Welcome to the season of sparkle, joy, and all things festive! If you’re looking to add a little extra charm to your holiday look, Christmas Bow Hairstyles are the perfect way to do it. Whether you’re heading to a cozy family gathering, a glam holiday party, or just want to feel extra cute for Christmas photos, bow hairstyles bring the perfect mix of festive, feminine, and fun.
Christmas Bow Hairstyles
Christmas Bow Hairstyles are a festive and fun way to add charm to your holiday look. Perfect for all ages and hair types, they bring a sweet, stylish touch to any celebration.
Half-Up Bow Hairstyle
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This one’s a total classic in my chair every December. The half-up bow is sweet but not too much—you get that perfect balance between “put together” and “just festive enough.” I remember doing this on one of my redhead models with a forest green satin bow, and honestly, it looked like something out of a Hallmark movie. You just gather the top section of the hair, give it a little twist or soft tease at the crown, and secure it with a bow clip. Boom—instant charm.
I’ve found that curling the ends adds this romantic finish that makes all the difference. Some clients worry it’s too girly, but in my opinion, the right ribbon makes it feel grown-up and stylish. I always say, “If the bow feels too big, the vibe probably is.” So we adjust. No two bows are ever the same, and that’s the fun of it.
Low Ponytail with Velvet Bow
Ah, velvet—the texture of Christmas itself. I love doing low ponytails with a wide velvet bow, especially when I’m styling someone for a holiday dinner or church event. Last year, I styled my model Chloe’s honey-blonde hair into a low pony with a burgundy velvet bow, and the compliments? Non-stop. The key is to smooth the hair down sleek and elegant so the bow really pops.
What I really adore about this style is how easy it is, yet it looks like you planned it days in advance. Honestly, anyone can pull this off, and it doesn’t require perfect hair—second-day hair even works better sometimes. I usually wrap a small piece of hair around the elastic before tying the bow for that seamless look. Trust me, it makes it feel more polished without being stiff.
Braided Crown with Bow Accent
This one feels like something from a winter fairy tale. I get a lot of requests for the braided crown when clients want something elegant but still playful. I remember using a thin gold bow on a model who was doing a holiday shoot in the snow—it looked magical, like she walked straight out of Narnia. I usually do a milkmaid braid or a relaxed crown, then pin a delicate bow just off-center at the back.
It’s not about being perfect—it’s about the texture and softness. In my opinion, it works best when the braid isn’t too tight. I tug at the loops a bit to give it that effortless, lived-in feel. Add a few loose strands near the ears and cheeks, and you’ve got something dreamy. People always ask how long it takes—honestly, not long, especially if you’re okay with a little mess (which I always am).
High Bun with Oversized Satin Bow
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Now this is drama—in the best way. When I go for a high bun topped with an oversized satin bow, it’s never meant to whisper. It’s bold, cheeky, and a little glam. I styled a high ballerina bun with a hot pink bow on one of my models for a Christmas brunch look, and we couldn’t stop laughing because she looked like a holiday Barbie—in a good way. Honestly, it’s one of my favorites for photo shoots.
I always make sure the bun is super secure (bobby pins galore) before I attach the bow, because it will draw attention. In my opinion, this is for the bold girls—the ones who love standing out and aren’t afraid of making a statement. If the bow flops a bit? We just call it character. Not every bow needs to be picture-perfect.
Side Braid with Holiday Ribbon
There’s something so charming about a simple side braid with a ribbon woven through. I usually pick a festive color—like red and white striped ribbon or metallic gold—and just braid it right in with the hair. It’s so easy, and yet it looks super intentional. One of my younger models once called it her “candy cane hair,” and I’ve never forgotten that.
To be fair, this one works best on medium to long hair and looks cutest when the braid is a little loose and soft—not too perfect. I love tying the ribbon into a little bow at the bottom, too. And if there’s glitter in the ribbon? Even better. I’ve done this style for school plays, family pictures, and even a holiday farmer’s market shoot. It just never fails.
Messy Bun with Mini Sequin Bows
This is one of those “accidentally amazing” hairstyles I stumbled into during a winter wedding shoot. I did a low messy bun, and we were just missing something. So I grabbed some mini sequin bows and pinned them in—randomly, like little ornaments. It changed the whole look in seconds, and honestly, it’s been a go-to ever since.
I’ve found that this style works best on textured or curled hair—something with a bit of grip. The bows don’t have to match. In fact, I like mixing a few shades of red and silver. Clients always say, “I never would’ve thought of that,” and that’s what makes it fun. You don’t need to be precise—just go with your gut and let the bows land where they land.
Bubble Ponytail with Bow Ties
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If you’ve never tried a bubble ponytail, Christmas is the perfect time. It’s playful, and when you tie mini bows at each section? It turns into this festive little masterpiece. I used this look on a dance team for a holiday parade, and people were literally stopping them for photos.
Here’s the thing—I keep the ponytail a little loose and use clear elastics for each “bubble.” Then I tie small bows on top of each one. You can go all one color or mix it up. In my opinion, red and gold together are unbeatable. The result is so unique but not hard to do. It’s like wrapping a gift—but your hair’s the ribbon.
Pigtails with Matching Festive Bows
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Okay, I know pigtails sound a bit kiddie, but hear me out. Done right, they’re adorable and a little cheeky—especially with the right bows. I did twin low pigtails with emerald green velvet bows on one of my brunette models, and I swear it was the cutest holiday look we did all season.
The trick is in the parting—dead center, super clean—and keeping the pigtails low and soft. I sometimes curl the ends just a little for bounce. Honestly, this one gets the most reactions because it brings back some nostalgia but with a grown-up twist. I say go for it—especially if you’re heading to something fun and casual, like a cookie exchange or Christmas brunch.
Straight Hair with Statement Bow Clip
Sometimes, simple is stunning. A sleek blowout with a bold statement bow clip? I’m telling you, it turns heads. I had a model wear this style to a holiday gala—jet-black hair, pin-straight, and a giant crystal bow barrette—and she looked like a runway model. There’s something so luxe about it.
You don’t need curls or layers—just a good straightening iron and a little serum for shine. Then place the clip at the back or even just off to one side. In my opinion, the bow becomes the accessory. I always say, “Let the bow do the talking.” And trust me, it will.
Curly Hair with Tied Ribbon Headband
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Curly hair and ribbon headbands are basically made for each other. I love tying a ribbon across the top like a headband, then tucking it under and knotting it at the nape. I’ve done this for a couple of natural hair shoots, and every time, it adds that extra festive flair without hiding the gorgeous curls.
What’s great is you can play with the texture—smooth ribbon, velvet, glittery, whatever you’re feeling. I’ve even used plaid once, and it looked so sweet. Honestly, curly hair gives bows more personality. You get that volume, that bounce—and then the ribbon just ties it all together (pun totally intended). Don’t overthink it. Just wrap and go.
Haircare Tips for the Winter Season
The cold winter air may be magical, but it can also be harsh on your hair—especially when you’re styling it with pretty holiday bows. To keep your locks looking their best through every party and photo op, it’s important to protect and pamper your hair with the right care. Here are some simple, effective tips to maintain soft, healthy hair during the festive season:
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Prevent dryness and frizz in colder months
Use a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair hydrated. Apply a leave-in conditioner or anti-frizz serum to lock in moisture and tame flyaways. -
Use protective styles under bows
Buns, braids, and tucked styles not only look cute but also protect your ends from breakage and cold-weather damage. Secure bows over these styles for a festive touch without stressing your strands. -
Hydrating treatments for holiday-ready hair
Treat your hair to a deep-conditioning mask once a week. Look for formulas with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or argan oil to keep your hair nourished, soft, and shiny all season long.
FAQ
Can I wear Christmas bow hairstyles with short hair?
Yes! Short hair looks adorable with small bow clips, side pins, or headband-style bows. Just place them strategically to highlight your cut.
What kind of bows work best for holiday hairstyles?
Velvet, satin, plaid, or glitter bows are all perfect for the festive season. Choose sizes that complement your hairstyle without overwhelming it.
Are bow hairstyles suitable for kids and adults?
Absolutely! Bow hairstyles are versatile and can be styled playfully for kids or elegantly for adults, making them great for any age.
How do I make sure the bow stays in place all day?
Secure your bow with bobby pins or clips, and use a bit of hairspray for extra hold. Avoid heavy bows on fine hair to prevent slipping.
Hi, I’m Anna Spencer, A professional hairstylist based in North Carolina and the creator of Hairstyles for Life. With over a decade of hands-on salon experience, I’ve styled everything from everyday looks to runway-ready transformations. I started this website to share my passion for hair, offer expert tips, and help you feel confident in your personal style no matter your hair type or length. Whether you’re looking for quick tutorials, timeless trends, or honest product advice, you’ll find it all here.