11+ Chic Holiday Hairstyles and Tips You’ll Love
The holiday season is filled with fun events, gatherings, and celebrations. Whatever you do even if you’re attending a family dinner, hanging out with friends, or celebrating in style, your hairstyle can truly complete your look. From my own personal experience, I’ve learned that the right hairstyle can add a touch of magic to any occasion. And let’s face it, everyone wants to look their best during the holidays.
In this blog post, I’m going to share chic stunning holiday hairstyles that are not only trendy but also easy to create. I’ll dive into each hairstyle, provide styling tips, and explain why these looks are perfect for the season. I encourage you to try one of these styles, embrace the wavy trend, and have fun experimenting. So, let’s get started and find the style that steals your spotlight.
1. The Sleek and Shiny Low Bun

If you’re attending a more formal holiday gathering or want a sophisticated look, the sleek low bun is an absolute winner. This style is neat, elegant, and ideal for those who want to keep their hair out of their face but still look polished. Whether you’re headed to a holiday dinner, a Christmas party, or even New Year’s Eve celebrations, this hairstyle will never disappoint.
How to Achieve a Sleek Low Bun:
Start by straightening your hair for that super sleek look. Once your hair is smooth and shiny, gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins. Make sure to pull some strands loose around your face for a soft, elegant effect. To keep the hair in place, use a strong-hold hairspray.
Styling Tips:
- Add a little shine serum to your hair before styling to make sure your bun looks polished and healthy.
- For extra flair, add a pretty hair accessory like a pearl pin or jeweled clip.
- Don’t forget to smooth down any flyaways with a bit of hairspray to ensure the sleekness stays intact.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
A sleek low bun is all about simplicity and elegance. It’s perfect for those who want a clean, sophisticated look without too much effort. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with holiday dresses and formal outfits. A low bun allows you to show off your neckline, and the right accessories can elevate the entire look.
This hairstyle is perfect for those who prefer a classic and refined look. If you’ve ever tried the low bun for a holiday event, I’d love to hear how it went. Was it a hit at your holiday celebration?
2. The Bold and Beautiful Hollywood Curls

For those who love a bit of drama, Hollywood curls are the ultimate holiday hairstyle. Think of the glamorous vintage waves that instantly add a touch of old-school Hollywood charm. These curls are perfect for when you want to feel like a movie star, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to turn heads at a holiday gathering.
How to Achieve Hollywood Curls:
To create this look, start by curling your hair with a large-barrel curling iron. Make sure to curl your hair in one direction for uniform waves. After curling, let the curls cool down before brushing through them with a wide-toothed comb to soften the waves. Finish with a light hairspray to set the style in place. For an extra polished look, you can part your hair deeply to one side.
Styling Tips:
- Use a heat protectant spray to keep your hair healthy and prevent heat damage.
- If you want tighter curls, use a smaller barrel curling iron, and if you want looser waves, go for a larger barrel.
- To really enhance the vintage vibe, consider adding a headband or even a decorative clip to the side of your head for a retro touch.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
Hollywood curls are perfect for those who want a bold, glamorous look. They add volume and texture to your hair and bring an old-school charm to your style. Whether you’re at a formal dinner or a glitzy New Year’s Eve bash, this hairstyle is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Hollywood curls are timeless and make a statement. If you’ve rocked this style at a holiday celebration, I’d love to hear how it went. Did you feel like a true Hollywood star?
3. The Effortless Beach Waves

If you’re looking for a hairstyle that exudes casual chic, beach waves are a great choice. This style is timeless, and it works well for any holiday event. The beauty of beach waves is their relaxed and carefree look, making them perfect for holiday parties and even more casual gatherings. Plus, you don’t need to spend hours in front of the mirror to achieve this look.
How to Achieve Beach Waves:
Start with damp hair. To get the most out of this hairstyle, apply a sea salt spray or texturizing spray to add volume and texture. Afterward, grab your curling iron and create loose waves by wrapping sections of your hair around the barrel. Make sure to leave the ends of your hair out for that natural, undone look. For extra hold, finish with a light hairspray, and you’re ready to shine.
Styling Tips:
- For a more voluminous effect, curl your hair in different directions (some sections clockwise, others counterclockwise).
- For a messier beach wave look, finger-comb your hair after curling it.
- You can add a few braids to your hair before styling to make the waves more defined and structured.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
Beach waves work for any type of holiday occasion. They are great for both formal and casual events, as the look can be dressed up or down depending on the accessories you pair with it. Add some sparkle with a fun headband, or pair it with a bold lipstick for a festive touch. It’s a go-to hairstyle because it’s low-maintenance yet still looks put-together.
4. The Glamorous Fishtail Braid

For those looking for a hairstyle that’s a little more intricate but still stylish and holiday-ready, the fishtail braid is a great choice. This look is elegant and beautiful, making it perfect for more formal holiday events, such as a dinner party or even a New Year’s Eve celebration. It’s unique, sophisticated, and works well with both long and medium hair.
How to Achieve a Fishtail Braid:
To get this look, start by separating your hair into two sections. Then, take a small piece of hair from the outside of one section and cross it over to the opposite section. Repeat this process, alternating sides until you reach the end of your hair. Once you’ve completed the braid, secure it with a hair tie. For an added touch, gently pull on the braid to loosen it up and make it appear fuller.
Styling Tips:
- For a looser, more relaxed look, you can gently tug at the braid to create a more tousled effect.
- To make the braid more festive, you can add small sparkly hairpins or ribbons throughout the braid to make it pop.
- If you’re looking for a little more volume, tease the top of your hair before you start braiding.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
The fishtail braid offers a wonderful balance of elegance and uniqueness, which makes it perfect for a variety of holiday gatherings. Whether you’re headed to a formal event or a more casual holiday gathering, this hairstyle can work for both. It adds a touch of detail to your overall look and keeps your hair out of your face, which is perfect for parties or dinner dates.
The fishtail braid is a great choice for those who want to show off their hair while still maintaining an elegant, intricate style. Have you tried this look for the holidays?
5. The Curly Updo

If you want a hairstyle that’s classic yet full of volume, the curly updo is the way to go. This style is great for special occasions like holiday galas or formal dinners where you want to show up looking polished and put-together. It’s fun, it’s flirty, and the best part is that it works for almost every hair texture.
How to Achieve a Curly Updo:
Start by curling your hair with a curling iron or wand to create defined, voluminous curls. Once your hair is fully curled, gather it at the nape of your neck, leaving some loose curls around the front of your face for a soft, romantic touch. Twist and pin the rest of the curls into a bun or updo, securing with bobby pins. Make sure to leave a few curls out for a playful look, and finish with a hairspray to hold everything in place.
Styling Tips:
- For a more structured updo, curl your hair in smaller sections to create tighter curls.
- If you want a messier, more playful look, curl your hair in larger sections for a looser style.
- You can also add decorative hairpins or clips to make the updo even more festive.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
The curly updo is a gorgeous, timeless hairstyle that exudes elegance. It’s the perfect choice for holiday events where you want to look glamorous without too much fuss. The fullness of the curls adds a lot of volume to your hair and draws attention to your face. Plus, it’s a versatile look that can work with both formal and semi-formal attire.
The curly updo is perfect for those who love volume and want a sophisticated yet playful look. Have you ever worn this style for a holiday event?
6. The Half-Up, Half-Down Twist

If you’re someone who loves to keep it simple yet stylish, the half-up, half-down twist is a fantastic choice for your holiday look. This hairstyle gives you the best of both worlds—keeping some of your hair down for that relaxed, easygoing vibe, while also pulling back the top portion of your hair to show off your face and add volume.
How to Achieve the Half-Up, Half-Down Twist:
Begin by taking two sections of hair from either side of your head, starting just above your ears. Twist these sections away from your face and then secure them at the back of your head with a small elastic band. For added volume and texture, you can curl the bottom portion of your hair before twisting. To finish off the look, gently tug at the twists to loosen them for a more effortless, boho vibe.
Styling Tips:
- For a more polished look, add a few decorative pins to the twist for a little extra sparkle.
- Curl the bottom portion of your hair in loose waves to add texture and movement.
- If you want to go for a more chic look, try adding a small braid on each side of the twist before securing it in place.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
The half-up, half-down twist is perfect for girls who want a look that’s cute and fun yet still festive. This style works well for both casual and semi-formal holiday parties, and it’s especially great for anyone who wants to keep their hair out of their face without going for a full updo. Plus, it’s super easy to do and doesn’t take much time, which is a huge bonus when you’re getting ready for a holiday event.
The half-up, half-down twist is a great option for those looking for something simple and chic for the holidays. Have you tried this style yet?
7. The Retro Pin Curls

For a truly standout holiday look, retro pin curls are a fabulous option. This vintage-inspired hairstyle is all about creating tight, defined curls that give off major old-school glamour. Whether you’re attending a holiday soiree or ringing in the New Year, pin curls are a bold choice that will turn heads wherever you go.
How to Achieve Retro Pin Curls:
Start by creating small, tight curls with a curling iron or hot rollers. Once you’ve curled your hair, pin each curl in place while it cools to hold the shape. After all your curls are pinned and cooled, gently remove the pins and brush through the curls with your fingers to loosen them up and create that classic vintage wave effect. For extra shine and hold, finish with a light hairspray.
Styling Tips:
- If you want a more defined, structured curl, use smaller sections of hair while curling.
- A deep side part can add to the retro vibe, giving the hairstyle that Hollywood glamour feel.
- Add a cute headband or a decorative clip to one side to make the style even more festive and fun.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
Retro pin curls are perfect for girls who want to make a statement with their hair. They scream old-school glam and are perfect for formal events where you want to look polished and fabulous. This vintage style will definitely make you stand out at any holiday celebration, giving you an elegant yet bold look.
Pin curls are perfect for those who want to channel a bit of old Hollywood charm at their holiday parties. Have you tried this look?
8. The Loose Waves

If you’re someone who loves a natural, relaxed look with a little extra glam, loose waves are a great go-to for the holidays. This hairstyle is effortlessly chic and can be dressed up or down depending on the event. Whether you’re attending a cozy family dinner or a more glamorous holiday party, loose waves will always keep you looking effortlessly stylish.
How to Achieve Loose Waves:
Start by curling your hair using a large-barrel curling iron or a wand. Focus on curling the bottom half of your hair, leaving the top portion smooth. Once your curls have cooled down, gently run your fingers through them to loosen them up and create soft, voluminous waves. If you have fine hair, use a texturizing spray to give it some extra body. Finish with a light hairspray to hold the waves in place without weighing them down.
Styling Tips:
- For even more volume, tease the roots slightly before curling your hair.
- Add a bit of shine serum to your hair for a glossy, polished finish.
- If you want to make the waves last longer, curl your hair in sections and pin each curl in place to cool before releasing them.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
Loose waves are a classic holiday look that can be both romantic and laid-back. It’s the kind of style that looks like you didn’t try too hard, but still, gives off a glamorous vibe. Perfect for both family gatherings and holiday cocktail parties, loose waves are versatile and always on point.
Loose waves are ideal for those who want a natural yet polished look for the holidays. Whether it’s a chill gathering or a more formal affair, this hairstyle is sure to shine. Have you tried loose waves for the holidays yet?
9. The Sleek Low Ponytail

For those who prefer a minimalist and sleek hairstyle that still makes an impact, the low ponytail is an excellent choice. This style is sophisticated, simple, and works beautifully for both casual and formal holiday occasions. Whether you’re dressing up or keeping it low-key, the low ponytail is a chic way to keep your hair out of the way while still looking polished.
How to Achieve the Sleek Low Ponytail:
Begin by straightening your hair to get a smooth, sleek base. Then, gather your hair at the nape of your neck, and secure it with a hair tie. For a sleek finish, use a fine-tooth comb to smooth down any flyaways. Wrap a small section of your hair around the base of the ponytail to cover the hair tie and secure it with a bobby pin. Finish with a spritz of hairspray to keep everything in place.
Styling Tips:
- For a more polished look, you can use a shine serum to add some glossy definition to the ponytail.
- If you want to add some extra elegance, pull a few pieces of hair around your face for a soft, romantic touch.
- This style works well with straight or slightly wavy hair.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
The sleek low ponytail is a modern, elegant option for any holiday event. Whether you’re attending a festive dinner or just want something chic for your family gathering, this hairstyle is easy to achieve and looks effortlessly polished. Plus, it keeps your hair out of the way while still highlighting your face and outfit.
The sleek low ponytail is the ultimate no-fuss hairstyle for anyone who wants to look put-together without spending too much time on their hair. Have you tried it out for your holiday events?
10. The Messy Bun with a Twist

The messy bun is a beloved hairstyle because it’s simple, comfortable, and stylish. When you add a twist—whether it’s some loose braids or a few hairpins to keep things interesting—you can create a holiday-ready look that’s both casual and cute. This is a great style for those who want to show off a fun, playful side but still keep it neat enough for any holiday occasion.
How to Achieve the Messy Bun with a Twist:
Start by gathering your hair into a loose ponytail at the crown of your head. Twist the ponytail into a bun, securing it loosely with bobby pins. Then, pull out a few strands of hair around your face for a more relaxed, boho look. For the twist, you can either braid a small section of hair before wrapping it around the bun or add a few decorative hairpins to keep the style fresh and festive.
Styling Tips:
- If you want a more refined look, you can smooth down the top of your hair before securing the bun for a sleeker finish.
- Add a cute ribbon or hair tie around the base of the bun for a holiday touch.
- For more volume, tease the crown of your hair before pulling it back into the ponytail.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
The messy bun with a twist is perfect for those who want a relaxed yet stylish look for their holiday events. It’s effortless and comfortable, which makes it a great choice for holiday parties where you want to move around freely. Plus, you can dress it up with a few fun accessories, like festive pins or sparkly ribbons.
The messy bun with a twist is ideal for those looking for a laid-back yet fashionable hairstyle for the holidays. Have you rocked this look yet?
11. The Braided Crown

If you’re looking for something unique and eye-catching, the braided crown is a beautiful holiday hairstyle that brings a sense of elegance and romance to any occasion. This boho-inspired look is perfect for a more formal holiday event or even a festive brunch with friends. It’s charming and gives a fresh twist to traditional braids, making it perfect for girls who love to experiment with their hair.
How to Achieve the Braided Crown:
Begin by parting your hair in the middle. Start braiding a section of hair from one side of your head, working your way across your crown. Once you’ve reached the other side, pin the braid behind your ear with bobby pins. Repeat this on the other side, creating another braid. Once both braids are secured, connect them at the back of your head to create the crown effect. You can also pull out a few face-framing pieces of hair to soften the look.
Styling Tips:
- For an extra boho vibe, you can add small flowers or a ribbon to the braids for a touch of whimsy.
- If you want a more polished crown, make sure to keep the braids tight and neat as you work.
- This style works well with both straight and wavy hair.
Why It Works for the Holidays:
The braided crown is a gorgeous and elegant hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to any holiday event. It’s perfect for a formal dinner, holiday photo sessions, or even a special New Year’s Eve gathering. The braids frame your face beautifully, and the crown effect is both chic and creative.
Final Thoughts:
The braided crown is a beautiful choice for anyone looking to make a bold but elegant statement at their holiday celebrations. Have you given this style a try? I’d love to hear about how it turned out, and don’t forget to share your name and location in the comments so I can find your feedback easily.
These last four holiday hairstyles provide a variety of looks—from the laid-back messy bun with a twist to the elegant braided crown. Whether you’re aiming for something chic, playful, or totally festive, these styles will help you rock any holiday event. So, which one stole the spotlight for you this season? I’d love to hear about your favorite holiday hairstyles, and don’t forget to drop your name and location in the comments so I can easily find your thoughts. Happy styling, and I hope you have a fabulous holiday season.

Julia is a fashion enthusiast and style curator at StylishlyAmerican.today, sharing chic, timeless, and effortlessly elegant outfit inspirations. She loves helping women elevate their wardrobes with modern sophistication and classic luxury. ✨👗