Festival hair shouldn't mean choosing between looking cute and being practical! We get it - you want that effortlessly cool, boho vibe without hauling your entire collection of products with you. And you're in luck - with a few smart techniques, the right accessories, and maybe some strategic glitter, these five styles will keep you looking festival-ready from first act to final encore.
Bubble Braids
Bubble braids - this is such an easy festival hairstyle that keeps your hair protected AND makes you look effortlessly cute for every photo op.
All you need? Colourful hair bobbles or bands - and I mean stock up! Grab at least 5 for each side (trust me, you'll want extras for touch-ups).
There are so many bubble braid hairstyles that you could try out, such as this gorgeous one below.
Looking for a more simple approach?
Check out our step-by-step guide:
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Start with clean hair if possible (festival life, we don’t judge.)
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Detangle thoroughly - we recommend the Rizos Curls Pink Detangling Flexi Brush for easy and quick detangling
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Part hair into two (make sure your lines are straight)
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Then section each part into 4 or more sections
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Add a hair bobble for each section (spacing them 2-3 inches apart)
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Repeat on the other side
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Gently tug each ‘bubble’ to loosen and create volume
Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a great low-maintenance festival hairstyle - and work well if you’re staying up all weekend (as they are hard to sleep in.)
This is a 2 for 1 hairstyle, look effortless chic for a day or two and then unravel to reveal bouncy, defined curls.
So if you are looking for easy summer hairstyles or natural hair looks that will make you look effortlessly stylish, then try out bantu knots.
The How To:
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Start with dry, styled hair (whether air-dried curls or blow-dried)
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Detangle your hair thoroughly
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Work section by section
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Part off a small section
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Apply cream or a leave in product to your hair and spray your hair with water so your hair is slightly wet
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Twist and wrap your hair around itself until it forms a ‘knot’
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Secure with a bobby pin
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Repeat
To enhance this look make two medium sized bantu knots at the front of your hair and leave the rest of your hair curly.
Jewelled Dutch Braids
Dutch braids are already a staple among festival hairstyles and summer hairstyles, but adding jewellery can take the style from basic to spectacular.
And if you know how to dutch braid this can be an easy way of elevating a very simple hairstyle. All you need is a brush, two hair elastics and some sparkly hair jewellery.
And for those who want a refresh on their dutch braiding skills, here’s a quick breakdown:
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Part your hair in two
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Braid close to the scalp by grabbing three small pieces of hair.
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Weave each strand under the other.
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The piece on the right goes under the middle, and then the piece on the left goes under that.
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Add more hair as you go until you’re braiding a normal plait.
Now for the fun part - accessorising! Add hair jewellery like rings, clips, or gems throughout the braids. Not much of a jewellery person? No worries, why not use colourful hair extensions woven through the braids to brighten up your look.
An Accessorised Half-up Half-down
The half-up half-down hairstyle will always be a favourite whether you're a wedding guest or on your way to the Notting Hill Carnival. Add some cute accessories and you’ll be festival ready in no time at all.
What you'll need: Hair elastics, bobby pins, and your choice of accessories (headbands, scarves, hair clips, or flowers)
Start with your natural curls out and use your finger to part half of your hair, putting the top half in a bun, ponytail or puff.
Then accessorise!
Feeling fancy?
Take two pieces out and braid them so you have two braided pieces at the front.
Pro tip: This style looks amazing in photos and survives dancing, making it perfect for those Instagramable moments in between sets.
A Temporary Coloured Fro
Ready to get all the compliments? A temporary coloured fro using hair paint wax is the ultimate festival showstopper. This look is bold and fun, it will have everyone asking you for more details.
The best part? Hair paint wax washes out completely, but make sure it's fully dry before touching clothes or fabric to avoid staining.
What you'll need: Hair paint wax in your chosen colours and disposable gloves.
We recommend Curlsmith Hair Makeup for a bright and beautiful look.
Final Thoughts
So what are you waiting for? You've got five festival-ready styles that protect your curls and photograph beautifully. Shop our festival hair essentials, try a look, and don't forget to tag us in your photos!
