From a crystal-studded bun to cool-girl waves, here are 25 party hairstyles for your inspiration board. Plus, celebrity hairstylists share their tips for how to achieve them.

Are you searching for that show-stopping hairstyle that will steal the spotlight at your next party? Your quest ends here!

According to our experts, the golden rule for any successful party hairstyle is confidence, so choose a style that reflects your personality and makes you feel amazing. Whether you opt for the timeless sophistication of a classic updo, the intricate allure of a braided masterpiece, the effortless charm of beachy waves, the chic simplicity of a statement ponytail, or the allure of a bold color transformation, these hairstyles are sure to turn heads.

Prepare to be dazzled as we unveil a plethora of glamorous and playful options that will elevate your party look to new heights below.

Meet the expert

• Kevin Kelly, celebrity hairstylist, extension artist, and owner of Kevin Kelly LUXE Extensions.
• Lucy Planck, stylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon.

Bubble Ponytail

Start off by brushing the hair back into a smooth ponytail, then clip in hair extensions like Heat Free Hair or Kevin Kelly Luxe Extensions for length and thickness. “Add small elastics two inches apart from each other, then pull apart the hair to get the bubble braid effect,” Kelly explains. Lastly, stick on some jeweled embellishments for a sparkly finish.

'S' Wave

To achieve this glamorous party look, Kelly recommends using a quarter-inch curling iron to create large, defined curls. “Curl the hair in the same direction all the way through, then brush it out with a boar bristle brush,” the stylist says. “Set and style with hairspray.”

How to Choose Hair Color for Your Skin Tone

French Pearl Braids

Rita Ora's French braid is a stunning fusion of classic elegance and contemporary flair. The intricate braids add dimension and sophistication to her hairstyle, while the delicate pearl accents elevate the look to a whole new level of glamor. “To recreate this style, section your hair from front to back down the middle," Kelly says. "Braid in two French braids. Use a little pomade to tame edges and add accessories."

Soft Curl Afro

For Kelly Rowland’s party-ready body and volume, begin by hydrating your hair with a moisturizing leave-in conditioner to enhance its natural texture and volume. Next, apply a curl-defining cream or mousse to minimize frizz. Use a wide-tooth comb (or your fingers) to gently separate and fluff the curls for added bounce. For more volume, you can add clip-in extensions that match your hair texture. Allow your hair to air-dry, or use a diffuser attachment on low heat to set the curls. Once your curls are dry, gently shake out the roots to add volume and shape.

Copper Curls

Ice Spice's captivating copper-coily hair is bound to be a head-turner at any party. To get her look, start with freshly washed and conditioned hair. Apply a leave-in conditioner to keep your coils hydrated and defined. “Section your hair into manageable parts and use a curl enhancing cream or gel to define each coil,” says Planck. To maintain the copper color, use a color-safe shampoo and conditioner. Finish by gently fluffing your coils for added volume and definition.

Mohawk Braid

For this braided mohawk, Kelly recommends starting by gathering each side and smoothing the hair, then creating a braided section down the middle of the head. “Slick the hair at the sides back with a boar bristle brush and use a strong hairspray to put it into a ponytail,” he explains. “Whatever hair is left unbraided, braid together and flip upwards and pin to desired style.”

Side Braid

“Blow out the front section of your hair with a half-inch round brush to achieve the swoop,” says Kelly. “Gather the hair to one side and do a two-strand twist braid or fishtail braid. Add a clear elastic to the bottom to secure.”

Slick Back Bun

Style your hair into a slick bun, leaving a few bang strands loose. “Use a leaving conditioner or hair mousse to get that extra slick look,” says Planck.

Layered Blowout

To achieve Keke Palmer's layered blowout, Kelly recommends using a half-inch round brush to blow out the hair. Start by applying a heat-protectant spray to shield your hair from damage. Then use a round brush and a blow-dryer to smooth out your hair with a focus on creating volume at the roots and movement throughout the lengths. As you blow dry, wrap sections of your hair around the brush and pull downwards to achieve sleekness and bounce. Once your hair is dry, use a wide-tooth comb to gently loosen the layers and create texture. Finish with a lightweight hair oil or serum to add shine and tame any flyaways.

Bouncy Curtain Bangs

To get this bouncy, smooth blowout, Planck says she likes to use volumizing mousse and velcro rollers to add volume. “Sometimes I use a big curly iron, sectioning and curling the hair, then pin it with bobby pins or hair clips.”

Faux Goddess Locs

Faux locs are hot right now, and Chloe Bailey nailed this look with her goddess locs. To get the same look, begin by sectioning your hair into small segments, ensuring it’s clean and moisturized. Use synthetic hair extensions to create the locs, wrapping them around each section of your natural hair. Secure the ends tightly and use a crochet hook to tighten and neaten the locs. As you continue, pay attention to the size and length of each loc to achieve a uniform and natural look. Once all the locs are in place, gently dip them in hot water to set the style and secure any loose ends.

Edgy Pixie

If you have short hair or want to try something bold and unconventional, consider rocking an edgy pixie cut. Janelle Monáe’s carefully tousled waves add texture and movement to her pixie, creating a playful look. Then, the gold floral headband gives a fashion-forward edge. “To create this look, take a half-inch curling iron and curl the hair in different directions, from front to back,” says Kelly. “Use a texture spray and a pomade to shape the hair into the desired look, and finish by placing your hair accessory.”

Braided Accent

Braids are the epitome of versatility and can be incorporated into any party hairstyle. This stylish yet simple look is a perfect way to add detail to any style. To create the braids, begin by parting one third of your hair from front to back. Then divide each section into two smaller sections. Take a small piece of hair from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to the right section. Repeat this process on the right side. Continue alternating sides until you reach the ends and secure with an elastic band. Finally, straighten the remaining hair for a sleek finish.

Ring Bun

This style is a polished look with a little drama. To achieve the dramatic shape, Kelly recommends using a flexible hair foam rod to wrap your hair around, then roll it into your desired style. Finish with a shine spray.

Bow Bun

To achieve Lupita Nyongo's modern bow bun, the hair should be well-nourished. "Use a deep conditioner with coconut oil to moisten the hair and add shine, then make small braids throughout your hair, let some of them loose to achieve this look,” says Planck. “For the bow, part the hair in the middle, making two high ponytails and wrap them into a bow.”

Rhinestone Bun

Ponytails are no longer considered casual hairstyles. With the right accessories and techniques, you can transform a simple ponytail into a stunning party hairstyle. “To recreate Alicia Keys' look, use a natural bristle flat brush to smooth out the hair,” says Planck. “Then make a center-parted ponytail, sectioning and twisting the hair into a bun. Finish off by applying rhinestones.”

Pinned Bob

Looking for a dramatic hairstyle change for your next party look? Well, Zendaya nailed it! Take your hair from short to long with this pinned bob look. “Use EIMI Sugar Lift Sugar Spray for Voluminous Texture directly on wet hair to create volume, then blow-dry your hair for a sleek look,” says Kelly. “Once your hair is completely dry, roll it under and tuck it in with bobby pins to secure it.”

Finger Waves

To recreate Tiffany Haddish's stunning vintage-inspired finger waves, start by dampening your hair and applying a generous amount of styling gel, says Kelly. Use a fine-tooth comb to create deep, S-shaped waves, working from the roots to the ends of your hair. “Once you've achieved the desired wave pattern, allow your hair to air-dry or use a hooded dryer to set the style,” the stylist advises. Finish by carefully separating the waves with your fingers for added volume and texture.

Slick Back Bun

For Rosie Huntington Whiteley’s slick-back bun, begin by smoothing your hair with a quality styling gel or pomade to achieve that polished look. “Use a boar bristle brush, and sleek the hair into a bun,” says Kelly. “Next, use a wax to stick down any flyways and apply a firm-hold hairspray like Color Wow’s Cult Favorite to finish.”

Effortless Updo

This timeless classic is perfect for formal events and adds an instant touch of elegance. Whether it's a sleek bun or a chic chignon, an updo will showcase your facial features. To create Kendal Jenner’s effortless updo, start off by parting the hair in the middle with a few carefully teased-out face-framing tendrils. “Twist and pile your hair onto the top of the head to create a chic bun, leaving some loose strands for a messy finish,” says Planck.

Bobby Pin Accents

“To achieve Rihanna’s look, blow-dry your hair with a big round brush to add shine to your hair,” says Planck. “Part the hair in the middle, brush flat, apply a little hairspray, and add rhinestone bobby pins for a glamorous look.”

Futuristic Top Knot Bun

To recreate Jourdan Dunn's futuristic bun, start by blow-drying your hair straight to remove any knots or tangles, Planck says. Next, gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure it tightly with an elastic hair tie. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base, leaving out two parts of hair and securing the rest in a bun with bobby pins. Ensure that the bun sits sleek and close to your scalp for that sharp look. Straighten the left-out pieces of hair and use a hair spray and strong-hold gel to make the hair stand. Finally, smooth down any flyaways with a small amount of hair gel or pomade for a polished finish.

Messy Ponytail Braid

To create Taylor Swift's side braid and messy ponytail, begin by parting your hair to the side. Gather a small section of hair near the part and start braiding it loosely towards the back of your head. Secure the braid with a small elastic band. Next, gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail, leaving some strands loose for a messy look. Combine the ponytail with the braided section, securing them together with another elastic band. Gently tug on the braid and some strands of the ponytail to create a relaxed, effortless finish.

Textured Beach Waves

If you prefer a more relaxed and carefree vibe, go for loose waves. These soft, romantic curls are perfect for a casual party or a beach gathering. To achieve Blake Lively's look, start by applying a heat protectant spray to your hair. Next, Planck recommends using a large-barrel curling iron to curl sections of your hair away from your face, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Once all sections are curled, gently tousle your hair with your fingers to break up the curls and create a more natural, beachy look. “For added texture and volume, consider spritzing a texturizing spray throughout your hair and scrunching it with your hands,” says Planck. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to set the style in place while still maintaining movement and softness.

Flicked Bob

Hailey Bieber's stylish bob is perfect for adding movement and flair to any party look. To achieve the flick-out bob, begin by blow-drying your hair using a round brush. Once the hair is dry, our experts recommend using a flat iron to curl the ends of the hair outward, starting from the mid-lengths to the ends. Work in small sections for precision, and ensure each flick is uniform for a polished look. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to set the style in place and tame any flyaways.