65 Holiday Hairstyles That Will Wow the Dinner Table

1. Half-Up With Statement Accessory

This timeless look is effortless and chic and makes for the perfect office-to-holiday-party transition. Celebrity stylist and DIY color and styling expert Gregory Patterson offers the following instructions: Take second-day hair, or hair that has been waved, curled, or textured, and add a dry texture spray to offer grip and texture. Secure half of the hair up following the cheekbone line to create the perfect lifting illusion. Then secure with elastic and top off with an oversized ribbon tied into a bow of any color or texture, or some other statement accessory. Finish ends with a soft shaping cream and secure style with a medium hold spray.  

2. Scarf Headband With Natural Curls 

Another effortless look, this holiday hairstyle allows you to put your natural hair on full display. 

“It’s easy to achieve, offers beautiful shape, and highlights and accentuates facial features,” Patterson says. “It’s the perfect holiday glam. Flirty, fun, and spirited with joy, without having to completely revamp curls.” Patterson instructs to take a festive colored or patterned scarf and tie it securely into position. You can secure the base with bobby pins in a crisscross X pattern to help secure the scarf. You then pull and place curls strategically to frame your face and give it a loose and undone vibe. To really punch up the holiday spirit, he suggests opting for a vibrant vivid shade in a holiday berry tone.

3. Braided Half-Up on Short Hair 

Patterson says this look is most flattering on a fresh blowout—and from there you can implement the braid of your choice to create your hair’s very own built-in accessory. This is especially great for short hair, which can often be tougher to style. This look is also easy to double-accessorize by way of a festive holiday piece. 

4. Colorful Clip-Ins

Calling this “Santa’s best-kept secret,” Patterson says colorful clip-in extensions are a great way to add some festive flair to your look. Perfect for holiday parties or photo opps, this low-maintenance, commitment-free look not only adds pops of color, but also length and volume. Added bonus? There are plenty of hair textures to choose from. 

5. Crop Cut Bob

The crop cut bob (a shorter, modernized version of the classic bob), continues to grow in popularity, as evidenced by Hailey Bieber. It certainly isn’t going anywhere come holiday season, and there are specific ways to jazz it up for the time. HAIRSTORY network stylist Jennifer Covington Bowers suggests adding some wave to the look. 

To achieve this, she suggests adding a heat protectant to completely dry hair before parting the hair how you desire. Using medium-sized curling tongs or an iron, take medium sections curling away from the face to create the light waves. Lastly, finish the look by working the heat protectant in the palm of your hand and run through the hair from roots to ends for a light hold.

6. Middle Part, Sleek Low Ponytail

This is one of Bowers’ favorite holiday hairstyles because it’s chic, no fuss, and you can easily amplify it with your favorite festive jewelry. To create the look, you’ll want to start by blow-drying your hair straight with a smoothing lotion. Then, using a fine-tooth rat tail comb, make a middle part. When doing a ponytail, Bowers says it’s best to work in sections, so clip the front section of hair away before applying mousse to the back section. Using a paddle brush, begin brushing and gathering the hair at the nape of the neck. Once complete, repeat with the front section. When the hair is smoothed into the desired position, secure it with a hair tie and finish with hair balm on the edges and length of the ponytail.

7. Box Braid Top Bun

“When it comes to box braids in a top bun, it’s all about the versatility in a hairstyle,” Bowers says. “More than just a protective hairstyle, box braids can work for going out to social gatherings and holiday events as well.” 

To create the perfect on-trend box braid top bun, she suggests working a hair oil through the parts. Then, gather the hair on top of the head and secure it with a hair tie designed for thicker hair, before separating the loose hair into two sections and twisting it into a bun. Secure the bun with hairpins and finish the look by using a wax on the edges. 

8. Natural Texture

They say hair is your best accessory, and this look is a prime example of why! The natural waves combed over to the side not only look instantly “done,” but they’re voluminous and fun and ready for the occasion.

Bowers says to start the look by spraying a texturizing spray on damp hair and diffuse. If time allows, you can also let it dry naturally. Then, once the hair is fully dry, spray on a heat protectant and use smaller-sized curling tongs, or iron, to take random small pieces of hair from mid to end of the strand and wrap them around the iron for few seconds to create variation in texture and movement. Finally, finish the look by using a pick comb just at the roots to lift and add a little volumizing sprayto create texture.

9. Velvet Bows

Does anything say holiday season more than velvet and bows? Put the two together and you’ve got the ultimate seasonal staple. Large, small, one, or a few, this is the foolproof accessory Bowers stands by through the holidays and beyond.

10. Messy Tousled Bun

Who needs the holiday party when your hair is the main event? To achieve this look, LA-based hair salon owner Gregga Prothero says you can use sea salt spray to give it that tousled, effortless beachy wave. Then twist it into a messy bun, but pull some of the front pieces of the hair out so it gives it a more party-fun look instead of formal.

11. Slicked-Back Wet Look

“This trend is giving edge with glam,” Prothero says, adding that the hairstyle can work with all hair types. She recommends grabbing a hair gel, and applying it to damp hair, gliding the brush or comb from root to tip, then molding the sides and top of the hair back. After, finish with a styling wax to polish the slicked-back look. 

12. Tousled Layers

Jenna Ortega never fails to wow us, and this jazzed-up layered look is no exception. Prothero says you can bring out all the texture and layers in your hair by using a texturizing spray, like AMIKA Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray.

13. Retro Waves With Heavy Side Part

The holidays are all about the glam, so go all out with these classic retro Hollywood curls, as seen here by Margot Robbie. Prothero suggests starting with AIIR PROFESSIONAL Texture AIIR before your blow dry to give you a texturizing effect without sacrificing softness or workability.

“It’s the perfect choice for creating body, structure, and shape while you blow-dry,” she says. Then she advises using a one-inch curling iron and pinning your hair into place. Wait for the hair to cool down before taking the pins out. Then brush the hair out gently and finish with hairspray.

14. High Pony With Front Curled Pieces

“Similar to the messy bun, the high ponytail gives a playful chic vibe to any party dress outfit,” Prothero says, suggesting you use something to give the hair lift, like a volume-boosting mousse. Do this when hair is wet because it adds airy volume to any type of hair. You want light and natural-looking body, which will prevent your ponytail from looking flat.

15. Star-Studded Side Braid

And just like that, a star is born. Here’s a sparkly braid worn on the side of your head that’s sure to put a twinkle in your eye. Wanna DIY it? Grab some star charms and copper wire, and you’re ready to start styling. LA-based hairstylist Clayton Hawkins says, “It’s a face-framing side braid that I adorned with blingy star charms I bought at a craft store and secured with copper wire. It’s almost like decorating your tree, but instead, you decorate your hair. This style is super affordable and a literal show-stopper.”

We suggest: Embrace (and enhance) waves and curls for an extra touch of glam when you prep with MARC ANTHONY PROFESSIONAL Strictly Curls Defining Lotion—it’ll give you perfectly smooth, frizz-free hair every time.

Watch the full star-studded braid tutorial here:

16. Rhinestone Fishnet Braid

We love a good scarf braid, and this blinged-out version will take you from the holidays straight through New Year’s Eve. “This look is a long side braid that I integrated rhinestone fishnet into,” says Hawkins. “I played off the TikTok trend of braiding your hair with a scarf, but instead I used a blingy fishnet material. This is another bang-for-your-buck, show-stopping hair moment. Plus, it literally takes 5 minutes!”

Watch the full rhinestone fishnet tutorial here:

17. Silver-and-Gold Top Knot

Looking for something glam and super easy to do? A high top knot is always a stylish idea—and with gold and silver thread, it’s a red carpet-worthy NYE look. Hawkins says, “This was a half-up, half-down bun that I wrapped with gold and silver elastic thread. This look screams expensive and chic, but it’s super simple to achieve. I even added a few gold chains that I secured with a bobby pin to really take it over the edge. You’re gonna look like you’re Met Gala-ready with this lewk!”

Watch the full glam top knot tutorial here:

18. DIY Snowflake Headband

Spending more time cozying up inside? Why not get crafty (and have fun!) like Hawkins with a snowflake headband that’ll make you look like the ultimate snow angel? To create it, fasten sparkly accessories—like snowflakes, flowers, gemstones, and more—atop your favorite headband using pins or a glue gun. Then, create a center part and place the headband behind your ears, leaving the front sections of hair loose. Leave your hair as-is and add a light wave—any way you wear it, you’ll light up every holiday selfie.

We suggest: Whether you have straight hair, waves, or curls, make your hair shine like a diamond with R+CO Centerpiece All In One Elixir Hairspray. Spritz it on to lock in hydration, tame flyaways, fight frizz, and more.

19. Ribbon Ponytail

Ribbons aren’t just for wrapping, they make great DIY accessories, too. Create a low pony like L.A.-based content creator Yvette Corinne by tying your hair back at the nape of your neck with two elastics, separated about one inch apart. Then, take the prettiest ribbon from your stash (or you know, the drawer where leftover wrapping stuff sits all year), and wrap it around the elastics. Secure it all with a bobby pin and voilà—you’re a gift.

20. Silver-Lined Braids

If the last few years needed a silver lining, this is it. Corinne’s silver-threaded braids are equal parts festive and glam—and they’re super easy to create. To DIY it, fold two ribbons in half and pin the center at the top of your head, under a small section of hair. Then, take a small section and braid all the way to the ends, incorporating the threads as you go. Secure with an elastic. Repeat on the other side, or as many times as you want—it’s the perfect way to add a festive touch to every hairstyle. Plus, it works with short hair, long hair, and everything in between.

Want more DIY ribbon hairstyles? Watch Yvette Corinne’s full tutorial:

21. Cozy, Cute Earmuffs

Braids are one of our favorite hair trends—French braids, fishtail braids, braided ponies, and more. But when it’s cold and snowy out, wearing braids that stay in place and keep your ears warm can be a struggle. Meet this easy earmuff-friendly hairstyle that’ll look cute even when it’s dampened by snow. The trick? LA-based content creator Lauren Sanchez created two braids down either side and gently tugged at them to add fullness and volume. And the earmuffs? They keep your braids in place no matter how windy it is outside.

Tip: Try smoothing some USE ME HAIR Wave + Curl Cream through your hair before creating your braids—it’ll keep them flyaway-free and when you come in from the cold, you can shake them loose for instant waves.

22. Blingy Low Bun

There’s a bun for every season, and this cold weather-approved low bun by Sanchez can literally be created on the go. Just split your hair into two sections, then use a hair tie to pull them into two loops at the nape of your neck. Pull one loop through the other, then secure with bobby pins. Top it with a fun headband (like Sanchez’ rhinestone-covered one) and you’re ready to wow through snowball fights, bonfire chats, ice skating, and more.

23. DIY Beanie Ponytail

Have a beanie lying around that you never wear? Here’s an easy way to DIY a warm accessory for your last-minute outdoor holiday activities. Sanchez took a pair of scissors and snipped a small hole at the very top of the beanie, then tied her hair into a high ponytail and pulled it through the top of the beanie. It’s as easy as that—you’ve got an instant cozy-chic hairstyle (and you’ll give an old beanie new life).

Watch Sanchez’s full tutorial for more winter hair looks:

24. Gold Threaded Side Braid

“For Isabel Merced’s Cleopatra-inspired glam, I wove golden thread into her face-framing side braids for a simple but impactful moment,” says Hawkins. “It’s super easy to do, but obsession-worthy!”

25. Velvet Ribbon-Tied Hair

Hawkins shares, “I started with a classic roller set so that her hair was super bouncy, then I pulled it half back and secured it with a giant velvet ribbon that I made myself with black velvet.”

26. Blingy, Braided Ponytail

Add a little bling to your classic ponytail hairstyle with this look. “I actually used lash glue to secure different colored rhinestones to the braid for a show-stopping vibe,” says Hawkins.

27. Star-Adorned Braid

“For Emma Furhman’s look, I braided her hair down the back and added rhinestone starry hairpins,” Hawkins shares. We always love the addition of starry accessories for holiday hairdos because they add the perfect festive feel to any get-together.

28. Glam High Pony

We are obsessed with this holiday hair look from Hawkins and he shares that it’s easier to recreate than you think: “I pulled all of Milan’s gorgeous hair up into a high pony and fluffed it out.” Yes, it is as simple as that.

29. Classic, Bouncy Bob

Want a classic, bouncy bob like Lucy Hale? Here’s how Hawkins did it: “I gave [her] an old Hollywood roller set, and then brushed it out and sprayed it with a shine spray for a bouncy, modern effect.”

30. Retro Glam Waves

“For Lexi Underwood, I curled her hair with a 1.25-inch curling iron all going the same direction,” shares Hawkins. “Then, I brushed it out with a WET Detangle Brush and finished it off with a medium-hold hairspray.”

31. Bantu Knots 

To achieve this stunning style, LA-based Styleseat hairstylist Erinn Courtney suggests parting the hair into boxed sections and using edge control to smooth each and put it into a rubber band. Then braid each section and roll the braid around itself. Secure with a rubber band.

32. Over-the-Top Knot

The holidays are all about being extra, and this sky-high top knot is perfect for making your bold statement! Courtney makes this magic happen by using edge control to smooth hair into a very high ponytail and securing it with a hair tie. She then smoothes the free hair in the ponytail with edge control and twists it until the hair starts to fold into itself. She then pins the twist down till secured.

33. Sparkly Hair Tinsel

The holiday season is the busiest time of year, so you may not have time to glitz and glam for every occasion. This pictured look features none other than sparkly hair tinsel weaved through the strands. Top off the look with a dainty sparkly hair clip for good measure!

34. Snowflake Braids 

This look isn’t for amateur hour, but if you can find someone who specializes in French braids, it’s worth a shot! There aren’t many other times of year that this look will be a fit, so go big or go home. 

35. Christmas Tree Braid

Bubble braid? French braid? None of the above? While we can’t say we’d be able to tackle this look on our own, the good news is minus the accessory choice, the stylish ‘do can be recycled year-round. But for now? Grab this photo and head to your nearest salon, stat.

36. Chignon Chic 

When in doubt, low bun it out. Always elevated without mess and stress, you’ll never go wrong with this elevated aesthetic.

37. Twisted Bubble Braid

For the winter queen of the castle, this look is screaming your name. With or without the floral touch, this breathtaking style is the ethereal aesthetic holiday season’s dreams are made of. If you have luscious, long locks, show this to your hairstylist immediately—and prepare to be the topic of convo at the holiday dinner table.

38. Braided Updo

If salon-level locks are what you’re after, nail this pro look from your home in minutes. This quick video tutorial takes you through the process in a few easy steps. Sleek and chic, the holidays are callin’ for ya!

39. Elegant Updo

‘Tis the season for elegance, and this classic updo paired with fine, dangly jewelry will have you stepping out in style. The three main steps, as instructed by Jessica Page, owner of Blondies Co. salon in Utah, are loose curls, knotted buns, and pinned up.

40. Voluminous Teased Pony

Effortlessly chic, this slicked-back pony requires little effort with big payoff. Page says she’s a fan because it doesn’t take expert-level skills to achieve. And wrapping a section of the hair around the tie elevates the look in an instant.

41. Barrette Side Part

Whether you choose to go deep or subtle, a side part is an easy hairstyle for the holidays. Choose your part, tease with a rat tail comb at the roots, then finish with a hairspray of your choice. Next, accessorize with some barrettes that feel festive to make the style work for wherever the holidays may take you.

42. Snowman Bun

This hairstyle idea is a little out there but sure to help you stand out. No one will question how deeply you care about the holidays with this style. Follow the IG tutorial to recreate the look or get creative and make it your own.

43. French Twist With Holiday Flair

The French twist is a classic for more buttoned-up holiday gatherings. If you’re visiting your partner’s family for the first time, this is the style you go with. Start with a low ponytail then twist your hair into place, securing with bobby pins as you go. Add a holiday accessory, like the one pictured, and you’ll be the belle of the ball and a hit with your soon-to-be-in-laws.

44. Holiday Hair Colors

Why not kick the holiday festivities up a notch with a bold new hair color to take you into the new year? It is a bit bold and daring but hopefully that ethos will help you pursue all your hopes and dreams come New Year’s Day.

45. Christmas Tree Updo

Be the Christmas tree at your holiday party with this Christmas tree updo. You can find a cone from the craft store and secure it to the top of your head before wrapping your hair around it and adorning it with ornaments of your choosing.

46. Claw Clip Holiday Look

We don’t know everything but we do know that claw clips will be trendy for years to come. If you’d rather keep your holiday hairstyle a little more casual, opt for a festive claw clip to hold your hair up while you chow down on your holiday feast.

47. Sky-High Volume

Go big, like sky-high with your volume and channel your inner mob wife with this voluminous hairstyle. Tease the roots then spray as much hairspray on them as possible to lock them in place. Smooth them out with a comb and you’re all set.

48. Flipped Ends With Festive Headband

Flipped ends are always a fun look, especially if you’re looking for a short hairstyle. They make your ends pop and you can add some extra razzle dazzle with a festive headband like the one shown above.

49. Holiday Hair Wreath

Wreaths are the new flower crowns when it comes to accessories, making them perfect for the holiday season. You can curl your hair, wave it, or even straighten it—as long as you have a wreath on top of your go-to style, you’ll look as festive as ever.

50. Curly Hair Updo

Showcase your natural curls in this gorgeous updo. Twist your ringlets and pin around the shape you want to create. Be sure not to squash them so you don’t minimize volume. Adorn them with some finishing touches, like the ZAXIE BY STEFANIE TAYLOR Extra Sparkle Hair Set to make a statement.

51. Candy Cane Colors With Undercut

Another daring holiday hair idea, this blend of candy cane colors with a stylized undercut is not for the faint of heart. But if you’re hoping to turn heads any which way, this look is for you. We recommend visiting a stylist to help you get the color and haircut just right.

52. Ornament Hair Accessories

An easy way to spread holiday cheer, pop in some ornaments to your everyday hairstyle. You can even pass them out as trinkets throughout the party you’re at to make people feel special. Maybe even write your name and number on them if you’re single and ready to mingle—you never know who you’ll meet under the mistletoe.

53. Wavy Hair Display

Put your waves on full display with this tousled style. Let your waves air-dry, but not before spritzing it with the REZA BE OBSESSED SeaSpray Vacation to emphasize your natural waves sans frizz.

54. Messy Ponytail With Ribbon

Don’t have time to fuss over an elaborate hairdo? Stack your strands in a messy pony and tie it with a ribbon in a holiday hue—it’s the easiest hairstyle of them all.

55. Natural Texture With an Oversized Bow

Go even bigger with your bow hairstyle and remind people that your presence is a present all while highlighting your natural texture, like this hairstyle.

56. Pearl-Adorned Braids

These half-up French braids are made even more festive with the addition of pearls sprinkled throughout. They’ll have you looking like you came in from the snow even if you live somewhere it doesn’t snow during the holiday season.

57. Snowflake Confetti

Want to really up the ante with your accessories? Tack some snowflake confetti onto your strands to sprakle and shine at every soirée you attend this year. Use the TRESLÚCE BEAUTY Extremo Eyelash Glue to ensure the confetti stays put while you dance the night away.

58. Dip-Dyed Ends

Want to have fun with color but don’t want the commitment? Opt for dip-dyed ends. You can get a haircut to start the new year off with a fresh set of strands and no split ends. Or, you can use a temporary color like COSMOHOLIC Runway Temporary Hair Color that will wash out once the evening is over.

59. Hairpin Bun

The hairpin is a chic accessory to keep all your hair in place. We’re obsessed with this bow hairpin that helps secure your bun in no time at all no matter your hair type. Watch the tutorial above for some tips and tricks on securing it correctly and don’t be discouraged if it takes more than a few tries to get it right.\

60. Crown Braid

A staple style for the holidays, the crown braid can be a little tricky to master but there are also ways to cheat it if you can’t braid your hair around your head in a circular pattern as shown above. You can also Dutch or French braid on one side then wrap the ends around. Or, find a friend or hairstylist who may know how to do it for you. See if they can work a ribbon in so your hair looks like an actual wreath, too.

61. Half-Up, Half-Down Bow

This look is a classic for a reason—it’s easy to do and it looks good with any outfit. We love this specific style because it really embraces the holiday spirit with a red velvet bow on top. The best part? You can wear it with your natural waves or curls and you’ll still look like you put a lot of effort into this low-effort style.

62. Put a Pin on It

Nothing says the holidays like a bedazzled pin. We’re obsessed with this pin look (okay, maybe we’re a little partial) because it’s so cutesy, demure, and easy. We huge fans of low-effort, high-impact hairstyles for obvious reasons—this look screams you’re ready to be jolly and all it takes is your fave hair adornment.

63. Braided Upo

Updos are no-brainer styles for the holidays because they get your hair out of your face and add elegance and style to any outfit. This one is as mistletoe-ready as you can get—sporting a beautiful braid and a wreath-like pin at the center. So pucker up—smooches will (and should) be had with this holiday style.

64. Pin Ornaments

‘Tis the season for ornaments and pretty, shiny things, so why not also put them in your hair? This holiday hairstyle takes a page out of the perfect Christmas tree book and adds your fave hair pins down your middle part. Don’t be surprised if your friends start bearing gifts at your feet—it’s that good.

65. Soft Waves

There’s nothing more elegant than soft waves—it’s old Hollywood-esque and will have everyone turning their heads. This style takes a little more skill to achieve, but the effort is so worth it. The best way to do it is by curling your hair in tight curls, waiting for them to cool off, then brushing them out with a soft-bristle brush. Finish it off with a little flex-hold hair spray, and you’ve got yourself the perfect holiday look.