The holiday season brings a unique magic that calls for a touch of extra glamour. Long hair offers the ultimate canvas for festive creativity and stunning transformations.
Finding the perfect look can elevate your entire holiday ensemble. Whether you are attending a gala or a cozy gathering, your hair sets the festive tone.
Explore these 17 merry holiday hairstyles for long hair to find your signature look. These styles range from timeless elegance to modern, playful twists.
1. Old Hollywood Waves
This timeless look brings instant glamour to any festive gathering. Deep side parts and glossy, uniform curls create a high-shine finish that screams holiday luxury.
Start by applying a heat protectant and using a large-barrel curling iron. Pin each curl to cool, ensuring the pattern remains consistent for that signature “S” wave.
Finish with a lightweight shine spray to catch the glow of holiday lights. This style perfectly showcases the length and health of your hair.
2. Velvet Ribbon Half-Up
Nothing says “merry” like a classic velvet ribbon in deep emerald or burgundy. This style keeps the hair out of your face while displaying your length beautifully.
Gather the top section of your hair and secure it with a clear elastic. Tie a long velvet ribbon over the band, letting the ends drape down with your curls.
Add some soft waves to the remaining hair to create texture and volume. It is a simple yet sophisticated way to embrace the spirit of the season.
3. The Braided Crown
Ethereal and secure, the braided crown is perfect for long nights of celebrating. This “halo” effect creates a regal silhouette that works with any holiday outfit.
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Divide your hair into two sections and create two thick braids. Wrap them around the top of your head, pinning them securely to create a continuous circle.
Tug gently on the loops of the braids to add volume and a slightly relaxed feel. This style keeps your long locks managed while looking incredibly intricate.
4. Sleek High Ponytail with a Wrap
For a modern and sharp holiday aesthetic, the sleek high ponytail is an unbeatable choice. It draws attention to your facial features and creates a striking profile.
Use a boar bristle brush and a smoothing gel to pull every strand into a tight, high placement. Secure it firmly with a heavy-duty hair tie.
Take a small section of hair from the bottom of the pony and wrap it around the elastic. Secure it with a bobby pin underneath for a flawless finish.
5. Festive Bubble Braid
The bubble braid is a playful and trendy option for those wanting something different. It is easy to achieve on long hair and offers great structural visual interest.
Start with a high or low ponytail and place elastics every two to three inches down the length. “Puff” out the hair between each elastic to create the bubbles.
You can hide the elastics with small decorative clips or metallic wire. This style is durable and stays looking fresh through hours of festive activity.
6. Low Chignon with Pearl Pins
A low chignon exudes effortless sophistication and works beautifully for formal dinners. It provides a clean backdrop for statement earrings and holiday jewelry.
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Gather your hair at the nape of the neck and twist it into a soft, round bun. Secure with pins, leaving a few face-framing strands loose for a softer look.
Incorporate several pearl-topped pins into the bun for a snowy, festive touch. The contrast of pearls against dark or light hair is exceptionally striking.
7. Twisted Halo Half-Up
This style is perfect for those who want a romantic look without the complexity of braiding. It relies on simple twists that meet at the back of the head.
Take two sections of hair from the temples and twist them tightly towards the back. Secure them where they meet with a decorative holiday clip or barrette.
Allow the rest of your long hair to flow in natural, loose waves. This look is comfortable for all-day wear and very easy to touch up.
8. Voluminous Side-Swept Curls
Side-swept hair is a classic red-carpet move that translates perfectly to holiday parties. It allows you to show off your length while maintaining a structured silhouette.
Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair before blow-drying. Curl the entire head and sweep all the hair over one shoulder, pinning it at the nape.
This asymmetry creates a dramatic and high-fashion look that is very photogenic. Use a firm-hold hairspray to ensure the sweep stays in place all night.
9. Messy Bun with a Sparkly Scrunchie
Sometimes the best holiday look is the one that feels the most relaxed. A textured messy bun can be elevated instantly with the right festive accessory.
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Secure it with a sequined or metallic scrunchie for a pop of holiday cheer. It is the ideal “cool-girl” approach to festive hairstyling.
10. The Fishtail Side Braid
A fishtail braid looks incredibly intricate on long hair, showcasing different tones and highlights. Wearing it to the side gives it a cozy, approachable vibe.
Bring all your hair to one side and divide it into two equal sections. Take small outer strands and cross them over to the opposite side repeatedly.
Once finished, pull the edges of the braid apart to make it look thick and “pancaked.” This adds a bohemian touch to your holiday aesthetic.
11. Dutch Braid Pigtails with Glitter
If you are attending a festive festival or a high-energy party, glitter pigtails are a must. They are secure, fun, and highlight your personality.
Create two tight Dutch braids (underhand braids) starting from the hairline down to the ends. This keeps the hair very secure and off the neck.
Apply a small amount of hair gel to the part line and sprinkle with biodegradable festive glitter. You will literally shine under the holiday lights.
12. Triple Twisted Ponytail
This style offers a unique silhouette by stacking sections of hair into a single tail. it provides a structured look that highlights the length of your hair.
Divide your hair into three horizontal sections. Create a ponytail with the top section, then incorporate it into a second ponytail with the middle section.
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Finally, bring everything into a third ponytail at the nape. This “tiered” effect is modern, sleek, and very easy to achieve.
13. The Hair Bow Updo
Why wear a bow when your hair *is* the bow? This sculptural style is the ultimate holiday statement and a great conversation starter.
Create a large loop with a high ponytail and divide the loop in two. Wrap the remaining tail through the center to create the “knot” of the bow.
Secure everything with bobby pins to ensure the bow shape stays crisp. This look is whimsical, festive, and perfect for the “gift-giving” season.
14. Waterfall Braid with Curls
The waterfall braid allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: an intricate braid and flowing length. It creates a beautiful “cascading” effect across the back.
As you braid horizontally around the head, drop the bottom strand and pick up a new one. This creates the “waterfall” strands that hang down.
Curl the strands that fall through the braid to add movement and volume. It is a soft, romantic look that pairs well with holiday dresses.
15. The French Twist
The French twist is the epitome of classic elegance and works wonderfully for long hair. It tucks the length away into a sleek, vertical roll.
Sweep your hair to one side and secure with pins, then twist the hair back over the pins. Tuck the ends inside the roll for a seamless finish.
This style is perfect for showcasing the neckline of a holiday gown. It remains one of the most sophisticated options for formal seasonal events.
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16. Scarf-Wrapped Low Bun
Incorporate a festive silk scarf into your hairstyle for a vintage-inspired look. This adds color and pattern to your hair while keeping it neatly styled.
Wrap a holiday-themed scarf around the base of a low bun and tie it in a knot. Let the ends of the scarf hang down or wrap them into the bun itself.
This look is practical for windy winter weather and keeps your hair protected. It adds a touch of classic charm to a simple updo.
17. Half-Up Top Knot with Tinsel
For a trendy and youthful holiday vibe, the half-up top knot is a great go-to. It is casual enough for a gift exchange but stylish enough for a night out.
Gather the top half of your hair into a small, messy knot on the very top of your head. Secure it with pins or a festive hair tie.
Clip in a few strands of “hair tinsel” to the bottom layer for a subtle, shimmering surprise. The tinsel will catch the light as you move through the room.
How do I make my holiday hairstyle last all night?
The key to longevity is a combination of proper prep and setting products. Start with a volumizing mousse on damp hair and always finish with a high-quality, flexible-hold hairspray. For updos, use professional-grade bobby pins and “lock” them by crossing two pins in an “X” shape.
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What are the best accessories for 17 Merry holiday hairstyles for long hair?
Velvet ribbons, pearl-encrusted pins, and metallic clips are the top choices this season. You can also experiment with hair tinsel or silk scarves in festive colors like deep red, forest green, or gold. These accessories provide an instant festive upgrade to any basic style.
Should I wash my hair right before styling?
Actually, “second-day hair” usually styles much better than freshly washed hair. The natural oils provide more grip, making braids and updos more secure. If your hair feels too oily, a quick spray of dry shampoo at the roots can provide the perfect texture for holiday styling.
How can I prevent my long hair from frizzing in winter weather?
Winter air is dry, which often leads to static and frizz. Use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner or a tiny drop of hair oil on your ends before heading out. Carrying a small travel-sized smoothing spray in your bag can help tame any flyaways that appear during the festivities.
Are there heatless options for these holiday looks?
Yes, many of these styles can be achieved without heat. You can use silk rollers or “heatless curl” headbands overnight to get the waves for the side-swept or half-up looks. Braids and buns are naturally heatless and protect your hair from damage during the busy season.
How do I choose the right hairstyle for my holiday outfit?
Consider the neckline of your clothing. If you are wearing a high neck or a statement collar, an updo like a French twist or high ponytail is best. For off-the-shoulder or sweetheart necklines, flowing styles like Hollywood waves or a waterfall braid will complement the look beautifully.