25 Festive Holiday Hairstyles to Try for Parties, Dinners & More

The holiday season brings a full calendar of festive gatherings, intimate dinner parties, office celebrations, and late-night toasts. While finding the right outfit sets the foundation, your hairstyle finishes the look and pulls everything together. Whether you are dressing up a cozy knit sweater for a casual family gathering or complementing a structured velvet dress for a formal gala, a thoughtful hairstyle adds instant polish.

From romantic low chignons wrapped in plush velvet ribbons to glossy Hollywood waves anchored with vintage crystal pins, this collection offers versatile options for every hair length, type, and texture. Whether you have fifteen minutes to prep before running out the door or want to dedicate time to an intricate braided updo, these 25 festive styles provide practical inspiration to keep your hair looking fresh, secure, and effortlessly elevated all season long.

1. Velvet Ribbon Low Chignon

A classic low chignon positioned right at the nape of the neck offers timeless elegance for formal holiday dinners. Gathering the hair tightly before twisting into a soft bun creates clean lines along the profile, while a long, jewel-toned velvet ribbon tied over the elastic introduces a touch of seasonal texture.

To ensure the chignon remains secure through hours of dining and socializing, prep hair with a light dusting of texturizing powder at the crown for grip. Anchor the bun with crisscrossed bobby pins before securing the ribbon.

Quick Tip: Leave the tails of the velvet ribbon long so they cascade gently down your back, pairing beautifully with backless dresses or crewneck sweaters.

2. Sleek Hollywood Waves with Sparkly Hair Pins

Nothing communicates classic party glamour quite like uniform S-shaped Hollywood waves paired with a sharp side part. This retro-inspired style relies on setting hair with a large-barrel curling iron in the same direction, brushing out the curls smoothly, and securing one side behind the ear with a cluster of crystal or rhinestone statement pins.

• Best Hair Length: Medium to long hair.
• Essential Products: Flexible-hold hairspray, shine serum, and flat sectioning clips to set the waves while cooling.
• Key Technique: Curl all strands toward the face, let cool completely, then gently brush through with a boar-bristle paddle brush.

Editor’s Note: For extra staying power on fine hair, mist each section with a lightweight thermal setting spray before applying heat, allowing the wave pattern to hold its structure all night.

3. Braided Crown with Micro Pearl Pins

Best For: Romantic dinner parties and winter garden gatherings

Investment: Accessible (requires bobby pins and decorative pearl studs)

Difficulty: Intermediate

Visual Effect: Ethereal, delicate, and textured

A braided crown or halo braid keeps hair entirely off the face while presenting an intricate, handcrafted aesthetic. Wrapping two milkmaid-style Dutch braids over the crown creates natural height and symmetry. Interspersing small pearl-headed hair pins throughout the length of the braids gives the impression of delicate snowflakes caught in the hair.

Prepare hair with a dry texture spray to add traction, making the braiding process smoother and preventing soft strands from slipping out during the evening.

4. High Glamour Bow-Tied Half-Up Topknot

Combining the playful lift of a high bun with the cascading length of soft curls, the half-up topknot is an ideal style for casual drinks or neighborhood holiday parties. Sweeping the top half of your hair into a firm elastic on the crown creates an instant face-lifting effect. Wrapping an oversized satin or silk bow around the base conceals the band and adds a festive focal point.

Do / Don’t:

• Do: Tease the base of the topknot slightly before pinning to add structural volume that holds the weight of the bow.
• Don’t: Pull hair too flat on the sides; allow soft texture around the temples to keep the look relaxed and flattering.

5. Voluminous Curly High Ponytail with Gold Elastic Details

Celebrate natural ringlets and coils by lifting them into a high, structural ponytail positioned near the crown. This look allows tight curls or springy 3C–4C textures to cascade outward like a fountain, creating dynamic movement and impressive volume.

Wrap the ponytail base with a gold metallic cord or structured metal cuff to elevate the style from sporty to festive. Apply a moisture-locking curl cream and a touch of edge control along the hairline to smooth flyaways while preserving natural coil definition throughout the pony.

6. Textured French Twist with a Vintage Jeweled Comb

The classic French twist receives a modern update when executed with loose, touchable texture rather than rigid, heavily sprayed structure. Gathering hair at the nape, twisting upward, and tucking the ends inward creates a sweeping vertical silhouette that flatters the neckline.

Common Mistake: Pulling the hair back too tightly, which can make the style feel overly severe or dated.

Better Approach: Leave face-framing tendrils out around the ears and temples, gently pulling on the crown section after securing to create soft height before sliding a vintage crystal or tortoiseshell comb into the fold.

7. Pearl-Dusted Dutch Braid Pigtail Updo

Feature	Dutch Braid Low Updo	Standard Low Bun
Longevity	Exceptional hold across long events	Moderate hold; may require adjustments
Texture Depth	High dimensional interest from cross-braids	Sleek or simple surface texture
Best For	Active holiday parties, dancing, & windy weather	Sit-down dinners and cocktail hours

Creating two inverted Dutch braids along either side of the head and wrapping their ends into a compact knot at the nape creates a secure, highly detailed updo. Inserting flat pearl studs directly into the center of the braid weaves distributes subtle detail across the entire back of the head, making this style striking from every angle.

8. Soft Romantic Bubble Ponytail with Mini Bows

A modern twist on a traditional low ponytail, the bubble ponytail divides the hair length into soft, rounded sections using thin elastics. Gently pulling outward on each segment expands the hair into decorative “bubbles” that hold their shape throughout the night.

• Space elastics roughly two to three inches apart depending on overall hair length.
• Tie narrow velvet ribbon bows over each individual elastic band to conceal the rubber and introduce seasonal color.
• Use a light misting of flexible hairspray over each segment to tame stray hairs without creating stiffness.

Quick Tip: If your hair is fine, lightly crimp or tease the ponytail length before sectioning to give the bubbles full, structural shape.

9. Side-Swept Vintage Curls with a Statement Barrette

Sweeping hair entirely over one shoulder creates an asymmetrical silhouette that highlights statement earrings and open necklines. Setting the hair in medium barrel curls creates smooth, touchable body, while anchoring the smaller side with a wide pearl or rhinestone barrette keeps the look secure.

Editor’s Note: Insert the statement barrette horizontally, slightly above the ear line, and secure a crossed bobby pin hidden underneath to bear the weight of the hair, preventing the decorative clip from slipping down during the evening.

10. Low Twisted Sleek Knot with Gold Leaf Accents

Best For: Contemporary galas, minimalists, and architectural fashion styling

Investment: Accessible

Difficulty: Advanced

Visual Effect: Ultra-sleek, glossy, and refined

For those who prefer clean, minimalist styling, a glassy low knot positioned tightly at the base of the skull provides a polished finish. Splitting a sleek low ponytail into two sections, twisting them tightly around each other, and securing them flat creates a geometric bun.

Applying small flecks of cosmetic-grade gold leaf gilding along the top curve of the knot adds an unexpected metallic accent that catches indoor lighting beautifully.

11. Textured Lob with a Festive Velvet Headband

Short to medium hair lengths, such as lobs and bobs, can be styled for holiday events in minutes using a statement padded headband. Adding loose, alternating flat-iron waves throughout the hair creates effortless volume and movement that sits comfortably beneath the band.

Do / Don’t:

• Do: Push the headband slightly back from the hairline, leaving a few soft pieces out in front to frame the face naturally.
• Don’t: Choose a headband that fits too tightly behind the ears, which can cause discomfort over hours of wearing.

12. Half-Up Fishtail Braid with Winter Flora Accent

A half-up fishtail braid offers a textured, bohemian look that feels fresh for winter celebrations. Weaving thin strands from the outer edges creates an intricate, woven texture down the back, leaving the lower half of the hair to fall in soft, natural waves.

To style this look step-by-step:

1. Curl the lower half of your hair with a 1.25-inch curling wand for soft body.
2. Gather a section from each temple and begin a central fishtail braid down to mid-length.
3. Gently pancake the braid by pulling its outer edges to double its visual width.
4. Secure the end with a clear elastic and tuck a small sprig of dried baby’s breath, holly, or winter greenery into the weave.

13. Glossy Middle-Part Low Ponytail with Metallic Wrap

A sharp middle part paired with an ultra-smooth low ponytail delivers an elevated, editorial finish that pairs seamlessly with structured tailoring, tuxedos, or high-neck dresses.

Common Mistake: Using standard fabric elastics that look casual or leaving flyaway hairs around the crown.

Better Approach: Apply a light smoothing pomade using a fine-tooth comb to flatten the hair down to the nape, then wrap a structured metallic gold or silver ponytail cuff around the base to transform a simple style into a festive statement piece.

14. Messy Boho Low Side Bun with Cascading Tendrils

Relaxed holiday gatherings and cozy family dinners call for styles that look chic without appearing overly structured. A low side bun positioned just behind one ear creates a soft, feminine asymmetrical detail.

Gather hair loosely without using a brush, allowing natural hair texture to remain intact. Twist the hair into a relaxed loop, secure with U-shaped hairpins, and pull out delicate strands around the face and ears. Mist lightly with a flexible hairspray to maintain touchable hold.

Quick Tip: Pair this asymmetrical style with a shoulder-baring sweater or off-the-shoulder dress to balance your frame.

15. Cascade of Natural Coils with a Crystal Hair Vine

Best For: Natural 4A–4C textures and voluminous curly locks

Investment: Moderate

Difficulty: Easy

Visual Effect: Regal, brilliant, and textured

Enhance the natural volume of full coils by wearing them free-flowing while incorporating a flexible crystal hair vine. Sweeping one side back slightly allows the shimmering vine to nestle directly into the hair texture, anchoring securely without compressing natural volume.

Hydrate coils prior to styling using a lightweight leave-in conditioner and seal with a glossing oil to give every ringlet dimensional shine under evening lights.

16. Braided Space Buns with Glitter Roots

Playful, youthful, and energetic, braided space buns offer an adventurous look for New Year’s Eve parties and informal holiday gatherings. Splitting hair down the center into two high pigtails, braiding each length, and wrapping them into compact topknots provides an architectural silhouette that stays secure while dancing.

• Mix cosmetic-grade hair glitter with a clear aloe vera gel in a small bowl.
• Use a tint brush to paint the glitter mixture directly along the center part line.
• The aloe gel dries clear and holds the glitter firmly in place until washed out with warm water and shampoo.

Do / Don’t:

• Do: Keep the space buns symmetrical in size and height on the crown.
• Don’t: Use craft glitter, which has sharp edges and is unsafe for hair and skin.

17. Retro 60s Flip Half-Up Style

Inspired by classic sixties glamour, this flipped half-up style brings structured vintage charm to modern holiday outfits. The look features smooth height at the crown achieved through subtle backcombing, while the ends of the remaining hair are curved sharply outward using a flat iron or large barrel curler.

Editor’s Note: Set the flipped ends with a heavy-hold firm hairspray immediately after heat application to keep the outward curl crisp and defined throughout long evening events.

18. Triple Twisted Half-Up Cascade

This intricate-looking style is surprisingly simple to recreate and keeps hair off the face while leaving length visible across the back.

1. Take a one-inch section of hair from above the right ear, twist it tightly backward, and secure it horizontally across the upper back of the head.
2. Repeat with a matching section from the left side, securing it directly over the first twist.
3. Take two additional sections slightly lower down on each side, create two more twists, and weave them neatly underneath the first pair, gathering all ends into a tiny hidden elastic.
4. Finish by adding soft barrel waves to the lower half of the loose hair.

19. Sculptural High Ballerina Bun with Rhinestone Mesh Wrap

Best For: Black-tie galas, ballet attendances, and formal holiday balls

Investment: Moderate

Difficulty: Intermediate

Visual Effect: Dramatic, tall, and high-glamour

A high ballerina bun positioned directly at the crown creates an elongated profile and showcases high collars, statement necklines, or bold earrings. Smoothing the base with a bristle brush creates a sleek foundation, while shaping the bun over a foam hair donut ensures perfect roundness and structural volume.

Wrapping a flexible rhinestone mesh strip around the base of the bun adds a striking band of shimmer that captures overhead venue lighting.

20. Wavy Pixie Cut with Glitz & Glitter Hair Gel Accent

Finish Option	Visual Impression	Ideal Product	Hold Level
Subtle Sparkle	Sophisticated shimmer under indoor lights	Fine-milled shimmer spray	Light / Touchables
High Glitz	Bold, dramatic party accent	Glitter pomade or gel	Strong / Sculptural
Metallic Sheen	Sleek, modern reflective gloss	Gold or bronze leaf hair wax	Medium / Moldable

Short pixie cuts can easily adapt to festive dress codes by manipulating texture and adding metallic finishes. For a textured pixie, apply a lightweight styling pomade to piece out top layers into soft waves, then brush a micro-glitter styling gel lightly along the side temples to frame the face with subtle sparkle.

21. Soft Crown Braid with Velvet Ribbon Woven Through

Weaving a narrow velvet ribbon directly into the strands of a crown braid merges traditional braiding with rich winter textiles. As you construct a French or Dutch braid around the head, treat a long piece of quarter-inch velvet ribbon as one of the three hair strands.

The ribbon weaves naturally through the braid pattern, providing pops of color and texture that elevate a standard updo into a festive masterpiece.

Quick Tip: Choose a ribbon color that contrasts with your hair—such as cream or ruby on dark hair, or deep emerald and midnight blue on lighter hair—for maximum visual impact.

22. Glamorous Half-Up Hollywood Waves

Combine the regal structure of full Hollywood waves with the practical convenience of a half-up style. This approach keeps hair secured away from your face while maintaining dramatic length and volume over the shoulders.

1. Set the entire head in uniform, forward-facing barrel curls using a 1-inch curling iron and allow them to set.
2. Gently brush out the curls into smooth, continuous s-shaped waves.
3. Gently section off the top portion from the temples, smooth it back over the crown while preserving wave continuity, and secure hidden beneath with crossed bobby pins.

23. Messy High Knot with Silk Scarf Wrap

Perfect for day-after-party brunches or relaxed holiday get-togethers, a messy high knot wrapped in a festive printed silk scarf offers effortless charm while concealing unwashed hair.

Do / Don’t:

• Do: Use dry shampoo at the roots to add instant lift and absorb oil before piling hair high onto the crown.
• Don’t: Tie the scarf too loosely; knot it twice at the front or side of the bun to ensure it remains stationary all day.

24. Sleek Wet-Look Backwards Sweep

High-fashion and bold, the wet-look swept-back hairstyle creates a modern, sculptural aesthetic that keeps attention entirely on your facial features, makeup, and jewelry.

Common Mistake: Using heavy hair oils alone, which weigh hair down and make it appear greasy rather than editorial.

Better Approach: Mix a high-shine firm-hold styling gel with a small amount of leave-in conditioner. Comb the mixture through damp roots from the hairline directly straight back over the crown, letting the ends remain lighter and naturally dry.

25. Multi-Braided Low Chignon with Crystal Pins

Best For: Detailed formal styling, winter weddings, and New Year’s Eve galas

Investment: Accessible

Difficulty: Advanced

Visual Effect: Intricate, artistic, and luminous

Instead of twisting a single ponytail into a low bun, dividing hair into three individual three-strand braids before wrapping them together creates a complex, textured chignon. Interleaving the three braids causes the bun to look like an intricate woven knot.

Studding the finish with tiny crystal or rhinestone pins creates subtle sparkle every time your head turns under party lighting.

Editor’s Note: Spray each individual braid with a dry texture spray and lightly pull the outer edges apart before coiling to maximize the physical footprint and visual volume of the finished chignon.

Holiday Hair Care & Styling Tips for Maximum Longevity

Creating a memorable holiday hairstyle requires both artistic technique and proper structural preparation. Winter weather brings cold outside air and dry indoor heat, which can strip hair of moisture, lead to static, and cause styles to fall flat prematurely.

• Prep with Moisture: Apply a hydrating mask or leave-in conditioner twenty-four hours before your event. Moisturized hair holds curl structure and maintains shine significantly longer than dry, brittle strands.
• Build Foundation Traction: Freshly washed hair can be too slick to hold bobby pins or intricate braids. Use dry shampoo, texturizing spray, or powder at the roots and mid-lengths to create the grip necessary for updos.
• Strategic Pinning: Always insert bobby pins with the wavy side facing down against the scalp; this side is designed to grip the hair and prevent slipping. Crisscross two pins in an “X” shape for maximum anchor security.
• Control Static: Keep a small dryer sheet or anti-static finishing wipe in your evening bag to smooth unexpected flyaways caused by taking off heavy winter coats or wool scarves.