8 Hair Trends We’re Going To See Everywhere This Festival Season
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1 year ago
From ribbons and gemstones to bubble braids and 90s fringes, these are the looks to know
Fields of tents, heatwave weather, thrumming base – it can only mean festival season is upon us. And while you may have the tickets, packing list and wardrobe choices ready to go, what about your hair? We’ve asked the salon experts over at Chelsea salon STIL to share their top festival hair trends for 2025 – so you can ensure the best hair day possible, whether you’re at Glastonbury, Wireless, BST Hyde Park or any other festival on the British calendar.
What To Do With Your Hair This Festival Season
When it comes to festival attire, the general rule is to go big and bold – beyond the everyday. Think summer partywear, with a dash of wellington boots for good measure.
The same sentiment goes for your hair. ‘Festivals are the ultimate playground for hair experimentation,’ emphasises Neale Rodger, Style Director at STIL. ‘They offer a safe space to try something new, whether it’s a temporary colour, an unconventional accessory or a style you might not wear everyday. With the relaxed, creative energy of a festival, there’s definitely less pressure to look “perfect”. You can be playful, loud, or totally offbeat – and that’s all part of the vibe.’
What To Pack (Haircare Edition)
And when it comes to refining your haircare packing list, Neale has a few tips. ‘I would say a solid festival haircare kit should aim to cover three main goals: style, refresh and protect,’ he says. ‘Some essentials I would pick include:
- A texture spray, or a dry shampoo, is great for refreshing your roots and adding volume on day two or three.
- Bring a leave-in conditioner or a hydrating mist to control frizz and dryness from the sun and dust.
- A mini hairbrush or detangling comb is essential. Opt for one that is compact so that you can carry it around in your bag if needed.
- Pack plenty of hair ties, scrunchies and mini claw clips – these are both practical and creative.
- A silk scarf will protect hair overnight by reducing friction when sleeping – plus you can add it to your festival wardrobe.
- A mini mirror, because doing your hair in a portaloo mirror just won’t cut it.
- An SPF specially designed for hair and scalp – don’t forget that hair gets sun damage too!’
The stylist emphasises that the crux of your festival look – hair, makeup and fashion – should be the perfect blend if summer glam and low-maintenance longevity. ‘You want something that holds up through the dancing, the rain, naps in a tent or a whole night of festival fuelled fun, but still looks like effort was made,’ he emphasises. ‘A key tip is to always prep with products that will help your style last. For example add mousse for volume, braid balm for grip and gel for definition.
‘Layered styles, such as plaits, space buns or half-up with accessories, tend to work best if you want something that will stick,’ he adds. ‘And you can rework them day-to-day without starting from scratch. I would also consider protective styles like braids or twists. They can last all weekend and actually protect your hair from the elements too.’
The Biggest Festival Hair Trends For 2025
‘With festival season in full swing, this year’s beauty looks are all about expression meeting practicality,’ says Neale. ‘Where previous years have leaned heavily into glitter and maximalism, this year things are a little more refined with pops of colour, bold hair styles and clever accessories that are both creative and comfortable to wear. This year’s looks are less about excess and more about editorial style with subtle impact.’
And one major trend he sees having a moment on campsites this year is a Gen Z favourite: throwback beauty. ‘The influence of TikTok and Gen Z’s love for nostalgic aesthetics like Y2K, coquette and 90s rave are showing up strongly in both hair and makeup,’ he confirms.
Neale has also noticed more festivalgoers taking much more care with their beauty routines, especially when it comes to assessing a product’s environmental impact. ‘There is a noticeable move towards eco beauty, with products that don’t leave a longstanding mark,’ he says. ‘For example, people are choosing biodegradable glitter options (or, like Glastonbury, boycotting it entirely), while others opt for reusable accessories and gentle, rinse-free products.’
As for some of the specific hair trends we’re likely to see this summer, think braids, hair threads, bright colours and festival accessories. Here’s what to look out for:
1. Gemstone Hair Accessories
You can still get your glitter fix – even without the actual stuff. ‘Bejewelled clips, stick-on gems on braids or crystal-studded partings are a fab alternative,’ says Neale. ‘It’s glam meets rave. And they’re super easy to apply and remove, which makes them great for festivals.’
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2. Ribbons & Bows
Will we ever get sick of a bow? Probably not. ‘They’re a cute nod to the coquette trend,’ adds Neale. ‘Bows threaded through braids or tied around ponytails add softness and femininity – even to grungier looks.’
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3. Face-Framing Bubble Braids
Bubble braids are one of the few hair trends to make it out of TikTok and into the festival setting, but this year we’ll see them front and centre (literally). ‘Braids – especially bubble braids – will make their way to the front section of hair this season,’ confirms Neale. ‘Front section styles are huge on TikTok and super practical; they keep hair off your face, but still add definition and interest.’
For more bubble braids ideas, see our guide here.
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4. Metallic Hair Threads
Did we mention Y2K? Here’s your first dose. ‘Hair tinsel adds a subtle shimmer that catches the light beautifully and moves naturally,’ says Neale. ‘And an added bonus of this Y2K trend is that they last for days.’
Here’s how to do your own hair tinsel this season, according to a stylist.
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5. Wet Look Slicked-Back Styles
Whether work or play, a slicked-back look is the hairstyle that can do it all. ‘These are perfect for rainy days or “day three” hair,’ highlights Neale. ‘Opt for sleek buns or ponytails using a wet look gel for styles that are both high fashion and high function.’
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6. A Grunge Fringe With Texture
Rather just let your hair loose? Then lean into a shag cut with extra flair, says Neale. ‘Opt for a shaggy, piece-y fringe inspired by 90s indie sleaze, and pair it with messy waves and dry shampoo for effortless cool.’
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7. Mini Braids In Loose Hair
More braids and plaits, coming your way. ‘Scatter them throughout your waves, for an effortless boho vibe,’ suggests Neale. ‘They’re really easy to touch up too.’
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8. Space Buns 2.0
A regular at festival season, space buns aren’t exactly new – but they’re getting a touch up for 2025. ‘This year’s version includes braided buns, half-up styles, or buns stacked vertically,’ adds Neale. ‘These add a little more structure and a lot more fun.’
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