6 Easy Holiday Hairstyles for All Ages

It may feel like autumn just began, but really, we’re in the thick of it — and soon, the holiday season will be upon us. For many, the five-week stretch between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve is among the busiest times of the year, with parties big and small marking each passing week. And when you’re juggling the duties of real life with a jam-packed social calendar, the last thing you want to do is spend hours getting ready for each event. 

Mastering a few easy (but festive!) hairstyles can make getting ready for those countless holiday parties a little bit easier. That’s where we come in. We’re sharing some of our favorite holiday hairstyles for all ages here, plus tips on how to recreate the looks before dashing out to your next seasonal celebration. 

1. Sleek Side Part  

Swapping your standard middle part for a sleek, dramatic side part is a super-simple way to upgrade your go-to look. Plus, it takes literally minutes to achieve, and always looks nice. Start by detangling your mane, then create a deep side part on the left side of your head, roughly in line with the arch of your brow. Next, grab a 2-inch section of hair from beside your part (whichever side you choose) and use a boar-bristle brush to smooth it diagonally across your forehead toward your right ear. Pin the section in place behind your ear, and mist your mane with a frizz-fighting leave-in for an ultra-smooth, glossy finish. We love how this style looks with long, straight hair, but you can adapt it for any hair length or texture. 

2. Old Hollywood Waves  

For your fanciest holiday party this year, take inspiration from Dita von Teese’s signature glam ’do. To create the vintage-inspired look, rough-dry your hair until it’s about 75% dry, then wrap your ends in oversized rollers. Pin the rollers in place just above your ears and let them sit until your hair is completely dry. (If you’re in a rush, you can use a hairdryer to help the process along.) Once your strands are dry, gently unpin the rollers and mist your mane with a long-hold hairspray to keep your curls from falling flat. We love Color Wow Cult Favorite Firm + Flexible Hairspray.

3. Tousled Bun 

A messy bun may not be the first style that comes to mind when you think “holiday glam,” but a few tweaks can make this day-off look appropriate for even fancy holiday fêtes. To start, swap the usual slick-back for a deep side part — it instantly lends the look a more intentional feel. Secondly, avoid the urge to twist your hair into a topknot, as that can feel too casual. Instead, secure your bun at the back of your head, an inch or so above the nape of your neck. Use bobby pins to tuck any stray hairs into your bun for a more polished vibe, but allow yourself to keep a few tendrils in front loose. They’ll help frame your face and give your laid-back updo an effortlessly chic feel.

4. Classic Chignon 

If you’re looking for a fancier twist (pun intended) on your usual day-off bun, a low chignon is hard to beat. And while this classic hairstyle looks intricate, it’s pretty simple to nail. Start by parting your hair in the middle, then secure your mane into a low pony at the nape of your neck with a hair elastic. Twist the lengths of your pony a few times to create a “rope” of hair, then wrap the rope around the base of your ponytail to create the bun shape. Use bobby pins to secure the bun into place, and spray your bun with a strong-hold hairspray to help ensure the elegant style stays all night long.

5. ’70s Bombshell Waves 

Amanda Seyfried’s ultra-voluminous disco waves were a major hit at 2023’s  Met Gala — and you can be sure they’ll make a statement at any holiday party you plan to attend, too. The key to creating the full, fluffy look is to use a small curling iron to make tight, bouncy spirals. After curling your entire mane, brush out your curls, working your way from the ends up gently to help prevent any snagging or tangling. If your hair tends to fall flat after a few hours, try prepping your hair with a volume-enhancing mousse, such as Briogeo Style + Treat Hair Styling Volume Foam, before drying and curling your hair.

6. Stacked With Accessories

If you don’t have the time or energy to devote to an updo, wear your hair down and accessorize with a few (or several) statement hair accessories. Bejeweled barrettes clipped above each ear make for a chic and party-ready look, no matter your hair type, length, or texture. They’re also incredibly on trend, if this past fashion month’s abundance of bedazzled hair accessories are any indication. With this look, more is more, so don’t be afraid to stack several embellishments for a maximalist feel. Get your collection started with The Hair Edit Moonstruck Faceted Stone Bobby Pins.