When you’ve got curls, party hair doesn’t need to mean hours with straighteners, heat damage, or trying to force your texture into something it’s not. The best curly hairstyles for party occasions work with your natural look, enhancing volume, shape, and movement rather than taming it away.
So whether you’re heading to a birthday dinner, engagement bash, flat party or a last-minute “tipples after work?” situation, these five styles are timeless, photogenic, and easy to recreate. Think magazine-ready, but realistic, the kind of hair that looks good in both the photo booth and under the unflattering kitchen LEDs.
1. Half-Up, Half-Down Curls
If there’s one style that never lets curly girls down, it’s the half-up, half-down. It’s the hair equivalent of a dependable old blazer: polished, flattering, and works for almost everything.
By lifting curls away from your face while keeping length and volume through the back, this look strikes the perfect balance between “effortless” and “put together”. It also shows off curl definition beautifully, especially if your hair has different curl sizes throughout.
To style, gently section the top half of your hair (roughly from temple to temple) and secure it loosely with a claw clip, scrunchie or subtle barrette. Avoid pulling too tight; a bit of softness keeps it modern and casual, rather than high school prom vibes.
Why it works:
It photographs brilliantly, keeps curls bouncy, and transitions easily from daytime to evening. No wonder it’s everywhere from Soho speak-easies (we assume, we’re not that cool) to red carpets.
2. Side-Swept Curly Glam
Side-swept curls are instant drama, in a good way. This is one of the easiest curly hair styles for party nights when you want maximum impact with minimal effort. More time for pre-drinks and inevitable outfit malfunctions can’t be a bad thing.
A deep side part creates volume at the crown and allows curls to cascade over one shoulder, giving that soft, glamorous silhouette you usually associate with old-school Hollywood, or the Love Island finale look.
To recreate it, part your hair deeply on one side, gently encourage curls over to the heavier side, and secure discreetly with pins if needed. A touch of lightweight oil or shine spray through the ends helps define curls without weighing them down.
Style tip: Pair with statement earrings or a bold lip and let the hair do the rest.
3. High Curly Ponytail
The curly ponytail has had a serious glow-up recently. No longer just a “gym-only” option, a high ponytail with volume is playful, confident and surprisingly elegant.
The key here is placement and texture. Aim for a high or mid-high pony, keeping curls loose and full rather than overly slicked back. If you want extra height, tilt your head forward while gathering the hair, a simple trick, but it works.
Wrap a small curl around the base to hide the hair tie, or add a satin scrunchie for a softer finish.
Why it works:
It lifts the face, shows off your curl pattern, and stays intact all night, ideal if there’s likely to be any dancing/sweating involved in your evening.
Hair too short for some of these looks? Check out our guide to short curly hairstyles.
4. Soft Curly Updo
If you hear “updo” and picture something tight, stiff or overly formal, you’d do well to just forget the hospital matron image. Modern curly updos are all about softness, movement and imperfection - you can cancel that order for 20 litres of industrial strength hair spray now.
This style works especially well for medium to long curls and is perfect for parties where you want to look a bit more elevated without going full ‘destination wedding guest’. Think loosely pinned curls at the back, with tendrils left out around the face and neck.
Start by loosely gathering your hair at the nape or mid-back of the head, pinning curls in place rather than twisting them tightly. Let some pieces fall naturally - that relaxed feel is what keeps it current.
Bonus: Unlike any other hairstyle ever, this one actually improves as the night goes on. Very “cool girl at the afters”.
5. Accessorised Loose Curls
Sometimes the best curly party hairstyle is… just really good curls. Adding accessories instantly elevates loose hair and turns an everyday curl routine into something party-ready.
Hair clips, pearl pins, headbands or even a subtle ribbon can make curls feel intentional rather than undone. This is also the most flexible option if you’re working with second-day (or third-day) hair.
Place accessories asymmetrically (one side of the head rather than both) to keep the look modern and editorial.
Why it works:
It’s low effort, high reward, and perfect if you’re short on time but still want that “curated” finish.
How to Make Curly Party Hair Last Longer
No matter which style you choose, a few universal tips help curls survive the night:
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Start with well-hydrated hair - dry curls lose shape faster
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Use lightweight hold products rather than goopy gels or fixing sprays
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Avoid over-touching once styled (harder than it sounds)
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Embrace a bit of frizz - it can add volume and untamed character
Remember: great curly hair isn’t about perfection. It’s about movement, texture, and confidence. You’ve got this.
Read next: Products for curly hair: discover your perfect hairstyle routine.
FAQs: Curly Party Hairstyles
What is the easiest curly hairstyle for a party?
Half-up, half-down curls are the easiest and most reliable option. They work with almost all curl types and don’t require advanced styling skills.
Are curly updos suitable for casual parties?
Yes - as long as they’re soft and loose. Avoid overly structured styles and let curls fall naturally to keep the look relaxed.
How do I stop my curls from dropping during a party?
Use a light hold product (go easy), avoid heavy oils before styling, and don’t over-manipulate your hair once it’s set.
Can I wear accessories with curly hair without flattening it?
Absolutely. Choose lightweight clips or headbands and place them strategically rather than pressing them into the roots.
Do these curly hairstyles work for all curl types?
Yes, from loose waves to tight coils. The key is adapting placement and volume to suit your natural texture.
