Get ready to shine with these top 5 festive season hairstyles! Perfect for any celebration, they’re quick, easy, and come with short steps and tips.
The festive season’s right around the corner, and with all the parties, dinners, and gatherings coming up, there’s a lot on your to-do list, right? Well, when it comes to hair, we’ve got your back! Whether it’s an office holiday party, a family get-together, or a glam New Year’s Eve bash, you want to look effortlessly chic without spending hours in front of the mirror.
1. The Classic Sleek Ponytail
Nothing says “polished” like a sleek ponytail, and the best part? It’s crazy simple to pull off. Whether you’re rocking a chic velvet dress or a cozy winter sweater, this hairstyle adds instant sophistication.
Steps:
- Prep your hair: Start by brushing out any tangles. Apply a smoothing serum or anti-frizz cream for that sleek, polished finish.
- Part your hair: Choose a middle or side part, or go completely slicked back for a more high-fashion look.
- Tie it up: Gather your hair into a low, mid, or high ponytail (your choice!) and secure it with a hair tie.
- Wrap it up: To hide the hair tie, take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base, securing it with a bobby pin.
- Finish with spray: Use a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
Tips:
- A fine-tooth comb is your best friend for smoothness.
- Don’t skimp on the serum if you’ve got frizzy hair!
- Want a festive twist? Add a sparkly clip or a cute bow around the base.
Why it works:
The sleek ponytail is perfect for any occasion. It looks classy but takes just minutes to do, making it a go-to option when you’re running late but still want to impress.
2. Effortless Beach Waves
Even if it’s snowing outside, you can still bring those summery vibes to the festive season. Beach waves are soft, textured, and perfect for creating that “I woke up like this” look—while still being festive.
Steps:
- Section your hair: Divide your hair into two or four sections to make curling easier.
- Use a curling iron or wand: Wrap 1-inch sections of hair around the barrel, holding for 8-10 seconds, then release.
- Alternate directions: Curl one section toward your face and the next away to create natural-looking waves.
- Shake it out: Let the curls cool, then gently shake them out with your fingers for a relaxed finish.
- Texturize: Apply a sea salt spray or texturizing product to add some grit and hold.
Tips:
- Don’t curl the very ends of your hair for a more natural wave.
- A 1-inch curling wand is perfect for beach waves.
- If you’re short on time, braid your hair while damp, let it air dry, and then loosen the braid for heatless waves!
Why it works:
Beach waves are the ultimate cool-girl hairstyle. It’s laid-back but festive enough to wear to any holiday gathering. Plus, it transitions effortlessly from day to night!
3. The Messy Bun
The messy bun is the epitome of effortless style. It’s perfect for when you want to look cute without trying too hard—and it’s ideal for everything from holiday baking sessions to family photo ops.
Steps:
- Start with textured hair: Whether it’s second-day hair or freshly curled locks, texture makes this style easier.
- Gather your hair: Pull your hair into a high or low ponytail. Don’t worry about being too neat!
- Twist and secure: Twist the ponytail and wrap it around itself to create a bun. Secure it with bobby pins.
- Pull out a few pieces: Loosen a few strands around your face for that perfectly undone look.
- Mess it up: Gently tug at the bun and the crown of your head to add volume and that “messy but intentional” vibe.
Tips:
- If your hair is too clean or soft, spritz some dry shampoo or texturizing spray to add grip.
- The more you pull out little face-framing pieces, the more effortless the bun will look.
- For a festive touch, weave in some ribbon or add a glittery hair accessory!
Why it works:
The messy bun is all about balance—it’s chic but unpretentious, making it a versatile choice for any festive occasion.
4. The Half-Up Twist
If you want to keep your hair down but still want to do something a little different, the half-up twist is your go-to. This hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between polished and playful.
Steps:
- Part your hair: Start with a middle or side part—whichever flatters your face shape best.
- Take two sections: Grab two small sections of hair from the front, one on each side.
- Twist and pin: Twist the two sections away from your face and pin them at the back of your head using bobby pins.
- Add volume: Loosen the twists for a softer, more romantic look.
- Curl or wave the rest: You can leave the rest of your hair straight or add loose waves to keep it festive.
Tips:
- To make the twist look fuller, gently tug at it once it’s pinned in place.
- If you’re feeling bold, add some tiny hair gems or glitter for a sparkly twist!
- A lightweight hairspray can keep the twists in place without weighing down the look.
Why it works:
The half-up twist gives you the freedom of leaving your hair down while still looking a bit more dressed up. It’s ideal for any event where you want to keep things fun yet classy.
5. The Festive Faux Bob
Want to try something completely different without committing to a chop? The faux bob is the perfect temporary solution to create the illusion of a shorter hairstyle. It’s glamorous, vintage, and perfect for festive events.
Steps:
- Prep your hair: Curl your hair to add volume and texture. Loose curls work best.
- Tuck and pin: Start rolling the ends of your hair under and pinning them at the nape of your neck.
- Pin the sides: Secure the sides with bobby pins, hiding them within the curls.
- Shape the “bob”: Use your fingers to shape the front and adjust any bobby pins until the style looks even.
- Lock it in: Use a firm-hold hairspray to keep the bob in place.
Tips:
- This look works best on medium to long hair.
- Make sure your curls are loose and voluminous—this adds to the illusion of short hair.
- For an extra festive vibe, add a jeweled headband or sparkly clip!
Why it works:
The faux bob is a great way to completely change your look for the night. It’s sophisticated, retro, and gives you that festive flair with very little effort.
FAQs
Q: How can I keep my hair looking fresh throughout the night?
A: Using a light-hold hairspray at the end of styling helps lock everything in place without making your hair stiff. Carry a small can of it in your purse for touch-ups, or keep some bobby pins on hand in case you need to re-secure your hairstyle.
Q: My hair doesn’t hold curls well—what can I do?
A: Start by using a mousse or texturizing spray before curling. This gives the hair some grip. After curling, let each curl cool completely in your hand before releasing. This sets the curl better.
Q: Can I do these hairstyles on short hair?
A: Absolutely! For the faux bob, beach waves, or half-up twist, you might need to adjust the technique a little, but they’re still totally doable on short hair.
Conclusion
No need to stress over your holiday look this year! These top 5 festive season hairstyles with easy and short steps and tips will have you ready to slay at any event. Whether you want to keep it simple with a sleek ponytail or get creative with a faux bob, you’ve got options that are quick, easy, and oh-so-glam. Go ahead, experiment with these styles, and get ready to dazzle—after all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.