flat iron vs hair straightener

25 BEST STUNNING AND EYE-CATCHING BIRTHDAY HAIRSTYLES

It’s your birthday! Time to celebrate another year around the sun and shine brighter than ever. And what better way to turn heads and feel confident than with a show-stopping hairstyle? Get ready to rock your special day with this list of 25 stunning and eye-catching birthday hairstyles! We’ve got something for everyone, from glamorous waves to playful braids, chic updos to edgy cuts. Whether your birthday bash is a fancy dinner, a wild dance party, or a cozy get-together, you’ll find the perfect hairstyle to make you feel like the star you are. So, grab your favorite styling tools, get ready to be inspired, and let’s find the perfect birthday hairstyle to turn up the glam on your special day!

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BIRTHDAY HAIRSTYLES

Hair length and texture play a big role in how you look and how you care for your hair. Long, short, or medium hair each needs different care, and textures like straight, wavy, curly, or coily hair add to that. Curly and coily hair might need more moisture, while straight hair might need help with volume. Finding the right way to manage your hair’s length and texture can make it look great and be easier to handle.

Choosing a theme for a birthday party can make the celebration special and fun. The theme can be anything from fairy tales and pirates to elegant or retro styles. A good theme helps decide how to decorate, what to wear, and what activities to have, making the party enjoyable and memorable for everyone.

When it comes to personal style and comfort, remember to wear clothes that show who you are and feel good to wear. Whether your style is casual, sporty, elegant, or chic, finding clothes that look good and feel comfortable makes you feel confident and happy. The best wardrobe has pieces that fit well, look great, and feel comfortable.

OUR TOP BIRTHDAY HAIRSTYLES

VINTAGE AND CHIC SHORT 

Rocking short hair doesn’t mean sacrificing vintage vibes on your birthday! Channel your inner Hollywood icon with a glamorous finger wave set. Imagine loose, cascading waves with meticulously crafted finger curls framing your face. Finish with a light hold hairspray and a chic hair clip or headband for a touch of timeless elegance. Alternatively, embrace the sleek sophistication of a polished side part with pincurls. Think 1940s movie stars – deep side part, smooth, and flawlessly styled. Create pincurls for extra volume and secure them with bobby pins. A touch of shine spray completes this polished vintage look.

ELEGANT LOW BUN

Forget the notion that short hair can’t be birthday-appropriate! Embrace timeless elegance with a classic low bun. This sophisticated updo exudes grace and charm, making it the perfect choice for formal birthday celebrations. Gather your hair into a low ponytail, then twist it into a chic bun, securing it with bobby pins for a flawless hold. Let a few wispy strands frame your face for a touch of softness. To add a touch of birthday sparkle, adorn your low bun with a dazzling hair pin or a delicate floral accessory. This hairstyle beautifully complements a chic cocktail dress or an elegant gown, transforming you into the radiant star of the evening.

SHORT WAVES

Want to radiate effortless glam on your birthday? Look no further than short waves! This universally flattering style works wonders on most hair textures and face shapes, making it a perfect choice for a night of birthday fun. Create classic beach waves with a wide-barreled curling iron for a relaxed, carefree vibe. Tousle your hair with your fingers to break up the curls for a natural look, and finish with a texturizing spray for extra volume and hold. Alternatively, embrace Hollywood glamour with tighter, more defined waves. Use a smaller curling iron to create bouncy volume at the crown for a touch of drama. Finish with a side part and a shine spray for that classic Hollywood touch.

EFFORTLESS BEACH WAVES

Channel your carefree birthday vibes with effortless beach waves! This style is both stylish and relaxed, perfect for a day of celebrating. To achieve this look, start with prepped hair, dry for better hold or slightly damp for easier styling. Apply a heat protectant spray to shield your strands. Next, create natural waves by braiding damp hair loosely into two sections and letting them air dry completely. Once dry, undo the braids and gently loosen the waves with your fingers. Add a touch of texture and definition with texturizing spray or dry shampoo. Finally, for an extra touch, consider a headband or hair clip. Remember, for that effortless vibe, use a large curling iron barrel if you prefer heat styling, curl away from the ends, alternate directions, and avoid brushing – use your fingers to separate the waves. If your hair needs a boost, tease the roots for volume before styling. For thicker hair, a strong hold hairspray can help your waves last all night long. So go ahead, embrace those beachy waves and celebrate your birthday in style!

ONE SIDE BRAIDED BOB

For your birthday, elevate your bob with a one-sided braid! This playful style works on any hair texture, offering options to suit your vibe. Braid a classic side braid for timeless elegance, or add a twist with a fishtail. Feeling fancy? Create a functional headband braid to keep your hair out of the way. Take things a step further by incorporating beads or cuffs for a pop of color, or go for a voluminous half-up Dutch braid. No matter your choice, a one-sided braided bob is a guaranteed birthday hairstyle winner.

BRAIDED CROWN

Forget just feeling like a birthday girl, this year, reign supreme as the queen of your celebration with a stunning braided crown. This regal hairstyle isn’t just elegant, it’s easy to achieve! Simply craft two braids on either side of your head, weaving them together like royalty at the back to form a magnificent crown. This dazzling style pairs perfectly with a flowing gown and a statement necklace, creating an unforgettable birthday look. So step into the spotlight, embrace your inner monarch, and rule your special day with confidence!

JEWELRY BRAIDS

Birthday celebrations are all about sparkle and shine, and what better way to embody that than with dazzling jewelry braids?  These glamorous styles incorporate hair accessories for a birthday-worthy look that’s both unique and eye-catching. Elevate a classic braided updo with shimmering hair cuffs. Braid your hair in your preferred style, like a fishtail or Dutch braid, and secure it in a bun at the crown. Slide decorative hair cuffs at various points along the braid for a touch of regal flair.

SLEEK HIGH PONYTAIL

Celebrate your birthday with the sophisticated simplicity of a sleek high ponytail. This versatile style transcends hair types, turning heads with its effortless chicness.  Start with smooth, conditioned hair and a touch of serum to tame flyaways. Blow dry your hair straight, adding volume with a round brush if desired. Gather your hair high and secure it tightly with a matching hair tie.  For a flawless finish, use a boar bristle brush to smooth the head and ponytail.  Add a touch of birthday sparkle with a statement clip or ponytail wrap. This sleek style pairs perfectly with bold jewelry, making it ideal for an evening birthday celebration. You’ll radiate confidence and sophistication all night long, ready to take your birthday by storm.

PARTED WITH PINS

Showcase your individuality on your birthday with a parted-and-pinned hairstyle! This versatile approach works with any hair length or texture, allowing you to create a look that’s both unique and effortlessly stylish. For a sleek and sophisticated vibe, part your hair deeply to one side and secure it with bobby pins adorned with pearls or jewels. Feeling playful? Opt for a dramatic side part with brightly colored bobby pins scattered throughout your hair. For a romantic touch, create a soft side part and use bobby pins with hidden flowers to add a touch of whimsy. No matter your style, a parted-with-pins hairstyle offers endless possibilities to personalize your birthday look and ensure you shine bright on your special day.

VIBRANT BALAYAGE

Craving a birthday look that turns heads? Take the plunge with vibrant balayage! This hand-painted hair color technique creates a natural, dimensional effect, perfect for adding a bold pop of color without the commitment of a full dye job. Whether you dream of soft pastels or show-stopping jewel tones, balayage lets you express your unique personality and shine bright on your special day.

CASUAL STREET STYLE BUN

Embrace your birthday with a birthday-worthy twist on the classic casual bun! This effortless style is perfect for a day of celebrating, offering both comfort and undeniable cool factor. You can achieve this by braiding your hair damp the night before or using a texturizing spray for a quick boost. Gather your hair loosely at the crown or nape of your neck, depending on your preference for a high or low bun. Secure the hair with a hair elastic, but leave some loose strands around the face for a relaxed vibe. Tease the crown slightly for a fuller bun, or leave it loose for a more casual feel.

This casual street style bun is all about celebrating comfort and confidence. It’s perfect for a day of birthday adventures, keeping your hair out of your face while letting your personality shine through.

SCRUNCHIE BUN

Twist the classic bun with the help of a scrunchie for a hairstyle that’s both cute and comfortable. Start with textured hair, achieved by braiding it damp the night before or using a texturizing spray. Gather your hair loosely in a high or low bun, depending on your preference. Secure it with a regular hair tie, but leave a loop hanging down. Wrap the loop around the base of the bun and secure it with your favorite scrunchie. Play with volume by teasing the crown for fullness or leaving it loose for a more relaxed feel. Finally, pick a scrunchie that complements your outfit and birthday vibe, adding a pop of color or a fun pattern. Don’t worry if you have thick hair; there will still be hair ties for thick hair. This scrunchie bun is perfect for a day or night of birthday fun, keeping your hair styled and your inner child sparkling.

CHIC SIDE-SWEPT WAVES

Celebrate your birthday with easy and glamorous side-swept waves. This classic style looks great on everyone and adds a Hollywood touch to your birthday look. Start by preparing your hair for styling. Use a heat protectant spray to prevent damage. For extra volume, apply a volumizing mousse or texturizing spray at the roots. Next, create the waves using a curling iron with a medium barrel or a straightener for looser waves. Curl your hair away from your face, switching directions for a natural look. Let the curls cool completely to set the shape. Then, gently use your fingers to break up the curls for a relaxed wave texture. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep your waves in place. Finally, sweep your hair to one side and secure it behind your ear with a bobby pin or a sparkly hair clip for some birthday shine.

DUTCH BRAIDED LOW BUN

Elevate your birthday look with a stunning Dutch braided low bun. This hairstyle combines intricate braiding with effortless vibes, offering the perfect balance of elegance and ease. Start with detangled hair, adding texture by braiding it damp or using a texturizing spray. Dutch braid two sections on either side of your head, incorporating hair from underneath for a raised, voluminous effect. Bring the braids together at the nape and secure them. Wrap any remaining hair to form a loose bun, secured with bobby pins. Play with the look! Loosen braids for a relaxed feel or leave them tight for a polished vibe. Adjust the bun’s height and fullness to your preference. Finally, add a touch of birthday magic with sparkly bobby pins, a jeweled clip, or a ribbon woven around the bun for a whimsical touch. This Dutch braided low bun is a stylish and comfortable choice, keeping your hair under control while letting your inner rockstar shine on your special day.

PLAYFUL HALF UP HALF DOWN

For a fun and playful half-up, half-down birthday hairstyle, start by prepping your hair. Use a heat protectant spray if you plan to use hot tools. You can add some volumizing mousse or texturizing spray for extra lift and texture.

First, curl your hair with a curling iron or straightener for loose waves. Let the curls cool completely to help them hold their shape. Next, take the top section of your hair, from above your ears, and pull it back. Secure this section with a hair tie or a cute clip, leaving the bottom half of your hair down.

For a touch of birthday sparkle, use a decorative clip or hairpin. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place. This half-up, half-down style is playful and perfect for celebrating your special day.

SIDED BRAID

Unleash your inner cute-meets-edgy with a stunning sided braid for your birthday! This versatile style complements any hair texture and can be dressed up or down depending on your celebration. Keep it classic and elegant with a simple braid along one side of your head, secured with an elastic or bobby pin. Let the rest of your hair hang loose and wavy, or straighten it for a polished look. Feeling more adventurous? Opt for a fishtail braid for a touch of visual intrigue. Need to keep your hair out of your face? Create a functional headband braid starting at your temple and weaving it back across your hairline. And for a birthday twist, incorporate beads or cuffs for a pop of color, or go for a voluminous half-up Dutch braid. No matter your choice, a sided braid is a guaranteed birthday hairstyle winner, turning heads and making you feel confident and unique on your special day.

SIDE BRAIDED WAVY MID-HAIR

Channel effortless birthday vibes with a side-braided wavy mid-hair look! This style is perfect for medium hair lengths, offering a balance of sweet and sophisticated. Start by creating natural waves with a curling iron or by braiding damp hair and letting it air dry. Next, choose your braid style – a classic braid for timeless elegance, a fishtail braid for a touch of intrigue, or a headband braid to keep your hair out of your face. Braid a section of hair on one side and secure it with an elastic or bobby pin. Let the rest of your beautiful waves cascade down your shoulders. For a touch of birthday flair, consider adding shimmering hair clips, colorful beads woven into the braid, or even a delicate ribbon tied around the braid’s base. This side-braided wavy hairstyle is both comfortable and stylish, letting you celebrate your special day with confidence and a touch of whimsical charm.

HOT PINK PIXIE

Rock your birthday with a bold and vibrant hot pink pixie haircut! This eye-catching look is perfect for those who want to make a statement and embrace their individuality. The short length keeps things cool and carefree, while the hot pink hue adds a playful touch. To style, you can keep it simple with a touch of mousse for texture, or add some height with a bit of hairspray and spiking at the crown. For a more polished look, use a flat iron to smooth out any flyaways. Want to take it up a notch? Highlight sections of your hair with a even brighter pink or even a contrasting color for an extra pop. This hot pink pixie is the perfect hairstyle to turn heads and celebrate your birthday with confidence and fierce style!

UNICORN PIXIE

Unleash your inner mythical creature with a whimsical unicorn pixie for your birthday! This playful style combines the sassy independence of a pixie cut with fantastical unicorn vibes. Embrace the magic with pastel hair color! Think soft lavender, cotton candy pink, or a touch of iridescent blue. To add dimension, consider highlighting einzelne streaks – individual strands – in even brighter colors. Don’t forget the sparkle! Tiny braids interwoven with glitter thread or hair gems tucked behind your ear add a touch of whimsy. Let your pixie be short and textured, or keep the top a bit longer for playful styling options. Spike it up for a bit of an edge, or add a headband with a tiny unicorn horn for a truly magical touch. This unicorn pixie is perfect for the birthday girl who wants to stand out and celebrate with a sprinkle of fairy dust and a whole lot of fun.

CRYSTAL TIARA

Feel like royalty on your birthday with a hairstyle that complements your dazzling crystal tiara! For an effortlessly elegant look, create loose, voluminous waves with a curling iron or braiding damp hair and letting it air dry. This creates a soft base for the tiara to rest upon. Want a touch of whimsy? Opt for a classic braid on one side of your head, a fishtail braid for a touch of intrigue, or a sophisticated headband braid. No matter your braid style, secure it with a bobby pin hidden behind the tiara for a seamless look. For a touch of drama, consider a sleek high bun or a chic chignon, allowing the tiara to take center stage. And for those with shorter hair, don’t fret! Pin back loose curls or add texture with a texturizing spray for a tousled, romantic style. No matter your hair type or chosen hairstyle, a crystal tiara adds the perfect finishing touch, transforming you into a birthday queen ready to celebrate in style.

CLAW CLIP BIRTHDAY HAIRSTYLES

Embrace the effortless glam of the 90s with claw clip birthday hairstyles! These versatile styles work on any hair length or texture, letting you create a look that’s both stylish and celebratory. Channel beachy vibes with loose waves secured by a claw clip at the crown for a carefree touch. Feeling polished? Create a sleek high ponytail or a chic low bun and elevate it with a statement claw clip adorned with pearls or jewels. Love braids? A side braid adorned with a claw clip adds a touch of whimsy, while a braided half-up style secured with a claw clip keeps your hair out of your face in style. No matter your preference, a claw clip hairstyle is the perfect way to add a touch of birthday sparkle and celebrate your special day with effortless cool.

TWISTED HALF UPDO

This versatile style is perfect for any hair type or length, offering a touch of sophistication without sacrificing comfort. Start by adding texture to your hair with a texturizing spray or by braiding it damp the night before. This will give your twists something to hold onto. Next, gather a section of hair on either side of your head and twist them back towards your crown. Secure the twists with bobby pins hidden underneath for a seamless look. Play with the volume by gently pulling on the twists to loosen them slightly. Want a touch of birthday flair? Add sparkly bobby pins, a statement barrette, or even a delicate headband for a whimsical touch. This twisted half-updo is both stylish and comfortable, letting you celebrate your special day with confidence and a touch of effortless beauty.

CASCADING BRAID

Inject a touch of fairytale magic into your birthday with a cascading braid hairstyle! This romantic style is perfect for all hair lengths and textures, offering a look that’s both whimsical and elegant. For longer hair, create a stunning waterfall braid that lets loose strands cascade down your back like a gentle waterfall. Intersperse these strands with delicate hair jewels or tiny braids woven with colorful thread for an extra touch of whimsy. If you have shorter hair, don’t despair! French braid a section of hair on one side, letting loose strands fall naturally as you move down the braid. You can even braid diagonally across your head for a unique twist. No matter your chosen style, cascading braids add a touch of movement and drama to your birthday look, making you feel like a birthday princess ready to celebrate in style.

BALLERINA BUN WITH BRAIDED CROWN

Channel your inner ballerina on your birthday with a stunning ballerina bun adorned by a braided crown! This hairstyle combines elegance with a touch of intricate detail, perfect for a birthday celebration that demands attention. Begin by braiding two sections of hair on either side of your head, weaving them like a crown at the back. For a classic touch, opt for a simple braid, or add a twist with a fishtail braid for a touch of intrigue. Gather the remaining hair into a sleek ballerina bun at the nape of your neck, securing it tightly with bobby pins. Don’t forget to play with the overall look! Loosen the braid slightly for a more relaxed feel, or keep it tight for a polished finish. This hairstyle beautifully complements a flowing gown or a dress with a statement back, making you the radiant center of attention on your special day.

BELL’S HAIRDO

Transform yourself into the belle of the ball (pun intended!) on your birthday with a hairstyle inspired by Belle from Beauty and the Beast. Show off her timeless elegance with a classic bun or a sleek updo. For a fancy feel, incorporate a long cascading braid over one shoulder. Want a more voluminous look? Recreate Belle’s iconic hairstyle with flowing curls secured on top with a comb or decorative ribbon. Whatever your preference, adding a touch of yellow – whether with hair extensions, ribbons, or flowers – will add a subtle nod to Belle’s iconic yellow dress. This birthday hairstyle is perfect for a fairy-tale themed celebration or simply to showcase your inner Belle’s beauty and grace on your special day.

CONCLUSION

With so many gorgeous options to choose from, finding the perfect birthday hairstyle is both exciting and a touch overwhelming. But fret no more! Whether you crave effortless waves, intricate braids, or glamorous volume, there’s a birthday hairstyle waiting to make you shine. So go forth, embrace your individuality, and celebrate your special day with a hairstyle that’s as unique and unforgettable as you are. Happy birthday!

How to Curl Your Hair with a Straightener: 3 styles to try

Are you tired of curling your hair with the same old curling iron? Why not switch things up and try using a straightener to achieve those bouncy, beautiful curls? 

Straighteners are not just for straightening hair – they can also be used to create amazing curls. With their flat, thin plates, straighteners can create both loose waves and tight ringlets depending on the technique used. 

If you’re not sure how to curl your hair with a straightener, don’t fear. Here, we’re sharing a step-by-step guide on curling hair, and providing tips needed to give yourself the perfect hair.

Preparation tips

  • Start with freshly washed and completely dry hair. Curling damp hair can result in uneven curls and potential heat damage.
  • Apply a heat protectant spray or serum evenly throughout your hair to shield it from the high temperatures of the straightener. This helps minimize damage and keep your hair healthy.
  • Use a wide-toothed comb or a detangling brush to gently remove any knots and tangles from your hair. Smooth, untangled hair is easier to work with and ensures a more polished finish.
  • Divide your hair into manageable sections using hair clips or ties. Smaller sections are ideal for tighter curls, while larger sections create looser waves.
  • Adjust the heat setting on your straightener to the appropriate temperature for your hair type. Thicker hair usually requires higher heat, while finer hair should use lower heat settings. If you’re unsure, start with a lower heat setting and gradually increase it as needed.
  • Let your curls cool completely before brushing them out. This will help to set the curls and prevent them from frizzing.

How to use a straightener for Beach Waves

  • Divide your hair into sections using hair clips or ties. Smaller sections will result in tighter waves, while larger sections create looser waves. Start with the bottom layers and work your way up.
  • Set your straightener to the appropriate temperature for your hair type. Thicker hair may require higher heat, while finer hair should use lower heat settings. If you’re unsure, start with a lower heat setting and increase it if needed.
  • Begin with a section of hair, about 1 to 2 inches wide, depending on the desired wave size.
  • Hold the straightener horizontally, parallel to the floor. This is the key to achieving those beachy waves.
  • Place the straightener near the roots of the section and start to twist it away from your face (either clockwise or counterclockwise). The direction you choose depends on your preference, but alternating directions for different sections can give a more natural look.
  • Slowly glide the straightener down the length of the hair section while maintaining the twist. Do not straighten the hair completely; the goal is to create waves, not pin-straight locks.
  • Once you reach the end of the hair section, gently release the straightener. Allow the curled section to cool down before touching it or moving on to the next one. This cooling time helps set the wave in place.
  • Continue steps 4 to 7 for all sections of your hair, working your way around your head. Remember to vary the direction of the twist for a more natural and beachy effect.
  • After curling all sections, you can use your fingers to separate and loosen the waves for a more effortless look. If desired, apply a light-hold hairspray to set the waves in place.

How to use a straightener for S-Curls

  • Divide your hair into manageable sections using hair clips or ties. Smaller sections will result in tighter S-curls, while larger sections create looser S-curls..
  • Just like with beach waves, twist the straightener to the appropriate temperature for your hair type.
  • Begin with a section of hair, about 1 to 2 inches wide, depending on how tight you want your S-curls.
  • Hold the straightener horizontally, parallel to the floor.
  • Place the straightener near the roots of the hair section. Begin to twist the straightener 180 degrees away from your face, similar to creating beach waves.
  • As you glide the straightener down the hair section, start making a zig-zag motion by gently bending the hair back and forth, forming the “S” shape. Be patient and take your time for the best results.
  • Once you reach the end of the hair section, release the straightener and let the S-curl cool down before moving on to the next section. Cooling helps set the curl.
  • Continue steps 4 to 7 for all sections of your hair, working your way around your head. Remember to alternate the direction of the S-curl for a natural and playful look.
  • After curling all sections, run your fingers through your hair to separate and loosen the S-curls. This will create a more relaxed and effortless appearance.
  • If you want to lock in the style, you can apply a light-hold hairspray to help the S-curls hold their shape.

How to use a straightener for Spiral Curls

  • Choose your hair section, keeping in mind that smaller sections create tighter curls, while larger ones give you looser spirals.
  • Place your straightener close to the roots.
  • Again, twist the straightener 180 degrees away from your face.
  • Now, for the magical touch: Wrap the hair section around the straightener, starting from the bottom and working your way up. Hold it in place for a few seconds to set the curl.
  • Release the hair from the straightener and let it cool down.
  • Continue these steps for all sections of your hair, and watch as those stunning spiral curls take shape.

Curling Hair With a Straightener vs. With a Curling Iron

Curling hair with a straightener and a curling iron each offers distinct advantages. A straightener is versatile, allowing you to create various styles, from loose waves to tight curls, with a single tool, making it a space-saving and travel-friendly option. Additionally, straighteners can be more efficient for individuals with coarse or thick hair due to their higher heat capabilities. On the other hand, curling irons provide precision and can often produce more uniform and defined curls. They are ideal for those who prioritize achieving a specific curl type, especially for formal occasions or intricate styles.

The best method for curling your hair depends on your hair type, desired curl pattern, and skill level. If you have fine hair or are new to curling your hair, a straightener may be a good option for you. If you have thick hair or want to create more defined curls, a curling iron may be a better choice.

FAQs

  1. Can I use any type of straightener to curl my hair? Yes, you can use any type of straightener to curl your hair. However, a straightener with ceramic plates is recommended as they distribute heat evenly and are less likely to cause damage to the hair.
  2. What temperature should I set my straightener to when curling my hair? The temperature you set your straightener to depends on your hair type. For fine or damaged hair, a lower temperature (around 300°F) is recommended. For thicker or coarser hair, a higher temperature (around 400°F) may be necessary to achieve the desired curl.
  3. How do I prevent my curls from falling out too quickly? To prevent your curls from falling out too quickly, make sure to let the curls cool completely before touching them. You can also use a hairspray or other styling product to help hold the curl in place.
  4. Can I curl my hair with a wet straightener? No, you should never use a straightener on wet hair. Wet hair is more susceptible to damage and using heat on wet hair can cause it to steam and fry, leading to breakage and split ends.
  5. How long will my curls last? The longevity of your curls depends on your hair type and the technique used to curl your hair. On average, curls created with a straightener can last anywhere from 6-12 hours.

Final Takeaway

Curling your hair with a straightener can be a fun and easy way to switch up your hairstyle. Whether you’re going for loose, beachy waves or tight, defined curls, there’s a technique that will work for you. Experiment with the different methods and don’t be afraid to try something new. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at curling your hair with a straightener in no time!