The Most Iconic Game of Thrones Hairstyles

No matter how you felt about the last season of Game of Thrones (some of us at Cosmetify definitely weren't fans) or the prequel show House of the Dragon, you can't deny that the world of Westeros gives great hair. From the Mother of Dragons, Queen of Plaits herself - Daenerys Targaryen - to Cersei's rough pixie cut to the show's numerous fiery-headed characters, we can't get enough of the show's amazing hairstyles. And with new characters in House of the Dragon comes new 'dos to inspire us, whether for Halloween, fancy occasions or just to add a little fantastical flair to everyday looks.

Here's a look at the most iconic hairstyles from the Game of Thrones universe and why we love them.

P.S. If you're a little out the loop, then read with caution as there are a few minor spoilers - sorry!

Daenerys Targaryen

We couldn’t talk about GoT’s hairstyles without mentioning the Khaleesi’s hair. Long, platinum braids and flowing curls are her signature look (AKA, what hair dreams are made of) and this half-up 'do is the most iconic of all. Staying true to her Dothraki family, her braids represent a warrior and, in this case, an undefeated champ. As the seasons went on and she became ever more victorious, her plaits only became more intricate.

Daemon Targaryen

We never thought we'd see the Doctor in a platinum wig, but here we are! Another throne-hungry Targaryen with great hair, Matt Smith's character often wears the quintessential half-up hairdo of all GoT men, but this YouTube tutorial from hairstylist Thomas In Action kicks it up a notch with braided options reminiscent of Daenerys.

Jon Snow

When a typical day includes family feuds, undead invasions and steamy boat rides with your own aunt, the last thing you need is for a stray strand to lop over your eyes. But what started out as a nod to practicality, as well as means of paralleling poor old Ned Stark, has set some very particular corners of the internet aflame. In fact, it can seem at times that Jon Snow’s man bun has provoked more comment and analysis than many minor wars. One thing that’s not up for debate, however, is that Kit Harrington pulls it off with aplomb.

Cersei Lannister

Cersei’s long, loose waves defined her character throughout GoT and they certainly gave her the intimidation factor. However, season five saw Cersei’s flowing locks being taken from her and she rocked the regal pixie cut for the rest of her days (not that that was very long). And we're here for a woman embracing her short hair, even if it is Cersei we're talking about. And this style totally works for Cersei, because what do people fear the most? Women with bad ass pixie cuts, duuuhh.

Jaime Lannister

Turning into many people's favourite character before his annoying backtrack into Cersei's arms, it can be hard to remember what a nasty piece of work Jaime Lannister was when he first rode in under that flopping, middle-parted fringe. Over time, this look has given way to a far more pragmatic Caesar cut, but the original blonde curtains were certainly present and correct when the Kingslayer was busy throwing small children off high towers. The 90s revivalist movement has become increasingly popular in high fashion circles but it seems that designers and stylists were beaten to the punch by the boyband-channelling Jaime in 2011.

Brienne of Tarth

Brienne’s trusty slick back has served her well. It doesn’t get in the way when she fights off the bad guys and is an indication of how strong, powerful and noble she is. Long hair is often linked with femininity – and that is certainly the case throughout Game of Thrones – but Brienne of Tarth doesn’t need to prove herself to anyone and that’s why this look is so iconic. She’s unapologetically androgynous and we should all take a leaf out of her book when it comes to owning our own style.

Khal Drogo

The former Mr Daenerys possessed what was perhaps the most instantly recognisable get up of all: braids, wild locks and beard, accessorised by no small amoutn of kohl, body paint and vaguely equestrian looking straps. As a whole, it’s the kind of look that could only exist in either a fantasy adaptation or else a particularly niche sort of nightclub. It’s therefore pretty difficult to carry off many of these elements in a Monday-Friday look. One thing you can imitate, though, is Jason Momoa’s unabashed confidence when it comes to pulling off a style; if you think it works, don’t second guess yourself!

Sansa Stark

Sansa's fiery red hair is iconic in itself, but this particular hairstyle jumps out at us. Her long, red hair is usually tied into a side plait that's similar to the one her mother, Catelyn Stark, used to wear. It’s this look that nods to Sansa’s newfound independence and power after all the hell she's been through (we're looking at you, Joffrey, Littlefinger and Ramsey).

Missandei

Serving as Daenerys’ handmaiden and trusted advisor, Missandei was one of the more loveable characters of Game of Thrones. Her curls were unlike any other characters’ on the show and they had us ogling at how amazing they were every time she appeared on screen. As Khaleesi’s maiden, friend and counsel, Missandei wore a golden hairpiece, which reflects how far she has come, from slave to liberated advisor to the Mother of Dragons. We love this look and think it’s highly significant for Missandei’s emergence throughout the series, despite her fate by the end of the show.

Grey Worm

We never actually see Grey Worm shaving his head, which does leave us wondering how he manages such an even, all-round finish. Then again, he’s a eunuch general marching alongside wild horsemen and several dragons, so perhaps we’re asking the wrong type of question entirely. Unlike some of the other styles seen in the show, this trim is actually very similar to actor Jacob Anderson’s own look between filming. You can imagine that this cuts down on time in the makeup chair, and so almost makes up for wearing leather gear that looks like it really chafes.

This look isn't just for guys, by the way! We're in an era where, rightfully, anyone of any gender can rock any hairstyle they want. But 'we live in a society' and this society makes it so a totally shaved head is a huge step for a lot of women. Check out this Refinery29 video to hear about other women's experiences to amp you up for the plunge.

And that's a wrap! Hopefully you didn't get too tangled up in all the long hair and plaits along the way. It's a little unlikely you'll be stepping into your barber's and asking for a Drogo (yeah, even for a Drogo, you'll want to get occasional trims), but if you do, or try any of these other hairstyles, now you've got a leg-up on the products you'll need to maintain them.

If you're after some other hair inspo check out our 11 Best Slicked Back Hairstyles for Men or discover the 7 Reasons Why You Should Invest in a Hair Bonnet.