Memorial Day is one of those weekends I genuinely look forward to every single year. There is something electric about it — the smell of sunscreen in the air, the sound of music drifting from someone’s backyard, the laughter of friends gathering around a table full of food, and the undeniable sense that summer is finally, officially, here. As a makeup artist and beauty educator, I think about more than just what people put on their faces during these kinds of celebrations. I think about the whole look — and nothing ties a look together quite like a great hairstyle.
Over the years working with so many different women at outdoor celebrations, photo shoots, and casual parties, I have come to truly understand what kinds of hairstyles hold up under the sun, look stunning in candid photos, and still feel effortless enough that you are not spending your entire afternoon worrying about your hair falling apart. That is the sweet spot — beauty that feels alive and free, not stiff or overdone.
So today I want to share fourteen of my absolute favorite Memorial Day hairstyles. These are styles I have tried on clients, worn myself, and genuinely believe in. Whether you have long flowing locks, a short bob, natural curls, or something in between, there is something in here for you. Let us get into it.
Beachy Waves
There is a reason beachy waves are a perennial favorite at every warm-weather celebration. They are relaxed, gorgeous, and give off that effortlessly sun-kissed energy that just feels right for Memorial Day weekend. Every time I do someone’s hair in this style before a backyard gathering or a day by the water, they walk out the door looking like they just stepped off a shoreline.
What this style is all about
Beachy waves are soft, loose, undone waves that mimic what naturally happens to your hair after a day at the beach. They are not tight curls, and they are not perfectly styled ringlets — they are somewhere deliciously in between. The beauty of this style is that it embraces texture and movement rather than fighting against them. It is laid-back luxury, and it suits the spirit of Memorial Day perfectly. The waves tend to fall unevenly, which is actually the whole point. That slight randomness is what gives the look its charm and personality.
Who this look works best for
Beachy waves honestly work on almost every hair type, but they are especially flattering on medium to long hair. If you have fine hair, adding some texture spray before you begin will give you more body to work with. For those with naturally wavy or thick hair, you already have a head start — you might only need a little diffusing and some product to enhance what nature gave you. This style is perfect for outdoor daytime celebrations, beach trips, picnics, and anywhere the vibe is relaxed and joyful.
Tips to create the perfect beachy waves
Start with slightly damp or fully dry hair. Apply a sea salt spray or a texturizing mousse and scrunch it through your hair to build a base of texture. Use a curling wand — I prefer a one-inch barrel — and wrap sections of hair around it, leaving the ends out for that undone, natural finish. Alternate the direction of each wave so they do not all curl the same way. Once you are done, let the hair cool completely before running your fingers through it to break up the waves gently. Finish with a light-hold spray and you are set for hours.
The Braided Crown
I fell in love with braided crowns years ago, and honestly, I have never stopped loving them. There is something almost magical about wrapping a braid around your head — it is romantic, it is strong, and it is the kind of style that makes people ask, “How did you do that?” I remember wearing one myself to an outdoor gathering a few summers back and spending half the afternoon answering questions about it. That is a good hair day.
Understanding the braided crown look
A braided crown, sometimes called a halo braid, is created by braiding your hair and wrapping it around the top of your head like a crown or wreath. It keeps your hair completely off your face and neck, which makes it one of the most practical choices for a warm Memorial Day. It has roots in traditional and cultural hairstyling across many parts of the world, but today it lives beautifully in casual outdoor and festival settings. The look is polished yet bohemian at the same time.
The best hair types for this style
Braided crowns work best on medium to long hair, though extensions can absolutely help if your hair is on the shorter side. Fine hair can pull this off with a little teasing and some bobby pins to secure everything in place. Curly and textured hair creates a particularly stunning braided crown because the natural volume and texture add richness and dimension to the braid. This is a style that genuinely celebrates all hair types.
How to achieve a flawless braided crown
Begin by parting your hair down the middle and creating two low pigtails. Braid each section and secure the ends with small clear elastics. Then take one braid, wrap it up and over the top of your head, and pin it down with bobby pins. Repeat on the other side so the two braids meet and overlap at the top. Tuck any loose ends under the braid and secure them. Pull out a few soft wisps around your face for a romantic, lived-in feel. A little hairspray and you are done.
The Sleek High Ponytail
If there is one style that feels both effortless and incredibly polished at the same time, it is the sleek high ponytail. I style these all the time on clients who want something clean and sharp for events, and let me tell you — when it is done right, a high ponytail turns heads in every room. Or in this case, every backyard.
Breaking down the high ponytail style
A sleek high ponytail is exactly what it sounds like — your hair pulled up smoothly and secured high on the head, with minimal flyaways and a clean, shiny finish. It is the kind of style that looks like it took a lot of effort but, with a few key tricks, actually comes together pretty quickly. It is bold, it is confident, and it keeps your hair completely away from your face, which is very welcome on a warm Memorial Day afternoon.
When and who this style shines on
This style is universally flattering, especially on those who want something that feels intentional and put-together without overdoing it. It works beautifully on all hair lengths from shoulder-length to very long. Thick hair looks particularly striking in a high pony because the ponytail itself has beautiful volume and weight. Fine hair benefits from a little volumizing spray at the roots before pulling up. This is a great option if you are hosting a party and want to look stylish without fussing with your hair all day.
Step-by-step guide to a polished ponytail
Start by spraying your roots with a volumizing spray and blow-drying them upward to build lift at the crown. Use a fine-tooth comb and a smoothing cream to slick back the sides and top of your hair without any bumps. Secure your hair with a strong elastic at the very top of your head. To make the ponytail look extra polished, take a thin section of hair from the underside of the ponytail, wrap it around the elastic, and pin it underneath. Finish with a shine serum through the length of the ponytail and a light mist of hairspray.
The Effortless Messy Bun
The messy bun is one of those styles that I genuinely believe never goes out of fashion. I have styled countless women in this look for outdoor celebrations and every single time, the result is a woman who looks relaxed, beautiful, and completely in her element. The key is that “messy” does not mean careless — it means intentionally undone.
What makes the messy bun so special
A messy bun sits somewhere between a classic updo and a casual throw-it-up situation. The appeal lies in its imperfection — the loose pieces framing the face, the slightly uneven bun, the soft texture throughout. It reads as effortless even when you have actually spent a thoughtful few minutes crafting it. For Memorial Day specifically, it keeps you cool, keeps your hair in place through outdoor activities, and photographs beautifully in natural light.
The perfect occasion and hair type match
The messy bun genuinely suits every hair type and texture, which is one of the reasons I love recommending it so much. Curly-haired women get a gorgeous, full bun with tons of personality. Straight hair creates a smoother, slightly more polished version. It works perfectly for backyard barbecues, beach days, afternoon picnics, and anywhere the vibe is warm and celebratory. If you are wearing a sundress or anything flowy, a messy bun is the perfect finishing touch.
Pro tips for creating the ideal messy bun
Do not start with freshly washed hair — day-old hair has natural texture that makes the bun hold and look more organic. Gather your hair at the back of your head at whatever height feels right for you, wrap it into a bun, and secure it loosely with an elastic. Pull the bun apart slightly with your fingers to make it bigger and fuller. Let a few pieces fall around your face and at the nape of your neck. Use a few bobby pins to tuck in any sections that feel too loose. A light spritz of flexible hold hairspray keeps everything in place without making it stiff.
Half-Up Half-Down Elegance
Half-up, half-down styles hold such a special place in my heart. They give you the best of both worlds — the hair is out of your face but still flowing freely, and the whole look has this effortless, feminine energy. I have done this style on so many women who were not sure what they wanted, and it never fails to make them smile when they see the finished look.
The story behind this classic look
The half-up half-down style has been around for decades, but it continues to evolve and feel fresh because it is so versatile. At its core, it involves taking the top or front section of your hair and securing it while leaving the rest down. It is the kind of hairstyle that works whether you add braids, twists, curls, or keep everything smooth and straight. For Memorial Day, this style feels perfectly suited — relaxed but intentional, casual but beautiful.
Who should try this beautiful style
This style is genuinely one of the most inclusive when it comes to hair type, length, and texture. You need enough hair to create a small section at the top, so those with medium to long hair will find it easiest. But even those with shorter bobs can create a cute version of this look. It is ideal for anyone who wants to be a little more dressed up than a ponytail but does not want the commitment of a full updo. It works equally well for the host and the guest at any outdoor gathering.
Your quick guide to nailing this style
Start by curling or adding waves to your hair if you want extra texture throughout. Take the top third or half of your hair — from ear to ear at the crown — and pull it back. You can secure it with a pretty clip, a ribbon, a small elastic, or twist it into a mini bun. Leave a few face-framing pieces out to soften the look. If you want something a little more special, braid the section before securing it, or twist two pieces together and pin them in place. This is one of those styles that takes five minutes but looks like it took twenty.
The Sleek Low Bun
The sleek low bun is my go-to when I want something that feels elegant and refined but is still completely appropriate for an outdoor celebration. It is the kind of hairstyle that looks just as beautiful in the afternoon as it does in the evening, which makes it incredibly versatile for long Memorial Day events.
Defining the sleek low bun
A sleek low bun sits at the nape of the neck or slightly above it and is characterized by smooth, polished hair with no flyaways. Unlike the messy bun, this style is intentional and precise. It is chic, it is timeless, and it frames the face beautifully. The neckline is exposed, which feels lovely in warm weather and shows off earrings or necklaces in a really beautiful way.
What makes this look work for any occasion
The sleek low bun bridges the gap between casual and formal in a way that very few styles do. For Memorial Day, this means you can wear it to an afternoon barbecue and still look perfectly put together for a sunset dinner on the patio. It works on all hair types, though fine hair benefits from extra product and texture to keep the bun from looking too thin. Thick hair creates a beautifully full bun that has gorgeous presence.
How to create a polished low bun at home
Apply a smoothing serum or cream to your hair and brush it completely smooth from root to tip. Gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck and secure it with a strong elastic. Twist the ponytail until it begins to coil on itself, then wrap it around the base and pin it down with bobby pins all around. Use a fine-tooth comb to smooth any sections that have lifted. Finish with a generous spritz of shine spray and a firm-hold hairspray to keep everything in place. If any pieces fall loose throughout the day, simply tuck and pin them back.
Fishtail Braid Beauty
The fishtail braid is honestly one of those styles that people see and immediately think looks impossibly complicated, but once you break it down, it is surprisingly approachable. I learned this braid early in my career and have never stopped including it in my styling repertoire. On a Memorial Day where you want your hair to tell a story, a fishtail braid absolutely delivers.
Getting to know the fishtail braid
A fishtail braid is a type of braid that uses two sections rather than three, weaving small strands from the outside of each section into the center alternately. The result is a intricately textured braid that looks detailed and almost woven. It has a beautiful herringbone pattern and a softness that distinguishes it from a standard three-strand braid. It reads as romantic, bohemian, and effortlessly stylish all at once.
Ideal hair types and settings for this style
Fishtail braids look absolutely stunning on thick, long hair because the braid is full and richly textured. Medium-length hair can also carry a fishtail beautifully, especially when worn over one shoulder. Those with fine hair can make a fishtail work by pulling the sections apart after braiding to make it look fuller and more voluminous. This style is perfect for outdoor celebrations, especially at the beach or in natural surroundings where the bohemian vibe really comes alive.
A step-by-step approach to fishtail braiding
Split your hair into two equal sections. Take a small piece of hair from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over into the right section. Then take a small piece from the outer edge of the right section and cross it into the left section. Repeat this pattern all the way down, keeping the sections pulled tight as you go. Secure the end with a clear elastic. Once the braid is done, gently pull the edges of each section outward with your fingertips to loosen and widen the braid, giving it a softer, fuller appearance. A little texture spray before you begin makes the braid easier to grip and hold.
Space Buns For The Free Spirit
Space buns are one of those playful, expressive styles that just make people happy. They have a youthful, free-spirited energy that feels completely at home at a Memorial Day celebration. I have styled space buns on clients of all ages and backgrounds, and the reaction is almost always the same — a big smile and a feeling of lightness.
What space buns are and where they come from
Space buns are two buns worn on either side of the top of the head, giving a rounded, symmetrical appearance. They have appeared across decades in various youth culture movements and have a bold, fun, unapologetically expressive quality. They are not trying to be subtle — they are making a statement. For Memorial Day, that statement is joy, celebration, and a love of summertime.
The best way to wear space buns
Space buns work wonderfully on medium to long hair and are especially charming on wavy or curly textures because the buns themselves have beautiful, natural volume and dimension. They can be worn smooth and polished for a cleaner look, or messy and undone for something more casual and playful. You can add braids into the buns for extra detail, or keep them simple and let the style speak for itself. This look pairs perfectly with festival-style outfits, denim shorts, flowy dresses, or anything with a fun, relaxed energy.
Creating playful space buns with ease
Part your hair down the center from front to back. On each side, gather the hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Twist each ponytail and wrap it around its base to form a bun, pinning it in place with bobby pins. Leave out a few strands around your face for a softer frame. You can pull the buns apart slightly to make them look bigger and more voluminous. If you want extra staying power for a long day outside, spray each bun lightly with hairspray before you pin them down. The result should feel playful, light, and completely celebratory.
The Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is one of those styles that I genuinely think is underused. Every time I create one, people stop and stare — there is something almost ethereal about it. The way the hair cascades through the braid looks like it defies gravity, and it has this delicate, dreamy quality that I absolutely love for warm, sunny outdoor occasions.
Unpacking the waterfall braid style
A waterfall braid is a type of French braid where instead of incorporating all the hair into the braid, you drop a section of hair down with each stitch, letting it fall freely through the braid like water falling through a stream. The result is a braid that sits along one side of your head while long sections of your hair cascade beautifully through it. It is intricate in appearance but deeply romantic in feel.
Who this dreamy style flatters most
The waterfall braid is most striking on those with long, flowing hair because the dropped sections have length to cascade beautifully. However, it can also look lovely on medium-length hair with some adaptation. Those with wavy or lightly curled hair get a particularly stunning result because the dropped sections have natural movement and volume as they fall. This style is perfect for Memorial Day outdoor events where there is a gentle breeze and you want something that moves beautifully.
How to master the waterfall braid
Start on one side of your head, taking a section near your temple. Divide it into three parts and begin a French braid going horizontally across your head. Each time you bring the bottom section up, drop it and replace it with a new piece of hair from above. The dropped pieces should fall freely and create the waterfall effect. Continue braiding across your head until you reach the other side, then secure the braid with a small elastic or pin. Curl or add waves to the rest of your hair so the dropped sections blend beautifully with the overall look.
Twisted Rope Braid
The rope braid is one of those styles that looks deceptively simple but creates such a beautiful result that it always surprises people. I have been using this style for years as a go-to when I want something that looks interesting and intentional without requiring a lot of time or effort. For Memorial Day, it is perfect.
What the rope braid brings to the table
A rope braid is created by twisting two sections of hair in the same direction and then wrapping them around each other in the opposite direction, creating a coiled, rope-like effect. It is clean, structured, and has a slightly bohemian feel when done softly. The beauty of the rope braid is that it holds its shape incredibly well, making it a great option for a long outdoor day when you need your style to last.
Finding the right look for this style
The rope braid is incredibly versatile. Worn as a single braid down the back, it creates a classic, elegant look. Worn as a side braid over one shoulder, it feels softer and more romantic. It can be incorporated into half-up styles, used to frame the face on either side, or worn as a braided crown. It works on medium to long hair and is particularly striking on those with thick hair because the rope-like texture is really visible and impactful.
Creating the rope braid step by step
Divide your hair into two equal sections. Twist each section in the same direction — both clockwise, for example. Then wrap the two twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction — counterclockwise — and secure the end with an elastic. Once the braid is done, gently tug at the edges to loosen it and create a slightly fuller, softer look. Secure any loose pieces with pins if needed and finish with a light mist of hairspray. The result is a style that has beautiful dimension and holds up beautifully through hours of outdoor fun.
Boho Side Braid
The boho side braid is one of those hairstyles that feels completely synonymous with warm weather, open skies, and a carefree spirit. Every time I style someone in this look before a summer outdoor event, they leave feeling like they are ready to dance through a field of wildflowers. It is one of my personal favorites.
The beauty of a boho side braid
A boho side braid is a loose, textured braid that falls over one shoulder. It can be a three-strand braid, a fishtail, a rope braid, or any combination — the defining characteristic is the placement over one shoulder and the deliberately undone, relaxed texture throughout. The looseness of the braid, the slightly pulled-apart edges, and the soft wisps of hair framing the face give it that effortless bohemian quality that works so beautifully for outdoor summer celebrations.
Perfect occasions for this carefree style
The boho side braid is ideal for outdoor events of every kind — backyard parties, picnics by the lake, day trips to the beach, or any Memorial Day celebration where the atmosphere is relaxed and the sun is shining. It works especially well on long hair, particularly curly or wavy textures that give the braid beautiful natural movement. Even those with straight hair can achieve the look with a little texture spray to prevent the braid from looking too flat.
Tips for crafting a gorgeous boho side braid
Start by adding a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to your hair to give it grip and a lived-in feel. Sweep your hair over one shoulder and begin braiding in whatever style you prefer — classic three-strand, fishtail, or rope. Keep the tension loose as you braid so the result feels relaxed rather than tight. Once you reach the end, secure it with a small elastic. Then go back through the braid with your fingertips and gently pull at the edges of each section to widen and loosen the braid further. Leave a few pieces free around your face and at the nape of your neck. This is a style that rewards imperfection.
Vintage Victory Rolls
Not every Memorial Day look has to follow the casual, beachy playbook, and that is something I truly love about personal style. Victory rolls are one of those vintage-inspired styles that feel completely special and unique, and they make an absolute statement at any celebration. I wore this style to a themed outdoor party once and it was genuinely one of the most memorable hair moments of my life.
Discovering the classic victory roll style
Victory rolls are a vintage hairstyle characterized by cylindrical rolls of hair that sit along the top or sides of the head, pointing forward or upward. They originated in wartime fashion and carry a beautiful sense of strength, femininity, and bold individuality. Today, they are worn as a nod to vintage glamour and are absolutely eye-catching at any event where you want to stand out. Paired with a red lip and a polished outfit, they are unforgettable.
When to wear vintage victory rolls
Victory rolls are perfect for those who want something truly unique and intentional for Memorial Day. Since the holiday itself has historical significance, wearing something with vintage roots feels particularly meaningful and beautiful. This style works best on medium to long hair and suits a variety of hair textures. It is especially stunning on those with hair that has some natural hold or can be set with rollers or a curling iron. If you are looking to create a look that will genuinely be remembered, this is it.
Bringing victory rolls to life
Section off the front portion of your hair from ear to ear. Divide this section in half down the center. Working with one side at a time, smooth the hair with a brush, apply a light hold gel or setting lotion, and roll the hair forward toward your face, creating a cylinder of hair. Pin the roll in place at the base with bobby pins. Repeat on the other side. The back of your hair can be left in a low bun, pinned waves, or soft curls depending on the look you want. A firm hold hairspray keeps the rolls intact throughout the day. The result is striking, polished, and completely memorable.
The French Twist
The French twist is a classic for a reason — it is sophisticated, polished, and incredibly elegant. I have been doing French twists since the very beginning of my career, and it remains one of the most requested updos I offer. For a Memorial Day that leans a little more dressed up, nothing beats a beautiful French twist.
What the French twist is all about
A French twist involves gathering all of your hair at the back, twisting it upward, and folding it into itself to create a smooth, vertical roll of hair along the back of the head. It is sleek, refined, and exposes the neck beautifully. The style has been worn at elegant occasions for decades and continues to feel both timeless and modern. It is not a complicated style to describe, but the execution requires a little practice and a good set of bobby pins.
Why this style works for so many occasions
The French twist is one of those styles that genuinely transcends casual and formal. For a Memorial Day event that might move from afternoon gathering to evening dinner, a French twist holds up and looks appropriate for both. It suits those with medium to long hair best and works particularly well on those with fine hair who want something that looks full and structured. It keeps all of your hair up and off your face and neck, which is incredibly welcome on a warm day.
A simple guide to perfecting the French twist
Brush your hair completely smooth and gather it all into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck without securing it with an elastic. Hold the ponytail with one hand and twist it upward continuously until the twist begins to travel up the back of your head. Once you reach the top, fold the twist into the head and tuck the ends inward. Secure the twist with a row of bobby pins running vertically along the center. Use the tips of your fingers and a fine-tooth comb to smooth any bumps or lumps along the outside of the twist. Finish with a firm-hold hairspray. For a softer take, pull a few pieces out around the face to frame the features beautifully.
Loose Romantic Curls
When I think about what the ideal Memorial Day hair looks like for so many of the women I work with, loose romantic curls almost always come to mind. They are beautiful, joyful, and have a warmth and softness that feels perfectly in tune with the spirit of a summer celebration. This is the style I probably see requested most for outdoor events, and I completely understand why.
Understanding loose romantic curls
Loose romantic curls are large, soft curls or waves that have a bouncy, flowing quality. Unlike tight ringlets or defined spiral curls, these curls are open and relaxed — they move freely with every step and catch the light beautifully in outdoor settings. They feel feminine and full of personality without being overdone or high-maintenance looking. The goal is hair that looks like it was kissed by the sun and styled by a gentle breeze.
Who these curls are meant for
Loose romantic curls work beautifully on those with medium to long hair and are particularly stunning on those who naturally have some wave or curl in their hair — a little enhancement goes a long way. Those with straight hair can achieve this look with a large-barrel curling iron or wand, and the results are always worth it. This style complements virtually every face shape and pairs wonderfully with floral dresses, sundresses, linen outfits, and any Memorial Day look that leans soft and summery.
How to get beautiful loose curls that last
Start with a heat protectant spray applied throughout your hair. Using a large-barrel curling wand — one and a half to two inches — wrap large sections of hair around the barrel, holding for just a few seconds before releasing. Alternate the direction of each curl around your head to create dimension and prevent the curls from clumping together. Once you have curled all your hair, allow everything to cool completely. Then use your fingers to gently rake through the curls and loosen them into soft waves. Finish with a light, flexible hold hairspray to preserve the shape without making the curls stiff or crunchy. A little argan oil on the ends adds gorgeous shine.
Conclusion
Memorial Day is about honoring, celebrating, coming together, and embracing the beauty of summer in its fullest, warmest form. And for me — as someone who has spent years helping women feel their most beautiful and confident — the way you wear your hair on a day like this is about so much more than aesthetics. It is about how you want to feel. It is about freedom, expression, and stepping into the day as fully yourself.
What I love most about every one of these fourteen hairstyles is that each one reflects a different kind of beauty. Some of them are playful and carefree — the space buns, the boho braid, the beachy waves. Others are polished and intentional — the French twist, the sleek low bun, the high ponytail. And then there are the ones that are deeply romantic — the waterfall braid, the loose curls, the braided crown. Every single one of them has its own personality, and that is what personal style is all about.
I always tell the women I work with the same thing: the best hairstyle is not the most technically complex one or the trendiest one — it is the one that makes you feel most like yourself. So as you get ready for your Memorial Day celebrations this year, I want you to choose the style that puts a smile on your face when you see it in the mirror. Choose the one that makes you stand a little taller, laugh a little freer, and enjoy every single moment of that beautiful day.
As I always say, beauty is not about perfection — it is about confidence, creativity, and the joy of expressing who you are. Whatever hairstyle you choose this Memorial Day, wear it with pride, wear it with love, and have the most beautiful day. I will be rooting for you every step of the way.