30 Trendy Festival Hairstyles | Rush Hair & Beauty

Festival hairstyles in 2025 are all about bold individuality, creativity, as well as practicality. 

The emphasis on traditional boho waves is fading; now, we see a diverse range of styles, including futuristic colour pops, sculptural buns, and classic braids with modern twists. Festival hair has evolved into more than just an annual trend; it’s become a statement of self-expression that considers various textures, lengths, and vibes.

To complete your look, add a sprinkle of glitter, some playful clips, or a hair ring; it’s all about having fun with the right accessories that will take you from day to night.

What are Festival Hairstyles?

Festival hairstyles are playful, bold, and designed to hold their shape under the sun, wind, and dancing. Think braided crowns, glitter roots, neon extensions, and bubble ponytails, all brought together with the kind of accessories you wouldn’t normally wear day-to-day.

They work beautifully with natural hair textures and are styled to last all day. Accessories like beaded clips, flower crowns, and shimmering partings elevate even the simplest style into something eye-catching and festive.

Key Considerations for Choosing Your Festival Hairstyle

Hair Type

Your hair’s natural texture should always be considered when choosing the perfect festive hairstyle. For example, thick, wavy hair types would work well with wavy styles or ringlets, while straight hair can embrace slicked-back ponytails or sharp space buns.

Hair Length

Long hair is great for styles such as braiding and bubble ponytail options. Medium hair is the sweet spot for versatility; you can also try experimenting with half-up styles or claw clip looks. With short hair, there are some fun options such as glitter pixies, spiked updos, or micro braids.

Face Shape

When choosing a festival hairstyle, it’s important to consider your face shape, as balance is key. Experimenting with different styles beforehand can help you find what looks best. For instance, oval faces tend to suit most hairstyles, while round faces are often flattered by adding height or volume at the crown. For more angular face shapes, soft and wispy styles like beachy waves can be a great option.

Comfort & Durability

When choosing a festival hairstyle, it’s important to prioritise both appearance and practicality. You don’t want to be constantly readjusting your hair while dancing, so select styles that will remain in place from day to night, even in windy conditions. Use stronghold hair products to keep everything secure, manage flyaways with sprays, and make sure to use plenty of hair clips to secure your style.

Top 30 Festival Hairstyles

1. High ponytail 

A hairstyle where the hair is gathered upwards and secured high on the head near the crown in a sleek and smooth style. Seen on celebrities such as Ariana Grande.
Suitable hair types: Straight or slightly wavy, medium to long length.  
Styling Tip: Use a smoothing serum and wrap a strand around the base to hide the band for a polished finish.

2. Coloured mini braids

Small, face-framing braids with bursts of temporary colour add a playful edge and are great for incorporating into loose, styled hair. Seen on celebrities such a Miley Cyrus.
Suitable Hair Types: Wavy types, best on mid to long lengths.  
Styling Tip: Use hair chalk or coloured extensions, secure braids with micro elastics.

3. Bubble braids

Sections of ponytail are secured at intervals to create a “bubble” effect. It’s stylish, voluminous, and eye-catching. Seen on celebrities such as Gigi Hadid.
Suitable Hair Types: Thick and fuller hair; medium to long in length.  
Styling Tip: Gently tug each bubble outward for extra fullness.

4. Coloured wavy bob

A tousled bob brought to life with pastel hues or vibrant temporary colour. It gives both an effortless and edgy vibe, a great festival hair choice! Seen on celebrities such as Katy Perry.
Suitable Hair Types: Straight to wavy, chin to shoulder-length.  
Styling Tip: Use wash-out colour sprays to experiment with different shades, it’s commitment-free fun.

5. Beach waves

A great choice for festivals, their loose, tousled texture adds a relaxed, carefree aesthetic. Seen on celebrities such as Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.
Suitable Hair Types: All textures; best on medium to long hair.  
Styling Tip: Twist damp hair into buns overnight for a true, effortlessly natural vibe.

6. Box braids

A protective style with staying power. These individual braids offer both versatility and style and can be styled in a variety of ways, from flowing updos to more structured styles. Seen on celebrities such as Zoe Kravitz.
Suitable Hair Types: Textured and coily hair.  
Styling Tip: Add colourful beads or embellishments for extra flair.

7. Stencil Buzzcut

Bold and creative hairstyles where designs are painted into the hair using colour or shape, making this a visually striking and daring look. Seen on celebrities such as Cara Delevingne.
Suitable Hair Types: Short-cropped hair.  
Styling Tip: Use temporary colour sprays and stencils to refresh patterns across the weekend.

8. Pigtail braids

Two classic braids on either side of the head, perfect for a playful, youthful vibe.  Seen on celebrities such as Margot Robbie.
Suitable Hair Types: All types, especially medium to long.  
Styling Tip: Loosen the braids slightly for a soft, festival-ready finish.

9. Dutch braid

The braid that stands out, literally! This inside-out style is also known as a reverse braid by crossing the hair underneath the other strands. Seen on celebrities such as Hailey Bieber.
Suitable Hair Types: Straight to wavy, medium to long.  
Styling Tip: Braid tight for structure or loosen for a laid-back feel.

10. Slick back pony

A slick back ponytail is where the hair is pulled back tightly, creating a sleek, glossy and polished look. It can be worn at various heights from high to low. Seen on celebrities such as Selena Gomez.
Suitable Hair Types: Works best on straight hair 
Styling Tip: Use gel and a boar bristle brush for an ultra-smooth look

11. Halo Braids 

A romantic, ethereal braid that wraps around the head like a crown, ideal for a boho vibe. Seen on celebrities such as Blake Lively 
Suitable Hair Types: Medium to long hair, especially straight or wavy textures.  
Styling Tip: Add floral pins for a whimsical festival edge.

12. Beach waves and braids

The ultimate laid-back look: tousled waves combined with delicate face-framing or crown braids.  Seen on celebrities such as Vanessa Hudgens.
Suitable Hair Types: Wavy or curly textures, medium to long hair.  
Styling Tip: Use a sea salt spray and braid random sections for a carefree finish

13. Fishtail Braid

Intricate and eye-catching, this braid is woven with fine sections for a mermaid-like texture.  Seen on celebrities such as Shay Mitchell.
Suitable Hair Types: Thicker hair types, medium to long in length.
Styling Tip: Pull gently on the braid’s edges to add fullness and texture.

14. Bouncy blowout

A bouncy blowout can be a great choice, it offers a voluminous and glamorous festival look that is easy to maintain. Seen on celebrities such as Lana Del Rey.
Suitable Hair Types: Adaptable to most lengths but typically works best o medium to long hair that is wavy.
Styling Tip: Use a round brush and volumising mousse, and pin-curl each section while it cools.

15. Dutch waterfall braid

A mix of Dutch and cascading waterfall braid techniques, perfect for adding dimension and flow.  Seen on celebrities such as Sophie Turner 
Suitable Hair Types: Medium to long hair, works on both straight to wavy hair types.
Styling Tip: Thread in ribbon or metallic string for an extra festival flourish.

16. Mermaid Ringlets

Tight, shiny curls that give a fantasy-inspired finish, bold, bouncy, and a great festival hair choice!  seen on celebrities such as Charli XCX.
Suitable Hair Types: Naturally curly hair or hair curled with a small-barrel tong.  
Styling Tip: Set with curl-enhancing mousse and finish with glossing serum.

17. Space bun and hair clips

Double buns meet Y2K accessories. Playful, practical, and perfect for dancing. Seen on celebrities such as Lizzo.
Suitable Hair Types: All hair types and most lengths.  
Styling Tip: Secure buns high and add butterfly clips or gems for that nostalgic touch

18. Glitter Parting

With glitter parting, you can take almost any hairstyle and elevate it instantly with glitter down your centre parting or braids. Seen on celebrities such as Kesha.
Suitable Hair Types: All hair types and textures.  
Styling Tip: Use hair gel as a base and press in chunky glitter with a brush for extra staying power.

19. Flipped lob

A shoulder-length bob with ends flipped out, a retro style with a modern edge! Seen on celebrities such as Dua Lipa.
Suitable Hair Types: Straight to slightly wavy, short to medium hair.  
Styling Tip: Use straighteners to flick ends out and finish with hairspray for hold.

20. Crimped

Retro revival at its finest, crimped hair is back with added edge.  It is characterised by zigzag and wave-like indentations. Seen on celebrities such as Kendall Jenner.
Suitable Hair Types: Medium to long hair.  
Styling Tip: Use a crimper or braid damp hair overnight for a heat-free version.

21. Wet look hair

Glossy, slicked-back hair that looks effortlessly cool with a high-fashion edge. Seen on celebrities such as Kim Kardashian.
Suitable Hair Types: All hair types; especially striking on straight or wavy textures.  
Styling Tip: Use gel or pomade for hold and shine, and comb back from the forehead for a sleek finish.

22. Faux Hawk

A bold, edgy style where the hair is styled upward in the centre while the sides are sleek or braided.  Seen on celebrities such as Rihanna 
Suitable Hair Types: hair that is medium in length
Styling Tip: Braid or pin the sides, then volumise the centre section with mousse and teasing for height.

23. Bantu Knots

A protective style with small, coiled buns all over the head—cultural, striking, and statement-making.  Seen on celebrities such as Janelle Monáe.
Suitable Hair Types: Naturally curly and coily textures.  
Styling Tip: Apply curl cream before sectioning and twisting into knots; secure with hair ties or pins.

24. Shaggy wolf cut 

A layered, rock-chic hairstyle with heavy texture and movement, low-key cool with high style impact.  Seen on celebrities such as Billie Eilish.
Suitable Hair Types: Medium to thick hair with natural wave.  
Styling Tip: Use texturising spray and finger-tousle for volume and a lived-in look.

25. Hair chalk

Temporary colour with maximum effect—add streaks of bold pinks, purples, or neon in seconds.  Seen on celebrities such as Kylie Jenner.
Suitable Hair Types: All hair types and lengths.
Styling Tip: Apply on dry hair and set with hairspray; great for layering over braids or waves.

26. Plaited headband

A braid styled across the top of the head like a headband—cute and functional. Seen on celebrities such as Florence Welch
Suitable Hair Types: Medium to long hair.  
Styling Tip: Part your hair ear-to-ear and braid a section from one side to the other, pinning discreetly.

27. Coquette Hair

Coquette hair is a style that is all about delicate waves, curls, soft textures and elegant details for a dreamy look. Seen on celebrities such as Olivia Rodrigo.
Best For: Straight to wavy hair, shoulder length or longer.  
Styling Tip: Use hot rollers or a curling iron, and don’t forget a velvet bow for the final touch.

28. Beaded Braids 

Classic braids elevated with colourful beads, fun, detailed, and rooted in cultural style.  Seen on celebrities such as Solange Knowles.
Suitable Hair Types: Long braids on curly or textured hair.  
Styling Tip: Choose bright, bold beads that contrast with your outfit for a standout effect.

29. Boho Baby Braids

Tiny, face-framing braids with a relaxed, undone finish, youthful, stylish, and super versatile! Seen on celebrities such as Bella Hadid.
Best For: All hair types, especially long and layered.  
Styling Tip: Create two or more fine braids near the face and let the rest of the hair fall naturally.

30. Aura Fringe Glow

A futuristic take on fringe styling, think soft curtain bangs with neon or pastel streaks that glow under UV lights. It’s ethereal by day and electric by night.  Seen on celebrities such as Grimes.
Suitable Hair Types: Medium to long straight or wavy hair with bangs or layers.  
Styling Tip: Apply UV-reactive hair makeup or chalk to fringe sections. Pair with space buns or sleek lengths for a contrast between soft and striking.

Accessories for Festival Hair

Flower Crowns and Floral Clips

These are the ultimate festival classic, bringing instant boho charm and romantic vibe to any hairstyle. 
Styling Tip: Use floral clips to secure braids or half-up styles, or layer a flower crown over loose waves for a dreamy, ethereal finish.

Hair Rings and Beads

These tiny details have plenty of impact, adding edge and texture to braids, locs, or twists. They reflect light beautifully and elevate simple styles.  
Styling Tip: Thread rings and beads into small braids or cornrows close to the face for an eye-catching accent that moves with you.

Glitter and Temporary Colour

Bold, playful, and perfect for statement-making. Whether it’s a glitter parting or pastel streaks, these add a fun and rebellious touch.
Styling Tip: Use hair-safe glitter gel along your parting or hairline, or try chalks and sprays to dip-dye the ends, match to your outfit for extra impact.

Coloured Elastics

Practical and playful, they secure your style and add pops of colour. Ideal for bubble braids, pigtails, or space buns.  
Styling Tip: Use multiple elastics in rainbow colours to section ponytails or braids, or coordinate with your makeup or outfit.

Bows

Adds a vintage or feminine twist to festival hair, perfect for softening up edgier styles or elevating braids and ponytails.  
Styling Tip: Tie a velvet or satin bow at the base of a ponytail or into the end of a braid.

Bandanas and Headscarves

Stylish and practical bandanas keep your hair in place, protect from the sun or dust, and double as a fashion statement.  
Styling Tip: Fold a scarf into a triangle and tie it over your head like a headband or wrap it around a bun for a colourful twist on a classic updo.

Tips for Maintaining Your Festival Hairstyle

Protect Your Hair from the Elements

Festivals usually mean sun, wind, dust, and long days outdoors. UV rays can dry out and fade coloured hair, while wind and humidity can cause frizz.  
Tip: Use a UV-protectant spray or leave-in conditioner with SPF to shield your hair. A lightweight scarf or hat can offer extra protection.

Avoid Over-Handling

Touching or restyling your hair too often can flatten volume, cause frizz, and ruin texture, especially for curls, waves, or intricate braids.  
Tip: Set your style in place with a flexible-hold hairspray. If hair starts to fall, use pins or accessories to reshape without combing through.

Hydrate and Nourish Your Hair

Festival days can leave hair parched, especially with heat styling or sun exposure. Hydration is key to maintaining shine and softness.  
Tip: Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner or hair oil before styling to lock in moisture. Post-festival, treat your hair to a deep conditioning mask.

Keep a Travel-Friendly Kit

A mini hair emergency kit helps you refresh your look throughout the day. Pack essentials like dry shampoo, a mini brush or comb, hair ties, hair clips, a small hairspray, and a few fun accessories for quick touch-ups.

Book Your Festival Hairstyle Appointment at Rush

Ready to make a statement this festival season? Book your festival hair appointment at your nearest Rush and let our expert stylists help you create a look that’s Insta-worthy and dancefloor durable.