16 December Hairstyles with Festive Braids, Waves and Creative Updos

December is the ultimate season for celebration and style. Your hair should be as festive and vibrant as the holiday decor surrounding you.

Discover breathtaking braids and elegant waves that capture the magic of winter. These styles elevate any holiday gathering or cozy evening by the fire.

Transform your look with creative updos and shimmering accents. From office parties to family dinners, these 16 ideas ensure you stand out.

1. The Holly-Berry Low Chignon

This sophisticated updo centers on a smooth, tucked nape section that provides a clean and polished silhouette. It is the perfect canvas for adding small, nature-inspired accents like faux berries or sprigs.

To achieve this look, secure your hair into a low ponytail and loop it through itself to create a soft roll. Secure the ends firmly with U-shaped pins to ensure the style stays in place throughout the evening.

The final touch involves tucking small decorative elements into the side of the bun. This creative updo balances classic elegance with a whimsical nod to the December greenery.

2. Sparkling Hollywood Waves

Hollywood waves offer a timeless aesthetic that brings instant glamour to any December event. The key to this look is the uniform direction of the curls, creating a continuous silken ripple.

Start by prepping the hair with a heat protectant and a shine-enhancing serum. Use a large-barrel curling iron, ensuring every section is curled in the same direction toward the face.

Once the curls have cooled, brush them through gently with a boar-bristle brush to merge the waves. A light dusting of hair glitter along the part adds a modern, festive twist.

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3. Dutch Braid with Silver Tinsel

Integrating metallic elements directly into a braid creates a striking visual effect that mimics falling snow. This Dutch braid style stands out because of its three-dimensional texture and shimmering highlights.

Begin by securing a few strands of silver tinsel to a small section of hair at the crown. Weave the tinsel into the braid as you work your way down to the nape.

Pancaking the edges of the braid—pulling them slightly apart—makes the style look fuller and more intricate. This look is ideal for those who want a festive braid that feels youthful and energetic.

4. Velvet Ribbon Bubble Braids

Bubble braids are a creative alternative to traditional weaving techniques, offering a playful and structural appearance. By using velvet ribbons, you instantly ground the style in a winter-appropriate aesthetic.

Create a high or mid-level ponytail and place elastics every two inches down the length. Gently tug the hair between each elastic to create a rounded, “bubble” effect.

Tie small velvet bows over each elastic band to hide the mechanics of the style. The contrast between the soft hair and the rich fabric creates a luxurious and festive finish.

5. The Star-Studded Sleek High Bun

A high bun is the quintessential choice for showing off a high neckline or statement jewelry. This version focuses on a mirror-like shine and the strategic placement of celestial hair pins.

Pull the hair into a tight, high ponytail at the crown and wrap it into a firm doughnut shape. Use a finishing pomade to smooth down any flyaways for a glass-hair effect.

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Scatter small, silver or gold star pins across the back or side of the bun. These creative updos mimic a clear winter night sky, making them perfect for New Year’s Eve.

6. Frozen-Inspired Fishtail Halo

The fishtail halo combines the intricate detail of a four-strand weave with the regal silhouette of a crown. It keeps the hair off the face while maintaining a soft, romantic texture.

Separate the hair into two sections and create fishtail braids on either side of the head. Wrap them across the top and pin them securely, hiding the ends beneath the opposing braid.

For a true December feel, incorporate small pearl pins or iridescent crystals throughout the weave. This festive braid captures the icy beauty of the winter season effortlessly.

7. Glitter-Root Mermaid Waves

Mermaid waves provide a more relaxed and voluminous alternative to structured curls. They focus on crimped textures and flowing lengths that feel effortless yet intentional.

Use a triple-barrel waver to create consistent indentations from the mid-lengths to the ends. This technique adds massive volume and a beachy vibe that contrasts beautifully with winter fashion.

Apply a mixture of hair gel and chunky holographic glitter to the roots along the parting line. This bold move turns a simple wave into a high-fashion festive statement.

8. Pine-Sprig French Twist

The French twist is a staple for formal December gatherings due to its vertical, elongating shape. It offers a clean look that works exceptionally well with heavy winter coats and scarves.

Gather the hair at the nape and twist it upward, tucking the ends into the resulting fold. Secure the entire length of the twist with hidden bobby pins for a seamless appearance.

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Insert a small, fresh sprig of pine or a metallic leaf accessory into the seam of the twist. This creative updo is the definition of understated holiday sophistication.

9. Cascading Braided Waterfall

Waterfall braids are perfect for those who want to keep their hair down while adding an element of detail. The style allows strands to “fall” through the braid, creating a tiered effect.

Begin the braid at the temple and move toward the back of the head, dropping the bottom strand and picking up a new one each time. This creates a horizontal crown of woven hair.

Curling the “dropped” strands into soft spirals adds movement and elegance. It is a festive braid that transitions perfectly from a daytime event to an evening party.

10. Crimson Bow Half-Up Waves

The half-up, half-down style offers the best of both worlds, providing the comfort of an updo with the beauty of long waves. A large crimson bow serves as the focal point for this look.

Curl the hair into loose, bouncy waves and gather the top section just above the ears. Secure this section with a clear elastic to create a sturdy base for the accessory.

Clip an oversized silk or velvet bow over the elastic to finish the look. This style is iconic for December, evoking the feeling of a beautifully wrapped gift.

11. Ornament-Adorned Space Buns

Space buns are a fun and edgy way to celebrate the holidays with a bit of whimsy. This creative updo involves two symmetrical buns positioned high on the head.

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Twist each ponytail into a textured knot and secure them with pins, leaving a few strands loose for a relaxed feel. The symmetry of the buns creates a balanced and striking profile.

Incorporate miniature, lightweight ornaments or festive bells into the base of each bun. This playful approach is sure to be a conversation starter at any festive gathering.

12. Pearl-Inlaid Side Braid

A side-swept braid offers a soft, asymmetrical look that frames the face beautifully. Using pearls adds a touch of classic luxury that feels particularly appropriate for winter.

Sweep all the hair to one side and create a thick, loose three-strand or fishtail braid. Allow a few wispy pieces to fall around the face to keep the look soft.

Weave a string of pearls into the braid or use individual pearl clips to dot the length of the style. This festive braid is elegant, refined, and incredibly easy to wear.

13. Voluminous Retro Curls with Pins

Retro curls bring a sense of 1940s nostalgia to the modern December wardrobe. This style relies on deep side parts and high-volume curls that maintain their shape.

Use a medium-barrel iron and pin each curl to your head while it cools to set the shape. This ensures the volume lasts through hours of dancing or socializing.

Sweep one side of the hair back and secure it with a series of decorative, gemstone-encrusted pins. The contrast between the sleek side and the voluminous curls is stunningly cinematic.

14. Double Braided Rose Updo

This creative updo involves rolling braids into circular shapes that resemble blooming flowers. It is an artistic style that looks much more complicated than it actually is.

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Create two standard braids at the back of the head and gently pull the loops on one side of each braid. Roll the braids tightly and pin them flat against the head.

The result is a duo of “roses” made entirely of hair, which can be accented with small gold beads. This style is a beautiful way to wear a festive braid in a formal setting.

15. Winter Wonderland Snowflake Knot

The snowflake knot is a variations of the top knot that utilizes intricate pinning to create a wider, flatter shape. This provides more surface area for winter-themed accessories.

Secure a high ponytail and split it into three sections, looping each one back toward the center and pinning it down. This creates a structural base that looks like a geometric star.

Place a large, crystal snowflake brooch or clip in the center of the knot. This creative updo is the ultimate tribute to the beauty of a December snowfall.

16. Twisted Rope Braid with Gold Thread

Rope braids offer a sleek and modern alternative to traditional woven styles. They consist of two strands twisted around each other to create a cord-like appearance.

Incorporate a long piece of gold thread or embroidery floss into one of the strands before you begin twisting. This adds a subtle, expensive-looking shimmer to the entire length.

This style is particularly effective for those with long hair, as it highlights the length and shine of the strands. It is a minimalist yet festive braid that radiates elegance.

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How do I make festive braids last all night?

To ensure your braids stay intact, start with hair that has some “grip,” such as second-day hair or hair prepped with dry shampoo. Finish the style with a high-hold hairspray and use clear elastics that won’t snap under tension.

What is the best way to add glitter to waves without a mess?

Mix your hair glitter with a clear hair gel in a small bowl and apply it with a makeup brush to specific areas. This “glitter paste” dries down and keeps the sparkles in place, preventing them from shedding onto your clothes.

Are creative updos suitable for shorter hair lengths?

Absolutely, many updos can be adapted by using bobby pins to tuck shorter layers or by creating multiple smaller knots. You can also use clip-in extensions to add the necessary volume or length for more complex braided styles.

Which accessories are trending for December hairstyles?

Velvet ribbons, pearl-encrusted clips, and metallic stars are currently the most popular choices. Natural elements like small pinecones or holly-inspired pins are also great for a more rustic, festive look.

How can I achieve Hollywood waves at home?

The secret is curling all sections in the same direction and allowing them to cool completely before touching them. Once cool, use a wide-tooth comb or a soft brush to blend the curls into a single, cohesive wave.

Can I use real greenery in my hair for holiday parties?

Yes, but it is best to use hardy evergreens like pine or rosemary that won’t wilt quickly. Secure them with floral wire to a bobby pin to ensure they stay firmly attached to your braids or updos.