Perfect Party Hair for a Big Night Out (or in)

New Year’s Eve is just around the corner making it a smart time to get a handle on great ways to dress up your hair. Try some easy-to-follow hairstyle ideas from fab editorial and celebrity hairstylist Gad Cohen to get that special occasion hairstyle that’s right for you. –S.H


MORE: Hairstyle Tips

‘Tis the season to look your best! From holiday office parties to your New Year’s Eve bash, there’s a hairstyle for every occasion.  I wanted to share some of my tips and tricks to help you make your holiday hair chic and sophisticated. Take a lesson from what I tell my clients: whether you are at an office party or at a black tie event, whichever hairstyle you choose, it must last through the night!

READ: Perfect Party Makeup

Here are three simple tips for great holiday hairstyles:

Plan ahead: No matter what the occasion, give yourself  “pretty hair.”  Whether up or down, put some time into styling and creating the look that best suits you and the event.

TIME SAVING TIP: If you have events two days in a row, consider wearing your hair down the first night (either blown out or straight-ironed), and then save time the next day by sweeping it up and adding a few curls. Hair is more malleable for an up-do the second day after washing and styling.

Go casual and accessorize: Wear your hair as you normally would during the day but add a barrette or comb with some adornment for an evening party. Some of my favorite holiday accessories are crystal extensions and festive hairbands. I like Socapusa.com  for hair extensions.

Nina Crystal Ribbon Head Wrap at Nordstrom
Nina Crystal Ribbon Head Wrap at Nordstrom

SHOP: Nordstrom for a wide array of hair accessories

Aim for Modern Sophistication! If you’re attending a black tie event, it’s often preferred to have an “up do” to keep hair out of your face. Try a modern take on Audrey Hepburn’s look from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, especially if you’re in a more conservative outfit.

Age-Appropriate Note:  An up-do hairstyle may keep your hair in place but it is not always the best look for women of every age. Take the time and try out different hairstyles before you commit. A half-up/half-down hairstyle may be  a more flattering choice for an older woman to choose for elegant events– the half-up/half-down works well with open necklines too. –Gad Cohen

Lead photo: Tinko Czetwertynski

Original Publish Date: Dec 26, 2011

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