The best Christmas hairstyles feel a little magical without making you spend three hours in front of the mirror. Think soft Christmas waves, pretty braids, velvet bows, shiny clips, and festive updos that can handle everything from cookie baking to a late-night holiday party.
This list brings together twenty easy hairstyles inspired by cozy sweaters, twinkling lights, snowy gardens, and classic red-and-green Christmas colors. Some looks are playful and sweet, while others feel polished enough for a formal dinner or office party.
The trick is to keep the actual hairstyle simple and let one special detail do the decorating. A ribbon, pearl pin, berry comb, or satin bow can turn an everyday braid into holiday hair in minutes. Most of these party hairstyles also work with second-day hair, which is a real gift during the busiest week of December.
Save your favorites, gather a few bobby pins, and pick a look that matches your outfit, mood, and hair length. There is no need for perfect strands here. A few soft pieces around the face often make festive updos look warmer, prettier, and much more natural.
1. Tartan Ribbon Twin Braids
These long twin braids bring instant Christmas charm, especially when red tartan ribbon is woven through each plait and finished with matching bows. The look feels cozy rather than overly fancy, so it works beautifully with a cream sweater, plaid skirt, denim, or even a cute Christmas jumper. The loose face-framing pieces keep the style soft and grown-up, while the ribbons add that cheerful holiday detail people notice in photos.
Start with brushed, lightly textured hair and make a clean center part. Divide the hair into two equal sections, then add a narrow plaid ribbon to each section before creating a classic three-strand braid. Keep the braid fairly relaxed instead of pulling every loop tight. Once the braid is finished, gently tug the outer edges to make it look fuller and more touchable.
Helpful little details:
• Use dry shampoo or a tiny amount of texture spray if the hair is very silky.
• Tie the ribbon near the top with a small clear elastic, then hide the elastic under the first few braid crossings.
• Leave two slim pieces loose beside the cheeks and curl them away from the face.
• Secure the bows with one discreet bobby pin so they do not slide while you are moving around.
This is one of the easiest hairstyles for long hair because both sides do not need to be perfectly identical. In fact, a slightly uneven braid makes the look feel handmade and sweet. For shorter hair, try two lower braids and use shorter ribbon tails. For thick hair, choose wider ribbon, but avoid anything stiff or heavy because it can pull at the roots. A quick mist of flexible hairspray will hold the flyaways without making the braids crunchy. It is playful, warm, and very Pinterest-friendly.
Image Credit: preview_prepmycareer_com
2. The Present-Wrapped Half-Up Bow
A large soft bow turns simple waves into a hairstyle that looks like a beautifully wrapped Christmas present. This half-up style keeps the hair down and flowing, which makes it a great choice for anyone who wants festive hair without committing to a full updo. The golden-blonde waves catch the light from every angle, while the bow gives the back of the head a lovely focal point.
Create the waves first, using a curling wand or overnight braids. Let the curls cool completely, then brush through them with your fingers so they become loose and smooth. Take two sections from above the ears and bring them toward the back of the head. Twist or cross them gently, secure them with a hidden elastic, and add a bow over the join.
For a prettier finish:
• Curl the front sections away from the face rather than toward it.
• Add a little root powder at the crown if the hair looks flat.
• Choose a velvet, satin, or grosgrain bow based on your outfit. Velvet feels cozy, while satin looks dressier.
• Spray the bow lightly with hairspray before placing it if the fabric tends to flop.
The most common problem with half-up hairstyles is the hidden elastic showing through. Pick one close to your hair color and cover it with a small twist of hair before adding the bow. If your hair is fine, tease only the underside of the crown; too much teasing can make the style look dated. This is also a smart option for medium-length hair because the waves create volume even when the ends are not very long. Pair it with red lipstick for a classic holiday party look, or keep the makeup soft for a family gathering. It is easy, feminine, and festive without trying too hard.
Image Credit: eleganthome01_20
3. Red-Ribbon Dutch Braids
These dark double braids have a strong holiday look because the bright red ribbon peeks through every crossing. The contrast is especially pretty on brunette hair, where the red feels rich and clear instead of blending into the strands. It is a practical hairstyle too: the braids stay close to the head, keep hair away from the face, and can survive a full day of Christmas shopping, cooking, or dancing.
Make a center part from the forehead to the nape and clip one side out of the way. On the other side, begin a Dutch braid by crossing each outside strand under the middle strand while adding small pieces of hair as you go. Place a thin red ribbon along the section and carry it through the braid, keeping it flat so it shows in neat flashes. Repeat on the other side, then tie both ends with red velvet bows.
A few things make this style much easier:
• Work on slightly dirty hair or add texture spray first.
• Use a rattail comb for the center part and a small edge brush for the hairline.
• Do not add too much hair at each step, or the braid will become bulky and hard to control.
• Pull the braid loops outward once finished for a fuller, softer shape.
If the ribbon keeps slipping, tie it around the first small elastic rather than trying to hold it loose while braiding. Narrow ribbon is best for fine or medium hair, while thicker hair can handle a slightly wider strip. Satin ribbon gives a shiny party finish, but grosgrain or fabric ribbon is easier to grip. This look can also be changed into low pigtails by stopping the braid at the nape and leaving the lengths wavy. Add gold clips or tiny pearl pins if you want something more dressed up. It is one of those easy hairstyles that looks complicated in pictures but becomes quite simple after the first side.
Image Credit: hair_style_inspo
4. Velvet Lattice Holiday Chignon
This braided chignon is the statement look of the group, with deep burgundy velvet ribbon crisscrossing across the back like a delicate present-wrapping detail. Pine sprigs, holly berries, and tiny pinecones make it feel like a winter wreath brought to life. It is dramatic, but the shape itself is based on a low braided bun, so the style can be simplified for a dinner party or a holiday wedding.
Begin by making two loose braids from the sides of the head and bring them toward a low bun at the nape. Pin the braids around the bun, leaving the loops slightly raised so the hair does not look flat. Once the main shape is secure, thread velvet ribbon across the back in a gentle crisscross pattern. Tuck the ends beneath the bun and finish with a small velvet bow.
For the greenery, use lightweight artificial stems or purpose-made hair accessories rather than fresh branches with sharp needles. Place the larger pieces on one side and a few smaller accents on the other. This keeps the style balanced without making it look too symmetrical.
Quick styling notes:
• Add a bun cushion if the hair is fine or shoulder length.
• Use strong U-pins for the greenery and regular bobby pins for loose strands.
• Keep all decorative pieces light; heavy ornaments can cause a headache.
• Spray the hair before adding ribbon so the surface has a little grip.
The main issue with a look this detailed is overloading it. Choose either berries and greenery or extra sparkle, not every decoration in the craft drawer. Burgundy velvet looks beautiful with cream, black, forest green, and gold clothing. For a simpler version, skip the plants and use only the ribbon lattice with a small bow. That pared-back version is surprisingly elegant and makes a lovely Christmas hairstyle for a formal evening. It feels handmade, romantic, and wonderfully different from the usual bun.
Image Credit: kendaesther
5. Cream Bow Pull-Through Braid
This broad, soft braid is made for cozy Christmas outfits. A cream satin bow at the bottom matches the sweater in the image, creating a gentle monochrome effect that feels clean, warm, and very pretty. The braid has a chunky shape without looking tight, so it gives the hair more body and makes fine or flat strands appear fuller.
The easiest way to copy this style is with a pull-through braid. Gather the hair into a low ponytail, split it into sections, and use small elastics to create linked loops. Carefully pull each loop apart with your fingers until it looks rounded. The result resembles a loose braid, but it does not require advanced braiding skills. Leave a few wispy strands at the temples and curl them softly for a relaxed finish.
Try these steps for better hold:
• Add volumizing mousse before drying the hair.
• Backcomb the ponytail lightly if the strands are very slippery.
• Use clear elastics that match the hair rather than bright ones.
• Pull the loops from the sides, not the center, so the braid stays neat.
• Tie the bow over the final elastic and secure it with a tiny pin.
A satin bow looks polished, but velvet gives the braid a softer winter feeling. You can also use a plaid ribbon for a cottage Christmas mood or a silver ribbon for a snow-inspired outfit. If the hair is shoulder length, stop the braid at the nape and tuck the ends into a small bun. One thing to remember: do not pull the loops too far apart at the beginning. It is easier to make them bigger than to fix a section that has become loose. This hairstyle is comfortable under a coat hood and sits nicely with high-neck sweaters. It is an easy hairstyle that feels special enough for photos but still looks natural at home.
Image Credit: aamiraa641
6. Golden Ornament Braided Bun
This high braided bun turns holiday hair into a tiny Christmas tree of its own. Gold ribbon winds through the braids, and small red baubles add bright little points of color against the deep brown hair. The shape is full and slightly undone, which keeps it from feeling too stiff or pageant-like. Loose curls around the face make the whole look softer and more wearable.
To build the bun, start with waved or lightly curled hair for texture. Pull the hair into a high ponytail, divide it into two or three sections, and braid each section loosely. Wrap the braids around the base, pinning as you go. Pull out a few pieces from each braid so the bun has height and movement. Finish by weaving a narrow gold ribbon through the visible braids and placing lightweight bauble pins around the bun.
Keep these practical tips in mind:
• Use a donut or hidden padding if you need extra volume.
• Place the heaviest ornament near the center, where the bun has the most support.
• Test the bauble pins before the party; some decorative pieces have surprisingly sharp ends.
• Choose matte gold ribbon if the ornaments are shiny, so the finish does not become too busy.
The best part of this updo is how easily it can change from playful to elegant. Red ornaments and gold ribbon suit a traditional Christmas party, while pearl pins and champagne ribbon make it more formal. If your hair is short, create a small twisted bun and place the decorations around the side rather than trying to copy the height. Fine hair may need a little dry shampoo at the roots, but avoid spraying too much on the ends because it can make the braids look dusty. This is a wonderful choice for velvet dresses, simple earrings, and open necklines. The decorations do most of the talking, so keep the rest of the outfit calm.
Image Credit: vanessaevaofficial202
7. Mini Bow Braided Ponytail
This style sits between a braid and a ponytail, giving it a fun, modern holiday feel. Several small burgundy bows are placed along the side braid and around the low ponytail, so the details appear as you turn your head. The long waves left at the bottom keep the look light and youthful instead of making it feel like a very formal updo.
Part the hair deeply to one side and braid the front section back toward the nape. You can use a simple three-strand braid, a rope twist, or a loose French braid depending on your comfort level. Gather the rest of the hair into a low ponytail, then attach tiny velvet bows along the braid and at the base. Curl the ponytail in large sections and brush the curls out until they become soft waves.
A few styling tricks help this look stay pretty:
• Place the bows at different angles instead of lining them up too perfectly.
• Use mini claw clips or snap barrettes if small pins slide out.
• Add a little wax to the braid edges for a cleaner part.
• Keep the ponytail elastic hidden under a wrapped strand of hair.
This is a great party hairstyle for medium to long hair, especially if you want something festive but not too loud. Burgundy works beautifully with blonde, brown, black, and copper hair. For a brighter look, swap the bows for red or emerald green. For a grown-up version, use only three bows and choose velvet rather than satin. If the front braid looks thin, gently loosen it before adding the decorations. The most flattering placement is usually around the ear and slightly behind the crown, where the bows can be seen from the front. It photographs well from the side and does not require perfect curls, which is a welcome thing when you are getting ready in a hurry.
Image Credit: stylesglowhub
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8. Long Red Velvet Ribbon Braid
A single long braid with red velvet ribbon is simple, bold, and wonderfully festive. The ribbon winds through the hair in a soft zigzag, giving the braid a rich texture without adding glitter or complicated accessories. This hairstyle feels especially nice with a cream sweater because the warm red ribbon becomes the main color accent.
Start with a low ponytail or begin a French braid at the crown if you want more detail near the face. Attach the ribbon underneath the first elastic and braid it into the hair, keeping the velvet side facing outward. Once the braid is finished, gently loosen each section to create a thicker silhouette. Tie the ribbon into a bow near the top or let the ends fall through the final length for a more relaxed look.
For a smooth result:
• Use ribbon that is narrow enough to fold easily around the hair.
• If velvet feels too grippy, choose soft grosgrain or satin instead.
• Keep the braid low if you plan to wear a turtleneck or scarf.
• Spray the finished braid from a distance so the ribbon does not become damp.
This look works on straight, wavy, and lightly curly hair. On very fine hair, tease the ponytail gently before braiding to make it appear fuller. On thick hair, split the length into two sections and create a rope braid before wrapping the ribbon around it. The ribbon can also hide a slightly uneven braid, which makes this one of the most forgiving easy hairstyles on the list. Add a small bow at the nape for a classic finish, or use two tiny bows at different points for a playful twist. It is ideal for holiday card photos, casual family dinners, and mornings when you want to look pulled together without using a hot tool.
Image Credit: Glowandbland_
9. Soft Crown Braid with Messy Bun
A crown braid wrapped around a loose bun gives the hair a romantic holiday shape while keeping the neck and shoulders clear. The braid acts like a built-in headband, and the messy bun adds height at the back. Soft curls around the face stop the style from feeling too serious, making it a lovely choice for a Christmas dinner, winter date, or office celebration.
Create a side part and take a section near one temple. Braid it across the top of the head toward the opposite side, adding hair as you move. Pin the braid near the ear, then gather the remaining hair into a loose bun at the back. Pull a few loops from the braid and bun to create a fuller shape. The style looks best when the crown braid is slightly undone, not pulled flat against the head.
Make it easier with these small tricks:
• Curl the hair before styling if it is straight and slippery.
• Use crossed bobby pins in the same color as the hair.
• Add a little powder under the braid for grip.
• Leave two face-framing curls loose, then soften them with your fingers.
This updo can be decorated in many ways. A few pearl pins make it bridal and snowy, while a velvet bow gives it a classic Christmas feeling. Tiny gold stars or red berry clips add color without covering the braid. If your hair is short, create a half-crown and pin the ends beneath a small low bun. If it is very thick, braid from both sides and overlap the braids at the back rather than forcing one large braid across the entire crown. The bun does not need to be perfectly round. A lopsided, airy shape often looks more modern and holds better. Finish with flexible hairspray, then check the style from the side because that is where the crown shape really shows.
Image Credit: caelipalmer9637
Want a festive look that feels polished but not stiff? A soft crown braid with a messy bun keeps your neckline clear, while a few face-framing curls make this Christmas hairstyle easy enough for dinner, date night, or the office party.
10. Heart-Shaped Twist Updo
The layered shape of this updo creates a soft heart-like pattern at the back of the head, making it feel romantic without needing flowers or glitter. The hair is folded and tucked in broad sections, so the finished style has a sculpted look while still keeping a few loose curls around the face. It would look beautiful with a strapless red dress, a satin blouse, or simple pearl earrings.
This style is easiest when the hair has some curl or wave already in it. Divide the top section into two sides, twist each section inward, and pin them together near the center. Continue by taking the middle lengths and folding them upward into overlapping loops. Tuck the ends underneath and secure them with U-pins. The goal is not to make a perfect heart outline, but to create two rounded sides that meet in a gentle point.
Useful tips for recreating the shape:
• Add mousse before drying so the hair has body.
• Backcomb the underside of each section for extra fullness.
• Pin from underneath rather than placing pins across the visible surface.
• Pull the outer edges softly to make the loops look wider.
• Keep a small mirror nearby so you can check the back as you work.
This is one of the more advanced festive updos, but it becomes much simpler if you build it in sections. A hair donut or padding hidden beneath the lower loops can help create the rounded shape. For a less formal version, make only two large twists and let the ends fall into a loose low bun. Gold pins, tiny snowflakes, or a narrow ribbon can be added at the center, but the style is pretty enough to stand alone. The biggest issue is using too many pins in one spot, which can make the updo uncomfortable. Spread the support around the head, and test the style by gently moving your head before leaving the house.
Image Credit: glitterizedlife
❝ A heart-shaped twist turns simple waves into one of the most romantic Christmas hairstyles—no glitter required. Start with softly curled hair, split the top into two sections, and tuck broad pieces loosely so the sculpted shape stays soft around your face.
11. Winter Berry Messy Bun
This low messy bun has a warm woodland feeling, thanks to the red berries, frosted branches, and little evergreen pieces tucked into the side. The hair itself is loose and textured, with soft loops that look like they were pinned by hand rather than pressed into a perfect salon shape. It is a beautiful choice for a winter wedding, Christmas photos, or anyone who loves a more natural holiday style.
Begin with curled hair and gather it into a low ponytail near the nape. Twist the ponytail into a loose bun, pinning the ends underneath while leaving a few loops visible. Pull gently at the crown and around the bun to create width. Place the floral accessory slightly to one side instead of directly in the center; an off-center arrangement frames the head more naturally.
Keep the details comfortable with these suggestions:
• Choose lightweight faux berries and bendable stems made for hair.
• Cover sharp wire ends with floral tape before placing them near the scalp.
• Use two or three smaller accessories instead of one heavy branch.
• Mist the hair with texture spray before pinning the bun.
The red berries stand out beautifully against brunette, auburn, and dark blonde hair. On lighter hair, frosted white berries and silver leaves create a lovely snowy effect. If you want a simpler everyday version, use one berry comb behind the ear and skip the full branch. Fresh greenery can smell wonderful, but it may shed, poke, or wilt indoors, so artificial pieces are usually easier for a long event. The bun should feel secure but not painfully tight. If the style pulls at the temples, loosen the crown before adding more pins. Pair this updo with lace, velvet, or soft knit clothing for a storybook Christmas mood. It is festive, a little rustic, and very pretty from every side.
Image Credit: rosemackaay63
12. Snow Queen Ribbon Braid
Silver-white branches and a sheer icy bow turn this long braid into a snow queen hairstyle. The cool colors feel calm and elegant, especially with a white sweater or faux-fur wrap. Small sparkles across the hair catch the light like frost, but the braid keeps the overall look soft and wearable rather than costume-like.
Make a wide loose braid down the back, using a Dutch or pull-through technique to create a full shape. Before pinning the ends, weave in a thin silver ribbon or place a few glittering hairpins along the center. Add delicate frosted branches between the braid sections, spacing them out so they look like small snowy sprigs rather than one large decoration. Finish with a translucent gray or silver bow.
For a comfortable finish:
• Choose fabric ribbon instead of stiff metallic wire if the hair is fine.
• Use clear elastics at the end of the braid and hide them under the bow.
• Place sparkle pins away from the ears and neck so they do not scratch.
• Keep the front smooth but leave a few soft pieces loose at the sides.
The color palette is easy to adapt. Silver and white create a winter wonderland feeling, while pale blue adds a cool icy touch. If your hair is dark, use brighter silver accents so the details do not disappear. If your hair is blonde or gray, choose slightly darker ribbons for contrast. This style is especially pretty in outdoor photos because the pale decorations echo snow and soft winter light. The most common mistake is adding too many glitter pieces, which can make the braid look busy. One bow and a few well-placed sprigs are enough. For a quicker version, make a simple low ponytail, wrap silver ribbon around it, and add one snowflake clip. The finished look is gentle, festive, and perfect for a white Christmas theme.
Image Credit: Nitya486
❝ For Christmas hairstyles that feel magical—not costume-y—thread a thin silver ribbon through a wide, loose braid and finish with a few sparkles. Pair it with a white sweater or faux-fur wrap for an effortless Snow Queen look.
13. Evergreen Ornament Low Bun
This low bun is classic holiday glamour with a generous sweep of evergreen, red berries, and miniature ornaments tucked around the base. The hair is arranged into smooth rounded loops, so the decoration looks anchored rather than simply placed on top. It makes a strong statement from the back while keeping the front of the hairstyle clean and elegant.
Smooth the hair into a low ponytail at the nape, then twist or roll the length into a rounded bun. Pin the bun from underneath and gently loosen a few loops for softness. Place the greenery accessory across one side of the bun, allowing the stems to follow the curve of the hair. Add red and gold ornaments where they can be seen clearly, but keep them light enough that the bun stays comfortable.
A few useful notes:
• A low bun works best with a center or soft side part, depending on your face shape.
• Use shine spray only on the surface, not at the roots, so the hair does not become slippery.
• Secure decorative stems with U-pins rather than relying on the accessory clip alone.
• Choose one main color for the ornaments and one smaller accent color.
This festive updo suits formal dinners, holiday concerts, and elegant Christmas portraits. It looks especially rich with satin, velvet, or a dress with an open back. To make it more casual, use only pine sprigs and red berries without ornaments. For short hair, a padded bun can create the same rounded base, while a side cluster hides the padding. Try not to place heavy baubles at the very edge of the bun because they may pull the whole style downward. A quick shake of the head before leaving will reveal any loose pins. The finished effect is polished but still warm, like traditional Christmas decor translated into hair.
Image Credit: mamychus
14. Braided Half-Up Christmas Waves
This half-up look combines the best parts of holiday hair: a small braid for detail and long loose waves for movement. The style feels romantic with a red velvet dress, but it is not so formal that it cannot be worn to a family dinner. The braid sits across the crown and blends into the waves, giving the back of the head a pretty layered shape.
Create large waves with a curling iron, straightener, or overnight braids. Let them cool, then brush them gently so they look soft rather than tightly curled. Take a section from each side near the temples, braid or twist them toward the back, and overlap them at the center. Pin the join underneath the hair so it stays hidden. Leave a few shorter pieces around the face and curl them away from the cheeks.
Try these simple improvements:
• Alternate the direction of the curls for a more natural wave pattern.
• Use a small amount of smoothing cream on the ends.
• Tease the crown lightly before pinning the braid if the top looks flat.
• Add a tiny red bow, pearl pin, or gold star at the center.
This hairstyle is a great choice for medium to long hair and works well with layers. If the layers fall out of the braid, secure them with tiny clear elastics before pinning. For thick hair, use wider sections so the braid does not look too small against the waves. For fine hair, add texture spray before curling and avoid brushing too much. The style can be made more festive with red ribbon woven into the braid, or kept understated with a velvet clip. It is one of those Christmas hairstyles that looks lovely in motion because the waves move over the shoulders while the braid keeps the front tidy. A flexible spray gives hold without taking away the soft, touchable finish.
Image Credit: GlamHairHaven_1
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15. Snowflake Holly Low Chignon
This low chignon has a soft vintage feeling, with curled sections folded into place and small holly leaves, red berries, and white snowflake pins tucked around the sides. The pale blonde hair reflects the winter colors beautifully, making the style feel delicate but still festive. It would suit a Christmas brunch, a winter wedding, or a dress with a high neckline.
Curl the hair in medium sections and let it cool before styling. Gather the back into a low loose bun, then shape the curled pieces over the bun so the texture remains visible. Pin from underneath and place the holly accessory just above one side of the chignon. Add a snowflake clip near the opposite side for balance rather than covering the whole bun with decorations.
For a softer, more secure result:
• Use a light mousse before curling to help the shape last.
• Keep the curls loose around the face instead of brushing them completely smooth.
• Place decorative clips into the thickest parts of the bun.
• Use a few pearl pins if the red berries feel too bright.
The style is most flattering when it has a little height at the crown and width at the nape. If the hair is fine, add a small hidden cushion or braid the ponytail before wrapping it into the bun. If the hair is short, create a twisted roll at the nape and decorate one side. White snowflake accessories can disappear against blonde hair, so choose pieces with silver edges or a little sparkle. The holly leaves should be lightweight and smooth; anything rough can catch on the hair or sweater. This updo feels special without looking overdone, and it gives a beautiful view of earrings and the neckline of a festive outfit.
Image Credit: Lynne0601
16. Satin Bow Twist Pony
A simple twisted ponytail becomes a polished Christmas hairstyle when finished with an oversized red satin bow. The smooth shape at the crown keeps it modern, while the short ponytail and bright bow make it feel playful. This is a wonderful option for anyone who wants a festive look in less than ten minutes.
Brush the hair back into a low ponytail, leaving the top smooth but not painfully tight. Split the ponytail above the elastic and flip the length through the opening to create a topsy-tail twist. Repeat once if the hair is long enough, then attach the satin bow at the base. Pull gently on the twisted sections to make them wider and more visible.
Use these tricks for a clean finish:
• Smooth the hairline with a tiny amount of gel or styling cream.
• Hide the ponytail elastic by wrapping it with a thin strand of hair.
• Choose a bow with a secure clip rather than a loose ribbon tie.
• Curl the ends if you want a softer, more romantic shape.
This style works particularly well on medium-length hair because the twist remains easy to see. On long hair, create two twists down the ponytail or let the length hang in loose waves. A satin bow looks shiny and dressy, while velvet gives a richer, softer effect. If the bow is very large, keep your earrings small so the overall look does not become crowded. The twist may loosen if the hair is freshly washed, so a little dry shampoo or texture spray can help. This is a practical party hairstyle for office celebrations, school concerts, and last-minute invitations. It proves that a single beautiful accessory can do most of the holiday styling work.
Image Credit: aamiraa641
❝ Need a festive look fast? In under 10 minutes, smooth your hair into a low topsy-tail ponytail and finish with an oversized red satin bow. It’s an easy Christmas hairstyle that looks polished, playful, and party-ready.
17. Braid and Burgundy Velvet Bow
This half-up braid is soft, simple, and made instantly festive by a large burgundy velvet bow. The braid begins near the temple and sweeps back through long loose waves, creating a pretty side profile. It feels less formal than a full updo but still looks thoughtful enough for a party or holiday photo session.
Part the hair slightly to one side and take a section from the heavier side of the part. Create a loose French braid or three-strand braid, guiding it back toward the crown. Secure it behind the ear or at the back of the head, then cover the elastic with the velvet bow. Curl the remaining hair in large sections and brush through it for relaxed waves.
For a prettier and longer-lasting result:
• Braid with the fingers slightly loose so the style does not look flat.
• Pull the braid edges gently after securing it to make it wider.
• Place the bow just below the crown so it can be seen from the front and back.
• Use a heat protectant before creating the waves.
This look is especially good for hair with highlights because the waves show off different tones, while the braid adds a little shadow and texture. If the hair is fine, backcomb the underside where the bow will sit. If the hair is very thick, use a larger section for the braid so it does not disappear beside the waves. Burgundy is a softer alternative to bright red and pairs beautifully with black, cream, green, or champagne clothing. You can replace the bow with a tartan ribbon for a more playful feeling or use a small pearl barrette for a quieter look. The style is easy to redo if a wave drops, which makes it a reliable choice for a long evening.
Image Credit: preview_lovelyish_com
18. Snowflake Half-Up Hollywood Waves
Deep brunette waves and tiny silver snowflake pins create a glamorous winter-night look. The hair is left mostly down, so the waves remain the star, while the small accessories add sparkle along one side of the crown. It is a lovely choice for a Christmas ball, formal dinner, or New Year-style celebration with a cool silver color palette.
Prepare the hair with a smoothing product and create large curls, keeping the sections fairly wide. Once the curls cool, brush them into soft waves and part the hair to one side. Twist or pin one side back, placing the snowflake clips along the twist. Keep the pins in a gentle diagonal line so they follow the curve of the head instead of sitting in a random cluster.
Helpful styling details include:
• Use a smaller barrel for the front pieces and a larger barrel for the back.
• Brush the waves with a wide-tooth comb to avoid removing too much shape.
• Add shine spray to the mid-lengths and ends, not the roots.
• Use clear elastics or pins hidden beneath the top layer.
The style works on many hair colors, but silver accessories are especially striking against dark brown, black, and copper hair. On blonde hair, choose darker rhinestone or gunmetal snowflakes for contrast. If you do not have snowflake clips, small star pins or crystal barrettes create a similar effect. Avoid placing hard clips directly behind the ear if you will be wearing earrings or dancing for hours. The hair should feel soft and touchable, not shellacked. A light mist of flexible hairspray at the end is enough. This is a good example of how holiday hair does not always need red and green; icy silver, deep waves, and a little sparkle can feel just as festive.
Image Credit: lewis40920219
19. Loose Knotted Party Updo
This high textured updo is full of loose loops, curled ends, and soft pieces that make it look effortlessly glamorous. It has the volume of a formal bun but none of the stiffness. The open neck and lifted shape make it especially nice with a strapless dress, statement earrings, or a delicate necklace.
Start with curled hair and separate the top from the lower sections. Create a loose ponytail high at the back, then form several small knots or loops rather than wrapping everything into one tight bun. Pin each loop where it naturally falls, building height and texture as you go. Leave a few curls near the ears and nape to soften the edges.
To create the full shape:
• Backcomb the crown and ponytail lightly before pinning.
• Work with small sections so the updo has visible layers.
• Hide the ends under nearby loops instead of trying to make every end disappear.
• Use U-pins for support and regular bobby pins only for small details.
This look is perfect when you want a more dressed-up Christmas hairstyle, but it can be adjusted for a casual party. Use fewer loops and leave more waves loose for a relaxed version. Add gold hairpins, pearl sprays, or a small velvet ribbon at the base. Because the style is intentionally undone, it does not need to be perfectly symmetrical. That is part of its charm. The main concern is weight: if the hair is long and thick, split it into two ponytails or use hidden padding to reduce the pull on the scalp. Check that the pins do not press into the head before adding accessories. Finished with a soft spray, this updo looks rich, touchable, and ready for a night of photographs and dancing.
Image Credit: hairstylehaven_01
20. Sculpted Holiday Flower Bun
The final look is a detailed sculpted bun made from overlapping twisted sections that resemble soft petals. It has a polished salon finish but still keeps a little movement through the curled edges. This is the kind of updo that works beautifully when the outfit is simple because the hair becomes the main accessory.
To recreate it, begin with smooth, lightly curled hair and divide the back into several sections. Twist each section, loosen it slightly for fullness, and arrange the twists around a central point at the back of the head. Pin each one underneath so the visible surface stays clean. The rounded loops should overlap like petals, creating a full floral shape without needing a physical flower clip.
A few useful tricks:
• Use a small bun cushion in the center if you need a base for the loops.
• Add texture spray before twisting so the sections do not slide apart.
• Pin each loop in two directions for better support.
• Leave one or two curls by the face so the style does not look too severe.
This updo looks gorgeous with gold jewelry, pearl earrings, or a simple velvet dress. For Christmas, add a few tiny red berry pins, gold stars, or a narrow ribbon tucked into one side. Keep the decorations small because the sculpted shape already has plenty of detail. It can also be adapted for shorter hair by creating a low flower bun at the nape rather than a large high arrangement. Since the style is structured, a practice run is helpful before the event. Take a photo from the back during the trial; what feels balanced in the mirror may look slightly different from behind. The result is elegant, festive, and special enough for the biggest celebration on the calendar.
Image Credit: raq394779
A Festive Hair Look for Every December Plan
From tartan twin braids and oversized velvet bows to snowy chignons and glamorous Christmas waves, these hairstyles show how one small detail can change the whole mood of your look. Choose a braid for busy days, a soft half-up style for family photos, or a decorated updo when the invitation calls for something extra special.
The best holiday hairstyle is the one that feels comfortable, holds through the evening, and lets you enjoy the celebration. Save the ideas that match your hair length and outfit, then make them your own with a favorite ribbon, clip, or color.
