In 2025, the beauty trend for evening hairstyles has officially taken a delightful turn toward sophistication and charm. A shining example of this is Dakota Johnson, who recently showcased this vivacious look with a playful Barbie ponytail at a dinner hosted by Kering during the 78th Cannes Film Festival. This stylish choice reflects a more cheerful and spirited approach to glamour, perfect for elegant evening events. Johnson’s hairstyle was expertly crafted by renowned hairstylist Mark Townsend, who brought her vision to life with the help of innovative Gama Italy Professional hair tools and Olaplex’s volumizing blow-dry mist. This careful preparation ensured her hair was not just sleek but also maintained an inviting bounce that captured the essence of contemporary beauty trends.
The styling process for Dakota’s ponytail was meticulous, involving careful blow-drying and straightening that laid the groundwork for the final look. Townsend balanced the sleekness with an air of effortless charm by utilizing Briogeo’s Farewell Frizz cream, creating a finish that was both polished and soft. The result was a ponytail that complemented Johnson’s shimmering halter-neck Gucci gown beautifully, allowing her to embody a radiant yet refined presence as she entered the glamorous atmosphere of the film festival. The choice of a bouncy ponytail symbolized a playful nod to classic elegance while still embracing a modern aesthetic.
Keeping in line with her signature style, Dakota Johnson opted for makeup that radiated understated glamour. Her longtime makeup artist Georgie Eisdell crafted a look that was polished yet natural, aligning with Johnson’s preference for a refined appearance that highlights her features without overwhelming them. The look featured flawless skin, defined eyes, and a soft, neutral lip that brought a sense of warmth and approachability to her overall aesthetic. Eisdell chose smoky, taupe-rose hues for the eye makeup, creating a soothing contrast with Johnson’s choppy fringe, which remained soft and layered to frame her face gracefully.
The overall vibe of Johnson’s style at the Cannes event reflects a broader trend among contemporary celebrities who favor a blend of glamor and simplicity. The evening hairstyle and makeup not only enhanced her natural beauty but also expressed a sophisticated lightheartedness that felt entirely fitting for the celebratory occasion. As red carpet events continue to evolve, moments like Johnson’s reveal the delightful possibilities of merging elegance with a playful twist, resonating with the relaxed yet polished standards of modern cosmetic artistry.
Moreover, this hairstyle and makeup combination emphasizes a transition in fashion and beauty norms where the traditional notions of what constitutes “high glamour” are being redefined. With more celebrities opting for looks that are not only striking but also relatable and approachable, the beauty industry is progressively moving towards a more inclusive and diverse representation of femininity. Johnson’s appearance at Cannes is just one shining example of how evening glamour can embrace ingredients of fun and joy, reflecting a spirit of celebration rather than mere perfection.
In a world where trends are constantly shifting, Dakota Johnson’s bouncy Barbie ponytail and her gracefully understated makeup serve as an inspiring reminder that sophistication need not be devoid of whimsy and playfulness. As we look ahead, it becomes increasingly clear that the beauty landscape is opening up to styles that invite creativity and highlight individuality. This charming approach to evening hair and makeup promises to inspire future trends, ensuring that glamour remains vibrant and expressive, just as it should be.