occasions · hairstyles
Cowboy Hat Hairstyles: What Works Under a Hatand Why
Cowboy hat hairstyles for rodeos, country concerts, and western weddings: low braids, loose waves, low ponytails, and short-hair options that keep the hat in place.
Hairover Team
The best cowboy hat hairstyles keep the volume low, below the brim, so the hat sits properly on your head. Two low braids, loose waves, a low ponytail, and a low braided bun all work well. High ponytails and top knots push the hat up and make it wobble. Expect some flattening at the crown and put the volume in your ends instead.
These looks work for rodeos, country concerts, western weddings, and festivals.
Hair down
1. Loose waves. The classic look. Curl from the ears down so the waves show below the brim. Heat-free option: heatless curls.
2. Straight with a middle part. Simple and sleek. A smoothing cream keeps the ends neat in the wind.
3. Natural curls. Leave the top flatter and let your curls fill out below the hat.
Braids
4. Two low braids. The most popular cowboy hat style. Part down the middle and braid each side behind the ears. See Dutch braid vs. French braid.
5. One low side braid. Loose and romantic, over one shoulder.
6. Braids with ribbon or bandana ties. Tie the ends with a ribbon or a small bandana that matches your outfit.
Ponytails and buns
7. Low ponytail. At the nape, wrapped with a piece of hair to hide the band. See ponytail hairstyles.
8. Low braided bun. Braid your hair, then coil it at the nape. Neat enough for a western wedding.
Short hair and men
9. Bob tucked behind the ears. Let the ends curve softly under the brim.
10. Short taper or side part. Tidy under a hat and looks good when you take it off. Bring a little matte clay to fix hat hair. See taper fade styles.
Fixing hat hair
When the hat comes off:
- Flip your head upside down and shake your roots with your fingers.
- Add dry shampoo at the crown for lift.
- Re-part your hair a little to one side.
More tips are in how to avoid hat hair.
Getting the fit right
A hat that’s too big slides around and pulls on your hair. A hat that’s too tight presses hard on your hairline. If you wear your hair in braids, try the hat on with your braids in, since they change the fit.
Related guides
Try a new look first
If you’re planning a new cut or color before a big event, see it before you book. Hairover lets you upload a clear photo, get a hair analysis, and try hairstyles and hair colors on your own face in Style Studio.
FAQ
What hairstyle goes best with a cowboy hat?
Styles with volume low or below the hat: two low braids, loose waves, a low ponytail, or a low braided bun. Anything high on the crown pushes the hat up.
How do I keep a cowboy hat from flattening my hair?
Accept some flattening at the crown and put the volume at the ends instead. Waves or curls from the ears down look great when the hat comes off. A little dry shampoo at the roots helps afterwards.
Can I wear a cowboy hat with short hair?
Yes. Tuck short hair behind your ears, or let a bob curl softly under the brim. Short men's cuts look tidy under a hat, especially with a taper.
Should bangs go over or under the hat?
Under. Curtain bangs or face-framing pieces peeking out from under the brim soften the look.
