- Christmas
- 13th Nov 2026
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Party hair perfection: your festive hair guide from ÂPRE Hair Concept
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From brushed-out waves and sculptural knots to glossy colour that catches the light, here’s how to make your hair the highlight of the party season, plus the gift that’s always the right size.
December diaries are already filling up quickly. Work drinks, family get-togethers, girls’ nights and New Year’s Eve all call for a little extra polish, and the right hair can make you feel ready for every one of them.
To find out how to get it right, we spoke to Matty, owner of Newcastle’s ÂPRE Hair Concept, about the styles worth asking for, how to make them last and the gift ideas worth knowing about when you’re shopping for someone else.
“Party hair should feel like a more dressed-up version of yourself.”
Matty, owner, ÂPRE Hair Concept
What is party hair?
So what does that look like in practice? It could be a beautiful blow-dry with movement, a sharp, tucked bob or hair pulled back to show off the neckline of an outfit. The secret is in the details, which is why a good stylist will always ask what you’re wearing and how you normally like to wear your hair. Those answers make the finished look feel personal, not borrowed from a picture.
The looks to ask for
Three styles are well worth booking at a salon: brushed-out waves, bouncy blow-dries and simple, sculptural up-dos. A low knot with a clean silhouette looks effortlessly chic, as does a deep side part with the hair tucked behind one ear. The idea is to keep the shape simple and make the finish really beautiful. And if your hair is short, don’t worry: with a little directional texture and shine, it can look incredible.
Two parties in one weekend?
If you have more than one occasion to get through, tell your stylist about all of them so they can plan ahead. A blow-dry with a little more structure on Friday can soften into lovely movement by Sunday, and letting the hair cool properly before dressing it out makes a big difference.
At home, keep your hair dry in the shower, resist the urge to keep touching it and loosely secure longer hair overnight with a soft scrunchie. By Sunday you might only need to refresh the front or turn it into a relaxed low knot or soft messy twist.
Colour with a festive glow
This is the season for colour with depth and light reflection: rich brunettes, softer copper tones and creamy blondes with dimension. The right tone depends on your skin, your haircut and how much maintenance you want, and sometimes a gloss refresh is all it takes to make your existing colour feel completely renewed. Extra-glossy hair and glamorous festive looks go hand in hand.
If you’re considering a bigger change, give your colourist time to plan it properly, including any patch testing that’s needed.
The mistake to avoid
The most common slip-up is brushing curls out while they’re still warm. You can spend ages curling your hair and lose the shape almost immediately because it hasn’t had time to set. Work in manageable sections, use heat protection and let everything cool before brushing or separating it. Start with less finishing product than you think you need, as you can always add a little more.
It also pays to take a step back. Your hair can look totally different in a close-up makeup mirror than it does in a full-length one, so check the whole look before you head out.
How to make it last
It all starts with preparation. Hair needs to be fully dry, with products chosen for its texture and the finish you want. Fine hair needs support without being weighed down, while hair that’s prone to frizz may need more smoothing and control. Then give the style time to set and use hold where it’s needed.
If you know you’ll be dancing all night or walking between venues, a secure up-style makes life much easier. And, whatever the forecast, take an umbrella.
Give the gift of great hair
Shopping for someone who’s hard to buy for? Choose something that makes their everyday routine feel a little more special. An OWAY treatment selected for their hair is a lovely idea, and OWAY Glossy Nectar is a great pick for anyone who enjoys a polished finish.
If you’re not sure what they use, a gift voucher lets them choose. Or give the gift of an experience: a voucher for a head spa appointment gives someone time to switch off, with a ritual tailored to their scalp and hair.
Book early
As soon as you know your dates, get them in the diary, especially if you need an evening or Saturday appointment or you’re planning colour alongside your cut and styling. Some December dates are taken far earlier in the year.
At ÂPRE, the experience matters as much as the finished hair. The space, the products and the consultation all contribute to how you feel when you’re in the salon, and with December so full-on, an appointment should be a moment to settle in, feel looked after and leave feeling good about yourself.
