Summer festival season is finally here, and we’re beyond excited to share the hottest hairstyles that’ll make you stand out in the crowd! From Coachella to Lollapalooza, your hair needs to be as ready for the experience as you are.
We’ve curated a list of eye-catching festival hairstyles that combine practicality with serious style points. These looks won’t just survive the heat, dancing, and potential rain—they’ll have you looking Instagram-ready throughout the entire event. Whether you’re into bohemian vibes, edgy statements, or colorful transformations, we’ve got options that’ll perfectly complement your festival outfits and express your personal style.
10 Festival Hairstyles to Rock This Summer
1. Bohemian Braided Crown
This ethereal hairstyle combines elegance with festival-appropriate durability. Start by creating two braids on either side of your head, working from temples to ends. Wrap these braids around your crown like a headband, securing with bobby pins. Loosen a few strands around your face for that perfectly undone bohemian look. Adding small fresh flowers or metallic pins elevates this style instantly for events like Coachella.
2. Space Buns with Glitter Roots
Space buns offer playful vibes perfect for electronic dance festivals. Divide your hair into two high ponytails, twist each into a bun, and secure with elastic bands. Apply hair gel mixed with biodegradable glitter along your part line for dazzling roots that catch the sunlight. This style works wonderfully for multi-day festivals since it keeps your hair off your neck and maintains its shape through dancing sessions.
3. Festival Fishtail with Colorful Extensions
Fishtail braids create intricate texture that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. Divide hair into two sections, then repeatedly take small pieces from each outer edge and cross them over. Weave in temporary colorful extensions or yarn for a statement look that photographs beautifully against festival backdrops. Mist with strong-hold hairspray to keep this style intact throughout busy festival days.
4. Half-Up Dutch Braid
This versatile style balances practicality with laid-back festival charm. Create a Dutch braid (reverse French braid) from your crown down the center, securing the half-up portion with an elastic. Leave the remaining hair loose and add waves using a curling wand. Festival accessories like cuffs or rings look stunning threaded through the braid, giving this everyday style a distinctive festival upgrade.
5. Sleek High Ponytail with Scarf
A sleek high ponytail offers sophistication while keeping hair controlled during hot festival days. Brush hair thoroughly upward, securing with a strong elastic at your crown. Wrap a colorful silk scarf around the base to hide the elastic and add festival flair. This style pairs perfectly with statement earrings and works for various musical genres from hip-hop to indie rock festivals.
6. Waterfall Braids with Beaded Accents
Waterfall braids create romantic cascading effects perfect for bohemian festival settings. Begin a French braid near your temple, dropping strands as you go (instead of incorporating them) to create the “waterfall” effect. Thread small beads or cuffs onto these loose strands for eye-catching detail. This style balances practicality with photogenic appeal for festival Instagram moments.
7. Pastel Temporary Color with Beach Waves
Beach waves provide the perfect canvas for temporary color sprays or chalks. Apply pastel hues like lavender, rose, or mint to sections of tousled waves for a mermaid-inspired look. These colors wash out easily after the festival ends. Spritz with sea salt spray before applying color for added texture that lasts through multiple performances.
8. Double Dutch Boxer Braids
These tight, close-to-the-scalp braids offer maximum security for active festival days. Create a center part and Dutch braid each section from front to nape, securing ends with small elastics. Wrap colorful thread or embroidery floss around sections of the braids for customized detail. This protective style lasts through multiple days without requiring touch-ups.
9. Twisted Bandana Updo
This retro-inspired style combines practicality with vintage festival vibes. Fold a bandana into a strip and use it as a headband, then twist sections of hair around it, securing with pins as you go. Allow some pieces to fall naturally for an effortless appearance. This style keeps hair off your face while shielding your part from sun exposure during outdoor festivals.
10. Embellished Side Swept Waves
Side-swept waves offer glamorous festival styling with minimal effort. Create a deep side part, then curl hair in alternating directions for natural-looking waves. Secure one side with decorative clips, crystal pins, or a statement ear cuff. Apply shine spray for camera-ready finish that transitions beautifully from daytime sets to evening performances. This adaptable style works across various hair lengths from bob to long layers.
Boho-Inspired Braided Crown
The boho-inspired braided crown is a festival staple that combines ethereal beauty with practical staying power. This versatile style works for multiple festival days while maintaining its romantic appeal.
How to Create the Perfect Braided Crown
Creating a stunning braided crown starts with properly prepped hair that has volume and texture. Begin by applying volume-improving products to give your hair the ideal foundation for braiding. Start your braid from one side of your head just above the ear, choosing between a fishtail, Dutch braid, or classic three-strand technique based on your preference and skill level. Continue braiding around your head in a crown formation, securing with bobby pins as you work your way around. Incorporate small sections of loose hair throughout the process to achieve that relaxed, bohemian vibe that festivals demand. Once you’ve completed the circle, secure all sections firmly with bobby pins and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your crown sits comfortably and evenly on your head.
Best Accessories for Improving Your Crown
Hair clips and pins in vibrant colors offer an easy way to personalize your braided crown while adding visual interest to your festival look. Flowers and greenery, whether real or artificial, instantly transform your braided crown into a true bohemian masterpiece that captures the essence of summer festivals. Hair chains and delicate headbands can be woven through your braids to add a touch of whimsy and elegance that catches the light while you dance. Glitter roots and temporary hair paint create a playful, festival-appropriate finish that matches the vibrant atmosphere of summer events. Bobby pins and colorful hair ties not only secure your style but can become decorative elements themselves when chosen in complementary colors to your outfit or other accessories. We recommend selecting accessories that both enhance your braided crown and reflect your personal style for a truly standout festival look.
Space Buns with Glitter Roots
Space buns with glitter roots combine playfulness with a cosmic edge, making them perfect for electronic music festivals and summer raves. This eye-catching style offers both functionality and flair, keeping your hair secure while you dance the day away.
Step-by-Step Space Bun Tutorial
- Prep Your Hair – Start with clean, thoroughly brushed hair for the best results. Apply texturizing spray or dry shampoo to create additional grip and volume for your buns.
- Divide Your Hair – Create a clean part down the middle of your head from front to back, separating your hair into two equal sections. Ensure the part is straight for symmetrical buns.
- Secure with Elastics – Gather each section into a high ponytail and secure with elastic bands. Position them evenly on each side of your head for balanced space buns.
- Twist and Wrap – Gently twist each ponytail and wrap it around its base to form a circular bun. The tightness of your twist will determine how sleek or messy your final buns appear.
- Secure with Bobby Pins – Insert bobby pins in a crisscross pattern to lock your buns in place. Use pins that match your hair color for a seamless look.
- Add Accessories – Enhance your space buns with small braids wrapped around the base, colorful hair pins, or sparkly clips for extra festival flair.
Glitter Application Techniques
Glitter Spray Method – For beginners, hair glitter spray offers the quickest application option. Simply direct the spray toward your roots and part line, holding the can 6-8 inches away from your head for even distribution.
Loose Glitter Application – Create more dramatic sparkle by mixing loose cosmetic glitter with a small amount of hair serum or oil. Apply this mixture to your roots using a makeup brush for precise placement and maximum adhesion.
Glitter Gel Technique – For longer-lasting results, apply a thin layer of glitter gel or glue specifically formulated for hair use. Gently press glitter onto the adhesive using your fingertips or a flat brush for concentrated sparkle.
Setting Spray Finish – After applying your preferred glitter method, seal everything in place with a strong-hold hairspray. Apply two light coats rather than one heavy layer to prevent the glitter from clumping or falling off during your festival adventures.
Colorful Temporary Hair Dye Ideas
Want to experiment with bold colors without the commitment? Temporary hair dye offers the perfect solution for festival-goers looking to make a statement this summer.
Rainbow Pastel Bob
A rainbow pastel bob delivers maximum impact with minimal long-term commitment. This vibrant style works beautifully on bob-length hair, transforming your look with an array of soft, blended colors. For those not ready to dye their natural hair, a rainbow pastel bob wig achieves the same eye-catching effect without any processing. The multicolored hues catch the sunlight perfectly as you dance through festival grounds, creating a mesmerizing visual effect that photographs brilliantly.
Rainbow Braids
Rainbow braids offer a fantastic way to incorporate multiple colors into your festival hairstyle. These vibrant braided styles use temporary dyes or colorful extensions woven throughout your natural hair. Apply various pastel shades to different sections before braiding for a cohesive yet multidimensional look. Festival-goers particularly love this style because the colors stay put even during intense dancing sessions, and the structured nature of braids helps maintain the vivid appearance throughout multiple days of events.
Glitter Roots
Glitter roots create a dazzling effect that draws attention and catches the light beautifully. Apply temporary colored dye to your roots first, then layer glitter spray on top for an extra dimension of sparkle. This style works particularly well with updos or half-up styles where the roots remain visible. The technique allows you to coordinate your hair color with your festival outfit while adding that essential element of sparkle that festival fashion demands.
One-Day Color Sprays and Chalks
Temporary color sprays and chalks provide the ultimate flexibility for festival hair experimentation. These products wash out with a single shampoo, making them perfect for weekend events.
Color sprays deliver even, vibrant coverage that can transform your entire head or just selected sections. Apply them to create glittery partings that add unexpected sparkle to simple hairstyles. The lightweight formula won’t weigh down your hair while you’re enjoying festival activities.
Hair chalks offer more precise application for detailed work. Use them to create cherry hair tattoos or other playful designs along the sides of your head or throughout your hair. Colorful bobby pins enhanced with matching hair chalk create a coordinated look that ties your whole style together.
Strategic Color Placement for Maximum Impact
Strategic color placement creates visual interest without committing to all-over color. These techniques draw attention to your hair’s most flattering features.
The “money piece” highlight technique involves coloring just the front sections that frame your face. Choose a bold pink or other vibrant temporary color that complements your festival outfit. This focused application makes a statement while requiring minimal dye and maintenance.
Braided ponytails with color extensions incorporate pops of vivid color throughout a classic style. Weave colored extensions into your braid for a dimensional effect that moves beautifully during festival activities. The contrast between your natural hair and the colorful additions creates visual texture that photographs stunningly.
Accessorized braids with strategic color placement elevate simple braided styles. Apply temporary chalks or sprays to small sections before braiding them into your hair. These touches of color peek through the braid pattern, creating depth and visual interest that lasts throughout the festival weekend.
Festival-Ready Beach Waves
Festival season calls for effortless, beachy waves that can withstand dancing, heat, and long days of outdoor fun. These versatile styles combine carefree vibes with festival-ready durability for the perfect summer look.
Heat-Free Methods for Effortless Waves
Sea salt spray offers the quickest way to achieve natural-looking beach waves without damaging heat styling. Simply mist it onto damp hair and scrunch with your fingers for instant texture and volume. Braiding techniques work wonders for creating waves while you sleep—try dividing damp hair into several loose braids before bed and wake up to beautiful, defined waves. Twist and pin methods deliver gorgeous results by twisting sections of damp hair, securing them with bobby pins, and letting them air dry completely before releasing. Many festival attendees prefer these heat-free approaches since they prevent damage while creating styles that look intentionally undone and perfectly festival-appropriate.
Products to Keep Waves Intact All Day
Texturizing spray serves as your best ally for maintaining volume and definition throughout a full day of festival activities. Apply it to your roots and mid-lengths after styling to create lasting texture that won’t fall flat even though humidity or dancing. Sea salt texturizing cream works brilliantly on damp hair before air-drying, improving your natural wave pattern while adding grit and hold without crunchiness. Light hold hairspray finishes your beach waves beautifully, offering flexibility and movement while preventing frizz—just remember to hold the can 10-12 inches away for a fine, even mist. Festival veterans know that layering these products strategically creates waves that can withstand hours of outdoor festivities without requiring touch-ups.
Half-Up Topknot with Accessories
The half-up topknot is a festival staple that combines style and practicality for those long days of dancing and celebrating. This versatile look keeps hair out of your face while still allowing you to showcase your length and texture.
Embellishing Your Topknot
Bobby Pins and Hair Clips: Transform your simple topknot into a statement piece with colorful or decorative bobby pins strategically placed around your bun. Bright hair clips not only add a pop of color but also help secure any flyaways during your festival adventures.
Braids and Twists: Incorporate small braids or twists into your topknot for added texture and visual interest. Create two ponytails, twist each section, and wrap them around to form an intricate knot that stands out in the festival crowd.
Flowers and Pearls: Add a bohemian touch to your festival look by weaving small flowers or pearls into your topknot. These delicate embellishments can be attached to bobby pins or woven directly into braids for a whimsical, nature-inspired hairstyle that perfectly captures the festival spirit.
Variations for Different Hair Lengths
Short Hair: Rocking shorter locks doesn’t mean missing out on the topknot trend. Create a mini version by gathering a small section from the crown area and securing it with decorative pins. Apply texturizing spray beforehand to give your shorter strands more grip and staying power throughout the day.
Medium Hair: Medium length hair provides the perfect canvas for a classic half-up topknot. Gather the top section of your hair, secure it with an elastic band, twist it around to form a knot, and anchor with bobby pins for a look that transitions seamlessly from day to night festivities.
Long Hair: Use your length advantage by creating an elaborate half-up topknot with multiple braided elements. Long hair allows for more volume and dimension in your knot—try incorporating volumizing products before styling to create a more dramatic rose braid effect that will turn heads at any festival.
Intricate Dutch Braid Designs
Dutch braids have become a festival essential thanks to their three-dimensional texture and staying power through long days of dancing and outdoor activities.
Double Dutch Braid Tutorial
Dutch braids create a stunning raised effect that catches the eye across crowded festival grounds. Unlike French braids where you cross strands over each other, Dutch braids require crossing strands under instead of over, creating that coveted 3D effect that photographs beautifully. Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections down the middle of your head. For each section, gather three small strands at the hairline and begin crossing the outer strands under the middle one, adding hair from each side as you work your way down. Continue this technique until you reach the nape of your neck, then finish with regular braids and secure with elastic bands. Festival-goers can enhance this look by adding small braids within the larger Dutch braids for more texture or incorporating the Dutch braid technique into space buns for a unique hybrid style.
Adding Extensions for Extra Volume
Extensions transform ordinary Dutch braids into festival-worthy showstoppers with added length, volume, and color possibilities. Braid extensions work particularly well with Dutch braids, creating dramatic looks that stand out in festival crowds. Clip-in colored extensions offer a temporary way to incorporate vibrant hues like pastel pinks or electric blues into your braided style without commitment. Professional-grade synthetic extensions provide the most dramatic results for festival-goers wanting maximum impact. Rainbow and pastel-colored extensions woven into Dutch braids create a magical, eye-catching effect that photographs beautifully against festival backdrops. Extensions also allow those with finer hair to achieve the voluminous, textured braids seen in festival inspiration photos. Securing your extensions properly is crucial for all-day wear – use small, discreet clips at the roots and strong elastic bands at the ends to ensure your stunning Dutch braids maintain their integrity through hours of dancing.
Sleek High Ponytail with Wraps
The classic ponytail gets a festival-worthy upgrade with strategic wrapping techniques that transform this everyday style into a head-turning look.
Elevating the Basic Ponytail
Sleek high ponytails offer the perfect canvas for festival creativity while keeping your hair manageable throughout long days of dancing. Start by smoothing your hair back with a high-quality brush and secure it tightly with an elastic that matches your hair color. For extra height and volume, try creating a twisted top knot by forming two ponytails, twisting each section, and wrapping them around to create a stunning knot secured with bobby pins. Adding small braids throughout your ponytail introduces texture and visual interest that catches the light when you move. Festival-goers looking for dramatic impact can incorporate braid extensions woven throughout their ponytail for added length and pops of color that coordinate with their outfit.
Wrap Options from Ribbons to Jewelry
Ponytail wraps offer endless possibilities to personalize your festival look without complex styling techniques. Ribbons and fabric wraps provide an instant bohemian touch—simply wind a colorful ribbon or patterned fabric strip around the base of your ponytail and secure with hidden pins. Jewelry elements transform ordinary ponytails into glamorous statement pieces; try threading beads, pearls, or rhinestones around your ponytail base for a luxe festival vibe that sparkles in the sun. Hair cuffs and metallic wraps offer another dimension of style—slide these accessories over your ponytail at various heights for an edgy, modern look. Fashionable festival-goers can combine multiple wrapping techniques, perhaps starting with a ribbon base and adding decorative bobby pins or hair jewelry for a completely custom creation that stands out in the crowd.
Mermaid-Inspired Fishtail Braids
Fishtail braids are taking festival season by storm this summer, especially with their mermaid-inspired variations that create an enchanting underwater vibe. These intricate braids perfectly combine bohemian charm with fantasy elements, making them ideal for expressing your creative style at any festival setting.
Creating Long-Lasting Fishtail Braids
Starting with clean, thoroughly brushed hair ensures your fishtail braid creates a solid foundation that lasts throughout the entire festival day. Apply texturizing spray to add volume and grip, helping the braid maintain its structure while you dance and move. Begin crafting your fishtail by dividing hair into two sections, then repeatedly take small pieces from the outer edge of each section and cross them over to the opposite side. Gently pull on the strands after completing the braid to create a more relaxed, effortless appearance that enhances the mermaid aesthetic. Secure the ends with a small elastic band that matches your hair color for a seamless finish. Tuck any flyaways or stray hairs under the braid to maintain a polished look that will endure hours of festival activities.
Colorful Additions for Mermaid Vibes
Rainbow braids transform ordinary fishtails into spectacular mermaid creations by incorporating vibrant colored extensions or temporary hair chalk throughout the braid. Pastel-colored sections provide a softer, ethereal look that mimics the gentle hues of ocean waters and coral reefs. Accessorize your fishtail with seashell-shaped clips positioned strategically along the braid to enhance the underwater theme. Starfish pins or mermaid-inspired hair jewelry can be woven into the braid for an extra touch of whimsy that catches the light as you move. Festival-themed accessories like tiny pearls or glittering gems create dimension and draw attention to your intricate braiding technique. Combine your fishtail with other styles like braided ponytails or space buns for a unique hybrid look that stands out in the festival crowd. Temporary colored hair spray offers a quick solution for adding mermaid vibes without the commitment, allowing you to change your look for each day of the festival.
Retro Victory Rolls for a Vintage Festival Look
Transport yourself to a bygone era while standing out at summer festivals with classic victory rolls. These iconic vintage hairstyles offer a perfect blend of retro glamour and practical festival styling that keeps hair secure throughout your day of dancing.
Modern Takes on Classic Victory Rolls
Victory rolls bring undeniable vintage charm to any festival outfit while keeping hair off your face during hot summer events. Traditional victory rolls can be modernized by incorporating colorful extensions or temporary dyes for a contemporary festival twist. Space bun victory rolls combine the best of both worlds—vintage style with festival-friendly practicality that works particularly well for electronic dance events. For a more subtle approach, try half-up victory rolls where only the front sections of hair are rolled while the back remains loose in waves or curls. Accessorizing your victory rolls with festival-appropriate items like small flowers, glitter pins, or even thin metallic chains can elevate the look from classic to festival-ready in seconds.
Setting Techniques for All-Day Hold
Strong-hold hair products are essential for maintaining victory rolls throughout a full day of festival activities. Prep your hair with volumizing products or texturizing sprays before styling to create the perfect foundation for long-lasting rolls. Secure each roll with several well-placed bobby pins, crossing them in different directions to create a solid anchor point that won’t budge. Apply hairspray liberally both during the creation of each roll and after completing the style to lock everything in place. Additional security can be achieved by using hairpins alongside bobby pins for areas that need extra reinforcement. Twist each section tightly before rolling to create tension that helps the style hold its shape longer. For maximum staying power, allow your finished victory rolls to “set” for 10-15 minutes before heading out to your festival destination.
Low-Maintenance Headband Styles
This summer’s festival season is your chance to express yourself through creative hairstyles that are as practical as they’re stunning. We’ve shared our favorite looks that combine style with staying power to keep you looking fabulous from the first beat to the final encore.
Remember that the perfect festival hairstyle isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a look that can handle hours of dancing sweaty crowds and unexpected weather while still looking Instagram-worthy.
Whether you opt for glittery space buns bohemian braids or vibrant temporary colors make sure to pack extra bobby pins setting spray and your favorite accessories. Now you’re ready to hit the festival grounds with confidence knowing your hair game is as strong as the headline acts!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hairstyles for summer music festivals?
The best festival hairstyles include Bohemian Braided Crowns, Space Buns with Glitter Roots, Festival Fishtails with Colorful Extensions, Half-Up Dutch Braids, Sleek High Ponytails with Scarves, Waterfall Braids with Beaded Accents, Beach Waves with Temporary Color, Double Dutch Boxer Braids, Twisted Bandana Updos, and Embellished Side Swept Waves. These styles offer both visual appeal and practicality for withstanding heat, dancing, and long festival days.
How do I create a Bohemian Braided Crown?
Start with properly prepped hair using texturizing spray for grip. Create two Dutch or French braids on each side of your head and wrap them around to meet at the back, pinning securely. Loosen some strands for a relaxed look. Enhance with accessories like flowers, hair chains, or vibrant clips. This style stays intact for multiple festival days while giving you an ethereal, bohemian look.
How can I achieve Space Buns with Glitter Roots?
Divide your hair into two equal sections. Twist each section into a bun on top of your head and secure with bobby pins. For glitter roots, apply hair gel along your part line, then press cosmetic-grade glitter onto the gel. Alternatively, use glitter spray or pre-mixed glitter gel. Finish with strong-hold hairspray to ensure the style and glitter stay put throughout the festival.
What temporary hair color options work best for festivals?
Temporary options include one-day color sprays, hair chalk, wash-out color conditioners, clip-in colored extensions, and glitter gels. These allow for bold experimentation without commitment. Try strategic color placement like “money piece” highlights or rainbow braids for maximum impact. These temporary solutions wash out easily while giving you that perfect festival look.
How do I make Beach Waves last throughout a festival day?
Create beach waves using heat-free methods like overnight braids or twists on damp hair. Apply sea salt spray or texturizing cream for hold and definition. Once dry, finger-comb for a natural look. Set with a light-hold hairspray resistant to humidity. Touch up with dry shampoo throughout the day to absorb oil and maintain volume while dancing.
What’s the best way to embellish a Half-Up Topknot?
Enhance your half-up topknot with colorful bobby pins arranged in geometric patterns, decorative hair clips, small braids incorporated into the knot, or nature-inspired elements like fresh flowers or pearl pins. This style works for all hair lengths—secure short hair with extra pins, create a fuller knot with medium hair, or wrap long hair into a statement bun.
How do I create Dutch braids that last all day?
Start with day-old hair or apply texturizing spray for grip. Section your hair and create Dutch braids by crossing strands under (not over) to achieve the raised effect. Secure with clear elastic bands. For added durability, braid tightly at the roots and slightly looser through lengths. Finish with hairspray. This technique creates braids that withstand dancing and heat.
What are some ways to customize a high ponytail for festivals?
Elevate your high ponytail by adding small braids or twisted sections before gathering your hair. Wrap the base with colorful ribbons, hair extensions, or metallic wire. Add temporary colored spray or glitter to the ponytail itself. Incorporate accessories like cuffs or rings along the length. This classic style becomes festival-ready with these creative, personalized touches.
How can I create a mermaid-inspired festival look?
Create fishtail braids using texturizing spray for grip. Add colorful extensions in blues and greens for a true mermaid effect. Accessorize with seashell-themed clips, pearl pins, or iridescent glitter along the part line. For a temporary mermaid vibe, use colored hair spray on the ends or throughout. These techniques create a magical, ocean-inspired festival look.
How do I make Retro Victory Rolls modern for festivals?
Update classic victory rolls by incorporating colorful extensions or creating a hybrid style with space buns. After rolling and pinning the front sections, add accessories like flower clips or statement pins. Use high-hold setting spray and plenty of bobby pins for all-day wear. This vintage-inspired look brings retro glamour to the festival scene while keeping hair secure.
