Holiday Party Hairstyles: The Ultimate Guide to Festive Looks | Glitz & Glamour
The holiday season is synonymous with sparkle, celebration, and the perfect excuse to elevate your everyday look into something truly spectacular. Whether the calendar is packed with corporate office parties, intimate family gatherings, or a glamorous New Year's Eve bash, choosing the right hairstyle is just as crucial as selecting the perfect outfit. Holiday party hairstyles serve as the crowning glory of a festive ensemble, offering a chance to experiment with textures, accessories, and silhouettes that might feel too bold for daily wear.
In 2026, the trends for holiday hair are leaning heavily into a blend of nostalgic glamour and modern, effortless chic. We are seeing a resurgence of high-shine finishes, intricate braiding, and the strategic use of statement accessories. The goal is to create a look that feels polished yet personal, ensuring confidence shines as brightly as the festive lights. This comprehensive guide explores the top holiday party hairstyles to try this season, complete with styling tips and advice on how to maintain your look from the first toast to the final countdown.
1. The Timeless Appeal of Hollywood Waves
There is perhaps no style more synonymous with formal holiday elegance than the classic Hollywood wave. This look channels the golden age of cinema, bringing a level of sophistication that pairs perfectly with velvet dresses, sequined gowns, and bold red lips. Unlike standard beach waves, which are textured and separated, Hollywood waves are brushed out to create a uniform, continuous 'S' pattern that cascades down the shoulder like liquid silk.
To achieve this high-glamour look, preparation is key. The hair must be prepped with a smoothing blowout to eliminate frizz before any heat styling begins. A deep side part is essential for establishing the dramatic swoop that defines the style. Using a one-inch curling iron or wand, hair is curled in the same direction around the entire head. The secret weapon in this style is the 'cooling' phase; pinning each curl to the head allows it to set in its shape, ensuring longevity throughout a night of dancing.
Once the curls have cooled and the pins are removed, the transformation happens. A boar bristle brush is used to gently brush through the tight curls, melding them into that signature soft wave pattern. A high-shine flexible hold hairspray and a touch of glossing serum are the finishing touches, ensuring the hair reflects light beautifully in flash photography. This is a hairstyle that demands attention and exudes confidence, making it a top contender for black-tie holiday events.
2. The Velvet Bow: The Season’s Must-Have Accessory
Accessories have taken center stage in recent years, but for the 2025-2026 holiday season, the velvet bow reigns supreme. This accessory adds an immediate touch of festive cheer and feminine charm to almost any hairstyle. It is versatile, accessible, and can transform a simple style into a holiday masterpiece in seconds. The beauty of the bow lies in its ability to bridge the gap between casual and formal, making it appropriate for office parties and family dinners alike.
One of the most popular ways to wear this trend is with a 'half-up, half-down' style. By pulling the top section of the hair back and securing it with a plush, oversized velvet bow in deep burgundy, emerald green, or classic black, the face is opened up while maintaining length and volume. For a more understated look, a smaller ribbon tied around the base of a low ponytail offers a chic, minimalist vibe that pairs beautifully with high-neck sweaters or structured blazers.
For those with shorter hair or bobs, bows can be attached to clips or headbands to add visual interest without requiring length for tying. When selecting a bow, consider the texture of your outfit. If you are wearing sequins, a matte velvet bow provides a nice contrast. If your outfit is simple, a bow embellished with pearls or rhinestones can act as jewelry for the hair. This trend proves that sometimes the simplest additions create the most significant impact.
3. The Modern French Twist
Gone are the days when the French twist was considered a stiff, outdated style reserved for librarians or weddings in the 1990s. The modern iteration of this classic updo is softer, messier, and infinitely more romantic. It is the perfect holiday party hairstyle for those who want to keep their hair off their neck and showcase statement earrings or an intricate neckline. The modern twist focuses on texture and volume rather than sleek perfection.
Creating this look involves building texture into the hair first. Texturizing sprays or dry shampoos are excellent for giving the hair the 'grip' needed to hold the pins. Instead of twisting the hair tightly against the scalp, the modern approach leaves the twist slightly looser, allowing for volume at the crown. Face-framing layers or wispy tendrils are pulled out around the hairline and ears to soften the silhouette, making the style feel lived-in and effortless.
This hairstyle is also incredibly durable. Because it relies on bobby pins and internal structure rather than just elastic bands, it can withstand hours of movement. For an extra festive touch, decorative pins with crystal heads can be inserted along the seam of the twist. This adds a subtle sparkle that catches the light when you turn your head, elevating the style from a daily updo to evening elegance.
4. Sleek and Snatched High Ponytail
For a look that screams power and high fashion, the sleek high ponytail is a formidable choice. This style acts almost like a mini-facelift, pulling the features upward and emphasizing the eyes and cheekbones. It is a favorite among celebrities and influencers for a reason: it is clean, architectural, and keeps hair completely under control. This is an ideal choice for energetic parties where dancing is on the agenda, as it keeps you cool while looking hot.
Achieving the 'snatched' look requires the right products to combat flyaways. A strong-hold gel or pomade is applied to the roots before brushing the hair upward toward the crown. Using a brush with dense bristles helps to smooth out bumps and ensure the hair lies completely flat against the scalp. Once the ponytail is secured with a strong elastic, taking a small section of hair from the tail and wrapping it around the base to hide the elastic adds a professional finish.
To make this style holiday-ready, consider the texture of the tail itself. You can keep it bone-straight for a futuristic, edgy vibe, or add voluminous curls for a bouncy, retro feel. Another variation is the 'bubble ponytail,' where small elastics are placed down the length of the tail, and the hair is pulled apart between them to create volume. This adds a playful, sculptural element that looks fantastic in photos.
5. Braided Crowns and Halos
Braided hairstyles evoke a sense of ethereal beauty and intricate craftsmanship. The halo braid, or crown braid, wraps around the head like a coronet, making it a fitting choice for the holiday season. It keeps hair securely tucked away while looking incredibly sophisticated from every angle. This style works particularly well for women with thick or long hair, as the volume of the braid depends on the density of the hair available.
There are various techniques to achieve a halo effect. A Dutch braid (where the strands are crossed under rather than over) creates a braid that sits on top of the hair, appearing more voluminous and 3D. This can be decorated with small sprigs of baby's breath, pearl pins, or even woven with a thin gold ribbon for a festive touch. The juxtaposition of the structured braid with soft, loose strands falling around the nape of the neck creates a romantic, fairytale aesthetic.
For those who struggle with braiding their own hair, a similar effect can be achieved using two simple three-strand braids pigtails that are then lifted and pinned across the top of the head. This 'milkmaid' style is easier to execute but delivers the same visual impact. It pairs wonderfully with winter knits and high-collared dresses, keeping the neckline clear and the focus on the face.
6. Short Hair Glamour: Pixies and Bobs
Holiday party hairstyles are certainly not exclusive to long hair. Short hair offers a unique canvas for bold styling choices that can be just as glamorous. For pixie cuts, playing with texture is key. Using a molding wax to create a deep side part and slicking the sides down while adding volume to the top creates a chic, androgynous look that is incredibly stylish. Alternatively, finger waves can be sculpted into short hair for a 1920s flapper-inspired look that oozes vintage charm.
Bob haircuts can be transformed with the simple change of a parting or the addition of texture. A deep side flip with messy, textured waves gives a bob a fun, party-ready vibe. Accessories are also a short-haired girl's best friend. Statement headbands—think velvet, padded, or rhinestone-encrusted—can instantly dress up a simple cut. Bejeweled bobby pins stacked in a row behind the ear can also create a focal point, adding sparkle without overwhelming the face.
Another trend for bobs is the 'wet look.' This involves using a high-shine gel to slick the hair back away from the face, leaving the ends loose or slightly flipped out. This runway-inspired look is edgy, modern, and perfect for a cocktail party where you want to make a fashion-forward statement.
7. Embracing Natural Texture: Curls and Coils
For those with naturally curly or coily hair, the holidays are the perfect time to let that texture shine. Rather than fighting the natural pattern with heat tools, enhancing it creates a look that is voluminous, regal, and unique. A 'pineapple' updo, where curls are gathered loosely at the very top of the head, allows the curls to cascade forward like bangs, framing the face beautifully while protecting the ends of the hair.
Adding metallic accessories to natural hair can elevate the look for a party. Gold cuffs or wire wrapped around individual locs or braids add a subtle shimmer that catches the light. For a more formal look, a sleek low bun with a defined middle part works beautifully on textured hair. The contrast between the sleek roots (laid down with edge control) and the textured bun creates a sophisticated silhouette.
Hydration is the foundation of these styles. Using a high-quality leave-in conditioner and a defining gel ensures that curls remain bouncy and frizz-free throughout the event. A shine spray specifically designed for textured hair will add that necessary holiday gloss without weighing the hair down.
Essential Tips for Holiday Hair Success
Creating the perfect holiday party hairstyle is about more than just the styling technique; it involves preparation and maintenance. Here are some professional tips to ensure your hair looks its best:
- The 'Second-Day' Rule: Freshly washed hair is often too slippery to hold intricate updos or curls. For styles like the French twist or Hollywood waves, washing your hair the day before the event allows natural oils to build up slightly, providing better grip and hold. If you must wash on the day, use a texturizing spray or salt spray to add grit.
- Product Layering: Don't rely on just one product. Start with a heat protectant, use a mousse or styling cream for volume and shape, and finish with a setting spray. Layering products in thin coats is more effective than dousing the hair in one heavy product.
- The Emergency Kit: If you are attending a long event, carry a mini hair kit in your clutch. This should include a few bobby pins, a travel-sized hairspray, and a small comb for touch-ups. A quick visit to the restroom to smooth flyaways can refresh your look instantly.
- Consider Your Outfit: Your hairstyle should complement your neckline. High necklines often look best with updos, while strapless or off-the-shoulder dresses pair beautifully with loose waves or half-up styles. Balance is key to a cohesive look.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How far in advance should I book a salon appointment for a holiday party? The holiday season is the busiest time of year for salons. To secure your preferred stylist and time slot, it is recommended to book at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance. For New Year's Eve, booking 2 months out is often necessary.
2. What can I do if my curls fall out quickly? If your hair struggles to hold a curl, pin the curls to your head immediately after using the iron and let them cool completely before brushing them out. Additionally, use a thermal setting spray before curling, not just hairspray afterward.
3. Are hair accessories appropriate for formal black-tie events? Yes, absolutely. However, the quality and style of the accessory matter. Opt for high-end materials like velvet, silk, pearls, or crystals. Avoid plastic clips or casual scrunchies. A jeweled barrette or a subtle ribbon can be very elegant.
4. How do I hide split ends for a party look? If a trim isn't possible before the party, use a sealing serum or oil on the ends of your hair to temporarily bond them. tucking the ends away in a bun or chignon is the best way to conceal damage completely.
5. Can I do a complex updo on my own? While some updos are DIY-friendly, complex styles like intricate braiding or structured vintage looks can be difficult to execute on yourself due to the angles. If you are determined to DIY, practice the style several times in the weeks leading up to the event, or enlist a friend to help.
6. What is the best way to combat static hair in winter? Winter air and indoor heating cause static. Run a dryer sheet over your hair or spray a little hairspray onto your hairbrush before brushing. keeping hair hydrated with oils also reduces static charge.
Conclusion
Holiday party hairstyles are a wonderful opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the festive spirit. Whether you opt for the drama of Hollywood waves, the chic simplicity of a velvet bow, or the architectural beauty of a braided crown, the right hairstyle acts as the finishing touch to your celebration. Remember that confidence is the most important element of any look. Take the time to prep your hair, choose a style that resonates with your personality, and perhaps visit a professional stylist to ensure flawless execution. With these trends and tips in hand, you are ready to shine at every gathering on your calendar this season.
