20 Holiday Hairstyles for Parties in 2026

Holiday parties are a reason to do something new with your hair, but that doesn’t mean you have to have a complicated style. A velvet bow, a few pearl pins, or soft waves can make a regular look feel special without using up all your time getting ready.

These holiday hairstyles include quick options for family gatherings, polished looks for office parties, and hairdos for a holiday party that calls for something more formal. You’ll find ideas for straight, wavy, curly, long, and fine hair, along with simple tips to help your hairstyle stay in place.

What Are the Best Holiday Hairstyles?

Some of the best holiday hairstyles are ribbon ponytails, pearl-pin buns, Hollywood waves, half-up bows, sleek ponytails, and soft braided styles. Choose a low bun or ponytail for high-neck outfits, loose waves for a simple dress, or a decorative clip when you want a festive look without spending much time styling your hair.

Which Holiday Hairstyles Are Trending in 2026?

Hair accessories and polished styles with natural movement are worth considering for holiday parties in 2026. Bows, decorative barrettes, metallic clips, and hair jewelry can turn a simple hairstyle into something more dressed up. Glossy buns and soft waves are also useful choices when you want a neat finish without making your hair look stiff.

You don’t have to follow every trend. Pick one detail that suits your outfit and hair texture, then keep the rest of the look simple.

How to Choose a Holiday Hairstyle for Your Outfit

Good holiday party hair starts with your outfit. Before reaching for your curling iron, think about your neckline and the kind of event you’re attending.

• High-neck dresses and chunky sweaters: A low bun, low ponytail, or braid keeps hair away from the collar.
• Off-the-shoulder outfits: A half-up style or loose waves can balance the open neckline.
• Backless dresses: A bun or twisted updo shows more of the back of your outfit.
• Simple party dresses: Rhinestone clips, a velvet bow or a metallic headband add interest without needing styling.
• Long evenings with dancing: Choose a style with a secure base and enough pins to hold it comfortably.

The texture of hair is important as well. Finer hair may need styling products to stay in place, while thicker hair will likely need extra clips or pins. If you are experimenting with a new style, do so a few days prior to the event.

How to Make Your Holiday Hairstyle Last Longer

A few small adjustments can make styling easier.

Hair that isn’t freshly washed may hold curls and pinned styles better because it has more grip. If your hair is clean and slippery, try a little texture spray or another product suited to your hair type.

Bobby pins can slip out when they don’t hold enough hair, so tuck them into the section you’re trying to secure. For a stubborn bun or twist, try crossing two pins.

Winter weather brings its own problems. Take off a hat after arriving indoors, and your roots may look flat, especially if you spent time curling your hair. A loose braid or low ponytail is usually easier to fix with your fingers than brushed-out curls.

Before leaving home, pop a few extra pins and a pocket comb into your bag. One safety detail worth remembering: use glitter made specifically for cosmetic use, and follow the label directions. Craft glitter isn’t designed for use on your hair or near your eyes.

20 Holiday Hairstyles to Try

1. Velvet Ribbon Bow Ponytail

A velvet bow is an easy way to dress up a ponytail without changing the way you normally style your hair. Gather your hair at the back, secure it with an elastic, and tie a wide ribbon around the base.

Deep red, burgundy, and forest green work well for festive outfits. Let the ribbon ends hang down for a softer finish, or trim them neatly if you prefer a more polished look.

Styling tip: If the bow keeps turning to one side, secure its knot with a discreet bobby pin.

2. Pearl Pin Low Bun

A pearl-bedecked bun would be good for an evening with family and friends or even a formal dinner. Make your bun lower, then twist the hair at its roots and tuck it beneath the bun.

You can arrange the pins along one side or place three close together near the ear. The hairstyle looks particularly nice with an open neckline or statement earrings.

Fine hair may need a little texture spray before pinning. For thick hair, use enough pins to support the bun rather than relying on the decorative ones alone.

3. Glitter Roots

To add a holiday touch without doing anything to your hairstyle, you can add some glitter to the parting of your hair with cosmetic glitter. The glitter goes well with straight hair, curly hair, and even ponytails.

The silver glitter will create a frosty look for your hair, while the gold will give it a warm look. Start off with just a little glitter.

Apply the product according to its instructions and keep it away from your eyes. You can leave the rest of your hair natural, which makes this a useful choice for a last-minute party invitation.

4. Tinsel Strands

For a touch of bling, use some hair tinsel in your style. The hair tinsel blends in well with your hair and glitter in response to your movements. You can wear them with loose curls, straight hair, or a ponytail.

Try silver tinsel with dark hair or a few colored strands for a playful look. You can wear your hair down to show the shimmer or gather it into a loose ponytail.

Keep the rest of your accessories simple if you want the tinsel to stand out. Follow the attachment and removal instructions for your chosen product, and check for tangles before going to bed.

5. Gold Cuffs on Loose Waves

Curl your hair and wait until it cools. Separate the curls with your fingers instead of brushing them out. Add small gold cuffs to two or three strands around the front. You can place them at different heights so they don’t all sit in one spot.

Gold looks lovely against brown, black, and auburn hair, although you can choose silver for a cooler finish. The cuffs can also be worn on a braid if you prefer to keep your hair off your shoulders.

For another accessory-friendly style, see our goddess braids guide.

6. Red Bow Half-Up Hairstyle

Pull back a little hair from each side of your face and fasten the sections together at the back with a red bow clip. Leave the rest hanging loose. Soft waves or straight hair both work well with this simple style.

It works on straight hair, natural waves, and loose curls. A small bow gives the hairstyle a subtle festive detail, while a larger velvet bow creates a stronger statement.

If the sections slip out of the clip, secure them with a small elastic first. The extra support is helpful if you’ll be moving around or dancing.

7. Candy Cane Twist

A red‑and‑white ribbon can turn a hair twist into a playful holiday look. To make it, Divide a section of hair into two parts twist them together and weave the red‑and‑white ribbon through the twist.

You can wear it along one side of your head or add it to a low ponytail. The style suits casual gatherings, family celebrations, and themed holiday parties.

A thin ribbon is easier to work with than a wide one. Tie the ends securely so they don’t loosen while you’re wearing the hairstyle.

8. Rhinestone Clips on a Sleek Part

Start with straight hair and create a clean side part. On the side with less hair, place a short row of rhinestone clips just above the ear.

The smooth finish makes the accessories stand out, so there’s no need for extra decoration. This hairstyle pairs well with a black dress, a satin top, or a simple outfit that needs a little sparkle.

Brush your hair before adding the clips. If your roots tend to lift, use a small amount of styling cream to smooth them without making the hair look greasy.

9. Hollywood Waves

Hollywood waves are a classic choice for a formal holiday party. The look features large, glossy waves brushed into a connected shape rather than separate curls.

Curl sections of hair in a consistent direction, then allow them to cool completely. Brush through gently to create the flowing pattern and finish with a suitable hairspray.

A deep side part gives the hairstyle its familiar shape. It does take more time than a ponytail, so leave enough room in your routine to curl, cool, and brush the hair properly.

10. Metallic Headband on Straight Hair

A metallic headband will instantly transform your straight hair to be suitable for a nighttime gathering in no time at all. Style your hair accordingly and place the headband just behind your hairline.

Gold gives a warm finish, while silver works well with cooler accessories and jewelry. Leave your hair down or tuck it behind your ears to show off your earrings.

Choose a headband that fits comfortably and doesn’t press too tightly against your scalp. If your roots are flat, gently lift them with your fingers before putting the accessory in place.

11. Satin Scarf Ponytail

A silk scarf to add style to a simple ponytail. Tie your hair at the base of your neck or slightly higher, then wrap your scarf around the rubber band.

Choose a scarf that matches your outfit or creates a contrast. A solid red scarf looks festive with a neutral sweater, while a printed design can add interest to a plain dress.

If you’re wearing a coat, check that the scarf ends won’t catch in the zipper or rub against a bag strap. You can fold a wide scarf into a narrow strip for easier styling.

12. Snowflake Pins on a Side Sweep

If you need to style yourself for a winter party, then simply tie your hair to one side and put snowflake pins on the shorter portion of your hair.

Create a deep side part and brush the smaller section back toward your ear. Secure it with ordinary bobby pins first, then place the snowflake accessories over them.

Keep the decorative pins close together so they form one clear detail. If your hair is thick, use stronger pins underneath to keep the sweep from shifting.

13. Barrette Twist Updo

The big barrette will clip the basic twist together and serve as the hairstyle’s key accessory. Twist the hair back, fold the ends inward, and secure with a large barrette to hold it tightly.

The finished look is neat without feeling as formal as a salon updo. It’s a useful choice for high-neck outfits, statement earrings, or occasions when you want your hair off your shoulders.

Thick hair may need extra pins to support the twist. If your hair is fine, choose a lighter barrette so the accessory doesn’t pull the style downward.

14. Holiday Party Messy Bun

A messy bun is a good option when you want your hair up but don’t want every strand to look perfectly arranged. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with pins or an elastic.

Leave a few pieces around your face and loosen the bun slightly once the base is secure. One sparkly pin can give it a holiday finish without making the hairstyle feel too formal.

If you have layers that keep slipping out, pin them near the bun instead of tightening the entire style. That helps keep it comfortable through dinner and dancing.

15. Five-Minute Twist-Back

This style works when you want to do something with your hair but don’t have time for a full updo. Twist a small section from each side of your face, bring both sections together at the back, and fasten them with a pretty clip. Keep the rest of your hair down, whether it’s straight or wavy.

The style works with straight hair and natural waves, and you can create it without heat. For a softer finish, gently loosen each twist before clipping the sections together.

Choose a clip that holds both sections securely. If your hair is especially fine, a small elastic underneath can help prevent the twists from slipping.

16. Low Ponytail Under a Beanie

Low ponytails work well for outdoor holiday get-togethers when it’s very cold. Secure your hair in a low ponytail at the back of your head so it stays comfortably tucked under your beanie.

Keep the elastic secure but not too tight. If your hat has a loose knit, make sure your hair won’t catch in the fabric when you remove it.

Let your roots dry completely before putting on the beanie. Once you’re indoors, take off the hat gently and lift the roots with your fingers to restore a little volume.

17. Vintage Pin Curls

Vintage pin curls provide you with soft, old-school waves which go well with formal wear. Section off your slightly damp hair, form curls out of them, and pin them onto your head in the appropriate manner.

Allow the hair to dry completely before removing the pins. Brush gently to turn the individual curls into a softer wave pattern, then arrange your part and smooth any sections that need attention.

This hairstyle takes more preparation than most of the others on the list. It’s worth practising beforehand, especially if you’re planning to set the curls overnight.

18. Ribbon Woven Braid

Weaving a ribbon into your braid creates a festive touch without having to resort to anything sparkly or jewel-encrusted. Pick a thin ribbon and secure it close to the crown of your head as you weave it into the braid.

Red and gold are classic choices for holiday outfits, while cream or burgundy gives the style a quieter finish. A side braid is easy to show off over one shoulder.

Tie the ribbon near the end and trim any excess. For more ideas to try throughout the year, visit our braided hairstyles guide.

19. Curly Clip-In Ponytail

This curly clip-in ponytail is a great way to add some length and volume without curling your hair. Begin by securing your hair into a ponytail. Then use the instructions to apply the clip-in ponytail. Lastly, style the curls to match your hair.

Check the color and texture before the party. If your natural hair is straight, adding a little curl beforehand may help the two textures blend more naturally.

Make sure the extension feels secure and comfortable. Choose one that doesn’t put excessive weight or tension on your natural hair.

20. Gold Leaf Hair Vine

Gold leaf hair vine adds some glamour to a low ponytail or twist hairstyle. You can wrap the gold leaf hair vine in a curved shape around the low ponytail or place it on the sides of your hair.

This accessory works especially well with formal dresses for evening parties or winter weddings. A simple hairstyle helps the gold details stand out without making the overall look too busy.

Take a moment to check the wire ends before putting it on. They should be tucked away so they don’t scratch your scalp or snag your outfit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Choose a holiday hairstyle that suits your outfit and feels comfortable enough to wear all evening. A simple bow, loose waves, or a low bun can work just as well as a more detailed style. A quick trial before the party will help you know what works for your hair.