5 Festive hairstyles to celebrate in style

As the holiday season approaches, it's time to prepare for a season filled with joy and celebration. Elevate your holiday style with stunning festive hair looks that will have you turning heads at every gathering. Whether you're prepping for a glamorous soirée, a cozy family dinner, or simply looking to add some festive flair to your day, we’ve got what you’re looking for. 

Discover festive hairstyles that you can recreate in the comfort of your own home, adding a touch of glamour to your upcoming holidays. As you enjoy the warmth and joy of Christmas, remember that your hairstyle is an essential part of your festive attire. So, this holiday season, let your hair be a part of the celebration. 

 

Model: Rose Bertram | Hair by @nicolepoede_ | Photo by @gustave_durin 

1. Side-Swept Winter Waves 

This versatile hairstyle perfectly complements a range of holiday settings, from formal Christmas parties to cozy family dinners. Its adaptability makes it an excellent choice for the festive season. The side-swept look not only exudes elegance but also serves as an ideal canvas for showcasing your favorite holiday jewelry, whether it's a pair of statement earrings or a dazzling necklace. 

To achieve this mesmerizing look, follow these steps: 

1. Start with clean, dry hair and prepare it by applying the Signature Foundation. Apply Leave-in Conditioning Spray to the lengths and ends of the hair and use the Argan Moisturizing Elixir on the ends.   
2. Deeply part your hair on one side to create the side-swept effect, using the 14K Gold Plated Tail Comb for precision. 
3. Protect your hair from heat by generously applying Thermal Protection Spray. Comb through to ensure even and effective heat protection.  
4. Apply Texturizing Salt Spray on the roots and lengths to give the hair extra texture and hold while curling.  
5. Divide your hair into small sections and use a Professional Ceramic Curling Wand to curl each section. Allow the curls to cool down in the preferred shape.  
6. Use a Detangling Brush to gently loosen the waves, allowing them to flow naturally, and finish with a light mist of Session Spray Strong. 
7. Optionally, if you have long hair sweep one side of your hair behind your ear and let it elegantly drape over your shoulder. Seal the final look with a delicate spritz of Hair Perfume.

 

Model: Farah Abdelaziz | Hair by @le_poise_parrucchieri 

2. Sleek Bun with a Curly Twist 

The sleek bun look is a timeless choice that never goes out of style and complements the enchantment of the season beautifully. Adding curls to this polished style gives it a unique and glamorous flair. The magic of the sleek bun is its versatility. You can opt for a low bun for a classic appearance or position it higher on your head for a more modern twist. Whichever you choose, this style exudes an air of sophistication that's perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations. 

To achieve this stunning look, follow these steps: 

1. Start with clean, dry hair and prepare it by applying the Signature Foundation. Apply Leave-in Conditioning Spray to the lengths and ends of the hair and use the Argan Moisturizing Elixir on the ends.   
2. Make sure your hair is tangle-free by brushing it thoroughly with a Detangling Brush. 
3. Gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and create a bun, leaving some of the ends of your hair outside the bun. 
4. Protect your hair from heat by generously applying Thermal Protection Spray. Comb or brush through to ensure even and effective heat protection.  
5. Curl the hair strands that are outside of the bun using the Professional Ceramic Curling Wand. Allow the curls to cool down before gently running your fingers through them to separate and soften the hair, creating a relaxed and natural hairstyle. 
6. To achieve a smooth finish and eliminate frizz, apply Shine Wax. 
7. Complete the look with a spritz of Session Spray Medium for that final polished touch and scent the hair with the Hair Perfume.

For added charm, embellish your bun with a festive hair accessory like the Limited Edition Hair Slide. 

 

 

Model: Hofit Golan | Hair by @messa__beauty 

3. Face-Framing Updo

Embrace the elegance of a face-framing updo and step into the festivities with style. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering, attending a holiday party, or simply celebrating at home, this classic yet trendy hairstyle is the perfect choice to make you stand out. A face-framing updo beautifully accentuates your features while allowing you to showcase your favorite holiday earrings or a stunning necklace. It's a timeless look that effortlessly blends with the spirit of the season. 

To achieve this classy look, follow these steps: 

1. Start with clean, dry hair and prepare it by applying the Signature Foundation. Apply Leave-in Conditioning Spray to the lengths and ends of the hair and use the Argan Moisturizing Elixir on the ends.   
2. Make sure your hair is tangle-free by brushing it thoroughly with a Detangling Brush. 
3. Use the 14K Gold Plated Tail Comb to section out a few face-framing layers, which will elegantly frame your face. 
4. Lightly spray the Texturizing Salt Spray on your face-framing layers to add texture and volume to these strands. 
5. Use the Professional Ceramic Conical Curling Wand to curl the face-framing strands, creating loose and soft curls. 
6. Gather the remaining hair into a loose bun at the nape of your neck, securing it with a hair tie or elastic. Leave the bun slightly messy for a relaxed look. 
7. Complete the style by applying Session Spray Medium to hold your updo in place and add extra shine. Make sure to spray it evenly for a long-lasting hold. Finish with a spritz of Hair Perfume. 

For added charm, adorn your updo with a festive hair accessory like the Eclat Headband Small or the Barrette Pour Cheveux Medium Silver/Gold. These details can make a significant difference, infusing a hint of holiday magic into your overall appearance. 

 

 

Model: Pritika Swarup | Hair by @balmainhair | Photo by @gustave_durin

4. ‘90s Half-Up Half-Down 

Dazzle this Christmas with a touch of '90s nostalgia! The 90s-inspired half-up, half-down hairstyle with a stylish side part is the perfect choice for your glamorous soirée. It's a trend-setting and retro look that will make you the star of the evening. This hairstyle complements the festive spirit with its timeless elegance and a hint of vintage charm. The side part adds a touch of sophistication, while the half-up, half-down style keeps it effortlessly chic. 

To achieve this iconic look, follow these steps: 

1. Start with clean, dry hair and prepare it by applying the Signature Foundation. Apply Leave-in Conditioning Spray to the lengths and ends of the hair and use the Argan Moisturizing Elixir on the ends.   
2. Ensure your hair is smooth and free of knots by gently detangling with the Luxury Spa Brush. 
3. Create a well-defined and clean deep side part in your hair using the 14K Gold Plated Tail Comb. 
4. Divide your hair into two sections: the top section for the half-up style and the bottom section left down. 
5. Take the top section of your hair and pull it back to the crown of your head, forming a half-up ponytail. 
6. Use the Luxury Spa Brush to refine and smoothen the half-up section, securing it with a hair tie. The boar hair bristles will help to distribute the hair’s natural oils to create a high gloss effect. 
7. Before using the Professional Straightener, apply Thermal Protection Spray to protect your hair from heat damage. Straighten your hair with the Professional Straightener, achieving a sleek and straight look. 
8. Use the 14K Gold Plated Tail Comb once more to perfect any stray hairs or sections. 
9. Complete the look by applying Session Spray Medium to hold your look in place and add an extra shine. Ensure an even and light application to avoid weighing down your hair. Finish with a spritz of Hair Perfume.

For added charm, fixate your look with the Barette pour Cheveux Medium White. This fashionable accessory is ideal for a half-up half-down.

 

Model: Najwa Nimri | Hair by @pablomaciasr | Photo by @_freddyalonso

5. High Ponytail 

A timeless and effortlessly chic high ponytail is the perfect balance between sleek and modern. Beyond the aesthetic allure, this high ponytail offers practicality for the festive season. It's a versatile choice that effortlessly transitions from day to night, complementing both casual gatherings and formal soirées. Recreating this high ponytail promises not only a stunning visual transformation but also a self-care ritual that adds a touch of luxury to your holiday preparations. Unleash your inner stylist and embrace the festivities with a hairdo that speaks volumes about your style and confidence. 

To achieve this head-turning look, follow these steps: 

1. Start with clean, dry hair, and enhance it with Argan Moisturizing Elixir for shine and moisture. Apply Leave-in Conditioning Spray to the lengths and ends of the hair and use the Argan Moisturizing Elixir on the ends.   
2. Before using any heat styling tools, it's important to protect your hair from damage. Spray Thermal Protection Spray on your hair, ensuring even coverage. 
3. Use a straightener to straighten your hair. Divide your hair into manageable sections and straighten each section from roots to ends. This step will create a smooth and sleek base for your high ponytail. 
4. Next, use the All Purpose Spa Brush to brush your hair thoroughly, ensuring it's smooth and free of any tangles. Repeat with the All Purpose Spa Brush to polish the hair and create a glass-looking effect. Gather your hair at the desired height for your high ponytail – this could be at the crown of your head for a classic look or higher for a more modern style. 
5. Once you've gathered your hair, use a hair tie or elastic to secure it in place. Make sure it's tight enough to hold the ponytail securely. 
6. To keep your high ponytail in place and add extra hold, spray Session Spray Medium evenly over the entire ponytail. This will help maintain the style throughout the day without weighing your hair down. Finish with the Hair Perfume. 

For an added charm, embellish your look with the Elastique Pour Cheveux Black or White. This stylish accessory not only secures your ponytail with ease but also imparts a touch of chicness. 

 

 

Stay updated on the latest hair trends, styling guides, and new releases by subscribing to the Balmain Hair newsletter below.