As the festive season approaches, many face the familiar challenge of finding a hairstyle that remains impeccable from the first toast to the last dance. This winter, the most sought-after looks masterfully blend glamour with a relaxed, effortless vibe.
Leading hairstylists Tom Smith and Jason Collier have identified the four key trends set to dominate parties. From the dramatic return of the side part to chic retro flicks, these styles offer something for everyone seeking that perfect balance.
The Sultry Side Part Makes a Comeback
The middle-parting, a staple of recent years, is finally making way for the dramatic return of the deep side part. Celebrities like Scarlett Johansson, Zoë Kravitz, and Bella Hadid have all been spotted embracing this voluminous look, with the style taking centre stage at the recent Victoria's Secret fashion show.
The main difficulty, especially amidst typical British drizzle, is maintaining the lift and gloss. Tom Smith, a global hairstylist and co-founder of AEVUM Salon, emphasises preparation. "The ultimate prep for a deep side parting is a styling powder," he advises, recommending Evo Haze for its strong hold and invisible finish.
Jason Collier highlights the battle against humidity. He suggests using an anti-humidity spray like Oribe's on damp hair along the parting, followed by a flexible hold mist such as Philip Kingsley's to lock the style in place all evening.
Embracing Intentional Bedhead Texture
In a direct reaction to overly polished styles, deliberately messy waves and bedhead texture are leading the trend. Seen on runways from Prada to McQueen, this "lived-in" look is the goal for the party season.
The key is to avoid looking genuinely unkempt. Smith stresses that texture must be created intentionally. "Use a curling iron to create movement first before lightly misting a texture spray," he says, also recommending using gravity for an airy lift.
Collier champions imperfection. He advises starting with a lightweight moisturising cream, then using a tong on random sections, alternating curl directions. The final step is to break everything up with fingers and finish with a texture mist like Hair by Sam McKnight's Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist.
The Modern 1960s Hair Flick
This retro statement, seen on Molly-Mae Hague and Lana Del Rey, is one of the season's most wearable dramatic styles. The modern interpretation features a soft, buoyant movement at the ends while the roots stay sleek, a departure from the rigid bouffants of the past.
Collier notes that the contemporary version is "all about a softer curve rather than a rigid flip." He advises avoiding too much volume at the crown and letting the drama happen at the edges.
Smith recommends building volume with a round brush and hairdryer rather than a dedicated tool. "A small round brush can encourage an outward flick at the ends," he explains. Products like Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray can help achieve a sleek, supernatural finish.
Accessorising with Bows on Ponytails
The sky-high ponytail remains a dominant trend, and the perfect accompaniment this season is a bow. Designers like Versace have sent hair bows down the runway, styling them with both ponytails and half-up, half-down dos.
Smith's advice is to avoid a timid middle ground. "I recommend either a tiny bow or an oversized one – this keeps it high fashion rather than 'twee'," he says, suggesting silk, velvet, or glossy materials.
Collier recommends perfecting the updo with a simple hairband first, allowing the bow to act purely as decoration. "For a chic, grown-up vibe, I love pairing a velvet or satin bow with a super-sleek low pony," he adds. For high ponytails, placing the bow slightly above the elastic helps elongate the silhouette.
With these expert-backed trends and techniques, achieving a stunning and long-lasting party hairstyle is now well within reach.
