Festival hair has a tough job: it has to cope with sun, sweat, dust and dancing, often for several days without a proper wash. The twenty looks here are chosen with that in mind. Braids dominate, from neat double Dutch braids and boxer braids with coloured extensions to a deconstructed boho braid with jewelled clips, a halo braid with bangs and a faux undercut made from tiny side cornrows. Buns keep hair off the neck, whether as playful double buns or braided buns dusted with glitter.
If you prefer hair down, beachy waves work on long hair and on a long bob, and a loose fishtail or half-up topknot adds structure without much effort. For colour, there are temporary routes like hair chalk and a few bright streaks alongside bold mermaid shades.
Choose your style according to your hair length and how long you will be away. Tight braids last the whole weekend; loose waves and messy topknots are better for a single day or for hair that you are happy to refresh with dry shampoo.
1. Glam Accessories
Bejewelled clips replace the usual flower crown on a loosened, deconstructed boho braid. The sparkle catches the light while the relaxed braid keeps the look easy and festival ready. Position clips along the braid where they will show in photos.
Inspiration: @hollibeauty_
2. Double Buns
Two buns are playful and practical, keeping flyaways off your face while you dance. Double buns add fun to a festival outfit, whereas a single bun reads as more polished. Leave a few strands loose at the front for a softer look.
Inspiration: @vanessayao
3. Braided Buns
Braiding the hair before twisting it into double buns keeps long lengths under control. Bright fuchsia colour and a sprinkle of glitter add a bold, jewel-toned festival touch. Secure each bun firmly so it lasts all day.
Inspiration: @misscoralineblue
4. Surfer Waves
Tousled, beach-inspired waves only get better as the day goes on. Sea salt spray and dry shampoo help the texture last over several days. The style works on shorter cuts as well as longer hair, so almost anyone can wear it.
Inspiration: @ashleyatimmortal
5. Beachy Long Bob
A messy long bob styled with beachy waves proves that shorter hair can still be festival-ready. The relaxed texture works without needing length for braids. Twist sections around a flat iron for quick, imperfect waves.
Inspiration: @mizzchoi
6. Flower Braids
Boxer braids decorated with flowers stand out in a crowd full of flower crowns. Use floral clips or tie faux flowers into the braids. You can also make your own by gluing artificial blooms onto plain barrettes.
Inspiration: @ra_hairhouse
7. A Pop of Color
Cornrows on natural hair are threaded with pops of red, yellow and orange, perfect for summer concerts. Neatly laid baby hairs add a finishing touch. The style lasts for weeks, so it can be worn all season long.
Inspiration: @mahoganyrevolution
8. Mermaid Hair
Turquoise and hot pink hair, a loose fishtail braid, messy waves and beads give a vivid mermaid look. If you are not ready for full colour, a few temporary bright streaks capture the same playful spirit.
Inspiration: @glamiris
9. Fun with Hair Chalk
Pastel pink hair chalk on the ends adds colour without commitment. It suits festivals where you skip a wash or two, since chalk also helps hair feel less oily. Brush out any excess before shampooing.
Inspiration: @cecilelovesbeauty
10. Don’t Mess with a Classic
A crown braid paired with a flower crown remains a festival classic for good reason. Coordinate it with a floral embroidered top, or design your own crown for a more personal look. Choose silk flowers, which hold their shape in heat better than fresh blooms.
Inspiration: @rileyjayde
11. The More the Merrier
Several loose baby braids run through the hair, finished with a simple leather headband. Going maximal rather than minimal makes the look impactful yet easy to create. The tiny braids can be added to second-day hair.
Inspiration: @kristykellyjarvis
12. Double Dutch Braids
Neat double Dutch braids hold up to sweat, humidity and long days of dancing in the sun. They look just as tidy at the end of the weekend as on the first night, making them one of the most practical festival choices.
Inspiration: @jencollierhairstylist
13. Halo Braid
A halo braid with bangs is polished enough for a cocktail party and playful enough for a festival. French braid from one side to the base of the skull, braid up the other side and pin the end into place.
Inspiration: @hairbyktp
14. Boxer Braids
Boxer braids with colourful extensions look special yet are simple to achieve. Pin the braids into a half crown near the nape to keep your neck cool in summer heat. Ask for moderate tension so the braids stay comfortable for days.
Inspiration: @the_braid_bar
15. Bangs and Boho Braids
Sixties-style fringe bangs pair with twisted boho braids for a cool festival look. Braids are an easy way to go a couple of days without washing, and the fringe can be refreshed with a little dry shampoo.
Inspiration: @hairwithlinda
16. Fabulous Fishtail
A fishtail side braid works for anyone with shoulder-length hair or longer. There is no need for perfection; the braid will get messier during the festival, and that only adds to its charm. Secure the end with a clear elastic and a little texture spray.
Inspiration: @divassalonandspa
17. Hair Jewelry Hoops
High buns made from boho braids are decorated with silver and gold hoop hair jewellery. The metal accents elevate a simple braided style and catch the sunlight beautifully. Slide the hoops on before pinning the buns so they sit evenly and stay put.
Inspiration: @crazyhairofficial
18. Messy Topknot
A messy half-up topknot with beachy waves takes only minutes and is perfect for road trips to the festival. Twist the top section into a loose knot and pull a few strands free for a laid-back finish.
Inspiration: @natalieannehair
19. Let It All Hang Out
Long hair is left loose with soft curls and a messy braided half updo. To make the braid look relaxed, gently tease out sections after tying it off. The style shows off length while keeping hair off the face.
Inspiration: @headlinesthesalon
20. A Braided Faux Undercut
A few tiny braids close to the scalp on one side create the look of an undercut without any shaving. It is a great way to try an edgy silhouette, and it suits fine hair well.
Inspiration: @queen_tinn
Packing a festival hair kit
- Dry shampoo to absorb sweat and add grip on day two and three.
- Sea salt or texture spray to revive waves and messy braids.
- Clear elastics, bobby pins and a couple of scrunchies.
- A wide-tooth comb and a leave-in conditioner for detangling after dusty days.
- A hat or scarf for shade; sun can dry out hair and fade colour quickly.
Glitter, chalk and temporary colour
Use cosmetic-grade glitter rather than craft glitter, and apply it with a clear gel along your parting so it stays put. Hair chalk and coloured sprays wash out, but they can rub off on clothing and stain very light or bleached hair for a few washes. Brush out chalk gently before shampooing, and follow with a moisturising conditioner because chalk can be drying.