27 Pirate Hairstyles That Will Make You the Star of Any Costume Party

Pirates have long been romanticized as daring adventurers, navigating the high seas in search of treasure and freedom. Their distinctive style, marked by rugged clothing, bold accessories, and, of course, iconic hairstyles, continues to inspire fashion and costume choices today. Whether you’re looking to channel your inner pirate for Halloween, a themed event, or just for fun, this article will guide you through pirate-inspired hairstyles that are as bold as they are versatile. From for women with bandana to for short hair, there’s a pirate hairstyle here for everyone.

The Classic Bandana Look

The classic pirate look isn’t complete without a bandana tied around the head. This style, made famous by Hollywood’s most notorious pirates, is both practical and stylish. The bandana keeps hair out of the face while adding a touch of rugged charm. For women, this style can be enhanced by leaving loose waves cascading down the shoulders, making it a perfect look for those with curly hair. It’s a versatile hairstyle that works well for a variety of face shapes, particularly those with angular features. The bandana can be matched with eye color, such as a red bandana to bring out green eyes, or a blue one for blue eyes. Whether you’re dressing up for Halloween or a themed party, this look is both easy and effective.

To achieve this style, start by curling your hair with a large-barrel curling iron to create loose waves. After tying the bandana around your head, secure it with bobby pins to keep it in place. A light mist of hairspray will help maintain the waves and prevent frizz. For those with shorter hair, consider using hair extensions to add length and volume, making the waves more pronounced.

Braided Beauty with a Pirate Twist

Braids have always been a staple in pirate fashion, offering a practical yet stylish way to manage hair on long voyages. For those with long hair, consider incorporating multiple small braids into your look. This style not only keeps hair out of the way but also adds a rugged, windswept look that’s perfect for a pirate. For women with curly hair, braids can be an excellent way to tame wild curls while still embracing their natural texture. This style suits oval and heart-shaped faces particularly well, highlighting cheekbones and drawing attention to the eyes.

To create this look, start by sectioning your hair into multiple parts. Braid each section loosely, securing the ends with small, clear elastics. For added authenticity, incorporate beads or small trinkets into the braids. A leave-in conditioner, such as Shea Moisture’s Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner, can help keep braids looking neat and prevent frizz. For short hair, consider braiding just the front sections and leaving the back loose for a modern twist on the classic pirate look.

The Rugged Waves

Nothing says pirate like windswept, salty waves that look like they’ve been tousled by the sea breeze. This hairstyle is perfect for those with medium to long hair and works particularly well for women with naturally wavy hair. The rugged waves give off a carefree, adventurous vibe that’s ideal for both casual days and costume events. This look complements all face shapes but is particularly flattering for those with round or oval faces, as it adds volume and dimension. Pair this hairstyle with minimal makeup and a simple bandana for an effortlessly pirate-chic look.

To achieve these waves, start by applying a sea salt spray to damp hair. Scrunch your hair while blow-drying with a diffuser to enhance the natural waves. If your hair is straight, use a curling iron to create loose, beachy waves. To maintain this look, use a texturizing spray like Bumble and Bumble’s Surf Spray, which will keep the waves looking fresh and add that extra beachy texture. For women with short hair, using a curling wand with a smaller barrel can help create the illusion of longer waves.

The Dreaded Pirate Locs

For a truly authentic pirate look, nothing beats dreads or locs. This style, often associated with the more fearsome pirates, is both bold and practical, making it ideal for those who want to make a statement. Dreads can be styled in various ways, from loose and wild to pulled back into a bun or ponytail. This style works well for all face shapes, particularly those with strong jawlines. It’s also a great option for curly hair, as the natural texture helps in forming and maintaining the dreads. For women, consider adding beads or wraps to individual locs for a more personalized touch.

Creating dreads requires time and patience. Start by sectioning your hair and backcombing each section until it forms a dread. Palm roll each dread regularly to help them form properly. To maintain dreads, use a residue-free shampoo, like Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Pure-Castile Soap, which won’t leave buildup in your hair. Regular maintenance with a crochet hook will also help keep your dreads looking neat and prevent them from unraveling. If you’re not ready to commit to dreads, consider using dreadlock extensions for a temporary look.

The Pirate’s Updo

The pirate’s updo is a sophisticated yet practical hairstyle that combines elegance with a touch of adventure. This style is perfect for women who want to keep their hair off their necks while still looking chic. The updo can be as simple or as intricate as you like, from a classic bun to a more elaborate braided updo. This hairstyle works well for all hair types, including curly hair, and is particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces. It’s an ideal look for formal events or costume parties where you want to channel your inner pirate in a more refined way.

To create a pirate-inspired updo, start by curling your hair with a medium-barrel curling iron. Gather your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck, leaving a few strands loose to frame your face. For a more intricate look, braid the loose strands and wrap them around the bun. Secure the updo with bobby pins and finish with a light-hold hairspray. To maintain this style, use a smoothing serum, like John Frieda’s Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum, to keep flyaways in check and add shine.

The Bandana Braid Combo

Combine the best of both worlds with a bandana and braid combo. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a practical yet stylish look that embodies the pirate spirit. The bandana keeps hair out of the face, while the braid adds a touch of elegance. This style is particularly well-suited for women with short hair or for women looking for a cute and easy pirate look. It’s also a great choice for curly hair, as the braid can help manage unruly curls. This look is versatile enough for casual wear or costume events, and it works well with most face shapes, especially those with round or square faces.

To achieve this look, start by tying a bandana around your head, just above your hairline. Braid the hair beneath the bandana into a single or multiple braids, depending on your preference. Secure the braids with small elastics. For added texture, use a sea salt spray before braiding. To keep this look in place, a flexible hold hairspray, like TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray, will do the trick. For short hair, consider adding a hairpiece or wig to create the illusion of longer braids.

The Pirate Ponytail

The pirate ponytail is a classic, easy hairstyle that’s perfect for both men and women. This style is all about keeping it simple while still looking ruggedly stylish. Whether you have short or long hair, this ponytail can be adapted to suit your needs. For those with curly hair, the ponytail adds volume and texture, making it a great choice for those with round or oval face shapes. The pirate ponytail is perfect for everyday wear, but it also works well for costume events, particularly when paired with a bandana or hair extensions for added drama.

To create a pirate ponytail, start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck. Secure it with a hair tie, leaving the ends loose and tousled. For a more polished look, wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to hide it. If you want to add volume, tease the roots before tying your hair back. To keep your ponytail looking fresh, use a volumizing mousse, like OGX’s Moroccan Sea Salt Spray, which adds texture and holds the waves in place. This style is particularly flattering for short hair shoulder length.

The Windswept Bun

For a more sophisticated pirate look, the windswept bun is a perfect choice. This hairstyle combines the elegance of an updo with the carefree vibe of a pirate, making it ideal for women with curly hair or those who want to add a touch of romance to their look. The bun sits high on the head, with loose strands framing the face for a soft, windswept effect. This style is particularly flattering for those with heart-shaped or oval faces, as it draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones. It’s an ideal look for formal events, costume parties, or even a romantic evening out.

To create a windswept bun, start by curling your hair with a large-barrel curling iron to create loose waves. Gather your hair into a high bun, leaving a few strands loose around the face. Secure the bun with bobby pins, and gently tug at the waves to create a more relaxed, tousled look. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the bun in place. To maintain this style, use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, such as L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Shampoo and Conditioner, to keep your curls soft and frizz-free.

The Pirate’s Pixie

For those who prefer short hair, the pirate’s pixie is a bold and cute option. This style is perfect for women who want to channel their inner pirate without the hassle of long hair. The pixie cut can be styled in various ways, from sleek and polished to tousled and rugged. This hairstyle works well for all face shapes, particularly those with angular features. The pirate’s pixie is also a great option for those who want a low-maintenance look that still makes a statement. Pair this style with a bandana or hat for a more authentic pirate look.

To style the pirate’s pixie, start by applying a texturizing spray to damp hair. Use your fingers to tousle the hair, creating a windswept, rugged look. For a more polished appearance, use a flat iron to straighten the hair, then add a small amount of pomade for definition. To maintain this style, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, such as Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner, to keep your hair healthy and shiny. This style is particularly flattering for women short hair.

The Tousled Pirate Shag

The tousled shag is a classic hairstyle that perfectly captures the carefree, rugged look of a pirate. This style is especially popular for women with curly hair as it enhances natural volume and texture. The tousled shag works well with all face shapes, but it particularly flatters oval and round faces by adding structure and balance. It’s an excellent choice for costume parties or everyday wear if you want to bring a bit of pirate flair into your life.

To achieve the tousled pirate shag, start by applying a texturizing spray to damp hair. Use your fingers to tousle and scrunch the hair while blow-drying with a diffuser to enhance natural waves or curls. For added volume, you can tease the roots lightly. To maintain the tousled look, use a light-hold mousse like Moroccanoil’s Curl Control Mousse, which will keep your curls defined without making them stiff.

The Half-Up Pirate Twist

The half-up twist is a versatile pirate hairstyle that combines the practicality of pulling hair back with the romance of loose, flowing locks. This style is ideal for women with medium to long hair and works particularly well with curly hair. The half-up twist adds a touch of elegance while still maintaining that adventurous pirate vibe. This hairstyle is great for those with heart-shaped or oval faces, as it highlights the cheekbones and frames the face beautifully.

To create the half-up pirate twist, start by sectioning the top half of your hair and twisting it back, securing it with bobby pins. Leave the rest of your hair loose, allowing your natural texture to shine. For added detail, you can braid the twisted section before pinning it back. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray like Kenra Professional Volume Spray to keep the style in place without stiffness.

The Messy Pirate Bun

The messy bun is a go-to hairstyle for pirates who need a quick and easy way to keep their hair out of the way while still looking stylish. This look is perfect for women with short hair or shoulder-length hair and is especially suited to those with curly hair. The messy bun gives off a casual, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for both everyday wear and costume events. It’s a flattering style for all face shapes, particularly round and square faces.

To create the messy pirate bun, gather your hair into a loose bun at the crown of your head, allowing some strands to fall out naturally. Use bobby pins to secure the bun, and gently tug at sections to add volume and a slightly undone look. For extra texture, spritz with a sea salt spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray. This style can be easily maintained with regular trims to keep the bun looking fresh and neat.

The Pirate Braided Mohawk

The braided mohawk is a bold and edgy pirate hairstyle that’s perfect for those who want to make a statement. This look combines the toughness of a mohawk with the intricate detail of braids, making it ideal for women with long hair. The braided mohawk works well with all face shapes but is especially striking on those with angular features. This hairstyle is perfect for costume events or when you want to channel your inner warrior pirate.

To create the pirate braided mohawk, start by sectioning off the middle portion of your hair and braiding it from front to back. The sides can be either slicked back or braided as well, depending on your preference. Secure the braids with small elastics and add hair cuffs or beads for extra flair. Maintain this style with a strong-hold gel like Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel to keep the sides sleek and the braids intact.

The Pirate Side Braid

The side braid is a classic pirate hairstyle that exudes both practicality and style. This look is perfect for women with long hair who want to keep their hair manageable while still embracing their inner pirate. The side braid works well with all face shapes, particularly those with heart-shaped or square faces. It’s an excellent choice for costume events, Renaissance fairs, or even as an everyday hairstyle with a pirate twist.

To create the pirate side braid, gather your hair to one side and braid it loosely, securing the end with a clear elastic. For a more authentic pirate look, leave a few strands loose around your face and pull gently at the braid to give it a more undone, tousled appearance. For added texture and hold, use a texturizing powder like Big Sexy Hair Powder Play Volumizing & Texturizing Powder before braiding.

The Pirate Loc Updo

For those with locs, the pirate updo is a perfect way to combine elegance with a bit of edge. This style is ideal for women with long locs, and it’s particularly flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces. The pirate loc updo is a great choice for formal events, themed parties, or any occasion where you want to showcase your locs in a sophisticated manner.

To create the pirate loc updo, start by gathering your locs at the nape of your neck and twisting them into a low bun. Secure the bun with large bobby pins or loc ties. For added flair, leave a few locs loose around your face and add decorative beads or wraps. To maintain this style, use a lightweight oil like Jamaican Mango & Lime Island Oil to keep your locs moisturized and shiny.

The Pirate Headwrap Style

The headwrap style is a versatile and practical option for pirates who want to keep their hair protected while still looking stylish. This look is particularly well-suited for women with curly hair or those who want to add a touch of authenticity to their pirate costume. The headwrap works for all face shapes and is especially flattering when paired with bold accessories like hoop earrings or a statement necklace.

To achieve the pirate headwrap style, start by folding a large scarf or bandana into a triangle. Place the scarf over your head, with the point of the triangle at the back, and tie the two ends at the nape of your neck. Tuck the loose ends under the wrap for a neat finish. For added volume, you can leave your hair loose underneath the wrap or secure it in a low bun. To keep your hair hydrated and frizz-free, use a leave-in conditioner like Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream.

The Pirate Bandana Bun

The bandana bun is a stylish and practical hairstyle that’s perfect for women who want to keep their hair out of the way while still looking chic. This style works particularly well for women with curly hair or those who want to add a touch of pirate flair to their everyday look. The bandana bun is flattering for all face shapes and is an excellent choice for both casual and costume events.

To create the pirate bandana bun, start by tying a bandana around your head, just above your hairline. Gather your hair into a high bun at the crown of your head, leaving the ends loose for a more relaxed look. Secure the bun with bobby pins, and tuck the bandana ends under the bun. For extra hold and shine, use a smoothing gel like Gorilla Snot Gel to keep the hair sleek and the bun in place.

Conclusion

Pirate hairstyles offer a blend of rugged charm and timeless elegance, making them perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of adventure to their look. Whether you’re dressing up for Halloween, a themed event, or just want to try something new, these hairstyles are sure to inspire. From braids to curls to dreads, there’s a pirate hairstyle for everyone. So, grab your bandana and get ready to set sail with these bold and stylish looks. And don’t forget to share your thoughts and own hairstyle ideas in the comments below!