December fills up fast: the office party, family dinners, drinks with friends, New Year’s Eve. You need holiday hairstyles that look special and do not take all evening.
The best ones add one festive element to a style you already know. A ribbon on a ponytail, pearls in a braid, extra shine on a blowout.
These 15 holiday hairstyles cover updos, braids, curls and ponytails for every length. For more pinned styles, see our updos for long hair.
15 Holiday Hairstyles to Try
1. Twisted Chignon
Hair twisted loosely back into a low knot, with soft pieces left around the face. Elegant and quick, and it survives a long dinner.
Best for: velvet and satin dresses, medium to long hair, formal events.
Save2. Bouncy Blowout
Big, glossy volume with curved ends. Set each section in a velcro roller while it cools so the bounce lasts all night.
The full method is in our 90s blowout hairstyle guide.
Best for: long layers, office parties, low necklines.
Save3. Sleek High Ponytail
Pulled tight and high, with a strand wrapped around the base. Smooth flyaways with gel and a toothbrush.
Best for: long straight hair, statement earrings, dancing.
Save4. Bedazzled Top Knot
A high bun or braided knot finished with jewelled pins or pearls. The sparkle goes in your hair, so jewellery can stay minimal.
Best for: natural hair, New Year’s Eve, high necklines.
Save5. Ribbon Bubble Braid
A low ponytail sectioned into bubbles, each tied with a small ribbon. Playful, and very easy to do yourself.
Best for: long hair, casual parties, beginners.
Save6. Springy Curls and Coils
Defined natural curls with one sparkly clip at the side. Refresh with curl cream and leave the shape alone.
Best for: curly and coily hair, velvet outfits, minimal effort.
Save7. Half-Up Curly Ponytail
The top half tied high with a bow, the rest in loose curls. See more in our Christmas half-up half-down hairstyles.
Best for: long hair, parties, bow lovers.
Save8. Braided Faux-Hawk
Side braids or cornrows leading up to a ridge of curls along the top. A strong shape that keeps hair off your neck.
Best for: curly hair, bold dressers, dancing.
Save9. Sleek Low Ponytail With Satin Ribbon
A smooth low ponytail tied with a long burgundy or black satin ribbon. Five minutes, and it looks deliberate.
Best for: straight hair, office parties, last-minute plans.
Save10. Dutch Braid With Pearls
One thick Dutch braid down the back with pearl pins pushed in along it. More plaits are in our braided hairstyles.
Best for: thick or long hair, backless dresses, weddings.
Save11. Retro Curly Bob
A chin-length bob set in defined curls, with a deep side part. Add a dark lip for old-Hollywood glamour.
Best for: bobs, cocktail parties, off-shoulder tops.
Save12. Half-Up Fishtail Braid With Loose Curls
Two small fishtail braids joined at the back above loose curls. Romantic and secure.
Best for: long highlighted hair, family photos, winter weddings.
Save13. Braided Crown With Loose Waves
A braid across the top of the head like a headband, with waves left down.
Similar looks are in our ethereal half-up half-down hairstyles.
Best for: long hair, soft makeup, daytime gatherings.
Save14. Bubble Braids
Two bubble ponytails, one each side. Fun for a casual party or matching with children.
Best for: long hair, Christmas jumpers, playful looks.
Save15. Loose Waves
Soft, undone waves with a little shine spray. Choose this when the outfit is doing the talking.
Best for: medium to long hair, sequins, every face shape.
SaveHow to Style Hair Quickly for Holiday Events
Start with second-day hair, which holds pins and curls better. Keep a small kit ready: elastics, bobby pins, a ribbon, hairspray and shine spray.
If you only have five minutes, choose the low ponytail with a ribbon or the loose waves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which holiday hairstyles suit short hair?
A retro curly bob, a deep side part with a sparkly clip, or a small half-up twist.
What hairstyle is best for a Christmas party?
A twisted chignon or a bouncy blowout. Both last through dinner and dancing.
How do I make my hair look festive without a new style?
Add one accessory. A velvet ribbon, pearl pins or a jewelled clip is enough.
How do I make curls last all night?
Use heat protectant and a light-hold spray before curling, let each curl cool in your hand, and finish with hairspray.
Final Thoughts
Choose one style for formal nights and one for casual ones, and keep ribbons and pins within reach all month.
