Hi, I’m Lena — a salon stylist with over 10 years of experience creating looks for every holiday event. In this post I present 32 Christmas hairstyles for women, each shown with an image to inspire your festive season. From classic updos and romantic waves to textured braids and quick party-ready styles, these looks suit every hair length and texture: short bobs, shoulder-length cuts, long layers, fine strands, and thick natural curls. I’ll share practical styling tips — which tools and heat settings work best, how to prep fragile or colored hair, and easy accessory tricks to elevate your look. Whether you’re attending a formal dinner, a cozy family gathering, or ringing in New Year’s, you’ll find styles that are salon-polished yet achievable at home. Follow my step ideas to adapt each look to your face shape and outfit, and enjoy confident, long-lasting holiday hair.
Long Textured Waves with Side-Swept Fringe — Beanie-Friendly
This long, textured wave look with a soft side-swept fringe is ideal for medium to thick hair and works well on natural waves, loose curls, or straight hair that wants body. To create it, start on towel-dried hair with a lightweight mousse or sea-salt spray to add grip; apply a heat protectant. Blow-dry with a diffuser or use a round brush to smooth the fringe while maintaining root lift. Use a 1–1.25 inch curling wand or flat iron to create loose, alternating S-shaped waves, leaving ends slightly undone for a natural finish. Finger-comb and scrunch in a matte texturizing spray or lightweight finishing cream, then set with flexible hold hairspray. Tools: diffuser or blow dryer, wide-barrel curling wand or flat iron, sectioning clips, paddle brush. Products: heat protectant, light mousse or salt spray, texturizing spray, flexible hairspray, occasional smoothing serum for ends. Difficulty: easy–moderate — quick once you master alternating directions. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillow or loose braid, refresh with spray water + texture spray, trim fringe every 4–8 weeks and deep-condition weekly to maintain shine.
Long Textured Beach Waves with Face‑Framing Layers — Beanie‑Friendly Look
A relaxed, long textured wave with subtle face‑framing layers that works perfectly with a beanie. Suitable for medium to thick hair and for fine hair with added product for body, this style emphasizes natural movement and soft, undone waves. Start on towel‑dried hair with a lightweight mousse or sea‑salt spray, then rough‑dry with a diffuser or air‑dry until 70–80% dry. For definition, use a 1
Long Beachy Blonde Waves — Loose Textured Waves with Natural Volume
From salon experience, this long beachy wave is ideal for medium to thick hair and natural wavy textures, and can be adapted for fine hair using volume-boosting products or extensions. Styling technique: towel-dry then rough-dry with a diffuser or blow dryer; apply a heat protectant and a lightweight volumizing mousse from roots to mid-lengths. Create loose S-shaped waves with a 1–1¼ curling wand or large-barrel iron, wrapping alternating sections and leaving the last 1–2 inches out for an undone finish. Let curls cool, then gently separate with fingers or a wide-tooth comb for soft texture. Tools needed: blow dryer (diffuser optional), 1–1¼ curling wand, sectioning clips, wide-tooth comb/brush. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or sea-salt spray, texturizing spray, lightweight hair oil for ends, flexible hold hairspray. Difficulty: easy–medium — roughly 20–35 minutes depending on length and density. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or in a loose braid, refresh with dry shampoo and a light mist of sea-salt spray, deep-condition weekly, and book toning or glossing every 6–8 weeks for bright blonde tones.
Loose Textured Low Double Braids — Beanie-Friendly Beachy Pigtails
Suitability: Best on medium to long hair; works well with naturally wavy or straight textures. Thick hair gives fuller braids; fine hair benefits from texturizing products or light clip-in pieces. Styling technique: Start with a center part, apply a sea salt or texturizing spray to damp or dry hair, then loosely french or three-strand braid each side from just below the ear and secure with small elastics. Tug gently along the braid to pancake for width and softness; pull a few face-framing pieces free for a relaxed look. Tools needed: wide-tooth comb, tail comb for parting, small clear elastics, bobby pins, and optional curling iron to add pre-braid waves. Products required: sea salt or texturizing spray, dry shampoo for grip, lightweight hair oil for ends, and a flexible-hold hairspray to lock the shape. Difficulty level: Easy — suitable for at-home styling (10–20 minutes). Maintenance tips: Refresh with dry shampoo and re-pancake braids daily; sleep in a silk scarf or loose bun to reduce frizz; avoid tight elastics to protect hair; trim ends regularly to prevent split ends and maintain a healthy, lived-in finish.
Side‑Swept Vintage Waves with Festive Hair Accessory (Long/Medium Hair)
This polished, side‑swept vintage wave is best for medium to long hair and works well on fine, medium or slightly thick textures. Fine hair benefits from root lift and setting; thicker hair may need larger barrel tools and more sections. Start with a deep side part, apply a heat protectant and volumizing mousse to damp hair, then blow‑dry smooth using a round brush. Create waves with a 1–1.5 inch curling iron or large hot rollers, wrapping each section away from the face for that uniform S‑shape. Pin the first few warm curls at the root on the non‑parted side to set the silhouette, then gently brush through with a boar/paddle brush for soft, glossy waves. Add a decorative clip or comb and secure with blunt bobby pins. Tools: curling iron or hot rollers, round brush, tail comb, sectioning clips, bobby pins. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, light serum for shine, medium‑hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate — requires sectioning and timing. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh with a light mist and re‑curl a few pieces, and use dry shampoo at roots to extend wear.
Ribboned Double Space Buns with Loose Braids — Textured Updo
This playful, salon-ready style suits medium to long hair and works best on straight to wavy textures; medium-thick hair gives the fullest result. Fine hair benefits from light backcombing or clip-in extensions for added bulk, while very curly hair should be smoothed slightly for the ribbon detail to sit neatly. Technique: create a clean center part, section two high crown areas for the space buns and secure with elastics; backcomb the bun bases for texture, wrap and pin into loose, messy buns. Leave the front/lower sections and form two loose, slightly pancaked braids that are pulled apart for volume, then wrap ribbon around each bun and tie for a decorative finish. Tools: tail comb, paddle brush, small elastics, bobby pins, sectioning clips, and a light curling iron (optional) to shape face-framing pieces. Products: dry shampoo or texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray, smoothing serum for flyaways, and a touch of pomade for hold. Difficulty level: moderate (25–40 minutes). Maintenance: refresh texture with dry shampoo, tame flyaways with serum, and resecure ribbons/elastics after 1–2 days; sleep on a silk pillow or wrap with a scarf to preserve shape.
Romantic Messy Updo with Side-Swept Fringe and Berry Hair Accessory
This romantic, slightly messy updo with a side-swept fringe and loose tendrils suits medium-to-thick hair and works well on straight, wavy or lightly textured hair; fine hair can be enhanced with texturizing products or padding, and very curly hair should be blown out or smoothed for the same look. Start on towel-dried hair: apply heat protectant and volumizing mousse, rough-dry with a round brush to add lift. Create a loose crown by backcombing the roots and pinning sections into a soft bouffant. Twist or loosely braid side sections and pin them toward the back, leaving face-framing pieces. Curl the tendrils with a 1 curling iron and finger-comb for softness. Secure with discreet bobby pins and add a berry accessory for a festive finish. Tools and products: blow dryer, round brush, 1 curling iron or wand, bobby pins, rat-tail comb, dry shampoo, texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray, shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — allow 30–45 minutes. Maintenance: refresh texture with dry shampoo or texturizer, retwist and re-pin loose pieces, avoid heavy brushing, and sleep on a silk pillowcase or use a loose pineapple to preserve the shape.
Textured Romantic Updo with Face‑Framing Tendrils and Festive Berry Accent
This soft, textured updo works best on medium to thick hair and naturally wavy or loose-curly textures; fine hair can achieve the same look with lightweight padding or a few clip-in extensions for body. Start by prepping clean, towel-dried hair with a volumizing mousse at the roots and a heat-protectant through the lengths. Rough-dry while lifting at the crown, then add sea-salt or texturizing spray for grip. Create loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling wand, leave the front sections out, and gather hair into a low, twisted bun using twisted/looped sections to build randomized texture. Secure with bobby pins and U-pins, tucking a small festive sprig or faux-berry accessory into one side. Tools: blow dryer with diffuser/brush, curling wand, teasing comb, sectioning clips, elastics, bobby pins and U-pins. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, texturizing spray, light-to-medium hold hairspray, anti-frizz serum or shine mist. Difficulty: moderate — 30–45 minutes in salon conditions. Maintenance tips: refresh tendrils with a quick curl, re-secure loose pins, use dry shampoo at the roots to extend wear, and sleep with a silk wrap to preserve shape.
Textured Romantic Bridal Updo with Loose Face‑Framing Tendrils
This soft, textured bridal updo suits medium to thick hair and medium‑to‑long lengths best; fine or shorter hair can achieve the same look with subtle clip‑in extensions. Start by protecting hair with a heat protectant, then create loose waves with a 1–1.25 inch curling iron to add movement. Backcomb the crown slightly for lift, section the hair into manageable panels, and loosely twist and pin each section toward a low/side chignon, pulling gently on loops to create volume and soft texture. Leave delicate face‑framing tendrils and tuck a floral or berry accessory into the finished shape. Tools: curling iron/wand, blow dryer and round brush, tail comb, sectioning clips, teasing comb, numerous bobby pins and small elastics. Products: heat protectant, root‑lifting mousse or spray, texturizing/dry shampoo, flexible medium‑hold hairspray, and a light shine serum. Difficulty: moderate — salon stylists can build this in 30–60 minutes; at home it requires practice. Maintenance tips: carry extra pins and travel hairspray, avoid over‑touching, refresh volume with a dry shampoo at the roots, and sleep on a silk pillowcase to preserve the shape.
Textured Romantic Updo with Wispy Fringe and Face‑Framing Tendrils
Suitable for fine to medium hair and can be adapted for thicker textures; best on shoulder-length to long hair, and flatters layered cuts and natural waves. Start by applying root-lifting mousse and heat protectant to towel-dried hair; blow-dry the fringe with a round brush to create a soft sweep, then mist mid-lengths with salt spray for grip. Section and loosely twist or roll hair into an effortless, textured updo — backcomb the crown slightly for lift and secure sections with bobby pins, leaving a few face‑framing tendrils out. Use a 1 curling wand to soften the tendrils and add movement. Finish with a lightweight flexible-hold hairspray and a small amount of shine serum to tame flyaways, then add a decorative pin or comb if desired. Tools: blow-dryer, round brush, tail comb, teasing brush, 1 curling wand, bobby pins, elastics, sectioning clips. Products: heat protectant, root-lift mousse, sea-salt/texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray, smoothing serum, dry shampoo for refreshes. Difficulty: intermediate; allow 20–35 minutes. Maintenance: refresh texture with dry shampoo or salt spray, retouch tendrils with a wand, and sleep on a silk pillowcase or loose scarf to preserve shape. Trim bangs regularly to maintain the soft fringe.
Romantic Textured Messy Updo with Floral Accent
This soft, textured messy updo suits medium to thick hair and works beautifully on wavy or slightly curled textures; fine hair can achieve the same volume with light padding or clip-in pieces. Start with clean, towel-dried hair treated with a heat protectant and a lightweight volumizing mousse. Blow-dry with a round brush for lift at the crown, or diffuse to enhance natural waves. Create loose curls with a 1–1.25” curling wand for texture, then section and gently backcomb the crown for height. Twist and pin relaxed sections into a low, slightly off-center bun, leaving a few face-framing pieces out; secure with bobby pins and a strong elastic. Insert the decorative floral accent last to conceal pins and add polish. Tools: blow dryer, round brush, curling wand, tail comb, bobby pins, elastics. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, texturizing spray/salt spray, medium-hold hairspray, small finishing oil. Difficulty: moderate — achievable at home with practice but quicker in-salon. Maintenance: refresh texture with dry shampoo, re-secure loose pieces with pins, avoid heavy brushing, and sleep with a silk scarf to preserve shape.
Festive Halo Braid with Wrapped Braids and Pine Sprig Accents
Suitable for medium to long hair and best on hair with medium to thick density or added extensions, this halo-style braided updo creates a romantic, structured look. From salon experience, start with clean, dry hair prepped with a texturizing spray for grip. Create a deep side part and craft two Dutch/French braids along the hairline, then feed and wrap them into a low wrapped bun or halo; gently pull the braid loops to soften and add volume. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, lots of bobby pins and U-pins, optional curling iron for prepping pieces, wire cutters and florist wire/tape for greenery. Products: heat protectant, dry shampoo or texture powder, smoothing serum for flyaways, medium-hold hairspray. Difficulty: Intermediate — requires clean, even braiding and secure pinning (45–75 minutes). Maintenance tips: secure any foliage with wired picks or stems to avoid slipping and moisture; mist with flexible-hold spray throughout wear; avoid heavy handling and keep pinned areas supported with extra pins if dancing. For fresh greenery, consider professional insertion to prevent staining and extend wear.
Loose Textured Side Braid‑Bun with Festive Berry Hairpiece
A salon-friendly look that pairs a soft, textured side braid finished into a low, loose bun and accented with a festive berry clip. Best for medium to long hair; works well on straight, wavy, and slightly curly textures. Fine hair benefits from light padding or clip-in pieces for fullness, while very curly hair should be smoothed slightly where desired. Technique: start with towel-dried hair treated with heat protectant and volumizing mousse, blow-dry with a round brush or diffuse for natural curl. Create large, loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling iron, then lightly backcomb the crown for lift. Gather a side section and work a loose French/Dutch braid toward the nape, pull gently to pancake for width, then twist the remaining length into a soft bun and secure with pins. Tools needed: curling iron, tail comb, sectioning clips, elastics, and varied-length bobby pins. Products: heat protectant, texturizing spray or powder, flexible-hold hairspray, and a light shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate (25–45 minutes). Maintenance: refresh texture with dry shampoo, re-pin loosened pieces, touch up face‑frames with a curling iron, and sleep on a silk pillowcase to preserve shape.
Textured Romantic Side Braid with Berry Floral Crown
This romantic, textured side braid with a berry floral crown suits medium-to-long hair and flatters most textures—wavy and curly hair will hold texture best, while fine hair benefits from volume-building prep. To create it, lightly mist hair with salt spray and mousse, rough-dry, then use a 1 curling wand to add loose waves. Section the crown, backcomb slightly for lift, and begin a loose Dutch/French braid toward one side, incorporating sections and gently pulling each pass to pancake the braid for width. Secure with an elastic, then wrap and pin sections to soften the silhouette. Tuck a berry-accented floral crown along the hairline and anchor with bobby pins; leave a few face-framing tendrils for a soft finish. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, 1 curling wand, elastic bands, bobby pins. Products: heat protectant, sea-salt or texturizing mousse, volumizing powder, medium-hold hairspray, light shine serum. Difficulty: Intermediate — expect 25–40 minutes in a salon setting. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase, refresh with dry shampoo and a light mist of hairspray, re-pin loosened pieces as needed, and avoid heavy oils at the roots to preserve lift.
Voluminous Curly Holiday Updo with Pine & Bauble Accents
Suitability: Works best on medium-to-thick, long hair or extensions; fine hair can be boosted with padding or clip-ins. Technique: Start on clean, dry hair prepped with volumizing mousse at the roots and curl cream through the lengths. Blow-dry with a round brush or diffuser, then create defined spiral curls with a 3/4–1 barrel curling iron. Lightly backcomb the crown for height, gather the top into a loose half-up twist and pin with hidden bobby pins. Arrange cascading curls down the sides, pinning each curl to shape and build volume. Weave in wired evergreen sprigs, small baubles and micro LED lights using floral wire and U-pins; anchor heavier ornaments near the base and distribute weight evenly. Tools: blow dryer with diffuser, 3/4–1 curling wand, teasing comb, sectioning clips, bobby/straight pins, floral wire and needle-nose pliers. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, curl-defining cream, texturizing spray and a strong flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: Advanced — allow 60–90 minutes; recommended for stylists or experienced home stylists. Maintenance: avoid moisture, refresh curls with low-heat touch-ups, carry spare pins and battery pack, and remove ornaments gently to prevent breakage.
Vintage Pin-Up Victory Rolls with Defined Barrel Curls
This vintage-inspired style features structured victory rolls at the crown with soft, defined barrel curls cascading down the sides — ideal for medium to long hair and most textures. Fine hair benefits from a volumizing mousse and root lift; medium or slightly thick hair holds the shape well when prepped and set. Technique: work on dry, prepped hair; section the top into two wide triangular panels for the rolls, backcomb lightly at the roots for grip, roll each panel inward toward the hairline and pin with strong bobby pins or duckbill clips. Create barrel curls on remaining lengths using 3/4–1 curling iron or hot rollers, cool completely before brushing into shape. Tools: tail comb, 1 curling iron or hot rollers, Velcro rollers, duckbill clips, bobby pins, round brush. Products: heat protectant, setting lotion or mousse, firm-hold hairspray, light shine serum. Difficulty: medium — requires precision and patience but no advanced cutting. Maintenance: sleep with a silk scarf or bonnet, refresh with a light spray of water and styling foam, reheat/curl individual sections as needed, and avoid heavy brushing to keep the roll structure intact.
Romantic Textured Side Braid Updo with Berry Accents
This romantic, textured side-twist braid with decorative berry accents suits medium-to-long hair and adapts well from fine to thick textures; fine hair benefits from light padding or extensions for fullness, while naturally curly hair should be smoothed slightly before shaping. Start by applying heat protectant and volumizing mousse to damp hair, blow-dry with a round brush to create lift at the roots. Use a 1- to 1.25-inch curling iron to add loose waves, then create a low, loose three-strand or pulled-through braid on one side, twisting and pinning sections to build soft volume. Tuck hair into a relaxed side roll, secure with elastics and plenty of bobby pins, and add decorative berry picks last. Tools: curling iron, tail comb, sectioning clips, elastics, varied-length bobby pins. Products: heat protectant, texturizing spray or sea-salt mist, light shine serum, flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate — 30–60 minutes depending on skill. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or in a loose updo, refresh texture with dry shampoo or light mist and finger-twist loose pieces, and periodically check pins to keep embellishments secure.
Side Chunky Braid with Red Streaks and Festive Ornamentation
Suitable for medium to long hair, this side, chunky pulled-through braid with red streaks and festive ornaments works best on straight to slightly wavy hair. Fine hair benefits from clip-in volume extensions for fullness; very thick hair holds the shape naturally but may need smoothing at the roots. Styling technique: pre-tone and prepare colored panels or add colored wefts, blow-dry smooth with root lift, then create a loose side French/three-strand or pull-through braid. Pancake each section by gently pulling loops to achieve the exaggerated chunky effect, then pin ornaments and bows into the braid with discreet pins. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, paddle brush, small elastics, plenty of bobby pins, and a 1 curling or flat iron for shaping. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, texturizing spray for grip, lightweight serum for shine, and a strong-hold hairspray. Difficulty level: Advanced (4/5) — color placement and accessory styling benefit from a professional. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase, re-secure decorations before wear, refresh texture with dry shampoo and light hairspray, and use color-safe products to protect the red tones.
Voluminous Beehive Updo with Full Fringe and Festive Pine Accent
This voluminous beehive updo with full fringe and festive pine accent is ideal for medium to thick hair and can be adapted for fine hair with temporary padding or clip-in extensions. Best on straight to slightly wavy textures, it starts with a root-lifting mousse on damp hair and blow-drying with a round brush. Section the crown, backcomb/tease the roots to build volume, then smooth the top layer with a soft brush and shape into a high bouffant. Secure with hidden elastics and plenty of long bobby pins, create a low twisted bun or tucked roll at the nape for stability, and leave a few face-framing tendrils curled with a 1 barrel. Finish by pinning the holiday greenery piece above the crown. Tools needed: blow dryer, round brush, teasing/rat-tail comb, curling iron, sectioning clips, bobby pins, elastics, and optional hair padding. Products: volumizing mousse, root-lift spray, texturizing powder, heat protectant, medium-strong hairspray and a light shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate to advanced — plan 45–75 minutes; book a stylist for formal events. Maintenance tips: carry spare pins and travel hairspray, avoid humidity, refresh volume with dry shampoo, and remove decorative pieces carefully to prevent breakage.
Retro Finger Wave & Pin Curl Updo — Vintage Holiday Hairstyle
This polished vintage updo combines structured finger waves at the front with soft pin-curl rolls gathered into a low chignon. Best suited to straight or slightly wavy hair in medium to long lengths; thick hair holds the shape best, while fine hair benefits from light texturizing or padding. For very curly hair, begin with a smooth blowout. Technique: work on clean, lightly damp hair; create S-shaped finger waves at the hairline using a fine-tooth comb and setting clips, then take 1–2-inch sections, roll into pin curls and secure flat to the head before molding the back into a low rolled bun. Tools needed: rat-tail comb, fine-tooth comb, curling iron or hot rollers (optional), metal setting clips, bobby pins, duckbill clips, and a hair net for extra hold. Products required: heat protectant, setting lotion or mousse, medium- to strong-hold hairspray, and a lightweight shine serum. Difficulty: advanced — salon or practiced hands recommended; allow 60–90 minutes. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow or use a loose hair net, refresh with a light mist of hairspray and a dab of serum, and secure accessories with discreet pins to protect the style.
Textured Romantic Curly Updo with Star Accessories and Face‑Framing Tendrils
Ideal for medium-to-thick hair with natural wave or loose curl; straight hair will also hold after pre-texturizing. Technique: start on clean, towel-dried hair—apply heat protectant and a volumizing mousse, then blow-dry with a round brush for lift. Create 1
Romantic Voluminous Ribbon-Braided Updo for Long Hair
This romantic ribbon-braided updo works best on medium to long hair and suits fine-to-medium and thick textures; wavy hair gives the most natural hold, while straight hair benefits from light curling or texturizing. Start by applying heat protectant and a root-lifting mousse to damp hair, then blow-dry with a round brush for volume. Create loose, soft curls with a 1-inch curling iron to add texture. Backcomb the crown slightly, gather hair into a high ponytail and secure with a small elastic. Weave a ribbon into a three-strand or segmented “bubble” braid, securing sections with clear elastics and tying bows at intervals; pancake the braid gently for fullness and insert discreet bobby pins to fix flyaways. Tools: blow dryer, round brush, 1-inch curling iron, tail comb, sectioning clips, elastics, bobby pins, and a decorative ribbon. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or spray, texturizing/dry shampoo, flexible-hold hairspray and a light shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–45 minutes. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillow or loosely wrap with a silk scarf, refresh curls with a quick mist and finger-combing, retie ribbon bows as needed, and avoid heavy brushing to preserve shape.
Romantic Textured Updo with Red Floral and Berry Accents
This elegant, textured updo is best for medium to long hair and adapts well to fine, medium and thick densities—wavy or slightly curled hair gives the most natural hold and movement. Start by prepping hair with a heat protectant and a volumizing mousse, then blow-dry with a round brush for body. Create loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling iron, backcomb the crown lightly for lift, and gather hair into a low-to-mid chignon using sectioned pinning rather than a single ponytail to keep shape soft and full. Tuck and pin face‑framing pieces for a romantic finish, and attach the floral/berry accessory with U‑pins and long bobby pins anchored into the hair, not just the decoration. Tools: curling iron, fine tail comb, teasing brush, sectioning clips, assorted bobby pins/U‑pins, light elastic. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, texturizing spray or dry shampoo, medium-hold hairspray, light shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–60 minutes. Maintenance tips: carry spare pins and travel hairspray, avoid heavy handling, re-spray roots mid-event for hold, and schedule a trial for complex accessories.
Vintage Side‑Swept Low Chignon with Holiday Floral Accent
This elegant side‑swept low chignon suits medium to thick hair and shoulder‑length to long lengths; fine hair can achieve the look with padding or light teasing for volume. Start on clean, towel‑dried hair with a volumizing mousse at the roots, then blow‑dry with a round brush to build smooth shape. Create a deep side part and set large, uniform waves with a 1¼–1½ inch curling iron or hot rollers. Finger‑comb waves into soft S‑shapes, then gather hair low at the nape and twist into a loose chignon, securing with long bobby pins and small elastics. Tuck decorative holiday sprigs or a floral clip into the side for a festive finish. Tools: blow‑dryer, round brush, curling iron or hot rollers, tail comb, sectioning clips, bobby pins, small elastic, optional padding. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root lift, light texturizing spray, strong‑hold hairspray, and a smoothing serum or shine spray. Difficulty: moderate — requires precision in wave shaping and pin placement. Maintenance: refresh with travel hairspray and extra pins, sleep on a silk pillowcase, and avoid heavy oils near roots to preserve hold.
Festive Romantic Textured Side Braid with Holiday Berry Accents
This romantic, textured side braid is ideal for long, medium-to-thick hair and can be adapted for fine hair with clip-in extensions or light padding. Start on second-day hair or spray dry shampoo for grip. Create loose waves with a 1–1.25” curling wand, tease lightly at the crown for volume, and sweep hair to one side. Build a low, loose three-strand or pull-through braid, securing sections with small clear elastics and pancaking each segment for fullness. Anchor the braid at the nape with a discreet elastic and hide it by wrapping a small section of hair. Finish by tucking seasonal sprigs or berry picks into the braid and fastening them with bobby pins threaded along the stems. Tools needed: curling wand, tail comb, sectioning clips, small elastics, bobby pins. Products: heat protectant, texturizing or sea-salt spray, lightweight smoothing serum, flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate — allow 25–40 minutes. Maintenance: sleep with a silk scarf, refresh face-framing tendrils with a quick curl, reapply light hairspray to tame flyaways, and remove floral accents gently to avoid hair breakage.
Vintage Hollywood Voluminous Curls with Deep Side Sweep and Floral Crown
Classic voluminous vintage curls with a deep side sweep and floral crown. Best suited to medium-to-long lengths and medium-thick to thick hair; fine hair can achieve similar lift with root-lifting products and extended setting time, while very curly hair benefits from a smoothing blowout first. Technique: create a deep side part, blow-dry with a round brush to build root volume, then set large sections (1–1.5 barrel or hot rollers) into uniform S-shaped curls. Pin each curl to cool, backcomb lightly at the crown for height, and brush out gently with a boar-bristle brush for soft waves; finish by shaping with fingers and securing floral pieces. Tools needed: 1–1.5 curling iron or hot rollers, blow dryer, large round brush, tail comb, sectioning clips, setting clips. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root-lift spray, light finishing serum for shine, medium-hold flexible hairspray, and dry shampoo for longevity. Difficulty: intermediate — 60–90 minutes. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillow or loosely wrap with a silk scarf, refresh with low-heat touch-ups or steam, use dry shampoo at roots, and avoid heavy oils that weigh curls down.
Romantic Voluminous Textured Updo with Berry Floral Accents
Suitability: Best for long, medium-to-thick hair; fine hair can be built up with lightweight padding or clip-in wefts. Styling technique: Prep hair with heat protectant and volumizing mousse, blow-dry with a round brush for lift. Create loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling iron, then backcomb the crown for volume. Section the hair into loose panels, twist and loosely pin each section into a low, cascading bun and secure open loops for texture. Leave soft face-framing tendrils. Add berry and foliage accents by wiring small stems to hairpins or combs and anchoring them into the stronger twist points rather than delicate ends. Tools needed: curling iron, tail comb, sectioning clips, assortment of bobby pins/U-pins, small elastics, floral wire/tape and wire cutters; optional extension wefts. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, texturizing/dry shampoo, flexible strong-hold hairspray and a light anti-frizz serum. Difficulty level: Intermediate–advanced; salon service recommended for fresh florals and event durability. Maintenance tips: carry extra pins and spritz, avoid heavy humidity, refresh texture with dry shampoo and re-spray for hold; replace wilted florals between photos/events.
Textured Romantic Side Braid with Volume and Decorative Accessories
This romantic, textured side braid works best on medium to long hair and suits medium-thick to thick textures—fine hair can achieve the same look with light extension pieces or extra texturizing. Start by creating volume at the crown with a root-lift mousse and blow-dry using a round brush or diffuser. Add loose waves with a 1 curling iron for grip. Section the hair to leave soft face-framing pieces, then create a low, slightly off-center braid (a pull-through or loose three-strand works well). Pancake the braid gently to widen it, and secure with a small elastic before hiding bands with bobby pins and decorative clips. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, 1 curling iron, teasing brush, small elastics, bobby pins. Products: volumizing mousse, texturizing or sea-salt spray, lightweight smoothing serum for flyaways, and a flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate—expect 20–40 minutes depending on prep and accessory placement. Maintenance tips: refresh texture with dry shampoo, re-pancake and pin any loosened sections, avoid heavy oils at roots, and sleep with a loose silk wrap to preserve shape and reduce frizz.
Braided Crown with Floral Side Plait — Romantic Winter Wedding Hair
This look suits medium-to-long hair and works best on medium to thick textures; fine hair can be boosted with lightweight clip-in extensions or by texturizing for grip. Start by creating a deep Dutch/French crown braid along the hairline, feeding sections smoothly and securing the braid toward one side. Continue into a full three-strand plait, then gently pancake (pull apart) the braid to create volume and a soft, rounded silhouette. Tuck small faux or fresh flowers into the braid using short bobby pins or floral wire, anchoring pieces where the braid meets the scalp for secure placement. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, elastic bands, bobby pins, optional curling iron for wave prep. Products: heat protectant, lightweight mousse or texturizing spray for hold, anti-frizz serum for shine, medium-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–60 minutes; book a stylist for formal events. Maintenance: secure pins well, touch up with dry shampoo to refresh grip, carry spare pins and travel hairspray, and avoid heavy oils that can loosen the braid. For next-day wear, sleep on a silk pillowcase and re-fluff the braid in the morning.
Vintage Sculpted Updo with Decorative Berry Accents
Suitability: Ideal for medium to thick hair in shoulder-length to long lengths and for straight to softly wavy textures. Very fine hair can work with added padding or extensions. Technique: Section the hair into top, sides and back. Set soft pin-curls or use 1 curling iron or hot rollers for uniform S-shaped waves, then sculpt and pin each curl into a low, structured chignon. Smooth the surface with a boar-bristle brush and define shape with finger shaping and discrete backcombing at the crown for hold. Secure decorative berries or floral picks with floral wire or U-pins, tucking stems into the base so they anchor to multiple bobby pins. Tools needed: 1 curling iron or hot rollers, sectioning clips, tail comb, boar-bristle brush, various-length bobby pins, U-pins, floral wire. Products required: heat protectant, root-lift mousse or setting lotion, light serum for shine, strong-hold hairspray and a flexible finishing spray for movement. Difficulty: Advanced — salon-level precision and 45–75 minutes recommended. Maintenance: Avoid humidity, refresh with dry shampoo and touch-up stray pieces with pins and hairspray; remove accessories gently to prevent breakage.
Luxe Holiday Braided Cascade with Volume & Curls
A statement bridal/event style combining a voluminous crown braid that flows into a loose, curled cascade—perfect for holiday or formal looks. Best suited to long or extra‑long hair and medium to thick density; textured or naturally wavy/curly hair will hold shape easiest. For finer hair, use clip‑in extensions for fullness. Technique: prep hair with light mousse and texturizing spray, create a deep Dutch/French braid across the crown, gently pancake for volume, gather remaining hair into a low loose ponytail and wrap sections into large, defined curls. Tuck and pin selected curls to create the cascade, then secure decorative sprigs or baubles with hairwire and bobby pins. Tools: tail comb, sectioning clips, clear elastics, many bobby pins, 1–1.25” curling iron or wand, blow dryer with diffuser (for natural texture). Products: heat protectant, lightweight mousse, salt/texturizing spray, flexible‑hold hairspray, shine serum for ends, pomade for flyaways. Difficulty: intermediate–advanced (45–75 minutes). Maintenance tips: build on second‑day hair for grip, refresh curls with a warm iron, re‑pin decorations before travel, sleep on a silk pillowcase or loose braid, and avoid heavy oils at the roots to preserve volume.
Romantic Voluminous Side Fishtail with Floral Crown — Bridal/Editorial Look
This romantic voluminous side fishtail pairs soft, textured waves with a low, pancaked fishtail braided into a loose side bun and finished with a floral crown—perfect for bridal or editorial styling. Suitability: best on medium to long lengths and medium–thick textures; fine hair benefits from lightweight extensions or root-lifting products; very curly hair should be stretched and smoothed first. Styling technique: prep hair with volumizing mousse and heat protectant, blow-dry with a round brush for lift, create a deep side part, loosely curl mid-lengths, then gather hair to one side and form a loose fishtail braid. Pancake each braid section to create fullness, wrap and pin into a relaxed side bun, and secure floral elements with discreet pins. Tools needed: 1–1.25 curling iron, blow dryer, round brush, fine-tooth comb, sectioning clips, elastic bands, bobby pins, optional hair net. Products required: heat protectant, texturizing/dry shampoo, light-hold hairspray, smoothing serum, volumizing mousse. Difficulty: advanced — expect 45–75 minutes. Maintenance: sleep on silk, refresh texture with dry shampoo, tighten with extra pins as needed, and remove accessories gently to avoid breakage.
As a professional stylist, my best advice is to plan your holiday hair early: pick a few favorites from these 32 looks and do a quick trial if possible. Always start with clean, well-conditioned hair and use a thermal protectant before heat styling. For fine hair, add volume with root-lift spray or light mousse; for thick or textured hair, use smoothing serum or hydrating cream to control frizz. Secure updos with quality pins and elastics, and finish waves or braids with a flexible-hold spray to keep movement without stiffness. Between events, revive styles with dry shampoo, a touch of oil on ends, or loose rebraiding overnight. Book trims and color touch-ups ahead of time to ensure your hair is healthy and camera-ready. Enjoy experimenting — small accessories and the right prep make even simple styles look luxe and festive.