17 Open Party Hairstyles with Waves, Curls and Creative Accessories

Ready to make a statement at your next event? Finding the perfect balance between relaxed and formal starts with your hair.

Open hairstyles offer a sense of effortless glamour. Adding waves and curls creates movement that catches the light beautifully under party glow.

Creative accessories elevate these textures into a true fashion statement. Whether you prefer pearls, ribbons, or metallic accents, there is a look for everyone here.

1. Pearl-Encrusted Beach Waves

Beach waves provide a foundation of relaxed texture that works for any festive occasion. The soft, salt-water-inspired bends create volume without looking overly structured or stiff.

Strategically placing varied sizes of pearl clips along one side adds a touch of classic sophistication. This asymmetrical detail keeps the hair away from your face while showing off the luster.

To achieve this look, use a wide-barrel curling wand and leave the ends straight. Finish with a lightweight sea salt spray to maintain that breezy, touchable feel all night.

2. Hollywood Glamour with Emerald Pins

Nothing says “party” like high-shine, uniform Hollywood waves. This style focuses on deep, rhythmic curves that flow seamlessly from the roots down to the very tips.

The addition of deep emerald gemstone pins creates a striking contrast against the hair. These rich colors pop beautifully, especially when nestled into the dip of a wave near the temple.

Use a high-shine serum to ensure the “S” waves reflect as much light as possible. Secure the pins firmly to keep the sleek side-part intact during hours of dancing.

3. Boho Braided Crown with Loose Waves

This style blends the structure of a braid with the freedom of flowing hair. A thin crown braid acts as a natural headband, framing the face with intricate detail.

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The rest of the hair cascades in loose, romantic waves that look better as the night goes on. This “lived-in” aesthetic is perfect for outdoor parties or creative gatherings.

Interweave tiny dried flowers or gold wire into the braid for an ethereal finish. It creates a whimsical focal point that complements the softness of the curled ends.

4. Voluminous Curls with Oversized Velvet Bows

Big, bouncy curls are a timeless choice for anyone wanting maximum impact. Use a smaller curling iron to create tight spirals, then brush them out for a cloud-like texture.

A large velvet bow placed at the back of a half-up section adds a regal, playful touch. The weight of the velvet provides a premium feel that screams luxury.

Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair before styling to ensure the curls don’t fall flat. The bow serves as both a functional fastener and a bold style statement.

5. Sleek Side-Part Waves with Rhinestone Barrettes

A deep side part instantly transforms loose waves into a red-carpet-ready look. One side is tucked tightly behind the ear, while the other flows freely across the shoulder.

Stacking three or four thin rhinestone barrettes on the tucked side adds a modern, stacked jewelry effect. This draws attention to your profile and adds a brilliant sparkle.

Ensure the roots are smoothed down with a fine-tooth comb and strong-hold gel. The contrast between the sleek top and the wavy lengths creates a professional, polished silhouette.

6. Tousled Waves with Floating Butterfly Clips

Tousled waves offer a youthful and energetic vibe that is perfect for casual celebrations. The goal is a “just woke up like this” texture with plenty of grit.

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Miniature butterfly clips scattered throughout the lengths create the illusion of them floating in your hair. Using iridescent or metallic butterflies adds a nostalgic yet trendy element.

Work a texturizing paste through the mid-lengths to give the clips something to grip onto. This prevents the accessories from sliding down while you move around the party.

7. Mermaid Curls with Starfish Charms

Mermaid curls are characterized by their long, continuous ripples that look wet and glossy. This style works best on longer lengths where the pattern can truly develop.

Tiny starfish or seashell charms attached to bobby pins bring a coastal, festive energy to the look. It is an ideal choice for summer parties or destination events.

Use a waver tool to get consistent ridges throughout the hair. A glossing spray finish will mimic the shimmer of the ocean, making the charms look perfectly at home.

8. Waterfall Braid with Soft Spiral Curls

The waterfall braid allows strands of hair to “pour” through the braid, creating a stunning visual flow. It bridges the gap between a decorative updo and a free-flowing style.

Beneath the braid, the hair is curled into soft, vertical spirals that mimic the movement of water. This creates a multi-dimensional look that appears complex but remains comfortable.

Add tiny crystal droplets along the path of the braid to emphasize the waterfall effect. These small details catch the light with every turn of your head.

9. Vintage Finger Waves with Gold Leaf Accents

Vintage finger waves are a masterpiece of hair styling, requiring precision and a steady hand. The flat, sculpted ridges offer a sophisticated nod to 1920s glamour.

Applying flecks of gold leaf along the ridges of the waves adds a high-fashion, artistic touch. This metallic shimmer creates a decadent look that is perfect for black-tie parties.

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Set the style with a heavy-duty freezing spray to ensure the sculpted shapes stay sharp. The gold leaf should be applied while the hair is still slightly tacky for best adhesion.

10. Half-Up Top Knot with Beachy Curls

The half-up top knot is the ultimate “cool girl” party hairstyle. It keeps hair out of the eyes while letting the length and texture shine in the back.

Loose, beachy curls provide the perfect base for the messy knot on top. This juxtaposition of a structured bun and relaxed waves feels modern and effortless.

Wrap a silk scarf around the base of the top knot for an instant pop of color. The trailing ends of the scarf blend beautifully with the curls below.

11. Messy Waves with a Multi-Chain Headpiece

Messy waves are all about volume, movement, and a lack of perfection. This style celebrates natural frizz and texture, making it very easy to maintain all night.

A multi-layered metallic chain headpiece draped over the crown adds a bold, edgy vibe. The chains move independently, creating a dynamic look that responds to your movements.

Use a dry shampoo or volume powder at the roots to give the headpiece a stable foundation. The “messiness” of the hair ensures the chains don’t look too formal or rigid.

12. Disco Curls with Glitter Root Spray

Inspired by the 1970s, disco curls are tight, voluminous, and full of life. This style is designed for maximum movement on the dance floor and incredible height.

Applying a fine glitter spray specifically to the roots adds a cosmic, celebratory shimmer. As you move, the glitter catches the light, making your hair look like it’s glowing.

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To get the most out of this look, use a very small curling wand and pin-curl each section until cool. This ensures the curls stay springy and resilient throughout the event.

13. Romantic Waves with a Lace Headband

Romantic waves are softer and more diffused than traditional curls, focusing on a gentle “S” shape. This look is feminine, soft, and universally flattering for any party.

A delicate lace headband adds a vintage-inspired charm that feels soft against the skin. Look for headbands with intricate embroidery or small beadwork for added detail.

Brush through your curls with a natural bristle brush to soften the edges. The lace headband should sit slightly back from the hairline to allow a few tendrils to frame the face.

14. Double Side-Pinned Waves with Minimalist Metallic Pins

Pinning both sides of your waves back creates a faux-mohawk effect that looks incredibly chic. It focuses all the volume in the center and back of the head.

Using minimalist metallic pins in geometric shapes—like circles or triangles—adds a contemporary edge. These silver or gold accents look clean and intentional against the hair.

Spray the pins with hairspray before inserting them to give them extra grip. This prevents the weight of the waves from pulling the accessories out of place.

15. Textured Waves with Leather Cord Wraps

For a more rugged or bohemian party look, textured waves are the way to go. This style thrives on matte finishes and irregular curl patterns for a raw aesthetic.

Wrapping thin leather cords around small sections of the hair adds an artisanal, handcrafted feel. It breaks up the uniformity of the waves and adds a unique visual layer.

Use a flat iron to create “bend” waves rather than circular curls. The leather cords should be tied loosely to allow the hair to move naturally underneath them.

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16. Shimmering Hollywood Waves with Feather Accents

Combining the structure of Hollywood waves with the softness of feathers creates a high-drama look. This is a bold choice for anyone who wants to be the center of attention.

Small ostrich or marabou feather clips tucked behind the ear add a tactile, airy element. The movement of the feathers complements the fluid motion of the waves perfectly.

Ensure the waves are brushed into a single cohesive sheet for that “expensive” finish. The feathers should match or contrast your outfit for a fully coordinated party ensemble.

17. Loose Spiral Curls with Neon Hair Tinsel

Loose spirals offer a classic party base, but adding neon hair tinsel brings the look into the modern era. These thin, reflective strands add “fairy hair” sparks throughout.

The tinsel reflects light in a way that regular hair cannot, creating a holographic effect. This is especially effective in low-light party environments or under strobe lights.

Tie the tinsel close to the root so it follows the curve of the curls. Because the tinsel is heat-resistant, you can even curl it right along with your natural hair.

How do I make my open waves last all night at a party?

The secret to longevity lies in the preparation and the “set.” Always use a heat protectant with hold properties on dry hair before curling. Once a section is curled, clip it to your head while it’s still hot and let it cool completely; this “sets” the shape so it won’t drop as quickly when you start moving.

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What accessories are best for fine hair that usually slips?

If you have fine hair, look for accessories with “alligator” teeth or rubberized coatings on the clips. You can also spray the back of any pin or barrette with a strong-hold hairspray before sliding it in. Creating a small “X” with two bobby pins underneath your decorative accessory provides an anchor for it to grip onto.

Can I achieve these looks without using high heat?

Yes, many of these wave patterns can be created using heatless methods like robe-tie curls or flexible rods overnight. For the accessories, the application remains the same regardless of how the curls were formed. Heatless methods often provide more “grit,” which can actually help accessories stay in place longer than silkier, heat-styled hair.

Which accessories are currently trending for party hairstyles?

Currently, oversized velvet bows, 90s-inspired butterfly clips, and stacked minimalist metallic barrettes are dominating the scene. Pearl accents also remain a staple because they offer a timeless look that works across various party themes. Mixing different textures, like metal and fabric, is a great way to stay on-trend.

How do I choose between beach waves and Hollywood waves?

The choice usually depends on the “vibe” of the party and your outfit. Beach waves are more “undone” and casual, making them great for house parties or outdoor events. Hollywood waves are very structured and polished, making them the preferred choice for formal galas, weddings, or high-end cocktail parties.

Should I put accessories in before or after curling?

Always add your accessories as the very last step of your styling process. Curling your hair with accessories already in can be dangerous and will likely result in an uneven curl pattern. Style the hair, let it cool, shake out the curls to your liking, apply your finishing spray, and then strategically place your creative accessories.