A collage of two Christmas hairstyles for women. Left, space buns with twinkling stars. Right, a ponytail with mini baubles.

42 Best Christmas Hairstyles to Try in 2024

21 min read

Ready to jingle all the way to your best holiday look?

Well, if we are being honest here, no holiday look is complete without Christmas hairstyles

Whether you’re visiting a Christmas party or joining a Christmas dinner, your hair should be just as twinkly as those string lights.

In this blog post, we’re sharing 42 diverse hairstyle ideas for Christmas. We have put together a list of easy, cute, long, short, and many other hairstyling ideas for Christmas. 

All these are sure to elevate your look from “nice” to “wow, who’s that Christmas queen?” 

Let us not waste any more time just talking. Allow us to tell you the best hair looks for Christmas 2024.

42 Christmas hairstyles that you should try in 2024 

Who cares how’s the weather outside? 

Your Christmas hair look can still be absolutely delightful with these ideas that we are going to share soon.

So, grab your bobby pins and let us explore these merry hair-spirations.

Easy Christmas hairstyles

A photo of a woman in a Christmas hairstyle featuring a Santa hat with reindeer’s antlers

Low ponytail with ribbon

For a sleigh-all-day look that’s effortlessly chic, the low ponytail is a lifesaver. It’s quick, fuss-free, and adds a dash of holiday cheer to any outfit.

Start by pulling your hair into a smooth ponytail at the nape of your neck. Then, grab a festive ribbon like candy cane stripes, red velvet, or gold shimmer one. Wrap it around the base to hide the elastic. 

In our opinion, this style pairs perfectly with Christmas sweaters and hot cocoa vibes. 

Twisted half-updo

This hairstyle feels like the sugarplum of holiday looks—sweet, simple, and totally festive. 

To create it, take small sections from both sides of your head. Next, twist them back. Then, secure them with a pretty clip or elastic. Leave the rest of your hair loose. You can style them as soft waves or sleek and straight, it’s your choice! 

This works like magic on all hair lengths and textures. 

Sleek side braid

The sleek side braid is gingerbread cookies for your hair—a holiday classic. It is easy and oh-so-charming for any Christmas celebration.

To get started with it, part your hair to one side. Afterwards, braid it loosely over your shoulder. To give it some Christmas pizzazz, weave in a thin ribbon. Ideally, pick one in holiday colors. Secure it with a glittery elastic. 

From our perspective, this style is super versatile. Plus, it stays in place while you’re bustling around, so you can focus on the festive fun without worrying about your hair. 

Messy bun with sparkly pins 

A messy bun?

Simple, stylish, and just festive enough to jingle all the way.

Start styling by sweeping your hair into a loose bun. Make sure to secure it with the bobby pins. Let a few strands stay on your face. Now, add sparkly pins in festive shapes like stars, snowflakes, or even tiny Christmas trees. 

You are good to go!

Top knot with a bow

For a holly-jolly look that’s effortless, quick, and adorable, the top knot with a bow is just what you need. 

The first step is to gather your hair into a high ponytail. Follow that by twisting it into a bun and securing it with bobby pins. Then, add a bow, such as red velvet, gold sparkle, or even a plaid one at the base. 

In our view, this hairstyle just says, “I’m ready for the season!”

Loose waves with glitter spray 

Loose waves with glitter spray are like holiday lights for your hair.

How?

They’re soft, sparkly, and full of festive magic!

To make them, you would need a curling wand. Use it to create gentle waves. Next, finish with a spritz of glitter spray. 

Voilà! It’s that easy!

This hairstyle looks elegant without being overdone. And, the glitter adds just the right amount of that wow factor for the holiday photos. 

Hairstyle ideas for Christmas for short hair

A short hair Christmas hairstyle for women featuring a glittery bow clip on hair right above the ear.

Dazzling pixie cut

Short hair can still sleigh! 

In order to make your pixie cut look dazzling, just add a little glitter gel or hairspray along your part or tips. Then, finish it off with a tiny festive clip like a snowflake or star. 

We mean, this hair look is so chic for the holidays! It’s great for low-maintenance glam but still brings plenty of Christmas sparkle. 

Adorn with Christmas clips 

Short-haired beauties, this one’s for you! 

Personally, we think nothing says “holiday fun” like turning your hair into a Christmas clip canvas. 

To get started, style your hair as usual—straight, curly, textured, whatever works for you. Then, add a mix of holiday-themed clips along one side. For example, candy canes, sparkly snowflakes, or even mini holly leaf clips. 

So easy yet playful way to add a little Christmas pizzazz. 

Mini braided crown 

Even with short hair, you can totally rock a festive braided crown! 

From our perspective, it’s one of those styles that looks so stunning but is surprisingly easy to create. 

To begin, take small sections from the front of your hair and braid them on both sides. Don’t forget to pin them at the back. It will form a delicate, crown-like shape. Leave the rest of your hair loose and textured for that soft, angelic vibe. 

Just a suggestion—you can add those tiny holiday-themed clips for extra charm.

Retro curls with a festive scarf 

For a dash of vintage holiday charm, retro curls paired with a festive scarf are a match made in Christmas heaven. 

First and foremost, use a curling iron to create soft, defined curls, giving your short hair a classic, bouncy look. Next, tie on a holiday-themed scarf and knot it at the top or side for extra flair. 

We are telling you, this style is 100% modern and fun. 

Festive headband style 

Let’s hear it for the humble headband! When styled right, it’s a holiday-perfect! 

Start by giving your hair a wavy, sleek, or tousled look. Once done, slide on a Christmas-themed headband of a mistletoe, holly, or even reindeer antlers. You can tuck a few pieces of hair behind your ears to keep things polished. 

Simple, stylish, and full of Christmas charm for short hair!

Side-swept sparkle 

Looking for a sleek, no-fuss way to dazzle this holiday season? 

To us, the side-swept sparkle is pure Christmas magic! 

The process of making it is effortless. Just part your hair deeply to one side and secure it with a glittery barrette or holiday-inspired clip. Then, add a light layer of shimmering gel to the sweep for a dash of extra glam. 

And, guess what? This is one of the best Christmas hairstyles for girls that works beautifully with straight or softly wavy hair.

Hairstyle ideas for Christmas for long hair

A women’s long hair Christmas hairstyle featuring a string of holly leaves and drupes in a braid crown.

Holly berry crown braid 

To us, this one is the most mesmerizing hairstyle idea for Christmas—so much detail, but totally worth the effort! 

First things first, part your hair in the middle and braid each side, creating two long braids. Next, wrap them around your head like a crown and pin them in place. Then, weave in faux holly leaves and berries for that festive pop of red and green. 

It works best with thick, long hair, but extensions can make the magic happen too. 

Wrapped-in-ribbon ponytail 

Here’s an idea that speaks Christmas morning! 

To initiate, gather your long locks into a low ponytail. Afterwards, wrap a velvet or satin ribbon around it from top to bottom, mimicking a candy cane. Next, secure the ribbon with bobby pins as you go. You can swap the ribbon for twinkly fairy-light hair ties.

From our perspective, this look is playful and whimsical—perfect for both daytime outings and candlelit Christmas dinners. 

Cascading Christmas curls 

Cascading curls are like the holiday carols of hairstyles—timeless, classic, and endlessly charming. 

To create this look, grab a curling wand or iron and focus on curling the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair. Then, gently brush out the curls to give them that soft, voluminous feel. Now, in this step, add glittery pins, tiny ornaments, or sprigs of faux pine along one side of your hair. 

Honestly, it’s like dressing up your hair as the Christmas tree! 

Loose snowy waves 

Snow-kissed hair? 

Yes, please! 

It’s elegant, subtle, and lets your hair shine as the star of the show. 

To style, make soft, loose waves using a curling iron or by braiding damp hair overnight. Finish it off with a touch of glitter hairspray or shimmer powder for that frosted, snowflake effect. 

Personally, we think this look is perfect for Christmas Eve dinners or festive date nights. 

Twinkling tinsel waves 

Tinsel time, but make it chic! 

Your soft, natural waves (styled or natural) would set the perfect base for this sparkly Christmas hair look. Add clip-in tinsel strands for that festive glow. Gold, silver, or even rainbow tinsel, the choice is up to you.

We call this hairstyle idea a total showstopper. It’s simple, eye-catching, and undeniably festive.

Sleek braid 

Simplicity, but make it sleigh with a sleek braid. 

How effortlessly sweet it is! And, everyone loves it!

To create, pull your hair to one side and braid it tightly over your shoulder. You can weave in a shiny ribbon or a strand of garland as you braid. 

From what we’ve seen, this hairstyle is perfect for Christmas outings.

Cute Christmas hairstyles

A female cute Christmas hairstyle featuring a side braid adorned with snowflake accessories and some glitter dust.

Gingerbread space buns 

What’s better than gingerbread cookies? 

Gingerbread-themed space buns! 

Trust us, this one’s a Christmas cutie-pie moment. 

In order to make it, you need to part your hair down the middle and pull it into two high buns. After that, wrap a soft, brown velvet ribbon around each bun—because we’re channeling all the gingerbread vibes here. Then, add little pom-poms or tiny gingerbread clips for the “frosting” effect. 

In our view, this style is fun, festive, and deliciously adorable.

Candy cane pigtails 

Sweet tooth, but for hairstyles? 

We’ve got you covered with candy cane pigtails! 

Start by parting your hair down the middle and pulling it into two high pigtails. Next, wrap red and white ribbons around each one. Make sure of alternating colors for that candy-cane swirl. 

From what we’ve seen, this one’s a hit with kiddos, teens, and anyone who loves to keep it playful.

Snowflake braids 

The snowflake braids are calling your name! 

Firstly, create two neat Dutch braids on either side of your head and pull them into a low bun. And finally, also the best part, add snowflake clips or glittery accessories for that frosty finish. 

This elegant hairstyle will make you look like you just came out of a winter wonderland. Pairs beautifully with cozy knits or fancy festive dresses. 

Rudolph’s bow ponytail 

This one’s for all you Rudolph fans! 

Start with a sleek ponytail—medium height works best. Then, add a bright red scrunchie to secure it. Top things off with a big bow. Now, for the festive part, clip on some antlers on either side. 

We’ve noticed that this look is perfect for Christmas dinners, holiday photos, or just spreading cheer wherever you go.

Starry space buns 

Okay, stargazers, this one’s for you. 

Starry space buns are like a little Christmas constellation for your hair! 

Create two high buns, wrap some fairy lights around them (yes, you heard us—tiny twinkly ones), and secure them with pins. Then, sprinkle in some glitter spray or star-shaped clips for that cosmic holiday glow. 

Braided Christmas tree 

Let’s talk about hair that jingles all the way—a braided Christmas tree!

As the first step, make a high ponytail and split it into three sections, and braid each one. Afterwards, shape those braids into a triangle, pin them snugly, and voila—a tree! You can add mini ornaments, colorful ribbons, or even glittery clips. And don’t forget the star clip on top—it’s a total must-have. 

Christmas dinner hairstyle ideas

A Christmas dinner hairstyle for women featuring a low bun and a beautiful clip.

Classic Hollywood waves

Bring a touch of old-school glam to your Christmas celebrations with these soft, flowing waves. 

Start by curling your hair in uniform sections. Then, gently brush through to create a smooth, uniform wave pattern. You can use a flexible hairspray to hold the waves in place without making them stiff. Next, slide in a pearl-studded clip or snowflake barrette for a festive twist. 

It’s effortless yet undeniably stunning and perfect for anything from a cozy dinner to a glamorous holiday party.

Elegant chignon with gold pins 

Nothing says Christmas sophistication like a classic chignon. 

To make it, gather your hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a neat bun at the nape of your neck. Don’t forget to secure it with bobby pins. Once that is done, adorn the bun with gold or jeweled hair pins for that luxe holiday vibe. 

This look works wonderfully for formal Christmas dinners. It’s a timeless style that never goes out of fashion. Plus, it’s easy to pull together and leaves you looking effortlessly polished for all those family photos.

Twisted low bun with accessories 

This one’s for those who love understated elegance. 

Get started by parting your hair in the middle and twisting two small sections on each side, working toward the nape of your neck. Secondly, secure the twists with bobby pins. Thirdly, gather all the hair into a neat low bun. Finally, add a velvet bow or a sparkling hair clip in the red, green, or even gold shades for that extra Christmas sparkle. You can also add a light spritz of hairspray to hold it all in place. 

Sleek ponytail with a velvet bow 

It’s all about clean lines and festive simplicity over here! 

Begin by straightening your hair for a polished base. Then, gather it into a mid-height ponytail, smoothing out any flyaways. Next, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it. Top the look off with a deep red or forest green velvet bow. 

Slay any Christmas dinner plan with this one of the best holiday hair ideas.

Half-up crown braid 

This dreamy, romantic hairstyle is perfect for those who want to feel like a Christmas queen. 

In order to style it, part your hair in the middle and take a section from each temple. Then, create two small braids, securing them at the back with a clear elastic to form a crown. Fluff the braids slightly to add volume, and then tuck in tiny holly berries, faux mistletoe, or mini ornaments for extra flair. Let the rest of your hair fall naturally or add loose curls for a soft, elegant finish. 

It’s equal parts whimsical and sophisticated, and it complements just about any outfit.

Loose curls with glitter spray 

Soft, bouncy curls with a dash of sparkle? 

Why not!

To make it, you first need to use a curling wand to create loose, natural-looking curls. Once it is done, give your hair a light spritz of glitter spray for that festive glow. To keep it from looking overdone, stick to a subtle shimmer that catches the light. 

We find that this style feels pure Christmas glamor, making it perfect for any holiday dinner or gathering.

Christmas party hairstyle ideas

A female Christmas party hairstyle featuring a side braid adorned with holly leaves and baubles clips.

Festive bow bun 

Turn your bun into a Christmas gift! 

In this one, style your hair into a bun—messy or sleek, it’s up to you. Then, add a large bow clip at the base in festive colors like red velvet or glittery gold. 

It is quick, easy, and full of Christmas spirit. From office parties to casual get-togethers, this hairstyle is a versatile holiday win.

Starry night bun

Shine bright like the North Star! 

To prepare this style, create a sleek bun—high or low, it depends on you. Secure it with bobby pins. After that, decorate it with star-shaped pins or clips for that celestial Christmas vibe. 

Honestly, this hairstyle might look simple but it packs a starry punch, like seeing the night sky on a clear winter’s eve.

Snowflake side braid 

A hairstyle that is effortlessly magical and perfect for both small gatherings and winter-themed parties?

Try a snowflake side braid!

Start with a deep side part and braid your hair over one shoulder. Then, add snowflake-shaped clips or pins throughout the braid for a frosty touch. 

What a simple and stunning hairstyle that is guaranteed to turn heads!

Glitter bomb waves  

Nothing says party like waves that sparkle! 

To start, create soft, flowing waves with a curling wand. Then, spritz them with glitter hairspray. 

Personally, we think this style is ideal for late-night Christmas parties, where the lights make your hair shimmer like tinsel.

Rudolph-inspired ponytail 

Guide your style like Rudolph guides the sleigh! 

Get started by pulling your hair into a high ponytail and securing it with a red scrunchie. Follow that by adding antlers with a ready-made headband. And, for the finishing touch, attach a red pom-pom to the base of your ponytail. 

In our view, it’s one of those hairstyles that will get everyone talking and snapping pictures.

Candy cane twists 

Sweet, festive, and oh-so-fun! 

Initiate by creating two small twists on either side of your head. Then, secure them at the back with ribbons in red and white stripes like candy canes. 

From our perspective, this hairstyle feels playful and perfect for those fun Christmas parties with friends or family. It’s easy to create, makes a bold holiday statement, and honestly, a hit for all ages.

Creative Christmas hairstyles

A creative Christmas hairstyle for women featuring a big braided bun with different cute candy clips.

Frosted fringe with icy highlights

Turn your bangs into a winter wonderland. 

Seriously, it’s simpler than it sounds! 

First and foremost, start by styling your fringe just how you like it—straight or a side-sweep, your choice. Secondly, grab some temporary hair chalk or spray in icy blue or shimmering silver. Finally, frost the tips lightly. For that extra sparkle, you can dust on a bit of glitter. You can pair this frosty fringe with loose waves or a sleek ponytail to complete the look. 

Angel wing curls

An understated, elegant, and oh-so angelic hair look that’s a winner!

In this one, soft, heavenly waves that frame your face are the key. Use a curling iron to curl small sections of hair, focusing on the front. Then brush the curls out gently for that feathered effect. Next, pin back each side with pearl-studded clips or snowflake barrettes. 

You are all set!

Elf-inspired high pigtails with braided wrapping

The creativity is at its peak here!

To start, part your hair straight down the middle. Then, tie two playful pigtails up high—right near the crown of your head. Now, braid a small section of each pigtail, wrap it around the base to hide those sneaky hair ties, and pin it in place. For that extra holiday pizzazz, we say go all in with tiny bells, ribbons in greens, or even clip-on elf ears. 

Christmas bell ponytail 

We think this one’s pure Christmas jinglin’ genius! 

In order to make it, tie your hair into a ponytail—high or low. Then, thread a few mini bells onto a slim ribbon. Wrap the ribbon around the base of your ponytail, letting those bells dangle. Or, in case you’re in a hurry, grab a scrunchie with bells already attached. 

The soft jingles as you move? Now that’s the holiday spirit!

Twisted garland crown

From our perspective, this hairstyle is basically Christmas decor for your head. 

To create this elegant garland-inspired look, start by sectioning two small pieces of hair from the front. Once done, twist each section toward the back of your head and pin them at the crown. Next, take some tinsel or metallic ribbon (trust us on this one) and weave it through the twists. You can also add mini ornaments, faux berries, or even glittery snowflakes. 

We find this look works wonders for formal events, cozy nights by the fire, or just being the standout star in holiday photos. 

Cinnamon bun hair twists

A cinnamon bun with hair twists is just so sweet! 

To start, part your hair down the middle and make two low ponytails. Then, twist each one into a bun and pin them securely. And, voilà, instant “cinnamon buns!” Now, dust the buns with gold or bronze glitter. You can also add a little bow at the base of each bun. 

In our opinion, this look is the ultimate mix of playful and stylish.

And, that’s it to our 42 best hairstyle ideas for Christmas 2024. 

Now to make sure you sleigh (slay, of course) them, let’s go through some essential tips. 

The only tips you need to know for perfect hairstyles for Christmas

You see, holiday hairstyling does take a little effort, but the joy it brings is worth every second. 

And honestly, there’s no need to stress. By taking the following few simple tips into consideration, you can turn your everyday hair into a Christmas beauty:

  1. Match your hair look with your holiday vibe. Go for what you feel like.
  2. Create a merry, we mean, a well-prepped base with a hydrating hair mask for a solid foundation.
  3. Add some fa-la-la-la flair to your hair with Christmassy accessories like a velvet bow, glittery hairpins, etc.
  4. The secret to a perfect Christmas hairstyle is keeping it light and easy. No overloading!
  5. Practice your hairstyle before the big day. Save yourself any possible trouble.

That’s it! Really, that’s it, and you can rock any hairstyle idea for Christmas.

Now, if you are not up for this much effort yet want to flaunt a stunning hairstyle in your Christmas photos, AI has you all covered!

Here’s how!

Try Christmas hair ideas in your photos with AI

Okay, so, here’s the thing!

We can’t deny that styling hair for real takes a lot of time. Like, a LOT of time! And let’s not even talk about the trial and error. 

So, if you just want to show off a gorgeous hairstyle in your Christmas photos without actually making it, that’s where an online AI hairstyle generator, like the one by LightX, steps in. 

All you need to do is just upload your photo. No multiple photo upload required. Then, you can choose from a wide variety of preset hairstyles with just a click. If you are in the mood for a custom hairstyle, you can enter a text prompt describing it. Finally, generate and boom! The AI will swap your existing hairstyle in the uploaded photo with an all-new Christmas hairstyle in mere seconds. 

Fun, right?

But wait, it gets better. There is an entire Christmas photo makeover world to explore!

Try AI Christmas photo filters to make your photos shine with holiday vibes. Generate AI Christmas costumes in photos to witness yourself as the jolly elf, Mrs. Claus, or even Santa himself. Switch ordinary backgrounds with AI Christmas backgrounds of a snowy wonderland, a warm, cozy fireplace scene, and more. Discover free Christmas stickers and Christmas frames to add that extra festive flair to photos. Design a Christmas collage of all your favorites from the holidays.  

Edit all your Christmas photos into masterpieces!

Wrapping up

So, there you have it! 

Fabulous Christmas hairstyle ideas and tips for the season, along with AI’s assistance in generating perfect Christmas-themed hairstyles in photos.

Go ahead and try today!

Frequently asked questions

  1. Which hairstyle is best for Christmas?

When it comes to which hairstyle is the best for Christmas, there’s no one-size-fits-all. It is simply what you want. Although, in our opinion, the soft, twinkly waves, braided buns, candy cane curls, and snowflake-inspired looks are super merry, perfect for Christmas!

  1. Can I generate AI Christmas hairstyles for both men and women?

Yes, absolutely! The AI generators for hairstyles, like LightX’s, enable you to generate Christmas hair looks for both men and women in your photos.

  1. Are the AI-generated Christmas hair realistic enough?

Yes, the AI-generated Christmas hair indeed looks realistic. In photos, it often becomes difficult to tell if a hairstyle was created in real life or using AI. Depending on the AI tool you select, this will vary.