The best Valentine’s Day hairstyles make you feel like the most confident version of yourself. Here are 24 styles to inspire your own, plus expert tips on how to achieve them.

The perfect date night beauty look is one that makes you feel amazing, which is why a curated menu of Valentine’s Day hairstyles is worth your perusal. The hair effect is real, instantly elevating your ensemble, makeup, and energy to meet the holiday’s scintillating romance. 

“Whether it be curls, a slicked back style, or a classic blowout, what makes occasion hair special is that you feel secure in whatever style you choose,” says hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons. “Looking your best allows you to feel your best, and that can be achieved through whatever hairstyle you desire for date night.”

Hairstylist George Papanikolas agrees, with a couple of caveats. “Great date night hair is all about looking effortless,” he says. “It should look polished and touchable with the right amount of shine to catch the light.” No matter your approach, the point is clear: the better you feel, the better your mood, the better the date. So why not let your hair be a beacon of from-with inconfidence?

Here, scroll through Valentine’s Day hairstyles to inspire a look that makes you go all Narcissus in every mirror you pass (and that your date will love, too).

Easy Bob

Easy, almost careless texture ensures that your hair reads soft and date night-ready. This is doubly true for the bob. Balance the blunt cut wih some artfully undone styling. 

Big Bends

Hairstylists agree that polished waves are an ideal Valentine’s Day look, and these generous bends are timelessly glamorous. To style, Fitzsimons suggests applying Andrew Fitzsimons 10-in-1 Virgin Repair Leave-In Conditioner to damp hair before blowing dry. Once dry, separate lengths into two sections and use a curling wand to curl 2-inch sections away from the face. 

“Once all of your hair is curled, finish off the look with the Andrew Fitzsimons Apres Sexe Texture Spray for a look that will stay all night,” he says. 

Regency Pony

A high-slung ponytail reads more romantic when afforded some demure detailing. In this case, Ariana Grande takes her aesthetic cues from Bridgerton with a soft sweep of baby bangs.  

Luxe Blowout

“Nothing says date night like a shiny, voluminous blowout,” says Papanikolas. For ultimate body, bounce, and hydration the stylist suggests applying Glow Mania Super Gloss Protecting Mask to clean, damp hair before blowing out with a round brush for a silken, high-shine finish. 

French Twist

A twist-up coupled with flirty tendrils (or, in this case, tendrils) is a V-Day mainstay. Make like Laura Harrier and opt for a single, wavy section pulled free to frame the face. 

Curly Updo

Natural curls and waves lend well to a fairytale-inspired updo. Pile lengths high on the head in a twist or loose bun that accentuates your texture—and be sure to loosen a quartet of tendrils to drive the princess point home. 

Raked Pony

Margaret Qualley’s finger-raked pony was made for Valentine’s Day. “I really adore a low pony for date night,” says Fitzsimons. “It is super easy to achieve, looks classy and sexy, and is a great option to keep your hair out of your face.” And while sleek ponytails have their place, subtle texture sets this style apart. 

Power Updo

The business woman special, but make it romantic. A pinned updo featuring a side-swept element reads sophisticated and '90s, with a collective of tendrils (and Lily Collin's wispy bangs) softening the effect.

Old Hollywood Coif

There’s something about a sculptural Old Hollywood wave that oozes coquettish glamour. Kendall Jenner’s blonde coiffure owes something to Lauren Bacall and Marilyn Monroe. 

Femme Fatale

A simple curl reversal takes this look from flirty to sultry. Phoebe Dynevor’s deep part gives way to lengths curled in barrel fashion toward the face, the style effortlessly evoking the femme fatale archetype. 

Modern Milkmaid

Weave some unexpected playfulness into your low-slung updo by trading your usual pony, knot, or bun for a looped and pinned plait. 

Renaissance Lengths

There’s something eternally ethereal about extra-long hair. Allow your curls, waves, or pin-straight mane to cascade down your back, with secured sections at the front creating an Old World feel. 

Slicked Knot

Chic and refined, the slicked knot is never off our roster. Consider this your get-out-of-styling-free card: just apply your preferred gel, styling cream, or oil, comb lengths into a pony, twist, and secure. 

Low Pony

Experts agree that the low and polished pony is forever. After smoothing lengths—whether via a blowdry or a product like Matrix Mega Sleek Iron—the shaping begins. Fitzsimons suggests completing your styling routine with your preferred part in mind. 

“To ensure it stays low, make sure to keep a portion of your ears covered,” he suggests. “Secure the ponytail with a hair tie and lift it slightly to give as much volume and then tie it tightly.” For extra hold, add a spritz of hairspray to lock the style in place. 

Polished Blowout

The buoyant blowout may be the moment, but a polished, understated version is a timeless take. Hair pulled into glossy, generous bends and curls offers a wash of elegance to any aesthetic. 

Beach Bends

Soft, could-be natural waves are a date night staple. “Romantic waves should have movement and dimension,” says Papanikolas. “Curl the hair in alternating sections, then rake through with your fingers for an undone, effortless feel.”

Ironed Lengths

While many Valentine’s Day hairstyles center volume and bounce, flat-ironed lengths offer a luster that is just as striking. A deep side part ensures that the style gives glamour rather than pop star or bohemia. 

French Roll

The French roll is back and eager to accompany you on your Valentine’s outing. The modern version of the confectionary and sculptural style can be dressed up or down, styled, and shaped to suit your aesthetic. 

Rumpled Waves

There’s nothing wrong with a bit of bedhead. Trading the recommended gloss and polish for air-dried texture that’s mussed and zhushed for an excess effortlessness. 

Side Pony

A low polished pony, but take it to the side. Nicole Kidman’s interpretation of the go-to updo is essentially styled as if the hair was to be worn loose, but softly secured at the last minute. 

Glossy Curls

Gentle ringlets at the end of smoothed strands are a classic approach. In Nina Dobrev’s case, blunt bangs provide the style with a natural balance. 

Twisted Crown

Valentine’s Day offers a welcome opportunity to get a bit regal. Pull inspiration from Felicity Jones with a subtle crown crafted from your own lengths. Simply separate two sections at the front and twist toward the back of the head, securing over loose length in tiara fashion or an updo for an all-out crown. 

Old Money Blowout

Yes, another blowout. This one, however, is supremely luxurious, offering a bridge between '90s supermodel and Old Hollywood with a perfect balance of gloss, undulation, and brushed curls. 

Soft Knot

When in doubt, rake your hair into a soft knot. Less is more with this natural look—your first attempt will likely be your best one.