Posted by Discover 23 stylish and simple reception hairstyles, perfect for weddings, parties, and formal events. From chic updos to relaxed waves, find your picture-perfect look.
When it comes to attending a formal reception, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or a celebratory gathering, the importance of your hairstyle cannot be overstated. A well-chosen reception hairstyle doesn’t just complement your outfit—it can elevate your entire appearance, helping you feel poised, confident, and ready for any occasion. Hairstyling for receptions is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling your best, enjoying the event without constantly worrying about your hair, and ensuring that your look remains flawless for the duration of the celebration.
Reception hairstyles should not only be beautiful but practical too. Whether you’re mingling at a cocktail hour, sitting down for dinner, or dancing the night away, your hairstyle should stay intact and enhance your overall experience. It should highlight your features, complement your face shape, and align with your outfit’s aesthetic, whether it’s a glamorous evening gown, a chic cocktail dress, or a formal suit. What makes a reception hairstyle truly special is the balance between elegance and comfort, making sure your look stays fresh and chic from the beginning of the event to the end.
In this guide, we will explore 23 stylish and simple reception hairstyles that are easy to achieve, versatile for any occasion, and perfect for creating a picture-perfect look. Whether you’re looking for something sleek and sophisticated, soft and romantic, or playful and elegant, these hairstyle ideas will inspire your next event. We’ll also cover tips for choosing the right style based on your hair type and the event, as well as ways to maintain your hairstyle throughout the day to ensure it stays flawless.
How to Choose the Right Reception Hairstyle
Choosing the right reception hairstyle is essential for ensuring you feel confident and comfortable throughout the event. Here are a few things to consider when selecting the best hairstyle for you:
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Event Type: The formality of the event will guide your hairstyle choice. Weddings and galas typically call for more polished, elegant styles, while casual receptions may allow for more relaxed looks.
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Face Shape: Certain styles work better with different face shapes. For example, a sleek ponytail can elongate a round face, while soft curls add fullness to a square face.
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Hair Length and Type: Your natural hair length and texture play a big role in the hairstyles that will work best for you. Short hair can easily be styled with volume or waves, while longer hair offers more versatility for updos and braids.
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Comfort and Longevity: Choose a hairstyle that you feel comfortable in and that will hold up throughout the reception. If you’re dancing or moving around a lot, you may want a more secure updo or ponytail.
A reception is the perfect time to showcase your hairstyle after the formal ceremony, offering you the opportunity to create a unique, yet simple, look that still feels special and glamorous. Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest, your reception hairstyle should complement your outfit while being practical for dancing and socializing. Here are 23 stylish and simple reception hairstyles that will help you achieve a picture-perfect look on your big day or at any formal event.
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Classic Low Bun
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A low bun is a timeless choice that offers both elegance and simplicity. You can keep it sleek or add volume with soft curls. It’s perfect for any wedding reception, whether you want a minimalist or sophisticated vibe.
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Messy High Bun
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For a chic and relaxed look, try a messy high bun. It’s effortlessly stylish and adds an element of fun to your reception look. Pair it with loose tendrils or soft waves for a romantic touch.
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3. Sleek French Twist
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The French twist is a polished and elegant updo that stays put all night. It’s a formal yet simple style, offering a clean, sophisticated silhouette.
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4. Loose Chignon
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A loose chignon combines a neat updo with a relaxed feel. Add soft waves or curls for extra volume, and finish with delicate accessories like pins or a small flower.
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5. Twisted Low Bun
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A twisted low bun is a simple but graceful style, perfect for a formal yet understated reception look. It’s easy to create and keeps your hair secure while you enjoy the event.
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6. Braided Updo
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A braided updo combines the beauty of braids with the elegance of an updo. This style can be simple or more intricate, depending on the type of braid you choose. The boho-chic vibe it creates makes it perfect for a laid-back, stylish reception.
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7. Twist and Pin Style
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This easy-to-achieve style involves twisting sections of your hair and pinning them in place. It’s elegant and effortless, with a touch of flair.
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Half-Up, Half-Down Styles for Reception
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Half-Up Curled Waves
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Curled waves paired with a half-up, half-down style provide the perfect blend of elegance and romance. It’s simple but adds volume and texture, making it ideal for a reception.
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Braided Half-Up Hairstyle
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Incorporating braids into the half-up style adds interest and texture. You can braid the top section of your hair, securing it with pins, while leaving the rest of your hair in loose waves or curls.
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Half-Up Top Knot
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The half-up top knot is a fun and trendy style that works well for a reception. By tying the top section into a knot and leaving the rest of your hair down, you create a relaxed but still polished look.
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11. Half-Up with Loose Curls
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Soft, loose curls with a half-up hairstyle add volume and elegance. This look is perfect for any reception where you want a soft, romantic feel without too much effort.
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12. Boho Chic Half-Up Style
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For a bohemian vibe, go for a half-up hairstyle with loose, tousled waves and a loose braid. This laid-back style works wonderfully for rustic or outdoor receptions.
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13. Simple Half-Up Ponytail
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A simple half-up ponytail is a great go-to if you want a low-maintenance but stylish reception hairstyle. It’s quick to achieve but looks great when paired with soft waves or curls.
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Down Hairstyles for Reception
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Soft Curls
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Soft curls are a classic and easy choice for a reception hairstyle. The waves add volume and movement to your hair, and it looks elegant whether you choose to leave it loose or pinned back on one side.
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15. Sleek Straight Hair
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For a chic and modern look, go for straight, glossy hair. This sleek style works well for those with naturally straight hair and adds a minimalist, yet polished, look to your reception appearance.
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16. Loose Beachy Waves
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If you want a relaxed and carefree style, go for beachy waves. These effortless, tousled waves will add a playful and lighthearted touch to your reception look.
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17. Straight with Side Part
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A simple side part and straight hair look timeless. For extra volume, you can add slight waves at the ends or tease the roots for a fuller look. This minimalist style works for any reception.
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18. Loose Curls with a Deep Side Part
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Soft curls paired with a deep side part create a voluminous and glamorous look. This style works perfectly for a reception where you want to feel both comfortable and sophisticated.
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19. Wavy Blowout
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A wavy blowout gives hair volume and bounce, making it look sleek and polished. This style adds a touch of luxury to your reception look, and it’s simple enough to manage all night.
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Creative and Trendy Reception Hairstyles
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Fishtail Braid
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The fishtail braid offers a more intricate and stylish alternative to a traditional braid. It’s elegant and youthful, and it’s a fantastic choice if you want something different but still formal.
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Side Swept Curls
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Side-swept curls offer a glamorous and feminine look. By sweeping your hair to one side and adding volume with soft curls, you can create a beautiful and effortlessly chic style.
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22. Twisted Crown
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A twisted crown hairstyle combines the elegance of a crown braid with a simple twist. It’s a beautiful and practical style for a reception because it keeps hair out of your face while still looking stunning.
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23. Hair Accessories with Loose Hair
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Sometimes, the best style is the simplest. Let your hair flow naturally and enhance it with a sparkling hair accessory like a comb, tiara, or decorative pin for a touch of glamour without the hassle.
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How to Maintain Your Reception Hairstyle Throughout the Day
Once you’ve chosen and styled your reception hairstyle, it’s crucial to ensure it stays intact throughout the event, especially if you’re dancing, mingling, or attending a reception that lasts several hours. Maintaining your hairstyle is all about preparation, the right products, and a little bit of care during the event. Here’s how to ensure your look remains picture-perfect from start to finish:
1. Start with Clean, Dry Hair
For any hairstyle to last, start with clean, dry hair. Freshly washed hair can be a bit slippery and harder to style, so it’s best to wash your hair the day before the event. This way, your hair will have some natural oils, which help your hairstyle stay in place longer.
2. Use a Strong-Hold Hairspray
Hairspray is your best friend when it comes to holding your hairstyle in place. After you’ve styled your hair, spray it with a strong-hold hairspray to ensure it stays put throughout the reception. Opt for a flexible, humidity-resistant hairspray that won’t leave your hair stiff or crunchy, allowing it to move naturally.
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Tip: If you have thicker hair, you may need a stronger hold to keep everything in place.
3. Incorporate Texturizing Products
For hairstyles that require volume or texture, such as loose waves or messy buns, texturizing products are key. Adding texturizing spray or dry shampoo gives your hair that “lived-in” look and helps the style last longer without falling flat.
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Tip: Apply texturizing spray to the roots and throughout the hair before styling to add volume. It helps prevent your hairstyle from looking limp and gives it more staying power.
4. Use Bobby Pins and Hairpins for Security
Bobby pins are a must-have for securing your style, especially for updos. Use bobby pins that match your hair color to make them less noticeable, and make sure they’re firmly securing your hairstyle in place.
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Tip: Use several bobby pins for extra security, especially around the edges and any loose strands. If your hair feels too loose or starts to shift during the event, simply add a few more pins.
5. Avoid Touching Your Hair Too Much
While it’s tempting to adjust your hair throughout the day, constantly running your hands through your hair can cause it to lose shape. Try to resist the urge to touch or tweak your hairstyle. If you need to adjust a few strands, use a mirror to quickly fix any issues.
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Tip: If you’re dancing or moving around, you can carry a small travel-sized hairspray and a few bobby pins in your bag for quick touch-ups.
6. Keep a Hair Kit Handy
For long events, it’s essential to keep a few hairstyling products on hand for quick fixes. A small touch-up kit can make all the difference and ensure your hairstyle stays intact no matter what.
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Essentials for Your Kit:
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Travel-size hairspray
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Bobby pins and hairpins
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Small comb or brush for smoothing
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Hair elastics for quick fixes (especially for ponytails)
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A few extra hair clips or decorative pins if needed
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Hair Accessories to Complement Your Reception Hairstyle
Hair accessories can enhance any reception hairstyle, adding a touch of glamour or personal flair. Here are some accessories to consider:
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Decorative Hairpins: Use sparkling hairpins to secure your updo and add a subtle touch of elegance. Perfect for weddings and formal events.
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Floral Headbands or Clips: Floral accessories are great for romantic and boho-inspired receptions, offering a fresh, natural look.
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Pearl or Rhinestone Clips: Add sophistication to your hairstyle with pearl or rhinestone clips, which work well with both sleek ponytails and updos.
Your reception hairstyle is an essential part of creating a look that exudes confidence, elegance, and style. The right hairstyle can tie together your entire outfit and make you feel effortlessly beautiful, no matter the occasion. Whether you go for a classic updo, relaxed waves, or a sleek ponytail, there are countless styles to choose from that can suit your personality, hair type, and the formality of the event.
By considering factors such as the event’s nature, your face shape, and the level of formality, you can find the hairstyle that will not only complement your outfit but also ensure you feel comfortable and confident all day or night long. Whether you prefer a chic and polished bun, effortless curls, or a playful messy bun, these 23 reception hairstyles offer a range of options for every individual. Remember to use the right tools, products, and accessories to enhance your look and maintain your hairstyle throughout the event.
The key to a successful reception hairstyle is choosing one that fits your style, works well with your hair type, and enhances your confidence. With these 23 ideas, you’ll have plenty of options for creating a picture-perfect hairstyle that will make you feel glamorous, confident, and beautiful at your next reception. Embrace your unique look, experiment with different styles, and find the perfect reception hairstyle to make a lasting impression.
FAQ: Common Questions About Reception Hairstyles
Q1: What is the best reception hairstyle for a wedding?
For weddings, classic and elegant reception hairstyles are often preferred. Styles like sleek low buns, chignons, or French twists are ideal for brides and bridesmaids. For a more romantic look, soft curls or loose waves can also be a perfect choice. The key is to match the hairstyle with the wedding’s theme and your dress, ensuring a cohesive, elegant appearance.
Q2: Can I wear a ponytail to a formal reception?
Absolutely! A sleek or voluminous ponytail can look just as chic as an updo. For a more refined look, a low, sleek ponytail will add sophistication, while a high ponytail can give a more playful and glamorous vibe. Adding accessories like decorative pins or wraps can elevate the look for a more formal feel.
Q3: How do I choose the right reception hairstyle for my face shape?
Choosing the right hairstyle for your face shape can enhance your features. Here are some general tips:
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Round Faces: Opt for hairstyles with height and volume on top to elongate your face, such as high ponytails or voluminous curls.
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Oval Faces: Most styles work well for oval faces, from sleek ponytails to soft waves.
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Square Faces: Soft curls or textured styles can help soften the sharp angles of your face, while low buns or side-swept looks can be flattering.
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Heart-Shaped Faces: Consider side-swept styles, waves, or soft curls that balance the chin and accentuate the cheekbones.
Q4: How can I keep my reception hairstyle in place all day?
To keep your hairstyle intact throughout the day, use a strong-hold hairspray to ensure your style remains in place. For more secure hold, bobby pins or hairpins should be used to pin any loose strands. Additionally, carrying a small bottle of hairspray and a few bobby pins in your purse allows for quick touch-ups during the event.
Q5: What are some easy reception hairstyles for short hair?
Short hair can be styled in chic and elegant ways for a reception. Consider a sleek bob, soft waves, or even a textured pixie cut for a stylish, sophisticated look. A side-swept style or half-up style can also add volume and dimension to shorter hair while maintaining a formal feel.
Q6: Can I add accessories to my reception hairstyle?
Yes! Hair accessories can add the perfect finishing touch to your reception hairstyle. Decorative pins, floral headbands, or rhinestone clips can enhance your style and add a bit of sparkle. Be sure to select accessories that complement the overall look and event theme for a cohesive appearance.
Q7: How do I ensure my reception hairstyle lasts if I’m dancing or moving around a lot?
If you plan on dancing or moving frequently, choose a hairstyle that’s secure, such as an updo or a sleek ponytail. You can use bobby pins to reinforce your hairstyle and apply a generous amount of hairspray for extra hold. If your hairstyle includes loose curls or waves, make sure they are properly set with a curling iron and hairspray before heading to the event.
Q8: Can I do my own reception hairstyle at home?
Yes, many reception hairstyles can be done at home with the right tools and a bit of practice. Simple styles like a low ponytail, soft waves, or a half-up, half-down look can easily be achieved with a curling iron, hairspray, and bobby pins. You can also watch tutorials to get a better understanding of how to achieve the perfect look.