Turning 21 is a special milestone that deserves the perfect celebration, including a standout hairstyle.
In this article, I’ll share 25 trendy and timeless hairstyles that will help you look and feel amazing on your big day.
Let’s begin!
21st Birthday Hairstyles
1. Voluminous Party Ponytail
The high ponytail with added volume has been a popular choice for special occasions for decades, symbolizing a fun and energetic vibe.
Start by applying root-volumizing mousse and shine serum to your hair. Blow-dry your hair upside down to maximize volume, then gather it into a high ponytail.
Take a small section of hair to wrap around the elastic band, hiding it. Curl the ponytail in large sections to add extra body and bounce.
2. Polished Half-Up Twists with Barrette
This chic half-up has been a timeless choice, often seen in various cultures and fashion trends. You should part your hair down the middle and twist each front section towards the back.
Secure the twists with a decorative barrette. If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, let it air dry with some defining mousse, or use a curling iron to style waves.
3. Mega Volume Party Curls with Curtain Bangs
For a dramatic entrance, this hairstyle offers plenty of volume and cascading curls combined with trendy curtain bangs. Inspired by the voluminous hairstyles of the ’80s, it brings a modern twist with the bangs.
Start by applying root volumizing mousse and dry shampoo for texture. Use a curling iron to create big, loose curls throughout your hair.
Style the curtain bangs by curling them slightly for a soft bend. This hairstyle is perfect for turning heads.
4. Sleek Midi Bob
The sleek midi bob is a versatile and stylish option that suits various face shapes and outfits. This mid-length bob has been popular since the 1920s, symbolizing sophistication and modernity.
To achieve this look, straighten your hair on low to medium heat and slightly turn the ends inward.
Apply a drop of shine serum or mist of shine spray to enhance the sleek finish. This hairstyle pairs well with an off-the-shoulder outfit.
5. Elegant B-Day Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils
The bun has been a classic choice for formal events throughout history, known for its simplicity and elegance.
Apply volumizing mousse to your hair and blow-dry with a round brush. Gather your hair into a ponytail at the desired height, then create loops of hair to form the bun, securing each loop with bobby pins.
Pull out a few tendrils around the face for a soft, romantic touch. This style keeps your hair up and out of the way while maintaining a graceful appearance.
6. Crown Braid
The crown braid is a regal and sophisticated hairstyle, perfect for a high-tea or fairytale-themed birthday bash.
Part your hair down the middle and start braiding from one side of your head, wrapping the braid around your head like a crown.
Secure the end with bobby pins and tuck it under the starting point. This hairstyle keeps your hair in place and adds a touch of class to your overall look.
7. Dutch Braid with a Bun
The Dutch braid, also known as the reverse French braid, has been a popular style for its intricate and textured appearance.
Start by creating two Dutch braids on each side of your head. Gather the braids into buns at the back of your head, securing them with bobby pins.
This hairstyle keeps your hair off your shoulders, allowing you to wear any neckline and move freely.
8. Fishtail Birthday Braid
The fishtail braid offers a romantic and delicate look, ideal for a daytime birthday party. This braid style, resembling the scales of a fish, has been admired for its intricate and beautiful design.
Part your hair down the middle and take small sections from each side, crossing them over to the opposite side repeatedly until you reach the end.
Secure the braid with a clear elastic band. You can enhance the braid with a soft headband or add small flowers for a dreamy effect.
9. Sleek Back Bun with Flicks
The sleek back bun with flicks combines a polished appearance with playful detailing, perfect for a trendy birthday look.
To achieve this style, brush your hair back smoothly and gather it into a low bun at the nape of your neck.
Use a curling iron to create flicks or gentle waves in the front sections of your hair. Secure the bun with bobby pins and finish with a light hairspray.
10. Blonde Hair in a Bun with Money Pieces
This stylish bun incorporates the modern trend of money pieces, adding a touch of glamour to your birthday look.
To create this look, gather your blonde hair into a high or low bun, leaving the highlighted front sections out.
Style the money pieces with a curling iron for soft waves or leave them straight for a sleek contrast.
11. Long Wavy Hair with Space Buns
Long wavy hair with space buns combines the elegance of flowing waves with the fun and trendy appeal of space buns.
Originating from the 90s, space buns have made a huge comeback, adding a playful twist to any look.
To create this hairstyle, start by curling your hair into loose waves. Then, part your hair down the middle and gather two sections from the front.
Twist these sections into buns on top of your head, securing them with hair ties or bobby pins.
12. Row Braids with Cornrow Buns
This hairstyle features rows of tightly braided cornrows leading to small buns, creating an intricate and eye-catching look.
To achieve this style, section your hair into rows and braid each section closely to the scalp.
Once all sections are braided, gather the ends of each braid into small buns at the back of your head.
13. Twisted Half Updo
The twisted half updo is perfect for those who want to showcase their locks while keeping some hair out of their face.
To create it, take sections of hair from each side of your head, twist them, and pin them at the back, creating a half-up, half-down look.
The history of updos dates back to ancient Greece, where women would intricately style their hair for special occasions.
14. Birthday Unicorn Pixie
The birthday unicorn pixie is a unique and edgy hairstyle that combines the whimsy of unicorn-inspired colors with the boldness of a pixie cut.
Start with a pixie cut, then add temporary or permanent vibrant streaks. Braid small sections of hair to mimic a unicorn horn.
This style not only makes you stand out but also celebrates the playful spirit of your special day.
15. Side Braided Birthday Wavy Mid-Hair
Side braided wavy mid-hair offers a charming and romantic hairstyle perfect for birthdays. This style combines loose waves with a delicate side braid, adding a touch of sophistication.
Begin by curling your hair into loose waves. Then, take a small section from one side and braid it, securing it with a clear elastic band.
Allow the rest of your hair to flow freely. This look is inspired by bohemian styles that emphasize natural beauty and effortless elegance.
16. Bobby Pins Birthday Hairstyle
Bobby pins can transform any hairstyle into a chic and polished look. This versatile accessory can be used to create various stunning birthday hairstyles.
For a simple yet elegant style, part your hair and gather sections you want to pin back. Twist or braid these sections and secure them with decorative bobby pins.
This method offers countless possibilities, whether you opt for sleek, smooth styles or more relaxed, tousled looks.
17. Sided Pearl Pins Birthday Hairstyle
Enhance your birthday look with sided pearl pins for a touch of glamour and sophistication. This hairstyle involves using pearl-adorned pins to secure sections of your hair, creating a polished updo.
To achieve this, part your hair as desired, then gather and twist or braid sections before pinning them back with pearl pins.
This style is perfect for adding a classy element to your birthday celebration, ensuring all eyes are on you as you shine with elegance.
18. Elegant Low Tail Birthday Hairstyle
The elegant low tail hairstyle is a timeless choice that exudes grace and sophistication. This style involves parting your hair in the middle, smoothing it down, and gathering it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
For added elegance, wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it. Curl the ends for a soft, romantic touch.
This classic hairstyle is perfect for any birthday celebration, offering a refined and polished look that complements any outfit.
19. Sleek Ponytail Birthday Hairstyle
The sleek ponytail is a chic and polished hairstyle ideal for any birthday celebration. Start by smoothing your hair with a brush and applying styling gel for added shine.
Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Use a flat iron to straighten any flyaways, creating a sleek finish.
Adding a sparkling hairpin or colorful ribbon can enhance the look, making it perfect for turning heads at your birthday party.
20. Crystal Tiara Birthday Hairstyle
Feel like a princess on your birthday with a crystal tiara hairstyle. This look involves styling your hair in a way that complements a delicate crystal tiara.
You can opt for loose curls, a sleek updo, or a half-up, half-down style. The tiara, adorned with shimmering crystals, sits on top of your head, adding a regal touch.
This hairstyle is perfect for making you feel special and ensuring all eyes are on you as you celebrate your special day in style.
21. Messy Side Bun
This hairstyle became popular in the early 2000s as a chic yet relaxed look favored by celebrities and fashionistas.
Gather your hair to one side and secure it into a low ponytail. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base, pinning sections as you go to create a messy bun.
Leave a few strands loose around your face for a soft, romantic touch. This effortless style is great for showcasing statement earrings or a glamorous neckline.
22. Cascading Braid
The cascading braid origins can be traced back to traditional European braiding techniques, adding a touch of elegance to any look.
Start by curling your hair into loose waves. Then, create a French braid on one side, allowing sections of hair to cascade down as you braid.
Secure the end with a small elastic and gently tug on the braid to add volume and softness. This style is perfect for formal events or a special night out.
23. High-Volume Ponytail
The high-volume ponytail gained popularity in the 1960s with icons like Brigitte Bardot, known for their voluminous hair.
Begin by applying volumizing mousse to your roots and blow-drying your hair upside down for extra lift. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie.
Backcomb the ponytail to add even more volume, and smooth the top layer with a brush. Finish with a shine spray to achieve a sleek, polished look.
24. Bang French Braid
The bang French braid became trendy in the 2010s as a fresh and practical option for various hair lengths.
Start by parting your hair on one side. Take a small section from your bangs and begin French braiding, incorporating more hair as you go along your hairline.
Secure the end with a bobby pin behind your ear. This braid keeps your bangs out of your face while adding a unique and chic detail to your hairstyle.
25. One Side Pinned
The one side pinned hairstyle is a simple yet glamorous way to draw attention to your jewelry or outfit. This style became popular in the 1940s, often seen in old Hollywood glamour looks.
To create this hairstyle, part your hair deeply to one side. Take a section from the front and pin it back with a decorative bobby pin or hair clip, allowing the rest of your hair to flow freely.
You can enhance this look with loose curls or waves for added texture. This elegant style is perfect for highlighting statement earrings or a beautiful neckline.
