Discover 17 glamorous holiday hair ideas with seasonal hair inspo for your next party. Shine bright with styles that wow this festive season!
When the holiday season arrives, your hair becomes more than just a style—it becomes part of the celebration. General holiday hair trends for 2025 are bolder, shinier, and more experimental than ever, with influences from runways, TikTok tutorials, and nostalgic throwbacks. Whether you’re heading to a cozy family gathering, a chic corporate event, or an all-out New Year’s Eve party, your hairstyle can set the tone for the entire evening.
This guide brings together 17 glamorous holiday hair ideas along with seasonal hair inspo to ensure you’re turning heads for all the right reasons. From timeless Hollywood waves to avant-garde braided crowns, we’ll cover every length, texture, and vibe—plus share tips on accessories, color trends, and products that make your look last all night.
General Holiday Hair Trends for 2025
Holiday hair in 2025 embraces two extremes: polished elegance and effortless chic. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have pushed the boundaries of creativity, blending traditional looks with playful seasonal twists.
- Glossy Perfection: Think glass hair—super sleek, mirror-like shine achieved with straightening irons and smoothing serums.
- Big & Bold Volume: Retro blowouts inspired by the ‘90s are making a comeback, perfect for statement-making party entrances.
- Festive Embellishments: Sparkling barrettes, velvet scrunchies, and pearl-encrusted headbands are must-haves.
- Playful Textures: Mix curls with braids, or pair polished waves with messy updos for contrast.
Pro Tip: The holiday season is the perfect time to try temporary hair color sprays or glitter gels for a fun, non-committal change.
Classic Holiday Hair Ideas That Never Go Out of Style
No matter the decade, some holiday hairstyles are timeless because they flatter virtually everyone and photograph beautifully under party lights.
- Hollywood Waves: Smooth, sculpted waves paired with a deep side part are the definition of old-school glamour.
- Elegant Chignons: Low, twisted buns that sit at the nape of your neck—perfect for formal dinners.
- French Twists: This elegant updo has been a go-to for cocktail parties for decades.
Why They Work: These looks frame the face beautifully, complement statement earrings, and pair well with both bold red lips and subtle makeup palettes.
Seasonal Hair Inspo for Winter Parties
Winter holiday hair draws inspiration from frosty mornings, shimmering snow, and cozy textures.
- Icy Platinum Blondes paired with silver accessories mimic the sparkle of winter frost.
- Soft Romantic Waves give a cozy yet glamorous feel, especially with warm brunette or auburn shades.
- Velvet Ribbons tied around ponytails or buns add a festive, tactile element.
For added seasonal flair, consider incorporating subtle glitter strands or metallic hair foils—both trending for 2025 winter events.
Holiday Hair for Office Parties
Office holiday parties call for a balance between polished professionalism and subtle festivity. You want to look put-together but still embrace the seasonal spirit.
Top Picks for the Workplace Soiree:
- Low Twisted Bun: Sleek, minimal, and pairs well with blazers or wrap dresses. Add a jeweled hairpin for a touch of sparkle.
- Sleek Ponytail with Side Part: Clean lines that still look elegant when you let loose on the dance floor.
- Soft Waves with Barrettes: Keep it simple with loose curls and a statement clip on one side.
Pro Styling Tip: For corporate events, avoid overly flashy glitter roots or neon extensions—save those for New Year’s Eve. Instead, opt for holiday hair accessories that are small but impactful, like pearl combs or satin bows.
Glamorous Curls for the Festive Season
Curls are the life of the party—literally. They add volume, movement, and that effortlessly joyful vibe.
Glam Curl Variations:
- Hollywood Barrel Curls: Large, uniform curls brushed out for a smooth finish.
- Spiral Curls: Defined and bouncy for high-energy celebrations.
- Textured Glam Waves: Looser waves that still carry a festive punch.
Curl Care Tip: Always apply a heat protectant spray before curling and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray. This ensures your curls last through late-night dancing without feeling stiff.
Sleek & Chic Holiday Hair
If curls aren’t your thing, a sleek style can be just as head-turning. The 2025 glass hair trend is perfect for holiday parties, especially if your outfit already has texture or sparkle.
Go Sleek with:
- Center-Part Straight Hair: Pair with a satin slip dress for an elegant ‘90s-inspired vibe.
- Low Sleek Ponytail: Chic, clean, and a perfect canvas for statement earrings.
- Half-Up Sleek Bun: Combines the polish of an updo with the softness of loose strands.
Pro Product Recommendation: Use a smoothing serum or shine spray right before heading out to combat frizz from winter weather.
Braided Holiday Hairstyles
Braids offer endless possibilities for creative and festive styling. They’re practical for long nights and look stunning in photos.
Braid Styles for the Holidays:
- Crown Braid: Wraps around the head like a festive halo.
- Fishtail Braid: Works well with glitter or metallic thread woven through.
- Braided Bun: Perfect for keeping hair secure while still looking intricate.
Festive Touch: Add tiny rhinestone pins or clip-in pearls to the braid for extra holiday magic.
Short Hair Holiday Inspiration
Short hair can be just as versatile for holiday styling as longer lengths—sometimes even more so.
Glam Short Hair Looks:
- Slicked-Back Pixie: Strong, confident, and perfect for showcasing makeup.
- Curled Bob: Gives volume and softness with a vintage edge.
- Side-Swept Bangs: Great for framing the face while adding a festive flair.
Pro Styling Tip: Short hair benefits from bold accessories. A velvet headband or sparkling clips can instantly elevate your look.
Medium-Length Holiday Hair Ideas
Mid-length hair offers a sweet spot for styling—long enough for curls, short enough for bounce.
Try These:
- Shoulder-Length Waves: A relaxed yet polished party choice.
- Half-Up Twists: Easy to do and keeps hair out of your face for mingling.
- Layered Lob with Shine: Shows off layers with soft curls or straight styling.
Pro Styling Hack: Use a large-barrel curling iron for loose, glamorous movement without overstyling.
Long Holiday Hair Glam
If you’ve got long locks, the holiday season is your moment to unleash their full potential. Long hair can handle volume, intricate styling, and dramatic waves without losing shape.
Show-Stopping Long Hair Looks:
- Mermaid Waves: Cascading, voluminous waves that shimmer under party lights.
- Romantic Loose Curls: Perfect for candlelit dinners or winter weddings.
- Layered Glam Blowout: Retro ‘90s supermodel vibes with extra bounce.
Pro Tip: For longevity, prep with a lightweight mousse before blow-drying to help hold volume without weighing hair down.
Color Trends for Holiday Hair
Seasonal hair inspo often starts with color. Whether you go subtle or bold, the right shade can enhance your style dramatically.
Trending Holiday Colors 2025:
- Icy Platinum Blonde: Cool-toned blondes that sparkle like fresh snow.
- Deep Espresso Brown: Rich and glossy, perfect for adding depth.
- Cranberry Red: A bold yet wearable festive red with warm undertones.
- Champagne Highlights: Soft shimmer for brunettes or blondes.
Color Care Tip: Use sulfate-free shampoos and gloss treatments to keep your hue vibrant through the holiday season.
Accessories to Elevate Your Holiday Hair
Even the simplest hairstyle can transform into something spectacular with the right accessory.
Accessory Trends:
- Velvet Bows: Elegant and festive in deep reds, greens, or navy.
- Pearl Hair Clips: Classic and versatile for any holiday look.
- Sparkly Barrettes: Add instant glamour without much effort.
- Gold & Silver Headbands: Match your metallic holiday outfits.
Quick Tip: Pair your accessory with your jewelry for a cohesive look—gold headband with gold earrings, for example.
Heatless Holiday Hair Styling Ideas
Holiday events can mean multiple parties in a week, and constant heat styling can damage your hair. Heatless styles save your strands while still delivering the wow factor.
No-Heat Options:
- Overnight Braids for Waves: Sleep in loose braids for beachy texture by morning.
- Velcro Rollers: Achieve volume without a curling iron.
- Sock Bun Curls: Wrap sections around a sock or soft roller for bouncy curls.
Bonus: Heatless methods are perfect for multitasking—style your hair while you wrap gifts or bake cookies.
Holiday Hair Ideas for Natural Textures
Natural hair textures bring unique beauty to holiday styling, and the season is the perfect excuse to celebrate them.
Glam Natural Styles:
- Afro Puff with Sparkly Headband: Statement-making and full of personality.
- Defined Twist-Out: Adds bounce and definition.
- Bantu Knots with Accessories: Festive and culturally rich.
Care Tip: Use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner to keep curls hydrated against dry winter air.
Last-Minute Holiday Hair Fixes
Not everyone has hours to prepare before a holiday party—sometimes you have to work magic in 10 minutes.
Quick Rescue Styles:
- High Ponytail with Ribbon: Chic and festive in under five minutes.
- Messy Bun with Statement Clip: Effortlessly elegant.
- Dry Shampoo Revive: Add instant volume and freshness to second-day hair.
Time-Saver Tip: Keep a small “hair emergency kit” in your bag with bobby pins, hair ties, and mini hairspray.
How to Keep Your Holiday Hair Healthy
The combination of heat styling, cold weather, and festive activities can leave hair feeling stressed.
Holiday Hair Care Essentials:
- Deep Conditioning Weekly: Restore moisture stripped by styling tools.
- Heat Protection Sprays: Always a must before blow-drying or curling.
- Trim Split Ends Before the Season: Keeps styles looking neat and healthy.
Pro Tip: Drink plenty of water—hydration starts from within, and your hair will thank you.
Best Products for Holiday Hair Styling
A great holiday hairstyle starts with the right products. Whether you’re creating soft curls or a sleek updo, product choice can make or break your look.
Must-Have Holiday Hair Products:
- Volumizing Mousse: Perfect for blowouts and full-bodied curls.
- Flexible-Hold Hairspray: Keeps styles in place without the helmet effect.
- Shine Serum or Spray: Adds a glossy finish, especially important for straight styles.
- Texturizing Spray: Ideal for braids and updos that need grip.
Pro Product Tip: Keep travel-sized versions in your clutch for quick touch-ups during the party.
Celebrity-Inspired Holiday Hair Looks
Celebrities often set the stage for holiday hair trends, and their red carpet styles can easily be adapted for your seasonal events.
This Year’s Celebrity Inspo:
- Zendaya’s Glossy Waves: Timeless glamour for formal gatherings.
- Hailey Bieber’s Sleek Bun: Modern and minimal for upscale dinners.
- Rihanna’s Voluminous Curls: Bold and beautiful for festive nights out.
How to Adapt: Pair a celebrity-inspired style with your own twist—switch up the accessory, parting, or curl type.
Romantic Updos for the Festive Season
Romantic hairstyles add a soft, dreamy quality perfect for winter weddings or candlelit gatherings.
Romantic Holiday Styles:
- Loose Chignon: Elegant with soft tendrils framing the face.
- French Twist with Pearls: Combines classic styling with festive detail.
- Braided Low Bun: Adds texture and volume while staying formal.
Styling Tip: Curl your hair before creating the updo—this makes it easier to mold and keeps it from looking too rigid.
Playful Ponytails for the Holidays
Ponytails are no longer just a casual style—they can be transformed into statement holiday looks.
Festive Ponytail Ideas:
- Bubble Ponytail: Adds a fun, youthful vibe.
- Low Pony with Ribbon Tie: Romantic and simple.
- High Sleek Pony: Bold and confident for dance-floor-ready energy.
Pro Trick: Wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie for a polished finish.
Holiday Hair for Outdoor Winter Events
Cold weather can flatten styles, so outdoor holiday events require extra consideration.
Outdoor-Friendly Styles:
- Braided Updo: Holds shape under a hat or hood.
- Tight Waves with Hairspray: Prevents frizz and keeps volume.
- Low Bun with Scarf Accessory: Keeps hair neat and warm.
Weather-Proof Tip: Use anti-humidity spray even in winter—snow and mist can cause frizz.
Festival & New Year’s Eve Party Hair
The most daring night of the year calls for fearless hair choices.
NYE Hair Ideas:
- Glitter Roots: Perfect for counting down to midnight.
- Temporary Pastel or Metallic Sprays: Add instant drama.
- High Volume Curls: Big, bold, and unapologetically festive.
Pro Tip: Use biodegradable glitter to keep your look eco-friendly.
Matching Your Holiday Hair to Your Outfit
A harmonious look is all about coordination.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Sequined Dress: Sleek hair to balance the sparkle.
- Velvet Outfit: Soft waves or curls to complement texture.
- Minimalist Outfit: Statement updo or bold accessories to create contrast.
Style Rule: Let either your hair or your outfit be the main statement—not both.
DIY Holiday Hair at Home
Not everyone heads to a salon for the holidays—some prefer the DIY approach.
At-Home Styles:
- Curling Wand Waves: Quick and versatile.
- Half-Up Twist: Easy and elegant for video calls or intimate dinners.
- French Braid into Bun: A secure, stylish choice for active parties.
Budget Tip: Repurpose accessories from previous years for a sustainable twist.
Choosing the Right Hairstyle for Your Face Shape
Your face shape can guide you toward the most flattering holiday style.
Face Shape Tips:
- Oval: Works with almost any style—experiment freely.
- Round: Try high volume at the crown or side-swept bangs.
- Square: Soft waves or curls to balance strong jawlines.
- Heart: Side parts and chin-length layers flatter beautifully.
Cultural Holiday Hair Traditions
Hair has cultural significance during holidays worldwide.
Examples:
- Japan: Elaborate updos for New Year celebrations.
- India: Floral hair adornments for Diwali and winter weddings.
- Mexico: Bright ribbons woven into braids for Christmas fiestas.
Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Holiday Hair Options
Holiday glam doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense.
Eco-Conscious Ideas:
- Reusable Hair Accessories: Metal clips, silk scrunchies.
- Vegan Hair Products: Cruelty-free sprays and serums.
- Low-Heat Styles: Reduce energy use and hair damage.
Your holiday hair is more than a style—it’s a statement. From general holiday hair trends to seasonal hair inspo tailored to every occasion, there’s a festive look for everyone. Whether you’re embracing sleek sophistication, going full-on glam with curls, or experimenting with color and accessories, the key is confidence.
Step into your next holiday party with a hairstyle that not only complements your outfit but also makes you feel radiant. After all, the holidays are about celebration, connection, and a little bit of sparkle.
FAQs About Holiday Hair
What’s the easiest holiday hairstyle for beginners?
A sleek low ponytail with a festive ribbon is quick, easy, and chic.
How can I make my curls last all night?
Use a mousse before styling, set with a flexible-hold hairspray, and let curls cool completely before touching them.
What’s trending for short holiday hair?
Curled bobs, slicked-back pixies, and jeweled headbands.
How do I stop frizz in winter weather?
Apply anti-humidity spray and avoid touching your hair too much.
What color is most popular for holiday hair 2025?
Icy platinum blonde and cranberry red are dominating salons.
Are glitter roots safe for hair?
Yes, if you use cosmetic-grade, biodegradable glitter and wash it out gently.
