Hairstyle Ideas for Día de los Muertos
Why the hair matters
Hairstyles for Día de los Muertos aren’t just about looking festive — they’re part of the tradition of honouring loved ones and embodying the spirit of the holiday. Symbolic elements include flower crowns (especially marigolds), bold colours, and styles that combine beauty with a hint of the other-worldly.
For example, many guides note that adding large flowers in the hair is a simple but essential touch for an authentic look. MamasLatinas.com+1
Also, a good hairstyle supports the makeup and outfit: it becomes part of the cohesive look rather than a separate element.
1. Floral Crown + Loose Waves
What it involves:
- Create loose waves or curls in your hair (using a curling iron or rollers).
- Place a flower crown or several large silk/fresh flowers (marigold orange, red roses) on top of your head, wrapping around or concentrated on one side.
- Let some hair fall in front of your shoulders for a soft, romantic effect.
Why it works:
Flowers are deeply linked with Día de los Muertos symbolism (marigolds in particular) and using them in the hair highlights that connection.
Loose waves give the look movement and softness, balancing the bold makeup or skeleton-motifs often used.
Tips:
- If humidity is high (e.g., in Lahore), use a frizz-control serum before styling so the waves stay defined.
- Secure the flower crown with bobby-pins so it doesn’t slip.
- Choose flower colours that match or complement your makeup—for instance, if you have red or gold accents on your face, use flowers in those tones.
2. Braided Ribbon Crown or Halo Braid
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What it involves:
- Take two sections of hair (near temples or sides) and braid them, optionally weaving in a coloured ribbon. Growing Up Bilingual
- Wrap the braids across the top of your head like a crown (halo), pinning securely.
- Add flowers or small accessories along the braid-crown for decoration.
Why it works:
This hairstyle is elegant and gives a regal look — reminiscent of the iconic figure La Catrina and classic Day of the Dead imagery.
The braid-crown also helps to frame the face and highlight your makeup.
Tips:
- If you have short hair, you can fake this with extensions or a braided headband.
- Choose ribbon colours that echo your outfit (turquoise, fuchsia, gold) to tie everything together.
- After pinning, spray a good-hold hairspray so nothing loosens during celebrations.
3. Voluminous Updo with Floral Accents
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What it involves:
- Add volume at the crown (tease the roots or use volumising mousse). Hairsalonparkerco+1
- Pull hair up into a loose updo (bun, twisted chignon) leaving some strands loose around the face.
- Decorate with bold flowers or sparkly accessories (rhinestones, small skull-pins) for extra flair.
Why it works:
An updo gives polish and allows the makeup and accessories to stand out. The volume adds drama, fitting the festive nature of the day.
Because it’s off the neck and shoulders, it works well for warm weather or when you’ll be dancing / moving around.
Tips:
- Use bobby-pins that match your hair colour so the updo appears seamless.
- If you plan to wear heavy accessories (flowers + jewels), ensure the updo is secure so nothing loosens.
- For added interest: loop in a wide ribbon or dark lace beneath the updo for contrast.
Accessory & Colour Highlights
- Flowers: Marigolds (bright orange-yellow), red roses are popular. The flower crown or accents aren’t optional — they tie the hairstyle to the holiday’s traditional symbols. MamasLatinas.com+1
- Colours: Deep jewel tones (emerald, magenta, turquoise), as well as gold and black, work well. These will harmonise with the vivid face-paint or costume elements. Hairsalonparkerco
- Texture & volume: Braids, waves, teasing, and accessories add texture and depth — important for creating a look that stands out in photos and under lights.
- Sparkle & embellishment: Rhinestones or metallic hair-accessories can add elegance and connect to the idea of celebration. Hairsalonparkerco
Final Thoughts & Practical Tips
- Plan ahead: Do a trial run of your hairstyle 1-2 days before the event, especially if you’ll pair it with intricate makeup.
- Weather & comfort: If you’re in a warm or humid climate (as you might in Lahore), consider using anti-frizz and setting sprays so your style holds.
- Matching the look: Let your hairstyle complement your makeup and outfit — if your makeup is bold (sugar skull style), go for a hairstyle that supports rather than overshadows it.
- Repair kit: Carry a small tube of hairspray and extra bobby-pins to fix any loose pieces during the event.