Your hairstyle is the finishing touch that makes every Christmas outfit feel complete, from the office party to the family dinner table.
The best christmas hairstyles look polished in person and stunning in photos, holding their shape through hugs, dancing and long festive evenings.
This guide collects twenty five festive looks for every hair length and texture, from elegant updos and romantic braids to glossy waves with holiday sparkle.
Save your favorites, gather a few pins and ribbons, and get ready to love every photo this holiday season.
Also read:
Quick Tips for Christmas Hairstyles That Last All Night
Style on Second Day Hair
Freshly washed hair is slippery, so style the day after washing for the best grip. A little dry shampoo at the roots adds the texture that keeps pins, bands and braids in place through a whole evening of celebrating.
Match the Style to the Event
A polished updo suits a formal dinner, while loose waves feel right for a cozy family gathering. Think about where you will be photographed and choose a style that fits the mood of the night.
Let Accessories Do the Talking
Velvet bows, pearl pins and gold clips turn simple styles into festive ones in seconds. Keep one statement accessory in your bag and you can dress up any look right before the photos start.
Do a Photo Test Before You Leave
Take a quick selfie in warm indoor light before heading out. Flash and lamplight can flatten volume and dull shine, so a test shot shows you exactly where to add a little lift or smoothness.
1. The Classic French Twist With a Velvet Bow
The French twist is timeless for a reason, and a velvet bow at the base turns it into a pure Christmas moment. One smooth roll up the back of the head creates instant polish.
Brush hair back, gather it low and roll upward, tucking the ends inside as you go. Slide pins upward for the strongest hold, then clip a small velvet bow where the twist meets the nape.
A touch of shine spray gives the finish a glassy look that photographs beautifully. Keep it sleek for a formal party or loosen the front pieces for a softer feel.
Best for: formal Christmas dinners. Pair with: a black dress and gold earrings. Tip: choose a bow in deep red or forest green.
2. The Low Chignon With Pearl Pins
A low chignon sits at the nape where it stays comfortable all evening, and scattered pearl pins make it glow in holiday light. It is elegant without trying too hard.
Pull hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a soft bun, pinning as you go. Leave two face framing pieces out at the front and curl them lightly for softness.
Slide five to seven pearl pins through the bun at different angles. They catch candlelight in photos and look far more expensive than they are.
Best for: candlelit dinners. Pair with: a satin blouse and delicate necklace. Tip: mix pin sizes for a natural scattered look.
3. The Sleek High Ponytail With a Wrapped Base
A sleek high ponytail looks sharp and modern, and wrapping a section of hair around the band hides the elastic for a clean finish. It lifts the whole face.
Brush hair up high and secure with a strong band. Take a thin section from underneath, wrap it around the base and pin it underneath for a seamless look.
Run a flat iron over the length for glass like smoothness, then mist with shine spray. This style pairs beautifully with bold holiday makeup.
Best for: cocktail parties. Pair with: a red lip and statement earrings. Tip: slick flyaways with a touch of gel on a toothbrush.
4. The Glossy Hollywood Waves
Nothing says old Hollywood glamour like deep glossy waves, and they are made for Christmas party season. The shine alone reads festive.
Curl large sections away from the face, then brush them out gently with a soft bristle brush to form smooth waves. Set with a flexible hold spray so the waves keep their shape.
A deep side part adds drama and frames the cheekbones. Finish with shine serum through the ends for that mirror like glow in photos.
Best for: black tie events. Pair with: a velvet gown and chandelier earrings. Tip: let curls cool fully before brushing out.
5. The Voluminous Half Up Bow
A half up style with a big bow is the sweetest way to wear Christmas in your hair. It keeps hair off your face while showing off your length.
Tease the crown lightly for volume, then gather the top half and secure it at the back of the head. Clip a large velvet or satin bow over the band.
Curl the loose lengths for bounce. This look works on medium to long hair and feels playful at daytime gatherings and pretty at evening parties.
Best for: Christmas morning photos. Pair with: cozy knits and soft glam makeup. Tip: match the bow to your outfit palette.
6. The Side Swept Curls
Sweeping curls to one side creates an asymmetric shape that looks incredible in profile photos. It shows off earrings and an elegant neckline.
Create a deep side part, curl all the hair in the same direction, then sweep everything over one shoulder. Pin the smaller side flat against the head with bobby pins.
A jeweled clip on the pinned side adds sparkle exactly where the camera catches it. Keep the curls soft and touchable rather than tight.
Best for: evening receptions. Pair with: an off the shoulder top. Tip: pin in an X shape so the sweep holds all night.
7. The Braided Crown With Gold Thread
A braided crown feels romantic and festive, and weaving fine gold thread through the braid adds a subtle shimmer that glows in photos. It is a true holiday statement.
Part hair down the middle and braid each side, then wrap the braids across the crown and pin. Weave the gold thread through the braid as you plait for even sparkle.
Pull the braid edges gently for fullness. This style keeps every strand off your face, which is perfect for long days of hosting and celebrating.
Best for: hosting Christmas dinner. Pair with: a festive apron free look, think jewel tones. Tip: use craft gold thread from a sewing kit.
8. The Low Twisted Bun
A low twisted bun looks intricate but takes minutes. Twisted sections add texture that a plain bun cannot match, and the low placement feels modern.
Divide hair into two sections, twist each one, then wrap them around each other at the nape. Pin securely and pull a few pieces loose for softness.
This style survives hugs and dancing without budging. A sprig of baby’s breath tucked into the twist makes it feel extra seasonal.
Best for: long party nights. Pair with: a midi dress and low heels. Tip: twist in opposite directions for more texture.
9. The Fishtail Braid Over One Shoulder
A fishtail braid looks far more complex than it is, which makes it a perfect party trick. Draped over one shoulder, it frames the face beautifully.
Gather hair to one side and split it into two sections. Take small pieces from the outside of each section and cross them over, working down to the ends.
Pancake the braid by pulling the edges gently for a fuller, softer look. Tie with a clear band and wrap a thin strand of hair over it.
Best for: casual holiday gatherings. Pair with: a chunky sweater and jeans. Tip: start the braid behind the ear for the best drape.
10. The Polished Top Knot With a Satin Scrunchie
A polished top knot keeps hair completely out of the way while looking chic, and a satin scrunchie in gold or champagne adds instant festivity.
Pull hair into a high ponytail, smooth the top with a brush, then twist the length around the base and pin. Slide the scrunchie over the finished knot.
Keep the front sleek for a ballerina feel or pull out soft tendrils for romance. This is the easiest elegant style on the list.
Best for: busy party days. Pair with: bold earrings since the neck is bare. Tip: backcomb the ponytail before twisting for a fuller knot.
PRO TIP: Take a test photo in the room where you will be photographed. Warm lamplight and phone flash can wash out dimension, so a quick check shows you where to add a little teasing at the crown or shine at the ends before guests arrive.
11. The Double Dutch Braids Into a Low Bun
Double Dutch braids that feed into a low bun combine the best of both worlds: the detail of braids and the polish of an updo. It stays put for hours.
Part hair down the middle and Dutch braid each side toward the nape. Gather the remaining hair with the braid ends into a low bun and pin.
This style works beautifully on thick hair that overwhelms simpler updos. Add small gold cuffs to the braids for a festive finish.
Best for: all day celebrations. Pair with: a high neckline sweater. Tip: braid on slightly damp hair for extra grip.
12. The Soft Curtain Bang Blowout
Curtain bangs with a bouncy blowout frame the face like a picture frame, and the movement photographs beautifully. It is the ultimate effortless glam look.
Blow dry with a large round brush, rolling sections away from the face. Let the bangs fall open in the middle, curving softly at the cheekbones.
A root lift spray keeps the crown full for hours. This style suits almost every face shape and hair texture with the right brush technique.
Best for: Christmas Eve dinner. Pair with: a simple necklace, the hair is the star. Tip: refresh bangs with a quick brush and cool shot.
13. The Textured Low Ponytail With a Ribbon
A textured low ponytail tied with a long ribbon is simple, romantic and unmistakably festive. The ribbon does all the talking.
Add waves through the lengths with a curling iron, then gather hair low at the nape. Tie a long ribbon around the band and let the tails hang down the back.
Choose velvet for luxury or grosgrain for a classic feel. Pull a few pieces loose around the face to keep it soft rather than severe.
Best for: gift exchanges and brunches. Pair with: a plaid scarf and coat. Tip: cut ribbon ends in a V shape to stop fraying.
14. The Elegant Side Bun
Placing the bun to one side gives a classic chignon a fresh asymmetric twist. It looks stunning from the front and the side in photos.
Gather hair low and to one side, twist into a bun just behind the ear and pin generously. Leave soft waves at the front for balance.
This style shows off one earring beautifully, so wear your best pair. A low side part on the opposite side keeps the shape elegant.
Best for: cocktail parties. Pair with: a one shoulder dress. Tip: anchor with pins in a star pattern for security.
15. The Half Up Twisted Halo
Two twisted sections meeting at the back form a delicate halo that feels like a holiday wreath for your hair. It is romantic without being fussy.
Take a section from each temple, twist them back and pin where they meet. Curl the remaining hair for soft movement underneath.
Add tiny pearl pins along the twists for a starry effect. This style flatters every hair length from shoulder to waist.
Best for: church services and concerts. Pair with: a velvet dress. Tip: twist away from the face for the smoothest finish.
Updos vs Down Styles: Which Wins Your Christmas
Both families of styles photograph beautifully, but they suit different kinds of celebrations. Updos stay flawless through cooking, hugs and hours of wear, while down styles bring softness and movement to your photos. Here is how to decide.
| Detail | Polished Updos | Down Styles |
|---|---|---|
| Styling time | 20 to 40 minutes | 15 to 30 minutes |
| Hold through the night | Excellent, survives dancing and hugs | Good, may need one touch up |
| Best for photos | Clean lines from every angle | Movement and softness in candids |
| Festive accessories | Bows, pearl pins and combs shine here | Headbands, clips and ribbons work best |
| Hair length needed | Medium to long works best | Any length can shine |
For more inspiration on party ready updos, the easy holiday updos guide from Brit and Co shows how simple these styles can be with the right technique.
16. The Bouncy Layered Blowout
A bouncy blowout with layers gives that fresh from the salon feeling that makes every outfit look more expensive. Volume is the whole point.
Blow dry in sections with a round brush, rolling each one up and letting it cool before releasing. Flip the ends outward for that classic bouncy shape.
Velcro rollers at the crown while you do your makeup add extra lift. Finish with a light flexible spray so the bounce lasts but the hair still moves.
Best for: Christmas Day itself. Pair with: new pajamas for morning photos, then a dress. Tip: blow dry with your head upside down for root lift.
17. The Sleek Straight Style With a Deep Side Part
Ultra sleek straight hair with a deep side part looks modern and expensive. The severity of the part balances the softness of the shine.
Flat iron in small sections for a truly smooth finish, then create a deep side part with a tail comb. Tuck the smaller side behind the ear.
A few drops of shine oil through the ends prevent the flat look from reading dull. This style is perfect for showing off a great haircut.
Best for: minimalist holiday looks. Pair with: architectural jewelry. Tip: use a heat protectant every single time.
18. The Curly High Puff
A high puff celebrates natural texture with pride, lifting curls up and away from the face. It is joyful, bold and completely party ready.
Gather curls high on the crown with a soft band, leaving the ends free and full. Gently pick the puff for shape and definition.
A gold cuff or festive headband at the base adds holiday sparkle. Moisturize well beforehand so curls stay defined all evening.
Best for: celebrating your texture. Pair with: big joyful earrings. Tip: stretch the band over two days of wear for comfort.
19. The Romantic Loose Braid
A loose romantic braid feels like something from a winter fairytale. Soft, undone and pretty, it suits cozy celebrations perfectly.
Create a loose three strand braid starting at the nape, keeping tension gentle. Pull the edges wide for a soft pancaked effect.
Leave face framing pieces out and curl them lightly. Tie with a velvet ribbon instead of a plain band for a festive finish.
Best for: fireside evenings. Pair with: a cream cable knit sweater. Tip: braid over one shoulder for a cozier feel.
20. The Claw Clip Twist
The claw clip twist is the easiest updo here and it looks genuinely chic. Twist, clip and you are done in under two minutes.
Gather hair as if making a low ponytail, twist it up against the head and secure with a large claw clip. Let the ends fan out over the top.
Choose a clip in tortoiseshell, gold or festive red. This style is ideal for second day hair when you need to look polished fast.
Best for: last minute invitations. Pair with: anything, it goes with everything. Tip: twist tightly at the base so the clip grips well.
21. The Glam Wet Look Waves
Wet look waves are editorial and daring, giving major red carpet energy at a Christmas party. The high shine reads incredibly festive.
Apply a generous amount of strong hold gel to damp hair, comb into waves with your fingers and let it set. The key is even product distribution.
Keep the rest of your makeup soft so the hair stays the star. This look photographs with amazing dimension under party lights.
Best for: fashion forward parties. Pair with: a slip dress. Tip: carry a small gel for touch ups at the hairline.
22. The Vintage Victory Rolls
Victory rolls bring vintage glamour that feels made for Christmas. They are bold, sculptural and unforgettable in photos.
Section the front hair, roll each section inward toward the head and pin at the base. Set the rolls with strong hold spray.
Pair with a red lip and winged liner for the full retro effect. Practice once before the event since the rolling technique takes a try or two.
Best for: themed holiday parties. Pair with: a swing dress and red lipstick. Tip: backcomb each section before rolling for grip.
23. The Milkmaid Braids With a Plaid Ribbon
Milkmaid braids wrapped over the crown look sweet and festive, and a plaid ribbon woven through makes them unmistakably Christmassy.
Braid two sections from behind the ears, cross them over the top of the head and pin the ends underneath. Weave the ribbon through one braid before wrapping.
Keep the braids slightly loose for a soft romantic feel. This style stays neat all day, even through cooking and hosting.
Best for: daytime festivities. Pair with: a dirndl style dress or folk inspired outfit. Tip: match the ribbon to your table decor.
24. The Messy Textured Bun With Face Framing Curls
A messy bun with curled pieces around the face is the relaxed answer to holiday hair. It looks effortless but still party appropriate.
Pile hair into a high loose bun, leaving the front sections out. Curl those pieces away from the face for soft romantic framing.
Texture spray is your best friend here, giving the bun grip and fullness. A few well placed pins keep the mess intentional rather than accidental.
Best for: relaxed family parties. Pair with: a jumpsuit and flats. Tip: wrap a strand around the bun base to hide the band.
25. The Starry Pinned Half Up Style
Scattering star shaped pins through a half up style creates a night sky effect in your hair. It is whimsical, pretty and perfect for Christmas Eve.
Gather the top section into a small twist or mini bun at the crown. Scatter star pins through the twist and into the loose hair below.
Gold stars on dark hair look magical, while silver stars suit lighter hair. Keep the base style simple so the stars stay the focus.
Best for: Christmas Eve magic. Pair with: a sparkly top. Tip: use an odd number of stars for a natural scattered look.
Christmas Hairstyles: Your Questions Answered
Which christmas hairstyles last the longest through a full evening?
Pinned styles like the French twist, the low chignon and the double Dutch braids into a low bun hold the longest. They keep hair off your neck and shoulders, and strong pins plus firm hold spray keep them neat from the first photo to the last dance.
What hairstyles photograph best in Christmas pictures?
Styles with shine and shape photograph best. The glossy Hollywood waves, the voluminous half up bow and the sleek high ponytail all catch the light beautifully. Check your style from the back and sides too, since holiday photos come from every angle.
How can I add festive sparkle without looking costumey?
Choose one refined accessory and keep the base style classic. A single velvet bow, a scatter of pearl pins or fine gold thread reads festive and elegant. Avoid piling on multiple sparkly pieces, which can tip the look from chic to costume.
Can short hair work for christmas hairstyles?
Absolutely. Sleek pixie styles with shine, curled bobs with a deep part, and short hair with a statement headband all look stunning. Accessories do the heavy lifting on shorter lengths, so invest in one beautiful clip or band. The Christmas party hair guide from Strand and Lock has lovely ideas for every hair length.
Choose the Christmas Hairstyle That Fits Your Celebration
The right hairstyle is the one that lets you enjoy the night without thinking about your hair. Hosting all day calls for secure braids or a twisted bun, while a glamorous evening out deserves glossy waves or a polished updo with sparkle.
Pick one style from this list, do a quick trial run the week before, and keep a few pins in your bag. Great Christmas hair is really that simple.
Final Thoughts
These twenty five christmas hairstyles prove that festive hair does not need to be complicated to look expensive. From the timeless French twist with a velvet bow to the playful starry pinned half up style, there is a look here for every party on your calendar.
The secret to holiday hair is simple: choose a style that suits your event, add one beautiful accessory, and do a photo test before you leave. Your Christmas photos will thank you, and so will your future self scrolling through them next year.
Save this guide, share it with a friend who always asks what to do with her hair, and enjoy every celebration with total hair confidence this season.
