If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the world of swashbuckling sea queens and fierce adventurers, you know that no pirate look is complete without the perfect hairstyle. Whether you’re dressing up for a costume party, attending a themed festival, or just love a bold, romantic aesthetic, pirate hairstyles for women blend wild beauty with untamed charm. This guide dives into the best pirate-inspired looks to match every hair type and personal style.
1. Loose Curls with a Bandana
One of the most iconic pirate hairstyles for women starts with long, loose curls. Add a worn-looking bandana tied across the forehead, and you’ve got instant pirate vibes. This look works beautifully with natural texture or heat-styled waves, making it effortless and timeless.
2. Side Braid with Beads
Want something more practical for a high-seas adventure? A thick side braid is a functional and fabulous choice. Add pirate flair by threading in beads, leather cords, or seashell accessories. The result is a hairstyle that’s both rugged and refined.
3. Half-Up Dreadlocks
Channel your inner sea sorceress with half-up dreadlocks. This edgy style captures the untamed, mysterious energy of pirate queens. Pull a few front sections into mini ponytails or twist them into a messy bun, while the rest cascades freely.
4. High Ponytail with Texture
For a sleek yet wild pirate hairstyle, go for a high ponytail. Tease your roots for volume and texture, then tie your hair high with a leather cord or rustic ribbon. Let a few strands fall loose to frame your face and soften the look.
5. Messy Bun with Wispy Bangs
Effortlessly chic, the messy bun gives off “I just battled a kraken” energy. Add wispy bangs or face-framing layers to balance the ruggedness. Top with a tricorn hat or feathered clip to complete the pirate transformation.
6. Twisted Crown Braid
The twisted crown braid is perfect for pirate royalty. This hairstyle wraps around your head like a regal halo and can be adorned with coins, antique pins, or pearls. It’s sophisticated yet adventurous.
7. Windswept Beach Waves
Nothing says sea-faring siren like beach waves. Use sea salt spray and a diffuser to create texture and body. Top it off with a headscarf or pirate hat for a look that’s ready to plunder hearts.
8. Double Braids with Leather Accents
Channel pirate practicality with double braids. Weave leather cords or strips of cloth through the plaits for an authentic touch. This hairstyle is ideal for pirate reenactments, festivals, or Renaissance fairs.
9. Shaved Sides with a Long Top
For a modern edge, try shaved sides with a voluminous top. This bold look captures the fierce independence of pirate women. Style the top in messy curls or waves, and pair it with bold earrings or makeup.
10. Boho Pirate Hair with Head Chains
Give your pirate look a romantic twist with boho-inspired waves and a delicate head chain. Think ethereal meets edgy. This works great for long-haired beauties who want to blend pirate fashion with festival glam.
11. Faux Hawk Braids
Take your pirate persona to warrior levels with faux hawk braids. Start with cornrows or small braids on the sides and tease the center section upward. This high-impact look is perfect for cosplay or bold costumes.
12. Layered Hair with Feathers
Layered cuts offer movement and volume—ideal for pirate aesthetics. Add feathers (real or faux) for a tribal, sea-wanderer vibe. Tuck them behind the ear or attach them to hair clips for easy styling.
13. Low Braided Bun
The low braided bun is the ultimate blend of elegance and grit. Braid the hair first, then wrap it into a loose bun at the nape. Tuck in a scarf or accessorize with vintage pirate brooches for a historical twist.
14. Short Pirate Bob with Side Part
Short hair? No problem. A messy pirate bob with a deep side part can be just as dramatic. Add volume at the roots and scrunch in some sea salt spray. A small hat or eye patch can take this look to the next level.
15. Rope Braids with Gold Threads
Rope braids are a stunning alternative to traditional plaits. Add gold threads or cuffs for that buried-treasure vibe. This is an especially good pirate hairstyle for women with medium to long hair.
16. Dreadlock Ponytail
If you have dreadlocks, pull them into a high or low ponytail and wrap a scarf around the base. Add beads or rings for a more authentic, battle-worn appearance. This look screams confident and commanding.
17. Bandana Wrap with Braided Bangs
Wrap your hair in a bandana and leave out your front bangs. Braid those bangs into tiny plaits and pin them to the sides of your head. It’s playful, unique, and undeniably pirate-worthy.
18. Curly Mohawk Updo
Combine volume and height with a curly mohawk updo. Shave or slick down the sides and pin your curls vertically down the center. It’s a modern pirate hairstyle that’s fierce, feminine, and fashion-forward.
19. Wild Hair with Shells and Charms
Let your hair go wild—literally. Embrace frizz, waves, and volume. Then, add tiny charms or shells throughout for a beachcomber aesthetic. This is a carefree and captivating pirate hairstyle that’s full of personality.
20. French Braid with Scarf Weave
Braid a colorful scarf into a classic French braid for a unique twist. Use a patterned wrap with nautical or vintage motifs to really drive home the pirate look. It’s both practical and striking.
21. Tied-Back Curls with Pirate Hat
For a romantic finish, pull the front of your curly hair back and secure it loosely at the crown. Then top it with a dramatic pirate hat—bonus points for feathers, lace, or veils. This style pairs perfectly with pirate dresses or corset tops.
How to Accessorize Pirate Hairstyles
Accessories can elevate even the simplest pirate hairstyle. Here are a few must-haves:
- Bandanas and Scarves: Wrap them around your head or weave them into braids.
- Beads and Rings: Slide them onto dreadlocks or braid ends.
- Shells and Feathers: Tuck them in for an oceanic or tribal touch.
- Pirate Hats: Tricorn, feathered, or vintage – they complete the look.
- Head Chains or Circlets: Add a mystical edge to beachy waves or boho styles.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Pirate Hairstyle
- Embrace Texture: Think tousled, not tidy.
- Mix & Match Styles: Combine braids, curls, and buns.
- Add Accessories: Go bold with beads, scarves, and feathers.
- Make It Yours: Whether you’re going for fierce or feminine, there’s a pirate look to match your mood.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re channeling Anne Bonny, Mary Read, or your own sea-faring fantasy, pirate hairstyles for women offer endless creative possibilities. From messy curls to edgy braids, every style on this list is designed to help you own your pirate persona with confidence and flair.
So grab your comb, gather your accessories, and sail headfirst into your next adventure—because a good pirate knows how to turn heads with more than just a sword.
Hi there! I’m Elsie, the heart and hands behind HairDesignFirst.com. With over 15 years of experience in the world of hair design, styling, and artistry, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people feel confident, beautiful, and authentically themselves through the power of great hair.