December brings a magical mix of festive gatherings, holiday dinners, winter weddings, and sparkling night celebrations, making it the perfect month to elevate your hairstyle with sophisticated updos. Elegant updos pair beautifully with winter fashion—velvet dresses, chic coats, shimmering accessories—and stay polished in chilly weather.
They highlight your makeup, complement your jewelry, and photograph effortlessly well under holiday lights. Whether you prefer sleek sophistication or soft romantic styles, December updos help you feel confident, glamorous, and event-ready. This guide brings together 18 stunning updos that blend timeless beauty with seasonal charm, ensuring you shine at every holiday event with elegance and grace.
1. Classic Low Chignon
The classic low chignon is an iconic December updo that radiates timeless elegance and refined beauty. Sitting neatly at the nape, this hairstyle frames the face softly while giving your look a polished finish perfect for winter parties, holiday dinners, and formal gatherings.
Its simplicity allows your accessories—like pearl earrings or a sparkling necklace—to stand out, making it a reliable choice for any special event. The low placement also works beautifully with coats, shawls, and high-neck winter dresses. Whether you’re heading to a gala or a quiet winter celebration, the low chignon delivers understated sophistication.
How to Style It:
Gather hair into a low ponytail, twist into a bun, secure tightly, and smooth the top with a serum or soft-hold spray.
Why You Must Try It:
Pairs beautifully with classic makeup, bold lips, and elegant winter outfits—perfect for any December event.
2. Braided Crown Updo
A braided crown updo adds romantic charm and festive beauty to your December look. Wrapping braids around the head creates a delicate halo effect that feels whimsical and ethereal while still maintaining elegance. It’s ideal for winter weddings, Christmas photos, or any celebration where you want a dreamy, fairytale-inspired style.
This updo also works wonderfully with winter fashion—especially cozy sweaters, fluffy collars, and embellished dresses. Its soft structure frames the face beautifully and keeps hair secure throughout long evenings, making it both practical and stylish for the holiday season.
How to Style It:
Create two braids, cross them over your head like a crown, pin securely, and gently loosen sections for softness.
Why You Must Try It:
A romantic winter favorite that pairs with delicate jewelry, soft curls, and warm-toned makeup.
3. Twisted Low Bun
The twisted low bun is the perfect balance between polished elegance and effortless charm. This December updo features twists that add subtle detail and texture, making the hairstyle look intricate without being overly styled. It sits gracefully at the nape, allowing you to wear scarves, coats, and high-neck outfits without disturbing the style.
Whether you’re dressing up for a formal dinner or attending a holiday gathering, the twisted bun keeps your hair neat while flattering your facial features. It’s an ideal choice for women who love clean, romantic, and soft updo styles.
How to Style It:
Twist two sections from each side, bring them together, wrap into a bun, and pin securely.
Why You Must Try It:
Perfect with minimalistic winter outfits and subtle makeup—effortlessly chic for the season.
4. French Twist Updo
The French twist is a beloved classic that brings unmatched sophistication to December events. Its smooth and structured shape instantly elevates your look, making it perfect for holiday galas, corporate dinners, and evening celebrations. This updo elongates the neck and highlights your jawline, giving your entire appearance a refined finish.
It pairs beautifully with winter fabrics like satin, velvet, and wool coats. Despite its glamorous look, the French twist is surprisingly versatile and can be styled sleek or slightly relaxed for a softer winter vibe.
How to Style It:
Brush hair back, twist upward from the nape, tuck the ends inside, and secure with bobby pins.
Why You Must Try It:
Ideal for elegant winter parties—pairs well with bold earrings, red lipstick, and structured outfits.
5. Messy Romantic Updo
The messy romantic updo is a December favorite for those who love softness, texture, and a touch of whimsy. This style combines gentle volume with loose pieces that frame the face, creating a naturally beautiful winter look. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, winter engagement photos, or relaxed holiday celebrations.
The undone effect gives the hairstyle a warm, approachable quality while still maintaining elegance. It works well with soft winter fashion, including chunky sweaters and flowy dresses, making it both versatile and seasonally fitting.
How to Style It:
Curl the hair lightly, pin loosely into a textured bun, and pull out a few strands around the face.
Why You Must Try It:
A romantic, cozy option that looks stunning with soft makeup and delicate accessories.
6. Sleek High Bun
The sleek high bun is a modern, striking December updo that lifts your features and adds instant sophistication. Its clean lines and tight structure create a bold yet elegant look perfect for evening events, holiday galas, and formal winter gatherings.
This hairstyle works especially well with high collars, turtlenecks, and winter coats, as it elevates the face and keeps the neckline clean. The high placement also makes this a great style for showcasing makeup, jewelry, and festive accessories.
How to Style It:
Brush hair upward into a high ponytail, twist into a neat bun, and smooth edges with gel or serum.
Why You Must Try It:
Perfect for glamorous December nights—pairs beautifully with statement earrings and dramatic eye makeup.
7. Curled Updo with Soft Volume
This curled updo adds a touch of luxury and romance perfect for winter events. The curls create soft volume that enhances your facial features and adds warmth to your overall look.
It’s a wonderful choice for December weddings, family celebrations, or festive evenings where you want something elegant yet full of movement. The soft texture complements winter fabrics like chiffon, velvet, and faux fur beautifully, creating a balanced and charming holiday style.
How to Style It:
Curl all your hair, gather into a loose bun, pin curls in place, and finish with a flexible-hold spray.
Why You Must Try It:
Ideal for soft glam holiday looks—pairs perfectly with glowing makeup and winter neutrals.
8. Side-Swept Bun
The side-swept bun adds asymmetry and charm, making it a standout December updo for special events. Placed low and to one side, this style frames the face elegantly and creates a flattering silhouette.
It’s perfect for winter outfits that draw attention to the neckline or shoulders, such as off-shoulder dresses or winter gowns. With its soft shape and romantic finish, the side-swept bun adds personality without sacrificing sophistication.
How to Style It:
Part hair deeply, pull it to one side, twist into a bun, and pin tightly.
Why You Must Try It:
Beautiful with one-shoulder outfits, sparkly accessories, and soft winter glam.
9. Braided Low Bun
The braided low bun blends structure, texture, and elegance, making it ideal for December celebrations. The braid adds intricate detail that enhances the bun’s overall look without making it overly complicated.
This updo stays put in winter weather, making it perfect for outdoor events or long nights. Whether you’re attending a festive dinner or a winter wedding, this hairstyle brings refined charm and seasonal beauty.
How to Style It:
Braid the ponytail or a side section, twist into a bun, and secure with pins.
Why You Must Try It:
A polished, detailed look that pairs beautifully with embellished dresses and winter jewels.
10. High Ponytail Updo
A high ponytail updo is youthful, modern, and stylish for December events. It combines the sleekness of an updo with the playful lift of a ponytail, giving you a dynamic and glamorous look. This style works wonderfully for parties, New Year’s celebrations, and evenings out.
It keeps hair off your collar and showcases winter makeup beautifully. Curling the ponytail adds extra elegance and seasonal charm.
How to Style It:
Gather hair high, wrap a strand around the base, curl the ponytail, and smooth flyaways.
Why You Must Try It:
Perfect with trendy winter outfits and bold holiday accessories.
11. Vintage Rolled Updo
The vintage rolled updo adds old-Hollywood charm to December styling. Its soft, structured roll creates a gorgeous silhouette that complements winter fashion beautifully. This hairstyle is perfect for holiday photos, formal dinners, and retro-inspired winter events. The rolled shape also keeps your hair secure throughout the night while offering a unique twist on classic updos.
How to Style It:
Roll the ends inward toward the nape, secure with pins, and smooth the outer layer.
Why You Must Try It:
Pairs well with vintage-inspired winter dresses, pearls, and soft waves.
12. Textured Knot Updo
The textured knot updo is perfect for those who love modern, artistic hairstyles with a touch of sophistication. The knotted detail adds depth, while the texture creates a soft, stylish finish ideal for December events.
This updo works wonderfully with trendy winter fashion and suits both casual and festive gatherings. It’s a unique alternative to traditional buns, offering creativity without losing elegance.
How to Style It:
Form a low ponytail, twist into a knot, leave a few pieces loose, and spray with texturizer.
Why You Must Try It:
An eye-catching choice—pairs beautifully with modern winter outfits and minimalist accessories.
13. Low Bun with Curled Tendrils
This soft, feminine updo pairs a neat low bun with curled face-framing tendrils, creating a romantic and seasonal look. It’s ideal for December evenings, winter weddings, or holiday parties where you want elegance with a gentle touch. The curled pieces soften the face and complement winter makeup beautifully. The bun itself stays secure under coats and scarves.
How to Style It:
Create a low bun, curl loose front strands, and set with a light-hold spray.
Why You Must Try It:
Perfect for creating a romantic winter vibe—pairs with soft glam and flowy dresses.
14. Half-Up Braided Updo
The half-up braided updo combines the beauty of braids with the elegance of an updo, making it ideal for December’s semi-formal events. It keeps hair off your face while allowing some volume and movement to remain. This style looks stunning with winter dresses, cozy sweaters, and layered clothing. Its soft charm makes it suitable for both daytime and evening celebrations.
How to Style It:
Braid two sections, secure them at the back, curl the remaining hair, and loosen gently.
Why You Must Try It:
A versatile winter choice—pairs beautifully with soft accessories and natural makeup.
15. Sleek Low Pony Updo
A sleek low pony updo offers minimalistic sophistication with a winter-perfect polished finish. This style enhances your facial features and works beautifully with structured coats, bold makeup, and statement accessories. Perfect for formal events and professional gatherings, it delivers clean elegance while remaining effortless.
How to Style It:
Straighten hair, smooth it low into a tight pony, and wrap a strand around the base.
Why You Must Try It:
Modern, clean, and chic—pairs perfectly with winter neutrals and sharp evening outfits.
16. Curled Updo with Decorative Pins
This elegant updo combines soft curls with sparkling pins, giving your hairstyle a festive December glow. Ideal for Christmas parties, winter weddings, and New Year’s events, the decorative accents enhance the curls and make the hairstyle feel celebratory. It’s a beautiful option for anyone who loves adding a little extra shine.
How to Style It:
Curl hair, loosely pin into an updo, add decorative clips or pins, and set with spray.
Why You Must Try It:
Perfect for festive celebrations—pairs beautifully with glittery dresses and holiday accessories.
17. Sleek Middle-Part Bun
A sleek middle-part bun brings modern elegance and clean symmetry to your December style. This chic updo highlights your cheekbones and jawline while maintaining a smooth, polished appearance.
It’s perfect for formal parties, professional events, and stylish winter dinners. The middle part gives a contemporary touch that elevates simple winter outfits instantly.
How to Style It:
Create a sharp middle part, smooth hair tightly, twist into a low bun, and secure.
Why You Must Try It:
Pairs beautifully with minimalist winter fashion and bold, structured makeup looks.
18. Wrapped Bun Updo
The wrapped bun updo offers dimension, sophistication, and an elevated twist on the classic bun. By wrapping small sections around the bun, the style becomes more intricate and visually appealing.
This December-perfect hairstyle works for both formal and semi-formal seasonal events. It’s elegant, secure, and flattering for all face shapes.
How to Style It:
Form a low bun, wrap small strands around it, secure with pins, and smooth gently.
Why You Must Try It:
A chic, elevated winter look—pairs with dramatic earrings and festive winter outfits.
Conclusion
December is the season for elegance, celebration, and unforgettable style. These 18 updos offer the perfect blend of sophistication, charm, and seasonal beauty, giving you endless options for every holiday event. From sleek buns to braided crowns and romantic curls, each hairstyle enhances your winter wardrobe and highlights your best features.
Whether you prefer minimalistic chic or the softness of curls and texture, these updos ensure you feel polished, confident, and festive. With the right accessories and a touch of seasonal sparkle, your December hairstyles can become just as magical as the celebrations themselves.