11+ First Date Hairstyle Ideas and Tips You’ll Love
A first date is a big deal. It’s the start of something new, exciting, and full of potential. Whatever the case, even if you’re feeling nervous, excited, or a bit of both, one thing that can give you confidence is rocking the perfect hairstyle. From my own personal experience, choosing the right hairstyle for a first date can make all the difference. It not only adds to your look but also boosts your confidence, making you feel amazing when you walk into the room.
Let me show you how I make sure my hair matches my vibe, making a lasting impression right from the start. In this post, I’ll walk you through trendy first date hairstyles. Each one is chic, fun, and perfect for setting the right tone. Plus, I’ll share some styling tips to help you perfect these looks and encourage you to experiment with your hair. And of course, I’d love to know which one stole your spotlight, let me know in the comments and tell me if you’ve ever rocked one of these styles before.
1. Soft Waves for a Flirty, Effortlessly Cool Look
Soft waves are timeless and perfect for a first date. They give you that effortless, “I just woke up like this” vibe, but with a touch of polish. Whether you’re heading to a casual coffee shop or a laid-back dinner date, soft waves are versatile and stylish.
Why this hairstyle works:
The beauty of soft waves is their simplicity. They are romantic without being overdone, making them perfect for a first date. The loose curls will frame your face beautifully, giving you a fresh, flirty, and youthful look. They can be paired with almost any outfit, from casual dresses to jeans and a cute top.
How to create soft waves:
Creating soft waves is simple. Start by applying a heat protectant to your hair—this helps keep your locks healthy while you style. Next, use a curling iron with a barrel size of about 1 inch. For looser, beachy waves, take 1-2-inch sections of hair and curl away from your face. Make sure to leave the ends of your hair out of the barrel to maintain that relaxed, wavy look. Once you’ve curled all sections, run your fingers through the waves to break them up and give them that effortless feel. Finish with a light hairspray to keep the style in place without making it stiff.
Pro Tip:
For extra volume and texture, try adding some sea salt spray before you start styling. This gives the waves a more beachy, tousled look that’s perfect for a first date. You can also flip your hair upside down for a few seconds after curling to add more volume at the roots.
2. The Classic Ponytail with a Twist
If you want a hairstyle that’s both chic and easy to manage, the classic ponytail with a twist is an excellent choice. This style is simple but adds a touch of sophistication, making it perfect for a date. It’s the type of style that says, “I’m cool, confident, and ready for anything.”
Why this hairstyle works:
The ponytail is one of the most versatile hairstyles around. When done right, it can look polished, playful, and even a bit sultry. By adding a twist (literally), like wrapping a section of hair around the hair tie, you create a more refined look without spending a ton of time styling.
How to create a ponytail with a twist:
Start by brushing your hair to remove tangles and create a sleek base. Gather your hair into a high or low ponytail, depending on your preference. Secure it with a hair tie, and then grab a small section of hair from the ponytail. Wrap this section around the base of the ponytail, covering the hair tie. Secure it underneath with a bobby pin. The twist creates a sleek, stylish look without being too rigid.
Pro Tip:
For added volume, pull at the sides of your ponytail after securing it to give it some lift. If you’re looking for a more sophisticated twist, try curling the ends of your ponytail for a softer, more polished effect.
3. Half-Up, Half-Down with Braid Accent for a Playful Vibe
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that strikes the perfect balance between casual and chic, the half-up, half-down style with a braid accent is a great option. This look combines the best of both worlds: it keeps your hair down to show off those beautiful locks, but the braid adds a touch of fun and elegance.
Why this hairstyle works:
The half-up, half-down look with a braid accent is playful, romantic, and practical. It keeps hair away from your face while still allowing you to show off your natural hair texture. It’s a great option for dates that involve more activity, like a walk in the park or a visit to a museum. The braid accent adds a cute and stylish touch that will definitely impress.
How to create this hairstyle:
Start by creating a subtle wave or curl to add texture to your hair. Once that’s done, take a small section of hair from either side of your head and braid them loosely. Secure each braid at the back of your head with a clear elastic band. Then, take the rest of your hair and let it fall naturally over your shoulders. The braids give a unique twist to the half-up, half-down style, making it look more polished than a typical loose ponytail.
Pro Tip:
To make the braid even more eye-catching, try adding a little texture by gently pulling apart the sections of the braid to make it look fuller. For extra volume, backcomb the crown of your head slightly before securing the braids. This will add lift and make the look feel even more glamorous.
4. Sleek Straight Hair for a Polished, Sophisticated Look
When it comes to first date hairstyles, sometimes simplicity is key. A sleek, straight hairstyle is timeless and gives off an effortlessly chic vibe. It’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a more formal date. It shows off your natural shine and lets your features take center stage, making it an excellent choice for anyone who prefers a more minimalist approach to hair styling.
Why this hairstyle works:
Sleek, straight hair is clean, polished, and sophisticated. It can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re in a cute little dress or rocking a casual chic outfit, sleek hair will complement any style. The straight lines also highlight your face, making your eyes, lips, and cheekbones stand out in the best way.
How to create sleek straight hair:
Start with damp hair and apply a heat protectant. After that, blow dry your hair straight, using a round brush to create smoothness. Once dry, section your hair and run a flat iron over each part. Make sure to keep the iron moving to avoid damaging your hair. For an extra sleek finish, add a smoothing serum or a shine spray to give your hair a glossy, polished look.
Pro Tip:
If you want your straight hair to last throughout the date without getting frizzy, try using a humidity-resistant hairspray. This will keep your hair looking perfect even if the weather isn’t ideal. And if you’re worried about your ends looking too flat, you can add a bit of volume by gently backcombing the roots.
5. Messy Bun for a Casual, Effortlessly Cool Look
A messy bun can be just as stunning as a more formal hairstyle, especially if you want to look like you effortlessly put together the perfect look. It’s an ideal hairstyle if you’re going for a laid-back date like a coffee date, afternoon stroll, or casual dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to do, so you won’t spend too much time getting ready!
Why this hairstyle works:
The messy bun exudes confidence. It’s carefree, easy, and just the right amount of undone. It shows that you’re not trying too hard but still look put together. This is perfect for dates where you want to feel relaxed and natural, but still stylish.
How to create a messy bun:
Begin by pulling your hair into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base, securing it with bobby pins. The key to achieving that perfect “messy” look is to leave some strands loose around the face. If your hair is fine, tease the ponytail a bit before wrapping it for extra volume.
Pro Tip:
To give your messy bun a more polished look, try adding a cute hair accessory, like a stylish barrette or a silk hair tie. You can also pull out a few wisps of hair around your face to soften the look, making it feel more casual and flirty.
6. Voluminous Curls for a Bold and Flirty Look
If you want to turn heads on your first date, voluminous curls are a bold and beautiful choice. This hairstyle is full of life and movement, giving you a fun and playful vibe. Whether you’re heading to a dinner party or a concert date, voluminous curls will make sure you stand out and feel like a million bucks.
Why this hairstyle works:
Voluminous curls are romantic, fun, and super flirty. The added height at the roots and the bouncy curls make you look lively and confident. This look is perfect if you want to show off your natural texture while giving your hair some extra body. It’s the type of hairstyle that makes you feel ready to take on anything and everyone will take notice.
How to create voluminous curls:
Start by adding a mousse or texturizing spray to damp hair to help build volume. Next, use a large-barreled curling iron or wand to curl sections of your hair away from your face. When curling, hold the curling iron vertically to create bigger curls that won’t fall flat. Once you’ve curled your entire head, run your fingers through the curls to break them up and create natural volume. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to lock the style in place.
Pro Tip:
For even more volume, try blow-drying your hair upside down before curling it. This will give your roots extra lift and create even more fullness. You can also use a teasing comb to gently tease the roots for additional volume.
7. Low Chignon for an Elegant, Classic Look
The low chignon is a sophisticated and elegant hairstyle that never goes out of style. This timeless updo is perfect for a more formal first date or if you want to look extra polished without putting too much effort into your hair. Whether you’re headed to a candlelit dinner or a more refined event, the low chignon will make you look graceful and chic.
Why this hairstyle works:
The low chignon is sleek, polished, and absolutely elegant. It’s perfect if you’re going for a classy, sophisticated vibe. It keeps your hair out of your face and allows you to focus on the date while still looking incredible. This hairstyle works well for any occasion and complements a wide range of outfits, from a formal dress to a chic blouse and skirt.
How to create a low chignon:
Start by brushing your hair to smooth out any tangles. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a loose bun. Secure it with bobby pins and adjust the bun until it’s the size and shape you want. If you want a more refined look, you can smooth down any stray hairs with a little hairspray. For a softer, more romantic vibe, let a few strands of hair fall loosely around your face.
Pro Tip:
For added elegance, consider adding a decorative hairpin or headband to your chignon. A pearl-studded clip or vintage-inspired accessory can add an extra touch of class without being too over-the-top. And if you want to add texture, try gently pulling on the sides of your bun to give it a more lived-in look.
8. The Braided Crown for a Fairytale Look
If you’re looking to channel some fairytale vibes for your first date, the braided crown is a stunning, romantic option. It gives you an elegant, regal look that’s perfect for a first date that’s a little more formal or whimsical—whether you’re heading to a botanical garden or an outdoor evening event.
Why this hairstyle works:
The braided crown is timeless and charming. It’s a hairstyle that shows effort without being overly done. It highlights your face, draws attention to your eyes, and gives you a soft, feminine silhouette. It also feels light and airy, which is perfect for dates in warmer weather or outdoor settings.
How to create a braided crown:
Start by parting your hair down the middle. Then, take a small section of hair from one side of your head and start braiding it, either a regular or Dutch braid. Continue braiding down the side of your head, and once you reach the end, secure it with a small elastic band. Repeat this step on the other side of your head. Once both braids are done, pull the braids across the top of your head, crossing them over each other like a crown. Pin them in place with bobby pins, and tuck any loose strands into place for a neat, finished look.
Pro Tip:
To add a little extra flair, you can pull a few pieces of hair loose around your face for a softer, more romantic touch. You could also add a few flower pins or a decorative headband to give the style a more bohemian feel.
9. Loose Waves with a Side Part for a Relaxed, Beachy Look
For a laid-back first date, especially if you’re meeting by the water or in a casual setting, loose waves with a side part are a great choice. This hairstyle exudes effortless beauty and works perfectly with a variety of outfits, from a sundress to a cute top and jeans.
Why this hairstyle works:
Loose waves have that beachy, just-got-out-of-the-ocean vibe, giving you a relaxed and carefree feel. The side part adds an extra touch of dimension and frames your face beautifully. This hairstyle is ideal for those who want a polished yet natural look—one that doesn’t scream “I’m trying too hard.”
How to create loose waves:
To create this look, start with dry hair. If your hair is straight, use a curling iron with a larger barrel to create loose, effortless waves. Wrap small sections of hair around the iron, alternating the direction of the curls for a more natural, tousled effect. Once you’ve curled all sections, run your fingers through the curls to break them up and soften them. Finish with a light texturizing spray to keep the waves bouncy and voluminous without weighing them down.
Pro Tip:
If your hair is naturally wavy, you can embrace your natural texture by adding a bit of salt spray to enhance the waves. It will create that fresh-out-of-the-ocean look without the need for a curling iron.
10. High Ponytail for a Fun and Flirty Look
If you want to look youthful and energetic on your first date, a high ponytail is the way to go. This fun and flirty style not only keeps your hair out of your face but also gives you a fresh and bouncy vibe. It’s perfect for dates where you’ll be walking around, or if you want a hairstyle that’s both practical and cute.
Why this hairstyle works:
The high ponytail is playful, youthful, and energetic. It adds a bit of volume and bounce to your hair, and it’s great for showing off your natural features. It’s simple yet stylish, and it can be dressed up with accessories for added flair. Plus, it’s easy to maintain, so you won’t have to worry about your hair falling flat throughout the date.
How to create a high ponytail:
Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles. Gather your hair at the crown of your head, ensuring that it’s smooth and free of bumps. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie, making sure it’s tight enough to hold the hair in place. To make the ponytail look fuller, gently pull at the hair around the crown to add volume. For a polished look, wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the elastic band, securing it with a bobby pin.
Pro Tip:
To give your high ponytail some extra volume, add a bit of teasing at the roots before securing the ponytail. You can also curl the ends of the ponytail for a more sophisticated finish.
11. Loose French Twist for a Classy, Vintage Vibe
If you’re heading to a classy or semi-formal date, like an elegant dinner or an art gallery visit, the loose French twist is a sophisticated choice. It combines vintage charm with a modern twist, making it a standout hairstyle for any first date that calls for a polished, elegant look.
Why this hairstyle works:
The loose French twist is elegant, classy, and understated. It’s a hairstyle that suggests you’ve put effort into your look without being overly fussy. This style frames the face beautifully while keeping your hair off your shoulders. The relaxed, loose version of the French twist is much softer than the traditional tight one, giving it a more modern feel.
How to create a loose French twist:
Start by combing your hair back and smoothing out any tangles. Gather your hair to one side of your head and begin twisting it from the nape of your neck, working your way upwards. As you twist, tuck the hair under, creating a subtle roll. Once you’ve reached the top, secure the twist with bobby pins. For a softer, more relaxed look, gently pull on the twist to loosen it up. If you prefer more volume, tease the hair at the crown before twisting.
Pro Tip:
If you want a more intricate look, consider adding a small decorative pin or comb to the twist. It’ll give the hairstyle a touch of glamour and sophistication.
How to Make Your First Date Hairstyle Last All Night
You’ve chosen your hairstyle, but you want it to last through the entire date. Here are a few tips to ensure your hair stays flawless from the first hello to the final goodbye:
- Use the right products: Invest in a good quality hairspray or texturizing spray that matches your hair type. For soft waves, a light-hold hairspray works best, while for a ponytail or braid, you might want something with more hold to ensure the style lasts.
- Don’t skip the prep: Make sure you start with clean, dry hair. Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner or styling cream to keep your hair smooth and frizz-free throughout the evening.
- Avoid touching your hair: It’s easy to adjust your hair throughout the night, but the more you touch it, the more it’ll lose its shape. After styling, try to leave your hair alone to avoid flattening the style.
Final Thoughts on First Date Hairstyles
Whether you’re going for something sleek, playful, or elegant, these hairstyles are perfect for making an impression on your first date. Your hairstyle is a reflection of your personality, and it’s an essential part of your overall look. From loose waves to French twists and high ponytails, there’s a style here for everyone, no matter the occasion.
I hope these hairstyle ideas gave you some fresh inspiration for your next date. Keep in mind that the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in your own skin. A great hairstyle can boost your confidence, but your energy and personality are what will truly steal the spotlight!
Which one of these hairstyles do you think would work best for your next first date? Or maybe you’ve already rocked one of these looks? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop your comments below, and be sure to share your name and location—I’d love to know where you’re planning your next date!
