The holiday season’s upon us and we’re all scrambling to find that perfect Christmas party look. While we spend hours picking out the ideal outfit and accessories your hairstyle can make or break your entire festive ensemble. Whether you’re attending an office holiday party intimate family gathering or glamorous New Year’s Eve celebration your hair deserves just as much attention as your sparkly dress or sharp suit.
We’ve all been there – staring in the mirror minutes before leaving wondering if our hair looks festive enough for the occasion. The good news? You don’t need a professional stylist to achieve stunning Christmas party hairstyles that’ll turn heads and capture hearts in every holiday photo.
From elegant updos that showcase statement earrings to romantic curls that complement twinkling lights we’re here to guide you through the most gorgeous and achievable Christmas party hairstyles. These looks work for every hair type length and skill level ensuring you’ll feel confident and radiant throughout the holiday season.
Classic Updos That Never Go Out of Style
Timeless elegance defines the perfect Christmas party hairstyle, and classic updos deliver sophistication that transcends seasonal trends. These refined styles create the ideal foundation for holiday glamour while ensuring you look polished throughout the evening.
Elegant Chignon With Festive Hair Accessories
Create a sophisticated chignon that serves as the perfect canvas for seasonal embellishments. Start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck, then twist it into a loose coil before securing with bobby pins. The beauty of this Christmas party hairstyle lies in its versatility – you can adjust the tightness based on your preference.
Elevate your chignon with carefully chosen holiday accessories that complement your outfit. Pearl-studded hair combs, sparkly bobby pins, or delicate gold leaf clips transform a simple updo into a festive masterpiece. We recommend choosing accessories that match your jewelry to create a cohesive look.
Secure the style by using texturizing spray before styling to add grip, then finish with light-hold hairspray to maintain the shape. This approach ensures your elegant updo stays intact during dancing, dinner, and all the holiday festivities.
Sleek Low Bun With Side Part
Master the sleek low bun by starting with damp hair and applying smoothing serum from roots to ends. Create a deep side part using a fine-tooth comb, then gather your hair at the base of your neck for a refined silhouette. This Christmas party hairstyle works exceptionally well for formal events and black-tie celebrations.
Achieve the perfect sleekness by blow-drying your hair straight with a paddle brush, focusing on smoothing any flyaways. Once completely dry, brush your hair back and secure with a clear elastic band at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a neat bun.
Polish the final look with a small amount of hair oil or shine serum applied to the surface of your hair. We suggest using a boar bristle brush to distribute the product evenly and eliminate any remaining texture for that salon-quality finish.
Twisted Crown Braid Updo
Begin your twisted crown braid by sectioning off the front portions of your hair from ear to ear. Create loose twists on each side, working backward toward the crown of your head while incorporating small sections of hair. This Christmas party hairstyle adds romantic texture while keeping hair elegantly away from your face.
Connect the twisted sections at the back of your head and secure with bobby pins that match your hair color. Gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail, then twist it into a bun and pin it underneath the crown braid. The layered effect creates visual interest and dimensional beauty.
Enhance the twisted elements by gently pulling apart the braids to create fuller, more voluminous sections. We recommend leaving a few face-framing pieces loose and curling them softly to add movement and femininity to this sophisticated updo style.
Glamorous Hollywood Waves for Maximum Impact
We’re bringing the red carpet glamour straight to your Christmas party with these show stopping wave techniques. These styles create dramatic volume and sophisticated movement that’ll make you the center of attention at any holiday celebration.
Old Hollywood Side-Swept Waves
We love this timeless style that channels the elegance of classic movie stars from the golden age of cinema. Creating these soft, flowing waves starts with applying a volumizing mousse to damp hair and using a large barrel curling iron to form loose curls throughout your hair.
Brushing the curls gently with a boar bristle brush creates the signature smooth wave pattern that defines this look. We recommend creating a deep side part and sweeping the waves dramatically to one side for maximum impact.
Setting the style with a light hold hairspray ensures your waves stay perfectly positioned throughout the evening. This sophisticated look pairs beautifully with statement earrings and complements both formal gowns and cocktail dresses.
Voluminous Retro Curls
We’re channeling the bouncy, full bodied curls that defined the glamorous 1950s and 1960s eras with this playful yet sophisticated style. These curls require medium sized rollers or a curling iron with a 1.5 inch barrel to achieve the perfect curl size.
Teasing the hair at the crown creates the dramatic volume that makes this style so striking. We suggest using a texturizing spray before curling to give your hair extra grip and hold.
Finger combing the curls once they’ve cooled down creates that signature soft, voluminous texture that’s both festive and elegant. This style works exceptionally well with vintage inspired holiday outfits and adds a touch of whimsy to your Christmas party look.
Modern Finger Waves With Shine
We’re updating the classic finger wave technique with contemporary styling products that create smooth, shiny waves perfect for today’s holiday parties. This sleek style involves using a fine tooth comb and styling gel to create precise wave patterns that lay flat against the head.
Working with small sections at a time allows you to create the defined S shaped curves that characterize this sophisticated look. We recommend using a high shine serum or pomade to achieve the glossy finish that makes this style so modern and striking.
Setting each wave with clips while the hair dries ensures the pattern holds throughout your celebration. This versatile style works beautifully with both short and medium length hair and offers a sleek alternative to traditional holiday curls.
Effortless Half-Up Styles for Versatile Looks
Half-up hairstyles strike the perfect balance between casual and formal, making them ideal Christmas party choices. These versatile looks work beautifully for holiday gatherings while keeping hair manageable throughout the evening.
Twisted Half-Up With Loose Curls
Twisted half-up styles with loose curls offer sophistication without overwhelming your festive outfit. Start by curling the bottom section of your hair with a 1.5-inch barrel curling iron, focusing on creating loose, bouncy waves. Section off the top portion of your hair from ear to ear, then gently twist each side back toward the crown. Secure the twisted sections with clear elastic bands or decorative bobby pins that match your hair color.
This elegant combination adds texture and movement while maintaining an effortless appearance. The loose curls create volume and body, while the twisted top section prevents hair from falling into your face during dinner or dancing. We recommend using a light-hold texturizing spray before curling to enhance the waves’ longevity and add subtle shine.
Braided Crown Half-Up Style
Braided crown half-up styles combine rustic charm with modern flair, creating a stunning holiday look. Begin by parting your hair deeply to one side, then section off a 2-inch wide strip from the deeper side of the part. Create a loose Dutch braid along your hairline, incorporating small sections as you work toward the opposite ear.
Once you reach behind your ear, secure the braid with a clear elastic and gently tug at the braid segments to create fuller, more relaxed loops. This technique, called pancaking, gives the braid a softer, more romantic appearance perfect for Christmas celebrations. Leave the remaining hair flowing naturally or add loose waves for extra texture.
The braided crown element frames your face beautifully while keeping hair secure for active holiday festivities. We suggest finishing with a light misting of flexible hold hairspray to maintain the style’s shape without creating stiffness.
Half-Up Top Knot With Face-Framing Layers
Half-up top knots with face-framing layers deliver chic, effortless style suitable for both casual and formal Christmas events. Gather the top section of your hair from temple to temple, creating a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base to form a messy knot, securing with bobby pins.
Pull out a few strategic strands around your face and at the nape of your neck to create that perfectly imperfect, lived-in texture. These face-framing pieces soften the overall look and add movement when you turn your head. The contrast between the secured top section and flowing bottom creates visual interest while maintaining practicality.
This versatile Christmas party hairstyle works exceptionally well with statement earrings or festive hair accessories. We recommend applying a small amount of texturizing cream to damp hair before styling to enhance grip and create natural-looking piece-y texture throughout the knot.
Stunning Braided Hairstyles to Stand Out
Braided Christmas party hairstyles offer the perfect combination of festive elegance and intricate detail that’s sure to turn heads at any holiday celebration.
Dutch Braid Side Sweep
Dutch braid side sweep creates an asymmetrical masterpiece that frames your face beautifully while maintaining sophisticated party appeal. We start by parting hair deeply on one side and creating a Dutch braid along the hairline from the deeper side toward the opposite ear. The technique involves crossing sections under instead of over as you work across the forehead for that distinctive raised effect.
Secure the braid behind your ear with bobby pins and gently tug at the edges to create texture and volume. Leave a few loose strands around your face for that effortlessly romantic touch that softens the structured look. This style works exceptionally well with both straight and wavy hair textures.
Fishtail Braid With Ribbon Accents
Fishtail braid with ribbon accents transforms a classic technique into a festive masterpiece perfect for Christmas celebrations. We create the fishtail by dividing hair into two sections and repeatedly pulling small pieces from the outside of each section to cross over to the opposite side. The intricate weaving pattern creates a stunning herringbone effect that catches light beautifully.
Incorporate festive ribbon by weaving thin strips of satin or velvet ribbon through the braid as you work down the length. Alternatively, tie a coordinating ribbon around the elastic at the end for an instant pop of holiday color. Gold, deep red, or emerald green ribbons complement the season perfectly and add that extra touch of celebration.
Multiple Mini Braids Into Low Ponytail
Multiple mini braids into low ponytail combines textural interest with elegant simplicity for a versatile Christmas party look. We section off small portions of hair around the crown and temples to create 4-6 small braids of varying sizes. Each braid can be a simple three strand technique or mix in some fishtail braids for added dimension.
Gather all the braids along with the remaining loose hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. The contrast between the detailed braided sections and smooth gathered hair creates visual intrigue that works beautifully with both casual and formal holiday outfits. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it and secure with bobby pins for a polished finish.
Quick and Easy Ponytail Variations
Perfect for busy holiday schedules, these ponytail styles deliver maximum impact with minimal effort.
High Sleek Ponytail With Hair Wrap
Create this polished look by securing your hair into a high ponytail and wrapping a small section around the elastic base. Brush your hair straight back using a smoothing serum to eliminate any bumps or flyaways. Take a one-inch section from underneath the ponytail and wrap it tightly around the hair tie until it’s completely hidden. Secure the wrapped section with a bobby pin that matches your hair color, tucking the end underneath for a seamless finish.
Adding festive accessories like sparkly clips or holiday ribbons transforms this classic style into party-ready glamour. Position decorative elements near the base of the ponytail or scattered throughout the length for maximum visual impact. This sleek style works exceptionally well with straight or lightly waved hair textures.
Low Side Ponytail With Curled Ends
Transform your everyday ponytail by pulling hair to one side and adding romantic curls to the ends. Part your hair dramatically to one side, gathering it at the nape of your neck just behind one ear. Use a 1.5-inch barrel curling iron to create loose waves in the ponytail length, curling away from your face for the most flattering effect.
Enhance this soft style with delicate hairpins or small festive clips positioned near the elastic band. The asymmetrical placement creates visual interest while the curled ends add movement and texture. This versatile look complements both casual holiday gatherings and more formal Christmas celebrations.
Textured Messy Ponytail With Volume
Embrace effortless elegance with this deliberately undone style that radiates relaxed sophistication. Begin by applying texturizing spray to damp hair before blow drying with a round brush to create natural volume at the roots. Gently tease the crown section using a fine-tooth comb, then loosely gather hair into a mid-height ponytail without smoothing down the textured areas.
Leave several face-framing strands loose and lightly curl them for a soft, romantic touch. The key to this style lies in its imperfect finish – avoid over-smoothing or making it too neat. This carefree approach to holiday hair works beautifully with various outfit styles and creates an approachable yet put-together appearance perfect for Christmas parties.
Statement Curls for Added Drama
Statement curls transform any holiday outfit into a show-stopping ensemble that commands attention. These dramatic curl techniques create volume, texture, and sophisticated glamour perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Tight Spiral Curls With Deep Side Part
Tight spiral curls deliver maximum glamour for formal Christmas events and elegant holiday gatherings. Create these dramatic curls using a small barrel curling iron (1-inch or smaller) to wrap small sections of hair tightly around the barrel, holding for 8-10 seconds per section. Deep side parts add sophistication by creating asymmetrical balance that frames your face beautifully while showcasing the curl pattern.
Start with damp hair treated with heat protectant and volumizing mousse for lasting hold. Section your hair into 1-inch pieces, beginning at the bottom layer and working upward. Curl each section away from your face, allowing the spirals to cool completely before gently separating them with your fingers. Finish with a light mist of flexible hold hairspray to maintain the spiral shape throughout your holiday festivities.
Loose Beachy Waves With Texturizing Spray
Loose beachy waves offer relaxed elegance that’s perfect for casual Christmas parties and laid-back holiday celebrations. Apply texturizing spray to damp hair, then scrunch sections while blow-drying with a diffuser attachment to enhance natural wave patterns. This technique creates effortless movement and volume without the structured appearance of traditional curls.
Enhance the beachy texture by braiding slightly damp hair into 2-3 loose braids before bed, then unraveling them in the morning for natural-looking waves. Texturizing spray adds grip and separation to individual strands, creating that coveted tousled appearance. Scrunch additional texturizing spray into dry hair for extra volume and hold that lasts through dancing and celebration.
Asymmetrical Curls With Bold Accessories
Asymmetrical curls create unique visual interest by featuring different curl patterns or sizes on each side of your head. Combine tight curls on one side with looser waves on the other, or create a dramatic side part that showcases varying curl intensities. This modern approach to holiday styling allows for creative expression while maintaining elegant sophistication.
Bold accessories like star-shaped hair clips transform asymmetrical curls into festive masterpieces that capture the Christmas spirit. Position Christmas-themed ribbons throughout the looser side of your curls, or add multiple small star clips along the part line for subtle sparkle. Metallic hair accessories in gold, silver, or rose gold complement the dramatic curl contrast while adding holiday glamour that photographs beautifully under party lights.
Festive Hair Accessories to Complete Your Look
Accessories transform ordinary hairstyles into show-stopping holiday masterpieces. We’ve discovered the perfect finishing touches that’ll make your Christmas party look unforgettable.
Sparkly Hair Clips and Pins
Sparkly Hair Clips and Pins add instant glamour to any hairstyle without requiring advanced styling skills. Multiple star-shaped clips create a whimsical constellation effect when positioned strategically above one ear. Glittery bobby pins work beautifully to secure loose strands while maintaining the festive sparkle throughout your evening.
Crystal-encrusted barrettes elevate simple updos into red-carpet worthy styles. Small rhinestone pins scattered throughout braided hairstyles catch the light beautifully as you move. Vintage-inspired jeweled clips complement retro finger waves and Old Hollywood styles perfectly.
Velvet Headbands and Scrunchies
Velvet Headbands and Scrunchies provide both comfort and sophisticated holiday appeal. Wide velvet headbands in deep burgundy or emerald green complement any hair color while adding luxurious texture to your look. Padded velvet headbands prevent discomfort during long holiday gatherings.
Velvet scrunchies in rich jewel tones secure ponytails without creating harsh creases in your hair. Oversized velvet scrunchies make statement pieces that coordinate beautifully with holiday outfits. Twisted velvet headbands create elegant bohemian vibes when worn with loose waves or textured curls.
Pearl and Crystal Hair Combs
Pearl and Crystal Hair Combs deliver timeless elegance that photographs beautifully at formal Christmas events. Ornate crystal combs positioned at the nape of the neck enhance low chignons and sophisticated updos. Delicate pearl combs work wonderfully to secure side-swept sections in half-up hairstyles.
Vintage-inspired combs featuring both pearls and crystals create heirloom-quality finishing touches. Side combs adorned with cascading crystals add movement and sparkle to sleek straight styles. Art deco inspired combs complement finger waves and other vintage-inspired holiday hairstyles perfectly.
Conclusion
The holiday season offers countless opportunities to showcase your personal style through stunning Christmas party hairstyles. Whether you’re drawn to classic updos that exude timeless elegance or prefer the modern glamour of Hollywood waves we’ve covered options for every preference and skill level.
From effortless half-up styles that balance casual and formal vibes to intricate braided masterpieces that turn heads these looks ensure you’ll feel confident at any festive gathering. Quick ponytail variations prove that sophistication doesn’t require hours of preparation while statement curls add the perfect amount of drama to your holiday ensemble.
Don’t forget the groundbreaking power of festive accessories – they’re the secret to elevating any hairstyle from ordinary to extraordinary. With these techniques in your styling arsenal you’re ready to make unforgettable memories while looking absolutely radiant throughout the entire holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I achieve professional-looking Christmas party hairstyles at home?
Yes! The article emphasizes that stunning holiday hairstyles can be achieved without a professional stylist. With proper techniques, the right products like texturizing sprays and smoothing serums, and step-by-step guidance, you can create elegant updos, glamorous curls, and sophisticated braids at home regardless of your skill level.
What are the best classic updo styles for holiday parties?
The top classic updos include an elegant chignon with festive accessories, a sleek low bun with side part for formal events, and a romantic twisted crown braid updo. These timeless styles work for all hair types and lengths, offering sophistication and elegance perfect for any holiday celebration.
How do I create Hollywood-style waves for Christmas parties?
Achieve Old Hollywood glamour using volumizing mousse and a large barrel curling iron for soft, flowing waves. For retro curls, use medium-sized rollers with teasing for dramatic volume. Modern finger waves require contemporary products for a sleek, shiny finish that complements holiday outfits perfectly.
What are some quick hairstyles for busy holiday schedules?
Effortless options include twisted half-up styles with loose curls, braided crown half-up looks, and half-up top knots with face-framing layers. Quick ponytail variations like high sleek ponytails with hair wraps, low side ponytails with curled ends, and textured messy ponytails offer maximum impact with minimal effort.
Which braided hairstyles work best for holiday events?
Popular festive braids include the Dutch braid side sweep for face-framing sophistication, fishtail braids with ribbon accents for holiday color, and multiple mini braids gathered into a low ponytail. These styles combine textural interest with elegant simplicity, suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
How can hair accessories enhance my holiday hairstyle?
Festive accessories transform ordinary styles into show-stopping looks. Sparkly hair clips and pins add instant glamour, velvet headbands and scrunchies provide sophisticated comfort, while pearl and crystal hair combs deliver timeless elegance. These accessories complement various hairstyles and enhance your overall festive appearance.
What curl styles add the most drama to holiday outfits?
Statement curls include tight spiral curls with deep side parts for formal events, loose beachy waves for casual gatherings, and asymmetrical curls paired with bold accessories for unique flair. These techniques enhance volume and texture while maintaining sophistication and capturing the festive spirit.
