Hi, I’m Lena — a professional hairstylist with over a decade of salon experience. I’ve curated 32 festive Christmas hairstyles for women, shown in full-color images, to help you find the perfect holiday look. Whether your hair is short, shoulder-length, long, fine, or naturally curly, this collection includes quick glam updos, braided crowns, soft romantic curls, sleek ponytails, and cozy textured styles that suit family dinners, office parties, and New Year’s celebrations. I’ll guide you on which styles flatter different face shapes and hair textures, how to prep hair for maximum hold and shine, and which tools and products work best. Expect step-by-step tips for easy at-home styling along with pro tricks—like where to place bobby pins for balance and how to refresh curls overnight—so your holiday hairstyle lasts through the party.
Romantic Voluminous Side Braid with Loose Curls — Holiday Hair
Suitability: Best for long, medium-to-thick hair or long extensions; wavy and naturally curly hair take the shape easily. Fine hair can achieve volume with texturizing products and clip-in extensions. Styling technique: Start on towel-dried hair with a root-lifting mousse, blow-dry with a round brush for volume, then create loose, oversized sections and form a side braid using a pull-apart (pancake) or chunky three-strand technique. Wrap and curl any face-framing pieces with a 1–1.25 inch iron, then gently pancake the braid for fullness. Add wired foliage or decorative pins and secure with discreet bobby pins. Tools needed: blow dryer, round brush, 1–1.25 inch curling iron, tail comb, sectioning clips, elastics, bobby pins. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root lift, texturizing spray, flexible-hold hairspray, light shine serum. Difficulty level: Intermediate — expect 30–60 minutes depending on length and accessories. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow or loosely braid overnight, refresh texture with dry shampoo and light mist of hairspray, re-curl front pieces as needed, and use wired decorations to prevent slipping or damage.
Voluminous Twisted Updo with Side-Swept Bangs
A voluminous twisted updo with soft, side-swept bangs ideal for formal events. Best suited to medium-to-thick hair and long lengths for natural volume; fine hair can achieve the look with light texturizing, strategic backcombing or clip-in padding for fullness. Start on clean, blow-dried hair: apply a root-lifting mousse and heat protectant, create a deep side part, and lightly curl mid-lengths for grip. Section the hair, backcomb the crown for lift, then form large twists and rolls, securing each with bobby pins and U-pins to build a rounded shape. Leave two face-framing pieces and sweep the bangs softly across the forehead. Finish with a texturizing spray to define movement and a flexible-hold hairspray to lock the silhouette without stiffness. Tools: tail comb, teasing brush, sectioning clips, 1
Textured Messy Updo with Soft Face‑Framing Tendrils
A salon-friendly textured messy updo that works beautifully for medium-to-long hair and suits straight, wavy or loosely curly textures. For fine hair, add a volumizing mousse and light backcombing; medium to thick hair will hold texture naturally. Technique: rough-dry with a round brush, apply heat protectant and a texturizing salt spray, then create loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling wand. Backcomb the crown lightly for lift, gather hair into a low-to-mid messy bun by twisting and pinning 2–4 sections with long bobby pins, and pull soft face-framing tendrils free. Finish by tucking seasonal greenery or hair accessories into the bun for a polished look. Tools needed: blow dryer, round brush, tail comb, curling wand, sectioning clips, elastics and plenty of bobby pins. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or salt spray, dry shampoo for grip, light-hold hairspray and a small amount of shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — achievable at home with practice. Maintenance tips: refresh texture with dry shampoo, re-pin loose pieces, touch up tendrils with the wand, and sleep on a silk pillowcase or wrap to preserve shape.
Textured Side Braid Updo with Face‑Framing Waves
This romantic, textured side-braid updo suits medium to long hair and works best on naturally wavy or straight hair that can take a bit of texture. For fine hair, add clip-in extensions or gentle backcombing at the crown; for very thick hair, use extra pins and a strong elastic. Start on towel-dried hair with a lightweight volumizing mousse at the roots and a heat protectant through the lengths. Blow-dry with a round brush for lift, then create loose waves with a 1
Messy Curly High Bun with Face-Framing Tendrils
This relaxed, romantic high bun is ideal for medium-to-long hair with natural waves or curls, and can be achieved on straight hair after curling. Begin on clean, towel-dried hair: apply a heat protectant and a small amount of volumizing mousse at the roots, then rough-dry with a diffuser to enhance texture. Create a high, loose ponytail and secure with an elastic; separate into 2–4 sections, twist each section and pin into a rounded, messy bun using bobby pins. Release a few face-framing tendrils and refine their curl with a 1-inch curling wand. Tease lightly at the crown for lift and pull pieces for a soft, undone shape. Tools: diffuser attachment, blow-dryer, 1-inch curling wand, tail comb, sectioning clips, elastic bands, bobby pins. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse/root lift, texturizing or salt spray, lightweight shine serum, flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: intermediate – requires pinning and balancing volume. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase or use a loose satin bonnet, refresh with dry shampoo or light mist and scrunch, retuck pins as needed, and avoid heavy conditioners before styling to maintain texture.
Romantic Half-Up Loose Curls with Seasonal Berry Accent
This romantic half-up style with soft, loose curls and a berry/greenery accent suits medium to thick hair and works well on natural waves or straight hair that takes a curl. Start on damp hair with a lightweight volumizing mousse or root lift, then blow-dry with a round brush for body. Section hair and use a 1–1.25 inch curling iron or wand to create large, loose barrel curls, alternating direction for natural movement. Lightly backcomb the crown for lift, gather the top half into a loose twist or roll and secure with bobby pins and U-pins, leaving soft face-framing pieces. Slip in small floral or berry picks last so they sit securely without crushing the curl pattern. Tools: blow dryer, round brush, curling iron/wand, sectioning clips, tail comb, bobby/U-pins. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, texturizing spray, flexible-hold hairspray, finishing shine serum. Difficulty: moderate — allow 30–45 minutes. Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo, touch up front pieces with the iron, reapply light hairspray, and protect from moisture with an anti-humidity spray; deep-condition weekly to keep ends healthy.
Textured Romantic Low Updo with Face‑Framing Tendrils
A soft, textured low updo that works well for medium to long hair and creates a romantic, undone finish. Best suited to fine-to-medium hair with added texturizing for volume, and to naturally wavy or lightly curled hair — very thick or coily hair will hold shape but may require stronger pins or pre-smoothing. Technique: start on clean, towel-dried hair; apply heat protectant and a volumizing mousse, blow-dry with a round brush for lift at the root, then create loose 1
Short Curly Bob with Vintage Finger Waves and Festive Bow
This chin‑length curly bob with a soft vintage finger‑wave at the front is ideal for fine to medium‑thick hair with natural wave or loose curl; straight hair will need texture added. The salon technique: cut into a slightly graduated bob with short interior layers for shape, create the front finger‑wave using a comb and setting clips or shape the wave with a small barrel curling iron and clip to cool, then use a 1 curling iron or hot rollers to form defined ringlets around the perimeter. Tools needed: 1 curling iron or hot rollers, tail comb, duckbill clips, bobby pins, round brush and blow dryer (diffuser optional). Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root lift, curl defining cream or light styling paste, flexible hold hairspray and a gloss serum or shine spray. Difficulty: moderate — requires some precision to form the vintage wave and even curl pattern; allow 30–45 minutes. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or use a loose silk scarf, refresh curls with a mist of water and curl cream, avoid over‑brushing, use dry shampoo between washes, and trim every 6–8 weeks to preserve shape.
Festive Red Low Chignon Updo with Face‑Framing Wisps and Holly Crown
This elegant festive low chignon is ideal for medium to long hair and works best on straight, wavy or lightly textured hair; fine hair can be prepped with volumizing products or a small padding/donut and very thick hair may require additional pins. Technique: prep with heat protectant and a light mousse, create loose waves with a 1–1.25 curling iron for hold and movement, then gather hair to a low nape position, twist into a relaxed chignon leaving two face‑framing sections. Anchor the bun with long bobby pins and U‑pins inserted against the grain for security, then tuck and pin remaining pieces for an effortless finish. Tools: 1 curling iron or wand, tail comb, sectioning clips, long bobby pins, U‑pins, small elastic, optional padding. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root lift, texturizing spray or sea salt mist, medium–flex hairspray, light shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — salon finish achievable in 30–45 minutes. Maintenance: refresh wisps with a quick curl, spot‑spray pins if loosening, sleep on a silk pillowcase or remove accessory before bed, and use dry shampoo next day to add grip without restyling.
Halo Crown Braid Updo with Romantic Face‑Framing Curls
This romantic halo crown braid updo works best on medium to long hair and suits fine to medium-density textures; very thick hair will hold the shape beautifully but requires extra pins, while very curly hair should be smoothed slightly before braiding for cleaner sections. Technique: prep hair with a texturizing spray or light mousse, create two Dutch/French braids along the hairline and wrap them into a crown, secure with small elastics and bobby pins, then pancake the braids for width. Leave several face‑framing pieces out and define them with a 3/4-inch curling iron for soft tendrils. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, small clear elastics, lots of bobby pins, 3/4 curling iron (or wand), and a blow dryer if smoothing first. Products required: heat protectant, salt or texture spray for grip, light-hold hairspray, and a smoothing serum for flyaways. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–45 minutes in a salon or at home. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow or loosely wrap with a scarf, refresh curls with a quick touch-up or steam, and re-pin any loosened sections; second-day hair often holds this style better.
Voluminous Long S-Shaped Curls — Glamorous Textured Waves for Thick Hair
This full, S-shaped curl look suits medium to thick long hair and relaxed natural waves; fine hair can achieve similar volume with texturizing layers and root padding. Start on clean, towel-dried hair: apply a heat protectant and a lightweight volumizing mousse from roots to mid-lengths. Blow-dry with a round brush or use a diffuser to enhance natural body. Section hair into manageable layers and use a 1¼–1½ inch curling iron or large-barrel wand to create alternating away-from-face S-curls, holding each curl for 6–10 seconds. Pin curls to cool for longer hold, then gently release and finger-comb for soft separation. Finish with a light, flexible-hold hairspray and a gloss serum on ends to tame frizz. Tools needed: blow dryer with nozzle, round brush, large curling iron or hot rollers, clips, wide-tooth comb. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root lifter, flexible-hold hairspray, light finishing oil, dry shampoo for day-two texture. Difficulty: intermediate — requires sectioning and timing. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely braid, refresh with dry shampoo and quick re-curling of a few pieces, and trim every 8–12 weeks to preserve shape.
Textured Braided Low Updo with Berry Accents
This polished, textured braided low updo works best on medium to thick hair at shoulder length or longer; fine hair can achieve the same volume with clip-in extensions or padding. Technique: create soft, loose French/rope braids from the crown and sides, gently pancake the braids for width, then twist and tuck them into a low chignon, securing with bobby pins and U-pins. Position decorative berry picks or faux sprigs into the folds and anchor each with discreet pins or floral wire. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, teasing brush, curling iron or wand (for added bend), lots of bobby pins and U-pins, and small elastic bands. Products required: lightweight mousse or root-lift for grip, texturizing spray or dry shampoo, heat protectant, medium-hold hairspray, and a light shine serum for finishing. Difficulty level: intermediate — a practiced stylist or someone comfortable with braiding and pinning should allow 30–60 minutes. Maintenance tips: prep hair on day two for better hold, refresh with dry shampoo and a touch-up of pins as needed, avoid heavy humidity, and remove decorative pieces gently to prevent breakage.
Romantic Textured Side‑Swept Curly Cascade
This romantic side‑swept curly cascade works best on medium-to-long hair and is ideal for naturally wavy or curly textures — straight hair can achieve the look with heat styling. Start on dry, freshly washed hair: apply a heat protectant and a lightweight mousse or curl cream for hold and definition. Use a 1–1.25″ curling wand to create loose curls, clipping each curl to cool to set shape. Tease lightly at the crown for lift, then gather hair to one side and loosely twist or create a relaxed three-strand braid, pulling pieces free for a soft, undone finish. Secure with a small elastic and discreet bobby pins; tuck and pin shorter face‑framing pieces. Tools needed: curling wand, sectioning clips, teasing brush or comb, small elastics and bobby pins. Products required: heat protectant, mousse or curl cream, texturizing spray or dry shampoo, and a light‑hold hairspray with a touch of shine serum if needed. Difficulty: moderate — expect 25–40 minutes depending on length. Maintenance tips: refresh with a water/mist + texturizer, sleep on a silk pillow or loose pineapple, and touch up crown volume with dry shampoo rather than heavy oils.
Voluminous Long Barrel Curls – Loose Glam Waves for Medium to Thick Hair
This look suits long, medium-to-thick hair and can be adapted for fine hair with light extensions. Start on clean, towel-dried hair: apply a heat protectant and a volumizing mousse through roots and lengths. Blow-dry with a round brush for lift at the crown, then create a deep side part. Work in 1–2-inch sections and wrap hair around a 1.25–1.5-inch barrel curling iron or use large hot rollers, holding curls to cool before releasing to lock shape. Lightly backcomb the roots at the crown for extra volume and sweep curls to one side if desired; finish by loosening with wide-tooth fingers or a soft paddle brush for soft, cascading waves. Tools: 1.25–1.5
Textured Messy Updo with Curtain Face‑Framing Tendrils
Suitable for fine-to-medium and medium-thick straight or wavy hair, this relaxed textured updo combines a soft messy bun with loose curtain tendrils for a flattering, wearable look. Technique: work on dry hair—create loose, alternating-direction waves with a 1 curling wand or flat iron to add movement, mist with texturizing or sea-salt spray, and apply dry shampoo at the roots for grip. Back-comb lightly at the crown for lift, gather hair into a low or mid-height loose bun, secure with an elastic and anchor sections with bobby pins, leaving front pieces free. Twist and pin small subsections to build an undone shape; refine face-framing tendrils with a small barrel tong if needed. Tools needed: blow dryer, round brush, 1 curling wand or flat iron, tail comb, bobby pins, elastic. Products required: texturizing spray, dry shampoo, light-hold hairspray and a small amount of smoothing serum for flyaways. Difficulty: Moderate (intermediate). Maintenance tips: refresh texture with dry shampoo between washes, reshape and re-pin in the morning, touch up tendrils with a curling iron, avoid heavy oils at the roots, and trim face-framing pieces every 8–10 weeks.
Vintage Marcel Waves — Short Glamorous Finger-Waved Bob
This polished vintage Marcel wave is ideal for short to mid-length bobs and works best on straight to slightly wavy hair with medium to thick density. Fine hair can achieve the look with volumizing products and root-lifting techniques; very curly hair should be relaxed or smoothed first. Styling technique (salon approach): create a deep side part, apply a setting lotion or mousse and blow-dry smooth with a round brush. Section hair and set defined pin curls or use a Marcel/1 curling iron to form sculpted S-waves. Clip and cool each curl to lock shape, then brush through gently with a boar-bristle or soft paddle brush to meld into seamless waves and sculpt the signature ridge lines. Tools needed: Marcel iron or 1 curling iron, fine-tooth tail comb, sectioning clips, round brush, blow dryer, boar-bristle brush. Products required: heat protectant, setting lotion or mousse, medium-to-strong hairspray, lightweight shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — requires timing and finger control. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase or use a silk wrap, refresh with a light mist and finger styling, touch up with heat only where needed, and schedule trims and a deep conditioning treatment every 6–8 weeks to maintain gloss and shape.
Romantic Voluminous Bouffant Updo with Berry Accent Pins
This romantic, voluminous bouffant updo works best on medium to thick hair; fine hair benefits from lightweight padding or clip-in pieces for lift. Start with freshly washed, towel-dried hair treated with a volumizing mousse and heat protectant. Blow-dry with a round brush to create root lift, then section the crown and gently backcomb at the roots to build a soft bouffant. Smooth the top layer without flattening the volume, gather hair into a loose high twist or roll, and secure with long pins and criss-crossed bobby pins. Add wired berry or floral picks into the sides and back, anchoring them to the hairpins rather than the hair shaft for security. Tools: round brush, tail comb, teasing brush, sectioning clips, medium-barrel curling iron, bobby pins, long U-pins, wire cutters. Products: volumizing mousse, root-lift spray, texturizing spray or dry shampoo, light-hold serum for flyaways, flexible-hold hairspray. Difficulty: medium–advanced; expect 30–60 minutes. Maintenance tips: sleep upright or re-pin any loosened pieces, refresh volume with dry shampoo, carry travel hairspray, and avoid heavy decorations that pull on the roots. For formal events, consider a stylist to ensure long-lasting structure.
Textured High Messy Bun with Soft Fringe — Voluminous Romantic Updo
This textured high messy bun with a soft curtain fringe is ideal for medium to thick hair and works well on straight, wavy, or loose curly textures. Best on shoulder-length to long hair, the style uses natural volume at the crown and face-framing tendrils for a relaxed, salon-finished look. Technique: prep hair with a root-lifting product, rough-dry for texture, then create loose waves through mid-lengths with a 1–1.25 curling wand if needed. Backcomb lightly at the crown, gather hair into a high pony, twist and pin sections loosely to form a messy bun, and pull out soft pieces around the face. Tools needed: tail comb, paddle brush, 1–1.25 curling wand, blow dryer, hair elastic, assorted bobby pins and a few U-pins. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or spray, texturizing powder/spray, lightweight hairspray, and a smoothing serum for the fringe. Difficulty: moderate — roughly 20–30 minutes in a salon or at home. Maintenance tips: refresh with dry shampoo and a light texturizing spray, re-pin loose pieces as needed, and trim the fringe every 6–8 weeks to keep shape.
Textured Romantic Updo with Greenery Crown
This soft, textured updo with a greenery crown suits medium to thick hair and works well on naturally wavy or loosely curled hair. Fine hair can achieve the same silhouette with lightweight padding or clip-in extensions. Technique: prep hair with volume at the roots, loosely curl mid-lengths and ends, backcomb the crown for lift, then gather and loosely twist or pin sections into a low, airy chignon, leaving face-framing tendrils. Finish by securing a lightweight greenery or floral crown around the crown line. Tools needed: 1 curling iron, teasing brush or comb, sectioning clips, U-pins and bobby pins, elastic bands, and a tail comb. Products required: heat protectant, lightweight mousse or root-lift spray, sea-salt or texturizing spray for grip, flexible-hold hairspray, and a light shine serum for ends. Difficulty level: Moderate (salon-level, 25–45 minutes). Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillow or loosely pin hair into a soft wrap; refresh texture with dry shampoo or texturizing spray; re-pin loosened pieces and touch up tendrils with a curling iron. Remove decorative greenery gently to avoid tangling.
Soft Textured Updo with Blunt Fringe and Face‑Framing Tendrils
This soft textured updo pairs an eyebrow‑grazing blunt fringe with loose, face‑framing tendrils for a polished yet relaxed finish. Suitability: ideal for straight to wavy hair and fine to medium‑thick densities; very thick or coily hair will benefit from smoothing or light thinning before styling. Technique: prep damp hair with a volumizing mousse and heat protectant, blow‑dry bangs smooth with a round brush, and backcomb the crown lightly for lift. Create loose twists from the sides and gather mid‑to‑low sections into a soft twisted bun, securing with bobby pins and U‑pins. Use a 19–25 mm curling wand to form soft tendrils and blend them into the style; set bangs with a flat iron if necessary. Tools needed: blow dryer, round brush, tail comb, sectioning clips, 19–25 mm curling wand, bobby pins/U‑pins, small elastic. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse/spray, light texturizing spray, medium‑hold hairspray and a small amount of shine serum for ends. Difficulty: moderate — salon‑level finish achievable at home in 30–45 minutes with practice. Maintenance tips: refresh roots with dry shampoo, re‑curl loose tendrils, smooth bangs with a low‑heat iron, resecure pins as needed, and trim bangs every 4–6 weeks to maintain shape.
Glam Vintage Side‑Swept Voluminous Barrel Curls with Berry Accent
This glamorous side-swept look features deep, voluminous barrel curls finished with a seasonal berry accent. Suitability: ideal for medium-to-long lengths and works well on straight, relaxed wavy, or lightly wavy hair; fine hair will benefit from volumizing products and root lift, while thick hair may require smaller sections and more drying time. Styling technique: create a deep side part, blow-dry smooth with a round brush, then wrap 1–1.25 in sections around a large-barrel curling iron or clampless wand, directing curls away from the face. Pin each curl to cool for extra hold, then gently brush out into soft, cascading waves and sweep to one shoulder. Tools needed: 1–1.25 in curling iron or wand, round brush, sectioning clips, tail comb, and hairpins. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root-lift spray, medium-hold hairspray, light shine serum or spray, and optional texturizing spray. Difficulty: moderate — basic curling skills and timing help. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely pin curls; refresh with a lightweight mist or touch up a few curls with the iron; trim ends every 8–12 weeks.
Romantic Red Side Braid Updo with Festive Berry Accents
Salon-ready romantic side braid updo designed for medium-to-long hair. Best suited to medium and thick textures; fine hair will benefit from light teasing or clip-in extensions to build body. Technique: blow-dry with a round brush for lift at the crown, create loose waves with a 1
Romantic Textured Side Braid with Floral Accents
Salon-ready romantic, textured side braid with loose curls and floral accents. Suitable for medium-to-long hair and best on medium to thick densities; fine hair benefits from volumizing products or lightweight clip-in extensions, while naturally curly hair should be smoothed slightly or defined before styling. Technique: prep with mousse and heat protectant, blow-dry adding lift at roots or diffuse to enhance natural wave. Create loose curls with a 1–1.25-inch curling iron, finger-comb, then backcomb crown sections for volume. Gather hair to one side and build a loose, twisted/three-strand braid incorporating pulled-out sections for texture; secure with a small elastic and hide with bobby pins. Finish by loosening loops to create airy movement and tuck small sprigs or berries with floral pins. Tools: curling iron, tail comb, sectioning clips, brush, elastics, bobby pins, floral pins. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, salt or texturizing spray, light-to-medium hold hairspray, small shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — allows variation but requires practice to balance volume. Maintenance: refresh with dry shampoo/texturizer, re-pin any loose pieces, sleep on a silk pillow or wrap, and touch up curls as needed.
Textured Side Braid Updo with Face‑Framing Waves for Medium-Long Hair
This soft, textured side-braid updo with loose face‑framing waves suits medium to thick, shoulder‑length to long hair and can be adapted for finer or naturally curly textures. Start on towel‑dried hair with a heat protectant and a volumizing mousse at the roots; blow‑dry using a round brush to create lift at the crown. Create a deep side part, curl mid‑lengths into loose waves with a 1 curling iron or wand, then gently root‑tease the crown for fullness. Sweep hair to one side and form a relaxed three‑strand or fishtail braid, pulling pieces slightly outward for softness; secure with an elastic and hide ends with bobby pins. Leave a few face‑framing pieces and loosen at the crown for a lived‑in look. Tools: blow‑dryer, round brush, curling iron/wand, tail comb, section clips, teasing brush, bobby pins, elastic. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root lift, texturizing/salt spray, light flexible hairspray, smoothing serum for flyaways. Difficulty: intermediate — 30 to 45 minutes in salon or at home. Maintenance: refresh texture with dry shampoo or salt spray, re‑curl loose pieces as needed, sleep on a silk pillowcase and re‑pin any loosened sections.
Voluminous Retro Waves with Festive Bow and Bauble Accents
Suitable for medium-to-long hair, especially medium–thick and thick textures; fine hair can achieve this look with clip-in extensions or a root volumizer. Start on towel-dried hair with a volumizing mousse at the roots, blow-dry with a round brush to create lift, then set large, uniform sections using a 1½–2 inch barrel curling iron or hot rollers into loose vintage waves. Pin each curl to cool for maximum memory; release and brush through with a boar-bristle or soft paddle brush to form smooth S-shaped waves. Create a deep side part and backcomb slightly at the crown for extra height before smoothing the top layer. Tools: curling iron or hot rollers, sectioning clips, boar-bristle brush, tail comb, bobby pins, small ornament clips and a decorative ribbon or bow. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, flexible-hold hairspray, light smoothing serum, dry shampoo for day-two lift. Difficulty: intermediate — timing and section control are key, and adding ornaments safely increases complexity. Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely wrap with a silk scarf, refresh with low-heat touch-ups and dry shampoo, and secure decorative baubles with discreet clips; avoid heavy ornaments to prevent breakage.
Textured Romantic Curly Updo with Face‑Framing Tendrils (Bridal/Winter)
This textured romantic curly updo suits medium-to-thick hair and works well for naturally wavy or curly textures; fine or straight hair can be built up with padding or light extensions. Technique: start on clean, dry hair—apply heat protectant and a volumizing mousse, then rough-dry. Create loose, medium-sized curls with a 1–1.25 curling wand, leaving several face‑framing pieces out. Lightly backcomb the crown for lift, then shape sections into pinned loops and cascading curls, securing with U-pins and strong bobby pins. Pull a few tendrils loose and twist or loosely braid small sections before pinning to enhance texture; finish by placing decorative accessories where needed. Tools needed: curling wand, tail comb, teasing brush, sectioning clips, assortment of pins, and blow dryer (diffuser optional). Products required: heat protectant, root-lift or mousse, texturizing/salt spray, flexible-strong hairspray, and a light shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — 45–75 minutes in-salon; assistance recommended for back sections. Maintenance tips: carry mini-hairspray and spare pins, refresh tendrils with a quick curl, sleep on silk and avoid heavy humidity to preserve shape.
Voluminous Curly High Bun with Face‑Framing Tendrils
This romantic, curly high bun with soft face‑framing tendrils suits natural curls and waves best but can be recreated on straight hair by pre‑curling. Start on damp, detangled hair with a lightweight leave‑in and heat protectant, then apply a volumizing mousse at the roots. Use a diffuser to enhance natural texture or a 1 curling iron to create loose ringlets. Lightly backcomb the crown for lift, gather hair into a high pony, twist into a loose, messy bun and secure with an elastic and U‑pins; pull out several tendrils and soften with fingers for a lived‑in finish. Tools: diffuser or curling iron, wide‑tooth comb, rat‑tail comb, sectioning clips, elastics and U‑pins. Products: heat protectant, volumizing mousse, texturizing or sea‑salt spray, medium‑hold hairspray and a lightweight shine serum. Difficulty: moderate — requires practice shaping and strategic pinning to balance volume and delicate face pieces. Maintenance: sleep on silk or a satin scarf, refresh with a water + leave‑in mist or curl cream, retouch a few strands with heat as needed, and avoid heavy oils that weigh the style down.
Textured Platinum Shag Bob with Soft Blunt Fringe
This short, layered shag bob with a soft blunt fringe suits fine to medium hair and straight to slightly wavy textures best; thicker hair can work if the stylist uses aggressive texturizing and thinning, while very curly hair will need relaxed shaping or longer layers. Salon technique: the cut is built with short, face-framing layers and point-cut ends to create movement, plus a gently blunted fringe for structure. Styling technique: towel-dry, apply a heat protectant and a lightweight volumizing mousse at roots, then blow-dry using a round brush or diffuser to enhance natural wave. Create loose bends with a 1 curling wand or flat iron, alternating directions and leaving the ends softer. Tools needed: hairdryer, round brush, 1 curling wand or flat iron, texturizing shears (stylist), and fine-tooth comb. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root lift, sea-salt or texturizing spray, light-hold hairspray and a small amount of matte paste for definition. Difficulty level: moderate — precision cut requires a professional, daily styling takes 10–15 minutes. Maintenance tips: trim every 6–8 weeks, use purple shampoo if bleached, deep-condition weekly, avoid overwashing and refresh texture with a spritz of salt spray.
Romantic Textured Braided Updo with Face‑Framing Tendrils
This romantic textured braided updo suits medium to long hair and works best on natural waves or straight hair that can take texture. For fine hair, add light teasing or 1–2 clip‑in pieces to boost volume; very thick hair may require extra pins. Technique: create a loose Dutch/French braid along the crown, pancake the braid for width, gather remaining hair into a low, twisted bun and secure with bobby pins, then pull out soft face‑framing tendrils and lightly curl them. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, 1″ curling iron, paddle brush, teasing brush, assortment of bobby pins and small elastics. Products required: heat protectant, texturizing or sea‑salt spray, lightweight mousse (for hold at the roots), dry shampoo to add grip, and a flexible‑hold hairspray plus a drop of shine serum. Difficulty: intermediate — expect 30–45 minutes in a salon setting. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loose bonnet, refresh volume with dry shampoo and a quick reshaping of tendrils, and re‑secure any loose pieces with spare pins before wearing again.
Romantic Voluminous Curly Updo with Face‑Framing Tendrils
Suitable for medium to thick hair and naturally wavy or loose-curly textures, this romantic voluminous updo adapts well to fine hair with padding or light extensions. Start on dry hair: apply heat protectant and a volumizing mousse, then section the hair. Create soft curls with a 1 curling iron, alternating direction for texture. Tease the crown lightly for lift, sweep hair to one side and pin in a low, loose chignon with bobby pins, pulling out face‑framing tendrils. Use a texturizing spray between sections to give grip and a light-hold hairspray to lock the shape. Tools needed: 1 curling iron or wand, tail comb, sectioning clips, teasing brush, bobby pins and small elastics; optional padding or clip‑in pieces for extra volume. Products required: heat protectant, volumizing mousse or root lift, salt/texturizing spray, medium-to-strong hold hairspray and a lightweight shine serum. Difficulty: medium — requires curling and pinning experience; allow 30–45 minutes. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely pin the style, refresh stray pieces with a quick curl, and avoid heavy oils at the roots to keep volume.
Romantic Textured Side Braid with Loose Tendrils and Holiday Greenery
This romantic, textured side braid with soft face‑framing tendrils works best on medium to long hair and holds particularly well on wavy or naturally curly textures. Fine hair can be prepped with a volumizing mousse or lightweight clip‑in extensions for fullness. Start by towel‑drying and applying heat protectant and a salt/texturizing spray, then rough‑dry while lifting at the roots. Add loose waves with a 1–1.25 inch curling wand to create body, then lightly tease the crown. Begin a loose Dutch or three‑strand braid at the crown, pulling slightly on each section to pancake for width, and finish the braid over one shoulder. Secure with a small elastic and hide it with hair wrapped around it. Attach small sprigs or ornaments using floral wire and U‑pins or discreet bobby pins, keeping decorations lightweight. Tools: blow dryer, round brush, curling wand, tail comb, elastics, bobby pins, floral wire. Products: volumizing mousse, salt spray, heat protectant, flexible‑hold hairspray, finishing serum/dry shampoo. Difficulty: moderate (30–45 minutes). Maintenance: sleep on a silk pillow, refresh with dry shampoo and quick curl touch‑ups, and check pins before wearing out.
Textured Braided Low Chignon — Loose Romantic Braid Updo
This textured braided low chignon suits shoulder‑length to long hair and works best on medium to thick textures; fine hair can achieve the look with light backcombing or a texturizing powder for grip. Technique: create a loose French/Dutch braid along the crown, gently pancake sections for width, then gather remaining hair into a low, twisted bun at the nape, pulling pieces free for a soft, undone finish. Tools needed: tail comb, sectioning clips, curling wand (for soft waves), elastic bands, a selection of bobby pins (U‑pins preferred) and a flat iron for smoothing face‑framing pieces. Products required: heat protectant, lightweight mousse or sea salt spray for texture, texturizing powder or spray for hold, smoothing serum for flyaways, and a flexible‑hold hairspray to set. Difficulty level: intermediate — a stylist finish is achievable at home with practice. Maintenance tips: sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely wrap with a silk scarf, refresh with dry shampoo and fingertip reshaping, resecure loose pieces with discreet pins, and avoid heavy conditioners or oils immediately before styling to preserve grip and volume.
As a salon pro, I recommend choosing holiday styles that match your lifestyle and hair type — if time’s tight, opt for polished ponies or twisty low buns; for longer wear, invest in a light-hold setting spray and quality pins. Prep is everything: a protein-rich mask 1-2 days before, a smoothing serum for frizz-prone hair, and always apply a heat protectant before hot tools. For texture, use salt spray or dry shampoo at the roots to boost grip; for shine, finish with a few drops of lightweight oil on ends. Schedule a trim two weeks before big events to keep styles neat, and do a trial run with photos so your stylist knows the exact look. Use the 32 images here as creative prompts — mix accessories like velvet ribbons, vintage clips, or jewel pins to elevate any look. Enjoy the season, and don’t hesitate to book a quick salon touch-up if you need professional finishing.