bun flawlessly. Paired with understated accessories, this look radiates chic minimalism and is both stylish and accessible to all.
Top three tips for creating party hair
- Prep for texture: Begin with a volumising mousse or texture spray to create a strong foundation for lasting hold.
- Flexible hold: Use a light, flexible hairspray to maintain shape and add detail without sacrificing natural movement. Choose grips, pins, and elastics that match your hair colour for a seamless look.
- Mindful accessories: Add a touch of elegance with subtle accents like an embellished headband or silk ribbon, then complete the look with a shine spray for a polished finish.