Hi, I’m Anna! The holiday season is one of my favorite times of the year—not just for the cozy vibes and festive treats, but also for the chance to dress up and feel extra special. When it comes to getting ready for parties, I love experimenting with different Christmas Hairstyles for Long Hair. Long hair gives you so much freedom to play—whether you’re going for something elegant like soft curls or something more playful like a braided crown with sparkly clips.
Christmas Hairstyles for Long Hair
Looking for the perfect festive look? Christmas Hairstyles for Long Hair offer endless options, from elegant curls to fun braided styles.
Loose Curls with Velvet Ribbon
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This one is honestly a go-to for me every Christmas season, especially when I’m styling for cozy indoor parties or those slightly more dressed-up family dinners. There’s something so romantic and effortless about soft, loose curls tumbling over the shoulders. I usually curl the hair with a big-barrel iron for those dreamy waves, and then—this is the fun part—I tie a deep red or emerald velvet ribbon right at the nape, just over a tiny half-up section.
I remember once, I did this look for one of my regulars, and she came back saying it made her feel like a Hallmark movie heroine. The velvet just gives that luxe holiday vibe without trying too hard. If you’ve never used ribbon in hair before, try it—it’s so simple but makes such a sweet impact. Plus, you can match it with your outfit or makeup!
Braided Crown with Sparkly Clips

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Okay, this one is pure Christmas magic. When I’m styling someone who wants to feel like a snow princess (yep, real request!), I go for a braided crown. It’s just two long braids wrapped around the head and pinned in place—but the key is the sparkly clips. I’m talking rhinestones, snowflakes, even little stars. I scatter them like they just fell there naturally.
Last year, I did this style for a holiday-themed bridal shower, and honestly, it was the showstopper. People couldn’t stop asking her how she did it—but of course, it took me 40 minutes and a good amount of dry shampoo! I usually leave a few face-framing pieces loose and curl them lightly—it softens everything. It’s one of those styles that looks hard but wears easy, which is exactly what we want during the festive chaos.
Sleek Low Bun with Festive Pins
Not every client wants volume and texture. Some are all about that minimal, clean vibe—and that’s where the sleek low bun comes in. I do a precise middle part, pull the hair back tightly, and twist it into a tight bun right at the nape. But here’s where the magic happens: I decorate it with festive pins—tiny holly leaves, pearls, or even miniature candy canes (yes, I found those once).
One model told me she wore it to a fancy Christmas gala, and someone legit mistook her for a celebrity. It’s one of those hairstyles that makes people do a double take because it’s so polished yet playful. And honestly, it holds up through hours of dancing and mulled wine. If you’re looking for elegance with a wink, this one delivers every single time.
Half-Up Twisted Ponytail
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This one’s like the comfy sweater of Christmas hairstyles—effortless, cute, and dependable. I twist two front sections of the hair back and secure them into a little ponytail. Then, I gently curl the ends and let them blend with the rest of the hair. It’s not a dramatic look, but it’s one I’ve done on everyone from teens to moms and it always works.
One of my models wore it for her family photo session and later told me her grandma cried when she saw how pretty she looked. I mean, how sweet is that? It’s just a great option when you want a little lift around the crown but still want your length to shine. Add a little shimmer spray for some sparkle, and it’s holiday perfection.
Dutch Braids with Mini Ornaments

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I know this sounds wild, but Dutch braids with tiny ornaments threaded through? It’s a party hit. I start with classic double Dutch braids, and as I go, I weave in miniature baubles or tiny festive charms. They don’t even have to match—mismatched actually looks cuter, trust me.
One year I did this on a teenage client for her school’s holiday talent show, and she messaged me after saying it was the most attention she’d ever gotten (in a good way). The key is to use lightweight ornaments and secure them really well—safety first! It’s fun, cheeky, and super Instagrammable, which, let’s be honest, is half the point.
Hollywood Waves with Side Part
Now this one—ohhh it’s glam. Total old-Hollywood vibes. When I want someone to walk into a Christmas party and turn heads, I go straight for the deep side part and structured waves. I use a medium curling iron and set the curls with clips until they cool. Then, it’s all about brushing them out just right.
I once did this look for a model who was going to a black-tie Christmas fundraiser, and when she came back, she told me she got more compliments on her hair than her dress. It’s dramatic but in the best way. Add a bold red lip and sparkly earrings, and you’re basically a Christmas goddess.
Fishtail Braid with Glitter Spray
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This one’s for the girls who want to keep things chill but still festive. Fishtail braids look complicated, but once you get the hang of them, they’re surprisingly fast. I usually pull it over one shoulder and then fluff it out so it’s big and boho.
But the real magic is the glitter spray. I mist it lightly over the braid and a bit around the crown—it catches the light like tinsel. I did this look for a holiday market shoot once, and the photos looked like a dreamy winter fairytale. Just don’t overdo the glitter unless you want to leave a sparkly trail behind you.
High Ponytail with Satin Wrap

For my bold and bouncy types, the high pony is a must. I slick the hair up with some gel for grip, secure it tight, and then wrap a satin ribbon around the base for that festive finish. Red, green, or even metallic gold—depends on the outfit.
One of my models rocked this for a Christmas dance party and said it stayed perfect all night. It’s practical but fun, and the satin gives it that little holiday glam without trying too hard. Plus, it shows off the cheekbones like nothing else. Add a sparkly eye and boom—holiday Barbie energy.
Waterfall Braid with Red Bows
This one feels like unwrapping a gift—soft, layered, and full of surprises. I love doing waterfall braids on long, thick hair because the pieces cascade so beautifully. I tuck in little red bows along the braid path—just tiny ones, not too loud.
I once styled this on a little girl for her school’s Christmas concert, and she told me afterward she felt like a Christmas angel. Melted my heart. It’s whimsical and sweet, and honestly, bows are totally underrated in grown-up hairstyles too. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
Messy Bun with Christmas Scrunchie
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This one’s for when you’re running late but still want to look like you tried. I throw the hair up into a messy bun—nothing fancy—and then add a Christmas-themed scrunchie. Think velvet, sequins, or even ones with little jingle bells (though maybe skip those if you want peace and quiet).
One of my clients wore this for her office Secret Santa, and she said her coworkers thought it was the cutest touch. It’s relaxed, playful, and super easy to pull off. Sometimes the best styles are the ones that don’t take themselves too seriously—and this is definitely one of them.
Haircare Tips for Winter Styling
Winter can be tough on your hair—cold air outside and dry heat indoors often lead to static, frizz, and breakage. If you want your Christmas hairstyles for long hair to look smooth and glossy all season long, proper haircare is key. Here are some simple tips to keep your hair healthy, shiny, and party-ready.
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Hydrate to Beat Static and Dryness
Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair nourished. Avoid washing too often, and use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil to lock in moisture and prevent flyaways. -
Choose Products That Add Shine and Protection
Use a heat protectant before styling and finish with a lightweight serum or shine spray. Products with argan oil, keratin, or silk proteins are great for adding luster. -
Deep Condition Before Party Week
A few days before your holiday events, treat your hair to a deep conditioning mask. This helps repair damage and gives your hair a soft, polished look that lasts through styling.
Taking a little extra care in winter ensures your long hair looks its best for every Christmas celebration!
FAQ
What are the easiest Christmas hairstyles for long hair?
Simple styles like loose curls, a high ponytail with a festive ribbon, or a half-up twisted bun are quick, stylish, and perfect for any holiday event.
Can I create Christmas hairstyles without using heat tools?
Yes! Try overnight braids for heatless waves, or go for a sleek low bun or braided crown accessorized with sparkly clips and bows.
How do I keep my hairstyle looking fresh all day at a holiday party?
Use a strong-hold hairspray, secure styles with bobby pins, and avoid touching your hair too much. Prepping with mousse or texture spray also helps it stay in place.
What accessories work best with Christmas hairstyles for long hair?
Velvet bows, sparkly barrettes, pearl headbands, festive scrunchies, and even mini ornaments can add a fun, festive touch.

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.

