The holidays are always a little extra sparkling, and your hair deserves to get in on the fun. From polished ponytails to playful braids and chic updos adorned with bows and ribbons, festive hairstyles for 2025-26 are all about striking the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Whether you’re a professional or just aiming for an effortless style, these styles are ideal for women who prefer to look and feel their best while strutting with confidence that beauty and age are a better combination. Whether you’re heading to a Christmas dinner, attending a New Year’s Eve party, or just enjoying a cozy evening at home, the right hairstyle can make you feel instantly rejuvenated and sparkling.
1. Tousled Holiday Updo
There is something so glamorous about the tousled updo that still looks relaxed, kind of like you just twisted your hair up while laughing with friends before heading out. It adds that perfect holiday sparkle-upgraded but not over done. This looseness threads itself into the fabric, encircling the face as a sort of romantic effortlessness, rather than the stiffness and formality of a stiff jacket.
This hairstyle works best for medium hair or long hair as there is enough volume to hold the hairstyle. If you have fine hair a little texturizing spray will help add grip, whilst thicker hair can be pinned loosely for natural movement. What makes this style special is that it looks chic at Christmas dinner, yet equally fun at a New Year’s Eve party.
2. Voluminous Natural Curls
There’s nothing more joyful than indulging in the natural beauty during the festive season, and these voluminous curls are all about confidence and comfort. And the bounce, the shine, the way they set the smile-it all sounds festive and fun without any effort. And it’s the kind of look that makes you feel like you, but brighter.
This is perfect for women with naturally curly hair or thick wavy hair as the texture does the job for you. A small leave-in conditioner or light oil will keep it soft and defined. Festive and relaxed, it exudes a freer feeling than straighter styles – ideal for summer soirees or Christmas evenings.
3. Classic Hollywood Waves
There’s nothing quite as festive as gently curled waves glowing in the chorus of the twinkling lights. These traditional curls capture a hint of vintage glamour, as if you’ve just emerged from a winter ball. They’re classic, sexy and they make a black dress look even more powerful.
This look is best suited to medium length or shoulder length hair, where the hair can hold beautiful waves without feeling heavy. Use a wide-barreled curling iron and run the curl through to get that easy wave. Pair this with statement jewelry or red lipstick and the look is transformed into a holiday message that simultaneously feels chic and accessible.
4. Festive Ornament Curls
Playful, cheeky and perfectly holiday-ready – this look takes bouncy curls and adds a few ornaments to make your hair a Christmas decoration itself. It’s a hairstyle that will make people smile as soon as you walk in the door. Fun, quirky, yet still chic, this is one item that will spark a conversation at any party.
These curls are best for medium hair shoulder length, because they provide enough surface to tuck in ribbons, bows or ornaments without overpowering the style. The mood it conveys is festive and young, as if to say, I am here to party. An easy way to keep styling simple yet still make it feel special for the season.
5. Sleek Braided Glam
Bold and dramatic, these elongated blonde braids make a statement in the most fashion-forward way. The sleek finish is both futuristic and glamorous, making them a holiday hairstyle that will be remembered for a lifetime. It’s a look that makes every step a runway moment while still feeling fully natural and wearable.
This looks really good on long hair or braids and is a great option for women who like protective styles that also count as style. Compared with loose curls or simple updos, this style exudes power and individuality. The best part? Once done, it is low maintenance, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying the celebrations without concern for needing touch-ups.
6. Playful Holiday Braids
Braids always seem to create a sense of nostalgia and sweetness that is reminiscent of child-like winters with comfortable scarves and Christmas lights. With a bright smile on their face, they exude a sense of ease and warmth that instantly elevates the holiday spirit. Cute and yet classic in design, ideal for outdoor walks under festive light.
This haircut looks good in medium hair or long hair and can be dressed up with little ribbons for an extra touch of seasonality. Low-maintenance, easy to wear, and holding its shape all day long, these braids are an excellent option during the Christmas season when you’re juggling busy events or travel.
7. Sleek High Ponytail
There is an effortless glamour to a sleek high pony – it instantly makes the face appear longer, and gives a chic lift to any outfit. Flair and allure find a wonderful place in this design, so every time you look around, you know you’re out on the town. It’s the appearance of a festive but fuss-free look.
This kind of a ponytail is really great for straight or slightly wavy hair, and it’s especially good on long hair. Touch of Shine Serum to smooth flyaways plus statement drop earrings to bring the look home. It’s one of those no-hassle hairstyles you can wear from dinner to dance and never think twice.
8. Textured Holiday Updo
For women that love volume and drama this textured updo is a holiday masterpiece. It’s a marriage of structure and softness, with elegant twists and soft strands that frame the face, creating a balance of glamour and ease. The appearance screams celebration without ever appearing too ‘done up’ making it ideal for festive dinners or celebrating the new year.
This style works well on medium length to long hair, and especially if there is some natural texture to hold the shape. Unlike simpler styles, this adds height and fullness and gives an instant lift. The result is a beautiful crown of curls that makes you feel as if you’re walking into your own winter ball.
9. Half-Up with Holiday Bow
Nothing sounds quite as festive and playful as a half-up style completed with a bow. It has that easy charm and polished detail that makes it ideal for sipping hot cocoa at the tree or showing off your favorite holiday sweater. The bow gives the look an extra touch of whimsy, which makes the look instantly memorable.
This look works for curly hair, wavy hair or medium shoulder hair that provides sufficient bulk for the half-up half-out section. The bow makes it feel more festive than a simple ponytail and you can change the ribbon color to fit in with your outfit. It’s a catch-all choice that is both fun and stylish.
10. Loose Waves with Velvet Ribbon
There’s something very romantic about loose waves and a velvet ribbon. The look is reminiscent of a holiday scene-straight out of a movie, soft, warm and a bit dreamy. It’s a hairstyle that doesn’t vie with your ensemble but subtly complements it, leaving you with an understated elegance.
This style is most flattering for medium length or long hair, especially if you like natural, wavy texture. It’s a lot more casual than an updo would be, so it’s great for outdoor markets or casual holiday coffee dates. The velvet bow is the perfect amount of Christmas without going overboard.
11. Curled Half-Up Style
There’s something so nostalgic about having a curled half-up look during the holidays. It’s just the right blend of laid-back charm and party-ready glamour to make it perfect for evenings by the Christmas tree. The soft curls add bounce and volume while the lifted crown adds a hint of sophistication.
The style can be worn with medium length or long hair and is great for women with natural wavy hair who just need a bit of extra polish. Compared to a simple ponytail, the half-up style is more romantic and gives off that warm and cheerful vibe perfect for holiday gatherings.
12. Sculpted Updo with Loose Strands
A graceful and intricate updo, this creation looks like a piece of art with sculpted loops and face-framing tendrils. It’s the type of hairstyle that looks amazing at formal dinners or New Year’s parties, a chic but romantic style that is both timeless and party-worthy.
This style suits medium hair or long hair that has enough body to keep volume. What’s special about it is combining formality with softness so that you have a hairstyle that’s elegant but not too rigid. Wear it with pearl earrings or lace dress to complete the magical holiday style.
13. Bubble Ponytail Glam
The bubble ponytail is cute, chic and definitely fun for the holiday season. It puts a new twist on a classic ponytail for maximum volume and interest in each “bubble.” Combined with clean lines, this look transforms an easy style into something edgy and current, ideal for dancing the night away.
Long hair: While this style works wonders for straight or slightly wavy textures, it’s ideal for long hair. The best thing about this ponytail is that it looks like you did your makeup even when you put in zero effort. It’s a big hit for 2025 and is like a stylish and trendy upgrade from the old ponytail with a young and modern vibe.
14. Polished Retro Ponytail
Vintage Glamour: Capturing the essence of classic allure, this retro side ponytail with curly ends and a sleek top is all about elegant refinement. It’s the kind of look that’s perfect for a statement lip color and holiday pearls, still exuding classic beauty while feeling so fresh.
This style looks best on medium length to long hair, particularly if you like a sleek finish with a little movement. In contrast to more casual styles, it feels formal and considered, radiating an aura of assurance and refinement that makes it an unforgettable presence at Christmas dinners or holiday galas.
15. Gold-Wrapped Bubble Ponytail
If you want to be sparkly without glitter, then this bubble ponytail accented with gold is a show-stopper. It is whimsical, fun and creative, like opening a gift with each section of hair. The golden ties take it up a notch from everyday chic to holiday magic.
This look is best suited to straight or sleek hair, and is better for long hair. The gold detailing makes it special and different from the plain ponytail ideas. A collage is the perfect statement style for Christmas parties, simultaneously fun and serious.
16. Braided Ponytail with Floral Accents
This elegant braided ponytail has a feeling of regal flair with a playful holiday vibe. The delicate weaving combined with miniature floral clips form an eye-catching style that’s polished and feminine. It’s the kind of look that makes you feel put together with very little.
This style works with medium hair or long hair, but it is particularly flattering on straight hair to show off the finer details of the braid. Compared with simple ponytail, the flower decoration can give a festive feel, which is perfect for Christmas dinner, weddings or any holiday celebration where you want to stand out.
17. Ribbon-Tied Bubble Ponytail
Bubble ponytail ribbon binding this bubbly blond is the perfect seasonal upgrade for a little fun. Each ribbon creates a wrapped-gift effect that gives the style the appearance of being instantly Christmas-ready whilst still being modern and stylish. It’s fun, girlie and an easy way to dress up a casual outfit into something special.
This haircut works well for long hair, especially if you like trying out simple but unique designs. Unlike looks that are glitter-centric and blinged out, this one is understated but still bold. Black ribbons add an elegant touch, while colored ribbons can add more playfulness to holiday parties.
18. Natural Curls with Satin Ribbon
Sometimes the simplest things make the biggest difference, and this style proves it. Vintage styling with soft satin ribbon creates a fresh, romantic, and cute holiday style that you can wear for years to come. It embraces texture and adds a dash of sophistication to the season.
This is great for curly hair or short natural hair that you can dress up a little without losing your authenticity. Due to its low-maintenance characteristics, it is simple and easy, making it ideal for those women, trying to keep the natural beauty in the forefront while looking well-groomed at the same time.
19. Braided Half-Up Crown
This plaited half-up crown looks like something from a holiday fairy tale. Soft waves are paired with cascading braids for a whimsical and romantic result. It’s a hairstyle that looks equally great for a Christmas dinner as well as a snowy winter photoshoot.
Best for medium length hair or long hair, this style works particularly well on slightly wavy hair. Compared to a plain half-up, the braids bring depth and dimension, transforming your look into something more intricate while feeling effortless and natural.
20. Glittering Bow Updo
If the holidays had a stylistic mascot, it would probably be this glitter bow updo. With sparkling strands and a majestic bow-shaped bun, it’s playful, eye-catching, and brimming with holiday cheer. It is as if you are wearing a wrapped gift in your hair – an audacious, festive option for the season.
This style is great on medium hair or long hair that will hold shape and volume. The bow is more dramatic and fun than the traditional bun, making this ideal for Christmas parties or New Year’s Eve celebrations. It’s a show-stopper that’s sure to get you compliments throughout the night.
21. Curly Holiday Glam with Velvet Headband
Curls always add a joyous flair to any holiday style and when teamed with a pearl studded velvet headband, the combination is pure holiday glamour. It’s daring, playful and exudes confidence, making it perfect for holiday photos and gatherings where you want to stand out.
This style works better for curly hair or textured hair as the volume complements the style. The headband not only keeps the style tidy, but also acts as an accessory, so you don’t need to go the extra mile to be party-ready. It is a nice and simple way to make your natural curls extra special during Christmas or New Year celebrations.
22. Sleek Wrapped Ponytail
The sleek, shiny and perfectly coiffed pony tail is a holiday staple. The hair wrap at the base provides a stylish and sophisticated touch to the look, making it feel like it’s meant for modern times. It’s the sort of style that works well with statement earrings and a sparkly dress.
Best for long hair, especially straight or slightly wavy hair, the style focuses on shine and precision. Sharper and more elegant than unbound waves or hair twisted in a dozen different ways, it exudes a self-assured vibe, making it perfect for 2025.
23. Voluminous Curled Ponytail
Bouncy big curls make this a no-tell-tale holiday ponytail. With additional bulk at the crown and cascading curls, it’s a hairstyle that’s both dramatic and feminine at the same time. It’s glamorous yet simple to wear, ideal to wear at parties where you want your hair to make a statement.
This style looks great for medium hair or long hair, more so if the hair has curls in it. Rather than a sleek ponytail, this one embraces softness and movement, hinting at a touch of romance and celebration that will look perfect against the backdrop of a bright lipstick or sparkling accessories.
24. Half-Up Style with Oversized Bow
The oversized black bow in this half-up look instantly makes it a holiday-ready hairstyle. It’s a bold accessory that’s playful yet chic, and adds the perfect dose of drama to your look without overdoing it. Great for holiday markets or Christmas dinners.
This look is best on medium or long hair that has a naturally straight or wavy end. Compared to the simpler half-up styles, the bow gives it an extra holiday flair in the easiest way possible. It’s low effort and high impact.
25. Romantic Updo with Red Ribbon
There is nothing more classic than an updo with a deep red ribbon. It is soft, romantic and perfect for the holiday season. The loose waves around the face ensure that it’s relaxed, and a ribbon makes for a subtle but elegant touch that adds a touch of festivity.
This style is perfect for medium hair, shoulder length or longer and is particularly useful if you want something that can be worn for both casual dinner dates and more formal Christmas evening parties. The red bow elevates it to the level of chignons that are simple, but adds an element of warmth and elegance that never goes out of style.
From classic bobs to sleek modern ponytails, these holiday hairstyles for the year 2025-2026 have a knack for making every woman feel effortlessly glamorous. They embrace individuality, enhance organic beauty, and add that perfect splash of festive flair. No matter your hair length or type, here we have something to inspire you this season. After all, the holidays are about joy, confidence and shining in your own little light-and your hair is the perfect finishing touch.
