It’s officially party season and we asked a selection of hairdressers for their party hair predictions for AW25:
Dean Lawton Taylor, Trinder Hair Studios, St Albans
“We all love a glam blowout; think 90’s supermodels, big and bouncy but less fluffy, with a more glossy, polished finish. A classic ponytail is always a winner, either high, medium or low but with a really sleek finish on the hair from root to tip. Rather than chignons Christmas 2025 it’s more about soft 60’s volume and curls through the hair, 100% chic but effortless!
The key to creating party looks that last all night is the prep – on 99% of party hairstyles I will set the hair first before I start working on the desired look. When working on long hair, you can’t beat a good barrel tong set to ensure hair lasts all night, Flex Pli from L’Oréal Professionnel is my go-to product to get the hair to last all night.”
Carol Ritchie, Southsea, Portsmouth
“This Christmas it’s all about glamour with personality. Think luxe textures, glossy finishes, and hair that feels styled but effortless. We’re seeing the return of statement updos; soft Bardot-style knots, 1960s-inspired bouffants and sleek ponytails dressed with velvet or metallic details. I’d call it modern vintage — sculpted waves, deep side parts, healthy shine, and that polished, confident feeling. The secret to red-carpet-worthy updos is structure with softness. Always create a solid foundation, anchor your shape well with pins and padding so it feels secure but natural. I like to prep the hair first with waves or texture so it has memory; that’s what keeps the shape all night. Build the style in layers, misting each section lightly as you go, and finish with shine spray on the surface. My golden rule is don’t over-touch — let the hair set and breathe. That’s how you get that elegant, photo-ready finish that lasts right through to the last dance.”
Harry Andreou at Studio U, Winchester
“This season is all about texture and intention, with lots of polished structures – slicked roots with soft lengths and ends, or glossy knots, ribboned ponytails, all elevated but effortless. There’s a nod to nostalgic glamour, with big blow outs, French pleats and French rolls.
When creating party styles, always have the finish in mind. Build the foundation with the right blow dry and the right products, always use heat protection and don’t use heavy finishing products. Create a solid framework but always make sure the hair is touchable and malleable, you want the hair to move!
Inanch Emir, Inanch London – Extensionist of the Year
“This year, it’s all about glamour with a modern twist. Think luxe blowouts with lots of shine, soft Hollywood waves, and high-gloss ponytails that feel polished but effortless. Sleek updos with a touch of sparkle – whether through accessories, pearls, or crystal pins – are also having a big moment. We’re seeing clients request styles that look chic in photos but will also last the whole night, from dinner to dancing. For me, Zendaya is always a huge inspiration – she can carry off anything from sleek, slicked-back buns to glossy, voluminous waves, and she makes it look timeless yet current. Dua Lipa is another one to watch this season; her bold but wearable styles give you confidence to play with your look. And of course, you can’t go wrong taking notes from Jennifer Lopez – her party hair is all about that flawless shine and volume that makes an entrance. These women prove that with the right prep and finish, your hair can be the ultimate accessory for the festive season.”
Annabel Payne, TONI&GUY Covent Garden
For 2025, party hair is sleek and polished with a focus on the smaller details. Keep it simple so you can add accessories or a wave through the front. It doesn’t have to be big; small can be beautiful and subtle can look stunning. The key is using the right products, such as LABEL.M Texturing Volume Spray to give you some grip for a hair up.
