The holiday season is the perfect time to elevate your style, experiment with fresh looks, and step into every party feeling festive and confident. Whether you’re attending family gatherings, office celebrations, or glamorous New Year’s Eve events, your hairstyle can instantly transform your entire look. If you’re craving something chic, playful, elegant, or simply effortless, you’re in luck—I’ve rounded up 10 holiday hairstyles you’ll wish you tried sooner. These looks are easy to achieve, incredibly flattering, and guaranteed to turn heads all season long.
1. The Classic Low Chignon
The low chignon is timeless, sophisticated, and ideal for any holiday event. Its sleek finish brings elegance to your outfit without feeling overdone. You can make it simple for a minimalist look or add jeweled pins for extra sparkle. It pairs beautifully with off-shoulder dresses, high-neck tops, or even cozy turtlenecks.
Why you’ll love it: It works on straight, wavy, or relaxed hair and stays in place all night long.
2. Glam Hollywood Waves
Nothing says “holiday glam” quite like soft, cascading waves. Hollywood waves give your hair a red-carpet finish and are perfect for evenings when you want your hair to shine. Use a large-barrel curling iron and finish with a shine spray to enhance the glossy look.
Why you’ll wish you tried it sooner: It photographs beautifully and adds instant volume.
3. High Sleek Ponytail
A sleek high ponytail is bold, stylish, and effortlessly chic. It lifts your face, elongates your neck, and complements everything—from a sequined dress to a comfy holiday sweater. Add a touch of styling gel for a smooth finish, and wrap a strand of hair around the base for a polished look.
Holiday upgrade: Add a velvet ribbon or decorative scrunchie for festive flair.
4. Festive Braided Crown
If you want to look like a holiday queen, the braided crown is your go-to. This ethereal hairstyle keeps your hair off your face while giving you a romantic, soft finish. It’s especially stunning for outdoor holiday markets, winter weddings, or Christmas Eve dinners.
Bonus tip: Add baby’s-breath accessories or tiny pearl pins for a wintry touch.
5. Voluminous Blowout
A big, bouncy blowout never goes out of style. It’s glamorous without trying too hard and works beautifully with any outfit. Use a round brush to create soft movement, or opt for a blow-drying tool that gives you salon-level volume at home.
Why this is a holiday must-try: It adds lively texture while keeping your hair looking healthy and full.
6. Half-Up Bow Hairstyle
Cute, feminine, and festive—the half-up bow hairstyle is perfect for anyone who loves a delicate holiday look. You can tie your hair into a bow using your own hair or simply use a satin or velvet bow clip. It brings an instant festive charm to your overall style.
Where it shines: Holiday brunches, gift-wrapping parties, or cozy evenings by the tree.
7. Textured Top Knot
For those busy holiday days when you want to look put-together with minimal effort, the textured top knot is your winter best friend. It’s casual yet chic and can easily transition from daytime errands to evening celebrations.
Why it’s a favorite: Works amazingly well with second-day or dry-shampooed hair.
8. Sparkly Accessory Waves
If you don’t want to change your hairstyle drastically, simply adding accessories can elevate your look. Think sparkly barrettes, rhinestone clips, metallic headbands, or glitter-dusted pins. They transform even the simplest waves into a festive masterpiece.
Tip: Match your accessories with your outfit’s theme—gold for warm tones, silver for cool tones.
9. Sleek Middle-Part Straight Hair
Minimalist beauty is in, and nothing reflects that better than ultra-sleek straight hair. A crisp middle part gives your look a clean and polished finish. Use a flat iron, followed by a smoothing serum to keep frizz at bay.
Perfect for: Modern holiday parties, office gatherings, and dinner dates.
10. Loose Boho Holiday Braid
If your vibe is relaxed but still pretty, the loose holiday braid is a must-try. Pull out soft pieces around your face and let the braid sit naturally over your shoulder. This look feels whimsical and warm—ideal for cozy winter moments.
Upgrade it: Add tiny ornaments, mini pinecones, or subtle glitter for a playful holiday twist.
FAQs – Holiday Hairstyles
1. What are the best holiday hairstyles for long hair?
Some great options include Hollywood waves, braided crowns, voluminous blowouts, and half-up bow styles. These enhance length while keeping the hair festive and elegant.
2. Can short hair look festive for holiday events?
Absolutely! Pixie styles with sparkly clips, finger waves, mini top knots, and sleek side parts can instantly elevate short hair for the holiday season.
3. What accessories should I use to make my holiday hairstyle stand out?
Popular festive accessories include velvet bows, rhinestone clips, pearl pins, metallic headbands, and decorative scrunchies. These instantly add glam to any hairstyle.
4. How can I keep my holiday hairstyle lasting all night?
Prep your hair with a good heat protectant, use a strong-hold hairspray, and secure styles with quality bobby pins. Avoid touching your hair too often to maintain its shape.
5. Are braids suitable for winter holiday hairstyles?
Yes! Braids are perfect for cold weather because they prevent frizz and keep hair neat. Try braided crowns, loose boho braids, fishtail braids, or side braids.
6. What’s an easy last-minute holiday hairstyle?
A sleek high ponytail, textured top knot, or sparkly accessory waves are quick, stylish, and require minimal effort—great for last-minute plans.
7. How do I make my hairstyle look more festive without changing the style?
Simply add holiday-themed accessories, glitter spray, or decorative pins. Even a basic blowout can look festive with the right accessories.
8. What holiday hairstyle works best for fine hair?
Voluminous blowouts, half-up styles, and soft curls work well for fine hair. Adding texture spray helps boost volume and grip.
9. Can I do these holiday hairstyles at home?
Yes! Most holiday hairstyles can be done at home with basic tools like curling irons, flat irons, bobby pins, and styling products. Practice makes them even easier.
10. What hairstyle should I choose for a formal holiday event?
Consider elegant options such as a low chignon, Hollywood waves, a sleek straight look, or a braided crown. These styles offer a polished and sophisticated finish.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are a wonderful time to experiment with fresh styles, express your personality, and embrace the joy of the season. Whether you love soft curls, sleek lines, romantic braids, or voluminous blowouts, there’s a holiday hairstyle here for everyone. So go ahead—pick your favorite (or try them all!) and step into every celebration looking gorgeous and festive.
