18 Valentine’s Day Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Romantic Updos

Love is in the air. Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to elevate your look with a stunning new hairstyle.

Whether you have a candlelit dinner planned or a casual day out, the right hair sets the mood. It completes your aesthetic and boosts your confidence.

Explore these romantic waves, intricate braids, and elegant updos. These 18 Valentine’s Day Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Romantic Updos are designed to make you feel beautiful.

1. Classic Hollywood Waves

Classic Hollywood waves offer a timeless aesthetic that screams red-carpet glamour. This style relies on high-shine finishes and uniform curls that flow together seamlessly for a sophisticated look.

To achieve this, use a large-barrel curling iron and curl all sections in the same direction. Once the hair cools, brush it out gently to create those iconic, fluid ridges.

Finish the look with a lightweight gloss spray. This ensures your hair catches the light during a romantic candlelit dinner or an evening theater performance.

2. Boho Crown Braid

The boho crown braid is the epitome of ethereal romance. It frames the face beautifully while keeping hair tucked away, making it a practical yet stunning choice for long dates.

Start by creating two braids near the temples and wrapping them around the back of the head. Secure them with pins and gently tug at the loops for a fuller effect.

This style works exceptionally well with natural textures. It provides a soft, whimsical vibe that pairs perfectly with floral dresses or delicate lace tops for Valentine’s Day.

3. Low Messy Chignon

A low messy chignon is the ultimate “effortlessly chic” romantic updo. It balances a polished silhouette with a relaxed texture that feels modern and approachable for any celebration.

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Gather your hair at the nape of the neck and twist it into a loose bun. Leave a few strands out near the ears to soften the overall appearance.

This hairstyle is incredibly versatile and stays secure throughout the night. It highlights the neckline and allows your choice of earrings or jewelry to truly stand out.

4. Half-Up Half-Down Rosette

The half-up rosette adds a literal touch of floral romance to your hair. By twisting a section of hair into a rose shape, you create a unique focal point.

Start with a standard half-up ponytail and braid the tail. Coil that braid around itself until it resembles a flower, then pin it flat against your head.

The remaining hair should be left in soft waves to complement the intricate detail of the rosette. It is a creative way to celebrate the holiday’s floral themes.

5. Voluminous 90s Blowout

The 90s blowout is back and perfect for a high-energy Valentine’s date. This style is all about movement, bounce, and incredible volume that lasts from morning to night.

Use a round brush while blow-drying to lift the roots and flip the ends inward or outward. Set the hair in large rollers for thirty minutes to maximize the “va-va-voom” factor.

This look is healthy, bouncy, and youthful in spirit. It works best on layered hair, allowing different lengths to create a dynamic and textured silhouette.

6. Fishtail Accent Braid

If you prefer wearing your hair down, a fishtail accent braid adds just enough detail. It breaks up the monotony of loose hair without requiring a full updo.

Take a small section from the front and weave a tight fishtail braid toward the back. Secure it under the top layer of hair for a hidden, mystical effect.

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The contrast between the intricate braid and loose, flowing waves is striking. It is a subtle nod to the craftsmanship of braiding while remaining relaxed and easy.

7. Sleek High Bun with Tendrils

For a more formal Valentine’s look, a sleek high bun offers a polished and elongated silhouette. It draws the eyes upward and provides a clean, sophisticated frame for the face.

Apply a smoothing serum to eliminate flyaways before pulling the hair into a high ponytail and twisting it. Secure it tightly for a look that won’t budge.

To keep it from feeling too severe, pull out two very thin “tendrils” near the forehead. This adds a soft, romantic touch that mimics the trends of the early 2000s.

8. Beachy Mermaid Waves

Mermaid waves are perfect for a casual Valentine’s Day brunch or a daytime stroll. This style mimics the natural texture of hair after a day spent near the ocean.

Use a triple-barrel waver tool to create consistent, rippling texture throughout the hair. Unlike traditional curls, these waves are flatter and provide a more bohemian, relaxed energy.

Spritz a sea salt spray or texturizing mist to finish the look. This ensures the waves stay defined without becoming crunchy or stiff during your holiday activities.

9. Twisted Halo Updo

The twisted halo updo is a great alternative for those who find traditional braiding difficult. It uses simple twists to create a regal, crown-like effect around the head.

Split the hair into two sections and twist them away from the face, adding more hair as you go. Pin the ends across the back to create a continuous loop.

This style is excellent for showing off the back of a dress. It keeps the hair entirely off the neck, making it a comfortable choice for long evenings out.

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10. Bubble Braid Half-Up Style

Bubble braids are a playful and modern take on the 18 Valentine’s Day Hairstyles with Waves, Braids and Romantic Updos. They are incredibly easy to achieve but look very intricate.

Secure a half-up ponytail, then place elastics every two inches down the tail. Pull at the hair between each elastic to create a rounded “bubble” effect.

This style adds a lot of visual interest and volume. It is a fantastic choice for those with very long hair who want to keep it managed and stylish.

11. Side-Swept Romantic Curls

Side-swept curls are a go-to for romantic occasions because they highlight the jawline and shoulder. This asymmetrical look is inherently dramatic and very flattering in photos.

Curl all of your hair and pin one side tightly behind the ear, allowing the rest to cascade over the opposite shoulder. Use decorative pins for extra flair.

This style works beautifully with one-shoulder dresses or tops. It creates a sense of Old Hollywood glamour while remaining soft and approachable for a date.

12. Waterfall Braid with Loose Curls

A waterfall braid creates a stunning “dripping” effect where strands of hair pass through the braid and fall freely. It is a masterpiece of braiding and waves combined.

Start a French braid at the temple but drop the bottom strand every time you cross it over. This creates the “waterfall” look as you move across the back.

Pair the braid with loose, curling iron waves for the ultimate romantic finish. It is a complex-looking style that never fails to impress on special occasions.

13. Braided Low Bun

The braided low bun combines the security of an updo with the texture of a braid. It is a sturdy style that works well for dancing or active dates.

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Braid your hair into a low ponytail and then wrap that braid into a bun. The woven texture adds a level of detail that a standard bun simply lacks.

This look is great for thicker hair types, as the braid helps compress the volume into a manageable shape. It looks professional yet deeply romantic and sweet.

14. Soft Brushed-Out S-Waves

S-waves are flatter and more structured than beach waves but softer than curls. They follow a gentle “S” shape down the length of the hair for a refined look.

Use a flat iron to create a waving motion, bending the hair back and forth as you move down the strand. This technique results in a very modern texture.

Brush the waves out with a wide-tooth comb to blend the sections. The result is a cloud-like texture that feels incredibly soft to the touch and eye.

15. Double Dutch Braids with Ribbon

Adding a ribbon to double Dutch braids instantly transforms them into a Valentine’s Day masterpiece. It is a playful way to incorporate holiday colors like red or pink.

Braid two Dutch braids from the hairline to the nape. Weave a thin silk ribbon through the links of the braid using a bobby pin as a needle.

This style is perfect for those who want a secure look that still feels festive. The ribbon adds a pop of color and a touch of Victorian-era romance.

16. Pull-Through Braid Ponytail

The pull-through braid is a “faux” braid that is actually a series of interconnected ponytails. It provides massive volume and a very thick, textured appearance.

Each section is pulled through the one above it and secured with an elastic. This makes it much more durable than a standard three-strand braid for a long night.

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This look is a showstopper for those with medium to long hair. It looks incredibly intricate and high-fashion without requiring professional braiding skills.

17. Loose French Braid Side Sweep

The side-swept French braid is soft, casual, and undeniably romantic. It keeps the hair controlled while allowing for a loose, messy texture that feels very natural.

Braid loosely from one side of the head toward the opposite shoulder. Don’t worry about perfection; a few loose pieces actually enhance the romantic, “undone” feel.

Finish by pancaking the braid—pulling on the edges to make it look twice as thick. This creates a cozy, romantic look perfect for a Valentine’s movie night.

18. Braided Space Bun Updo

For a fun and quirky Valentine’s look, try braided space buns. This style splits the hair into two high buns, adding a youthful and energetic vibe to your celebration.

Braid each ponytail before wrapping them into buns to add texture and detail. This prevents the buns from looking too “pre-school” and gives them a sophisticated edge.

This updo is perfect for showing off your face and a bold makeup look. It stays perfectly in place, letting you focus entirely on your partner and your evening.

How can I make my waves last all night?

The secret to long-lasting waves is letting the curls cool completely before touching them. Use a medium-hold hairspray while the hair is still wrapped on the iron for extra grip. Additionally, prepping your hair with a styling mousse before blow-drying provides the necessary “grit” for the curls to hold their shape for hours.

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Can these styles work on short hair?

Many of these styles, especially the waves and accent braids, work beautifully on bobs and lobs. For updos, you may need to use more bobby pins or opt for a “half-up” version of the style. Braided accents near the temple or soft, flat-iron waves are particularly flattering for those with shorter lengths.

What are the best hair accessories for Valentine’s Day?

Silk ribbons in red, pink, or cream are classic choices that add instant romance to any braid. Pearl-encrusted clips or floral pins are also popular for adding a touch of elegance to updos. If you are wearing a simple style, a velvet headband can elevate the look without requiring complex styling.

How do I achieve the “messy” look without it looking unkempt?

The key to a “perfectly messy” look is intentionality and structure. Start with a polished base, such as clean waves, and then strategically pull out small strands around the face and ears. Use a texturizing spray to give the loose pieces a deliberate, airy feel rather than a frizzy appearance.

Should I style my hair while it is freshly washed?

For braids and updos, “second-day hair” is often better because the natural oils provide better grip. If you have just washed your hair, apply a dry shampoo or a texturizing spray to the roots and lengths. This adds the necessary friction to prevent your braids or pins from sliding out during the day.

Which of these styles is best for a windy outdoor date?

Braided styles like the Dutch braids or the braided low bun are the most wind-resistant. These styles secure the hair tightly, ensuring you won’t have to deal with tangles or hair blowing in your face. If you prefer wearing your hair down, the side-swept curls pinned tightly on one side offer more control than loose waves.