48 Winter Hairstyles and Holiday Party Hairstyles: Festive Updos, Curls & Braids

Introduction

Winter is the season when hair gets to shine the most, from glittering Christmas parties and New Year celebrations to cosy evenings by the fire. Cold air, wool hats and central heating can leave hair dry and flat, but the right winter hairstyle does more than look beautiful, it also protects your hair from the season. This guide brings together 48 winter hairstyles and holiday party hairstyles, so whether you are dressing up for a formal dinner or keeping it relaxed for a family gathering, you will find a look that suits your hair length, your outfit and the occasion.

Inside you will find elegant festive updo hairstyles, glamorous curls, braided hairstyles for winter, half-up hairstyles, chic buns and short hair party styles, along with a few polished looks for men. Each style comes with practical styling advice, tips on who it suits best, and cold weather hair tips to keep your hair healthy, shiny and frizz-free all season long. All of the photos are original, so you can save your favourites and recreate them at home.

1. Classic Holiday Low Chignon

The classic holiday low chignon is the definition of quiet elegance, and it never goes out of style. Hair is smoothed back and gathered into a neat knot at the nape of the neck, with a few soft strands left loose to frame the face. It works beautifully with velvet dresses, high necklines and statement earrings, because it keeps the neckline clean and lets your outfit do the talking.

To create it, blow-dry your hair smooth, gather it low and twist it into a knot, securing it with pins and a light-hold hairspray. A shine serum on the surface gives it a polished, expensive finish, and a spritz of anti-static spray stops winter flyaways. This is one of the most reliable festive updo hairstyles for long and medium hair, and it holds up well through a whole evening of dancing.

2. Soft Winter Curls with Centre Part

Soft winter curls with a centre part are effortlessly romantic and wonderfully easy to wear. The symmetrical part frames the face evenly, while loose, bouncy curls add movement and volume that flat winter hair often lacks. It suits almost every face shape and looks just as good with a chunky knit sweater as it does with a party dress.

Curl large sections away from the face with a wide-barrel iron, then brush the curls out gently with your fingers for a soft, lived-in finish. A light texturising spray adds hold without stiffness, and a drop of hair oil on the ends keeps them looking healthy in dry winter air. This is a great choice if you want a glamorous look that takes less than twenty minutes.

3. Braided Crown for Holiday Parties

A braided crown turns long hair into a halo, and it is one of the prettiest braided hairstyles for winter. The braid wraps around the head like a crown while the rest of the hair falls in soft waves, giving you the elegance of an updo with the softness of wearing your hair down. It photographs beautifully and stays put all night, which makes it ideal for long parties.

Braid two sections from behind each ear, cross them over the top of the head and pin them in place, then gently pull the braid apart to make it look fuller. Leave a few wispy pieces around the face for softness, and add a tiny sparkle pin where the braids meet. This style works best on medium to long hair and looks stunning on blonde and highlighted hair, where the braid texture really shows.

4. Sleek High Bun with Festive Sparkle

A sleek high bun with a touch of sparkle is party-ready in minutes and suits almost every outfit. The smooth, pulled-back shape elongates the neck and shows off your cheekbones, while a crystal or pearl accessory adds instant festive glamour. It is a brilliant choice when you want your makeup and jewellery to take centre stage.

Smooth the hair up with a bristle brush and a little gel, twist it into a bun and pin it firmly, then slide in your sparkly accessory just above or beside the bun. A strong-hold hairspray keeps everything in place, and a quick pass with a shine spray gives the bun a glossy finish. This is one of the easiest winter bun hairstyles, and it works on straight, wavy and curly hair alike.

5. Half-Up Twisted Winter Hairstyle

The half-up twisted winter hairstyle is the perfect middle ground between wearing your hair up and leaving it down. Two twisted sections from the front are pinned at the back, keeping hair out of your face while the rest flows freely in soft waves. It is cosy, practical and pretty, and it survives a winter coat and scarf without falling apart.

Twist a section from each temple towards the back, cross them over and secure with pins, then curl the loose lengths for movement. A little dry shampoo at the roots adds grip and volume, which helps the twists hold in cold, damp weather. This is a lovely everyday winter look that also works for casual holiday gatherings and family dinners.

6. Velvet Ribbon Low Ponytail

A low ponytail tied with a velvet ribbon is the simplest way to make an everyday style feel festive. The ribbon adds colour, texture and a touch of vintage charm, turning a plain ponytail into a deliberate holiday look. It pairs beautifully with red, green and burgundy outfits, and it is one of the quickest holiday party hair ideas in this guide.

Gather the hair low at the nape, smooth the top with a brush and secure with an elastic, then tie a wide velvet ribbon around the base and finish with a bow. Leave the ends straight for a polished look, or add a gentle bend with a straightener for softness. Choose a ribbon that matches or contrasts with your outfit, and keep the rest of your accessories simple so the ribbon stands out.

7. Old Hollywood Waves for the Holidays

Old Hollywood waves bring pure glamour to any holiday party, with deep sculpted waves that catch the light with every turn of the head. The polished, side-swept shape feels luxurious and timeless, and it is the ultimate choice for a formal dinner, a work Christmas party or a New Year celebration. It suits medium and long hair best, and it looks especially striking on blonde and silver hair.

Curl all the hair in the same direction with a large-barrel iron, pin each curl to cool, then brush through gently to form smooth S-shaped waves. Set the waves with a flexible-hold hairspray and a shine serum for that glossy, red-carpet finish. This style takes a little patience, but it lasts for hours and photographs like a dream.

8. Fishtail Braid Winter Hairstyle

The fishtail braid is a winter favourite because it looks intricate but is surprisingly simple to create. Two small sections are woven alternately across each other to form a delicate, herringbone pattern that looks far more complicated than it is. Worn over one shoulder, it is practical in cold weather, keeps hair tidy under a coat, and adds texture to a plain sweater.

Gather the hair to one side, divide it into two sections and cross small pieces from the outside of each section to the inside of the other, working your way down. Gently pull the braid apart to make it look thicker and softer, and secure the end with a clear elastic. A little texturising spray before you start gives the braid grip, and a ribbon tied at the end adds a festive touch.

9. Messy Textured Bun with Face-Framing Pieces

A messy textured bun is the relaxed cousin of the polished updo, and it is perfect for parties where you want to look effortless rather than overdone. The bun sits high or mid-height with plenty of texture and volume, while loose face-framing pieces soften the whole look. It suits every hair type and is wonderfully forgiving if a few strands escape during the night.

Gather the hair loosely, twist it into a bun and pin it in place, then pull out a few strands around the face and gently tug at the bun to add fullness. A texturising spray gives the hair grip and stops the bun from slipping, and a light mist of hairspray holds it without stiffness. This is one of the most versatile winter bun hairstyles, working for both casual gatherings and dressier evenings.

10. French Twist Holiday Updo

The French twist is a timeless updo that brings instant sophistication to any holiday outfit. Hair is swept up and rolled into a vertical twist at the back of the head, creating a smooth, sculpted shape that looks elegant from every angle. A pearl pin adds a festive finish, and the style pairs beautifully with off-shoulder and V-neck dresses.

To create it, sweep the hair to one side, roll it upwards and tuck the ends inside, securing with long pins along the seam. Smooth the surface with a brush and a little pomade, and finish with a strong-hold hairspray. This updo suits medium to long hair and stays secure all evening, making it a reliable choice for formal Christmas parties and New Year dinners.

11. Winter Bob with Soft Curls

A winter bob with soft curls is proof that short hair can be just as festive as long hair. The chin-length cut is curled gently under at the ends, with volume at the crown and a soft, bouncy movement that flatters the face. It is chic, modern and easy to maintain, and it looks wonderful with wool coats, scarves and statement earrings.

Curl the ends under with a medium-barrel iron or a round brush while blow-drying, then add a little root-lifting spray for volume. A pea-sized amount of styling cream smooths flyaways without weighing the curls down. This is one of the best short hair party styles for winter, because it holds its shape under a hat and still looks polished when you take the hat off.

12. Pearl-Adorned Half-Up Hairstyle

Pearls are the jewellery of the season, and a pearl-adorned half-up hairstyle brings that elegance straight into your hair. The top half is gathered back and decorated with small pearl pins, while soft waves fall below. It is romantic, feminine and festive without feeling over the top, and it works for everything from a family Christmas lunch to a New Year party.

Gather the top section back, secure it with a small elastic or pins, then scatter pearl pins along the twist or across the gathered section. Curl the loose hair in large, soft waves and finish with a light-hold spray. This style looks particularly beautiful on blonde and light brown hair, where the pearls stand out against the colour.

13. Loose Romantic Waves with Side Sweep

Loose romantic waves swept to one side are soft, glamorous and effortlessly flattering. Sweeping the hair over one shoulder shows off the neckline and earrings, while the waves add volume and movement. It is a classic holiday party hair look that suits every face shape and works with almost any party outfit.

Create a deep side part, curl the hair in large sections and brush through for softness, then sweep the bulk over one shoulder and pin the smaller side behind the ear. A shine spray gives the waves a healthy glow, which is especially important in winter when hair can look dull. This style is quick to create and lasts well, making it a great last-minute party choice.

14. Dutch Braid into Low Bun

A Dutch braid into a low bun combines the texture of a braid with the polish of an updo, and it is ideal for winter. The raised braid runs from the crown down into a neat low bun, keeping every strand secure against wind, hats and scarves. It looks detailed and impressive, yet it is sturdy enough to last from a daytime outing to an evening party.

Braid the hair in a Dutch braid, crossing the sections under rather than over, and continue down to the nape before twisting the remaining length into a bun. Pin the bun firmly and gently pull the braid apart to add fullness. This is one of the most practical braided hairstyles for winter, and it suits thick hair particularly well.

15. Sleek Straight Hair with Winter Shine

Sleek straight hair with a mirror shine is a bold, modern winter look that never fails to impress. The glass-like finish looks especially striking on dark hair, and the sharp, clean lines contrast beautifully with soft winter knits and structured coats. It is also one of the easiest styles to maintain once the straightening is done.

Straighten the hair in small sections with a flat iron, then smooth a few drops of shine serum over the surface and through the ends. Winter hair care matters here: use a heat protectant before styling and a weekly deep-conditioning mask to fight dryness from indoor heating. A centre part gives the most dramatic effect, while a side part softens the look.

16. Glamorous Voluminous Blowout

A glamorous voluminous blowout is the ultimate party hairstyle for anyone who loves big, bouncy hair. The blow-dried volume, flicked ends and glossy finish give the hair movement and energy, and the style looks fantastic with sequins, velvet and satin. It is a classic for a reason, and it suits long and medium hair of every texture.

Blow-dry the hair with a large round brush, lifting at the roots and flicking the ends out, then set the volume with rollers or a large-barrel iron. A volumising mousse at the roots and a light-hold hairspray keep the bounce alive all evening. For extra staying power in damp winter weather, finish with a humidity-resistant spray.

17. Holiday Pixie with Festive Texture

A holiday pixie with festive texture proves that short hair can steal the show at any party. Piecey, textured layers and volume on top give the cut a playful, modern edge, while a little shine product adds polish. It is bold, confident and wonderfully low-maintenance, leaving you free to enjoy the evening instead of worrying about your hair.

Work a small amount of texture paste through the top layers, pinching the ends to separate them and create definition. A touch of pomade adds shine and control, and a sparkly hair clip or headband can dress it up in seconds. This is one of the most striking short hair party styles, and it looks especially beautiful on silver, blonde and grey hair.

18. Waterfall Braid Winter Hairstyle

The waterfall braid is one of the most romantic braided hairstyles for winter, with strands cascading through the braid like water. The braid runs across the back of the head while the dropped strands fall into soft curls below, creating a look that is delicate, feminine and perfect for holiday photos. It works best on long hair, where the falling strands have room to shine.

Braid across the back of the head, dropping the bottom strand each time and picking up a new one, then curl the loose lengths in soft waves. A light-hold spray keeps the braid in place without stiffness, and a small flower or pearl pin at the end adds a festive touch. This style takes a little practice, but the result is well worth the effort.

19. Knotted Low Bun with Gold Pins

A knotted low bun with gold pins is understated luxury, perfect for an elegant holiday dinner. The hair is twisted into a soft knot at the nape, and slim gold pins add warmth and sparkle that catch the light beautifully. It is a refined alternative to a plain bun, and it pairs wonderfully with gold jewellery and warm-toned outfits.

Twist the low ponytail into a knot, tuck the ends underneath and pin securely, then slide in two or three gold pins in a neat row or a scattered pattern. A smoothing serum keeps the surface sleek, and a light hairspray holds the knot all evening. This style suits medium to long hair and looks particularly elegant on dark brown and black hair.

20. Curly High Ponytail for Parties

A curly high ponytail is fun, flirty and full of energy, making it a perfect party hairstyle for naturally curly hair. The curls are gathered high on the crown, where they cascade down in bouncy, defined curls that move as you dance. It shows off the face, keeps curls out of the way, and looks fantastic with bold earrings and a party dress.

Gather the curls high and secure with a snag-free elastic, then define the curls with a curl cream and let them fall naturally. Pull out a few curls around the hairline for softness, and use a light-hold gel to smooth the sides. This is one of the best curly holiday hairstyles, because it celebrates natural texture instead of fighting it.

21. Side-Swept Winter Updo

A side-swept winter updo is romantic and elegant, with the hair swept and pinned into a soft updo on one side. Loose curls frame the face, and the asymmetrical shape flatters the neck and shoulders. It is a lovely choice for a winter wedding, a formal party or a New Year celebration, and it works beautifully with one-shoulder dresses.

Sweep the hair to one side, pin the bulk into a loose, soft updo low on the opposite side, and leave a few curls free around the face. A texturising spray gives the updo grip, and decorative pins add a festive sparkle. This style suits medium to long hair and holds up well through a long evening.

22. Braided Headband Hairstyle

A braided headband hairstyle is charming, practical and perfect for winter days and casual parties alike. A neat braid runs across the front of the head like a headband, keeping hair off the face, while the rest falls in soft waves. It is a lovely choice for a daytime holiday gathering, a Christmas market visit or a family lunch.

Braid a section from behind one ear across the front of the head, pin it behind the other ear, and curl the remaining hair in loose waves. A little texturising spray helps the braid hold, and the style works on straight, wavy and curly hair. It is also a great way to grow out bangs gracefully through the winter.

23. Winter Beanie-Friendly Loose Waves

Winter beanie-friendly loose waves are the answer to hat hair, the flat, frizzy mess that appears when you take off a winter hat. These relaxed waves are designed to look good under a beanie and even better when the hat comes off, with volume at the roots and soft movement through the lengths. It is the most practical winter hairstyle in this guide.

Curl the hair in loose, large waves, then add dry shampoo at the roots before putting on a beanie that is not too tight. When you take the hat off, shake the roots gently and add a little texturising spray to bring the volume back. A silk or satin-lined beanie reduces friction and frizz, which is one of the simplest cold weather hair tips you can follow.

24. Elegant Gibson Tuck Holiday Hairstyle

The Gibson tuck is a vintage-inspired updo that feels made for the holidays, with hair rolled and tucked into a soft low roll at the nape. It has a graceful, old-fashioned charm that suits formal parties and winter weddings, and it is surprisingly easy to create. The finished shape is smooth, polished and timeless.

Gather the hair into a low ponytail, create a small pocket above the elastic, then tuck the ponytail up and into the pocket, pinning it in place. Smooth the surface, leave a soft centre part at the front, and add a decorative comb or pin for a festive finish. This style suits medium to long hair and looks beautiful with high-neck and vintage-style dresses.

25. Sparkling Hair Clip Half-Up Style

A sparkling hair clip can transform a simple half-up style into a party look in seconds. The top half of the hair is pulled back and secured with a glittering crystal clip, while soft waves fall below. It is quick, easy and endlessly versatile, and the clip becomes the jewellery of the hairstyle, catching the light every time you move.

Pull the top sections back, twist them slightly and secure with the clip, then curl the loose hair in soft waves. Choose a clip that matches your outfit, silver for cool tones, gold for warm tones, and keep the rest of your hair accessories minimal. This is one of the easiest holiday party hair ideas, and it works on straight, wavy and curly hair.

26. Romantic Loose Braid with Winter Layers

A romantic loose braid with winter layers is soft, cosy and effortlessly pretty. The braid is kept loose and relaxed, with layers falling gently around the face, giving the style a soft, lived-in feel. It is perfect for a winter walk, a Christmas market or a relaxed family gathering, and it keeps hair tidy under a coat and scarf.

Braid the hair loosely over one shoulder, pulling the edges apart gently to add fullness, and leave a few face-framing layers free. A texturising spray adds grip and a soft, touchable finish. This style works best on layered hair, where the different lengths create natural softness around the braid.

27. Polished Low Ponytail with Wrapped Base

A polished low ponytail with a wrapped base is minimal, chic and surprisingly elegant. The hair is smoothed into a low ponytail, and a strand is wrapped around the elastic to hide it, giving the style a clean, expensive finish. It is a brilliant choice for a work party or a smart dinner, where you want to look polished without trying too hard.

Smooth the hair back with a brush and a little gel, secure low at the nape, then wrap a strand around the base and pin it underneath. A shine serum on the lengths gives the ponytail a glossy finish, and a straightener can smooth any kinks. This style suits straight and slightly wavy hair best, and it looks wonderful with tailored outfits and high collars.

28. Winter Shag with Curtain Bangs

A winter shag with curtain bangs is the cool, modern haircut of the season, with choppy layers and soft bangs that frame the face. The layers add movement and volume, which is exactly what flat winter hair needs, and the curtain bangs grow out gracefully. It is a great choice if you want a fresh cut before the holidays that still looks good with minimal styling.

Ask your stylist for soft, choppy layers and curtain bangs that part in the middle, then style with a round brush or a quick pass with a straightener bent at the ends. A texturising spray brings out the layers, and a little dry shampoo at the roots keeps the volume alive. This cut suits medium-length hair and most face shapes.

29. Chignon with Twisted Sides

A chignon with twisted sides adds a beautiful detail to a classic updo. The front sections are twisted back and joined into a soft low chignon, creating texture and interest at the sides while keeping the overall shape elegant. It is a lovely choice for a winter wedding guest, a formal party or a New Year dinner.

Twist a section from each side of the front towards the back, join them at the nape and form a low chignon, pinning everything securely. Gently pull the twists apart for fullness, and leave a few soft strands around the face. A light-hold hairspray and a shine serum finish the look, and a small sparkle pin adds a festive touch.

30. Holiday Glam Curls for Long Hair

Holiday glam curls are all about volume, shine and drama, with long hair curled into big, bouncy, defined curls. The curls catch the light beautifully and frame the face, making this one of the most glamorous long hair holiday looks in this guide. It suits almost every party outfit, from sequins to velvet.

Curl the hair in medium sections with a large-barrel iron, pin the curls to cool, then brush them out gently for soft, bouncy volume. A volumising mousse at the roots and a flexible-hold hairspray keep the curls alive all night. For extra shine, smooth a drop of hair oil over the surface once the curls have set.

31. Double Dutch Braids for Winter

Double Dutch braids are sporty, practical and surprisingly stylish, making them a great winter hairstyle for active days. Two raised braids run neatly down the back, keeping every strand secure against wind, snow and hats. They also make a brilliant base for a party, because you can undo them later for beautiful heat-free waves.

Part the hair down the middle, then Dutch braid each side, crossing the sections under to create the raised effect. Secure the ends with small elastics and gently pull the braids apart for fullness. This style suits long hair best, and it is one of the most durable braided hairstyles for winter, lasting comfortably from morning to night.

32. Classic Ballerina Bun with a Festive Touch

The classic ballerina bun is the most polished of all the winter bun hairstyles, with hair smoothed into a perfect high bun. A thin sparkling hair band adds a festive touch without disturbing the clean lines of the style. It is elegant, timeless and ideal for formal parties, dance performances and New Year celebrations.

Brush the hair up smoothly, twist it into a bun and pin it firmly, using a hair donut if you want extra fullness. Smooth flyaways with a little gel or hairspray, and slide the sparkling band into place just in front of the bun. This style suits straight and wavy hair, and it shows off the neck and shoulders beautifully with strapless and off-shoulder dresses.

33. Textured Lob with Winter Waves

A textured lob with winter waves is the perfect medium-length party style, with shoulder-length hair in tousled, loose waves. The textured ends add movement and a modern edge, while the waves keep the look soft and feminine. It is easy to style, suits almost every face shape, and looks great with both casual knits and party dresses.

Curl the hair in alternating directions with a medium-barrel iron, then tousle the waves with your fingers and finish with a texturising spray. A little dry shampoo at the roots adds lift, which helps the style survive a winter hat. This is one of the most versatile short hair party styles, and it works on straight, wavy and naturally textured hair.

34. Braided Low Ponytail for Holiday Parties

A braided low ponytail combines the neatness of a ponytail with the texture of a braid, creating a style that is both practical and festive. The braid runs down the length of the ponytail, adding detail that shows beautifully in photos. It is a great choice for a long party, because it stays neat for hours and keeps hair off your back.

Gather the hair into a low ponytail, braid the length in a classic three-strand braid and secure the end, then gently pull the braid apart to make it look fuller. A ribbon tied at the end adds a holiday touch, and a shine spray gives the braid a polished finish. This style suits long hair best and works on straight and wavy textures.

35. Side Part Vintage Curls

Side part vintage curls bring old-fashioned glamour to the holidays, with polished retro curls and a deep side part. The structured waves and glossy finish feel luxurious and special, making this a wonderful choice for a themed party, a formal dinner or a New Year celebration. It suits shoulder-length and medium hair best.

Curl the hair with a medium-barrel iron, pin the curls to cool, then brush through gently and set the deep side part. A strong-hold hairspray and a shine serum give the curls their polished, vintage finish. A bold red lip and simple earrings complete the look, letting the hairstyle be the star.

36. Messy Half-Up Top Knot

A messy half-up top knot is relaxed, playful and perfect for casual holiday gatherings. The top section is gathered into a loose, messy knot on the crown, while the rest of the hair falls in soft waves. It keeps hair out of your face while cooking, decorating or dancing, and it has a carefree charm that suits cosy winter evenings.

Gather the top section, twist it loosely into a knot and pin it in place, then pull out a few strands for softness. A texturising spray adds grip and volume, and the loose lengths can be curled or left natural. This is one of the easiest half-up hairstyles in this guide, and it works on medium and long hair of every texture.

37. Winter French Braid with Ribbons

A winter French braid with ribbons is festive, charming and perfect for the holidays. A classic French braid runs down the back, with a red or green ribbon woven through it for a seasonal pop of colour. It is a lovely choice for a Christmas party, a family photo or a winter wedding, and it suits all ages.

Start the French braid at the crown, adding hair as you go, and weave the ribbon in with the sections as you braid. Secure the end with the ribbon tied in a bow, and gently pull the braid apart for softness. This is one of the prettiest braided hairstyles for winter, and it looks especially beautiful on blonde and light brown hair.

38. Sophisticated Sleek Chignon

A sophisticated sleek chignon is the ultimate formal updo, with hair smoothed into a perfectly polished low chignon. The centre part and glass-like finish give it a modern, editorial feel, while the low shape keeps it classic and elegant. It is a stunning choice for a black-tie holiday event, a winter wedding or a formal New Year dinner.

Smooth the hair with a brush and a little serum, gather it low and twist it into a neat chignon, pinning it firmly. A strong-hold hairspray and a shine spray give the style its sleek finish, and a pair of statement earrings completes the look. This updo suits medium to long hair and stays secure all evening.

39. Festive Bubble Braid

A festive bubble braid is playful, modern and surprisingly easy to create. The ponytail is divided into rounded bubble sections with small elastics, creating a fun, textured shape that looks fantastic in photos. It is a great choice for a casual Christmas party, a New Year gathering with friends or a festive night out.

Gather the hair into a high or low ponytail, then add elastics down the length, gently pulling each section out to create the bubbles. Small sparkly elastics or a ribbon at the top add a festive touch. This style works best on long, thick hair, and it holds up well through a long night of dancing.

40. Soft Waves with Winter Highlights

Soft waves with winter highlights bring warmth and light to dark winter days. Caramel and honey highlights catch the light in the waves, adding dimension and a healthy glow to the hair. It is a beautiful, low-maintenance look that works for everyday winter wear and for parties alike.

Ask your colourist for warm, face-framing highlights, then style the hair in soft, loose waves with a large-barrel iron. A colour-protecting shampoo and a weekly hair mask keep the highlights bright and the hair healthy through the dry winter months. This is one of the most flattering long hair holiday looks, because the colour does half the work.

41. Men's Textured Quiff for Holiday Parties

A men's textured quiff is sharp, modern and perfect for holiday parties. The top is swept up and back with plenty of texture, while the sides are kept short and clean, creating a confident shape that suits a suit and a festive tie. It is a polished look that still feels relaxed and youthful.

Blow-dry the top upwards with a round brush, then work a matte clay or paste through the hair, pushing it up and back with your fingers. A light-hold hairspray keeps the quiff in place without stiffness. Ask your barber for short, tapered sides and a textured top, and the style will be easy to recreate at home.

42. Men's Slicked-Back Winter Hairstyle

A men's slicked-back winter hairstyle is smooth, sophisticated and effortlessly cool. Medium-length hair is combed back with a polished shine, creating a classic shape that works for formal parties, winter weddings and smart dinners. It pairs beautifully with a wool coat and a tailored suit.

Apply a little pomade to damp hair, comb it smoothly back and let it set, or blow-dry it back for extra volume. A shine pomade gives the classic glossy finish, while a matte product creates a softer, more modern version. This style suits straight and slightly wavy hair, and it grows out gracefully between barber visits.

43. Cozy Hat-Friendly Low Bun

A cozy hat-friendly low bun is the smartest winter hairstyle for anyone who lives in a beanie. The bun sits low and flat at the nape, so a hat fits comfortably over it without squashing the style, and when the hat comes off, the bun still looks neat and intentional. It is practical, pretty and perfect for cold days.

Gather the hair low, twist it into a flat bun and pin it securely, keeping the shape close to the head. A little smoothing serum controls flyaways, and a silk-lined hat reduces frizz. This is one of the most useful winter bun hairstyles, and it works for errands, winter walks and casual holiday outings.

44. Twisted Half-Up Crown Hairstyle

A twisted half-up crown hairstyle is romantic and regal, with two twisted sections meeting at the back of the crown like a halo. Soft waves fall below, giving the style a dreamy, feminine feel that is perfect for a winter wedding, a formal party or a New Year celebration. It flatters every face shape and photographs beautifully.

Twist a section from each side towards the back, cross them over and pin them in place, then curl the loose hair in soft waves. Gently pull the twists apart for fullness, and add a small sparkle pin where they meet. This is one of the most elegant half-up hairstyles in this guide, and it suits medium to long hair.

45. Holiday Party High Ponytail with Curls

A holiday party high ponytail with curls is bold, glamorous and full of movement. The hair is pulled high and sleek, while the ends are curled into big, bouncy curls that swing as you move. It is a confident party look that shows off the face and neckline, and it pairs wonderfully with statement earrings and a party dress.

Smooth the hair up with a brush and a little gel, secure it high on the crown, then curl the ponytail ends with a large-barrel iron. Wrap a strand of hair around the base to hide the elastic, and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray. This style suits long hair best and holds up well through a night of dancing.

46. Elegant Pinned-Up Winter Hairstyle

An elegant pinned-up winter hairstyle is soft, structured and timeless, with the hair swept up and secured with decorative pins into a gentle updo. The volume at the crown and the soft, pinned shape give it a graceful finish that suits formal parties and winter weddings. It is a beautiful alternative to a classic bun or chignon.

Sweep the hair up, pin sections loosely into place to build soft volume, and secure with decorative pins that match your outfit. A texturising spray gives the hair grip, and a light-hold hairspray keeps the shape without stiffness. This style suits medium to long hair and looks lovely with high-neck and embellished dresses.

47. Winter Milkmaid Braids

Winter milkmaid braids are charming, cosy and perfect for the season, with two braids wrapped over the top of the head like a crown. The style keeps every strand secure against wind and hats, and it has a sweet, storybook feel that suits holiday photos and family gatherings. It works best on long hair, where the braids have enough length to wrap comfortably.

Braid the hair into two low braids, bring them up and over the head, and pin them in place, tucking the ends underneath. Gently pull the braids apart for fullness, and leave a few soft strands around the face. A light-hold spray keeps everything secure, and a ribbon woven into the braids adds a festive touch.

48. Glittering Holiday Updo with Statement Clip

A glittering holiday updo with a statement clip is the grand finale of festive hair, with a voluminous updo crowned by an oversized crystal clip. The updo gives height and elegance, while the clip adds sparkle that catches the light from across the room. It is the perfect choice for New Year celebrations, when you want your hair to shine as brightly as the fireworks.

Sweep the hair into a soft, voluminous updo, pinning sections loosely to build height, then slide the statement clip into place on one side. A volumising spray at the roots and a strong-hold hairspray keep the updo secure all night. Keep your other jewellery simple, so the clip remains the star of the look.

Conclusion

Winter and the holiday season give you the perfect excuse to try something new with your hair, from elegant festive updo hairstyles and glamorous curls to cosy braided hairstyles for winter and sparkling party looks. These 48 winter hairstyles and holiday party hairstyles cover every hair length, every occasion and every level of effort, so whether you have five minutes or an hour, there is a style here for you. The key to great winter hair is preparation: protect it from the cold with a good conditioner, fight static with a little serum, and choose styles that work with hats and scarves instead of against them.

Save your favourite looks, practise the ones you love before the big night, and do not be afraid to add your own touch with ribbons, pearls, clips and pins. With the right style and a little winter hair care, your hair will look healthy, shiny and beautiful all season long, from the first Christmas party to the last New Year celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best winter hairstyles for long hair?

The best winter hairstyles for long hair are styles that protect the ends from cold and friction, such as low buns, braids and low ponytails. Loose waves, fishtail braids, Dutch braids and romantic updos all look beautiful and keep hair tidy under coats and scarves. For parties, try a classic low chignon, Old Hollywood waves or a braided crown for a festive finish.

How do I stop my hair from getting frizzy in winter?

Winter frizz is usually caused by dry air, indoor heating and friction from hats and scarves. Use a moisturising shampoo and a weekly deep-conditioning mask, smooth a drop of hair oil or serum over the ends, and avoid brushing dry hair too aggressively. A silk or satin-lined hat and a silk pillowcase also reduce friction and keep hair smoother through the season.

What holiday party hairstyles work best for short hair?

Short hair looks wonderful at holiday parties with a little texture and shine. Try a textured pixie with festive volume, a winter bob with soft curls, a sleek straight bob, or a textured lob with waves. A sparkly clip, headband or pearl pins can dress up any short style in seconds, and a little texturising spray adds the volume that short party hair needs.

How can I make my holiday hairstyle last all night?

Start with clean, dry hair and use a volumising mousse or texturising spray for grip before styling. Pin updos firmly with plenty of bobby pins, set curls with a flexible-hold hairspray, and carry a few pins and a travel-size hairspray in your bag for quick fixes. Avoid touching your hair too often during the evening, and choose styles that are designed to hold, such as buns, braids and pinned-up looks.

Which hairstyles are best for wearing under a winter hat?

The best hairstyles for wearing under a winter hat are low, flat styles that do not get squashed, such as a low bun, a low ponytail, loose braids or relaxed waves. Avoid high buns and tall updos under a hat, and add dry shampoo at the roots before putting the hat on. When you take the hat off, shake the roots gently and add a little texturising spray to bring back the volume.