The holiday season is all about sparkle, joy, and embracing festive vibes, and what better way to showcase your holiday spirit than with stunning braided hairstyles? Braids are versatile, elegant, and can be styled to suit casual gatherings or glamorous Christmas parties.
From intricate fishtail braids to simple side plaits, these hairstyles bring a chic, polished look while keeping your hair neat and manageable.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner style or a show-stopping party look, braided hairstyles add that perfect holiday twist. Get ready to transform your Christmas look with these 21 braided inspirations that are both trendy and timeless.
1. Classic French Braid with Holiday Accessories
A classic French braid is timeless, creating a sleek and elegant look that works for all hair lengths. To add a festive twist, weave in ribbons or small decorative pins.
Start by dividing your hair into three sections at the crown, gradually incorporating strands from the sides into the braid while moving downward. Secure it with a clear or festive hair tie.
This hairstyle is perfect for those who want a polished yet understated holiday look. Try pairing it with a sparkly hair clip or tiny holly-inspired pins for extra Christmas charm.
2. Fishtail Braid with Glitter Highlights
The fishtail braid is intricate yet surprisingly easy once you get the technique. Divide your hair into two sections and cross small strands alternately from each side.
Add subtle glitter spray or tinsel strands for a festive sparkle. This hairstyle works well for medium to long hair and can be styled to the side or down the back. It’s perfect for Christmas parties where you want to stand out.
The shimmer reflects holiday lights beautifully, making your braid the center of attention. Pair it with soft curls for a romantic, whimsical vibe.
3. Side-Swept Waterfall Braid
Waterfall braids are elegant and feminine, cascading softly across the head like holiday tinsel. Begin with a small section at the front and drop one strand as you braid across the side of your head.
Let the rest of your hair flow naturally, adding waves or curls for volume. This style is ideal for formal dinners or festive events. Add a decorative bow or pearl pins along the braid for extra charm.
The side-swept waterfall braid keeps hair out of your face while still looking sophisticated and stylish, perfect for holiday photos and celebrations.
4. Braided Crown Updo
A braided crown updo creates a regal and romantic look, ideal for Christmas parties or family gatherings. Start with two braids from each side of the head and wrap them around the crown, securing with bobby pins.
Add small festive hair accessories like tiny bells or red ribbons for a holiday twist. This hairstyle works best on medium to long hair and adds an air of sophistication.
It’s perfect for those who want an intricate style without needing professional help. Pair with bold earrings and a festive dress to complete the elegant Christmas look.
5. Messy Boho Braids
Messy boho braids are carefree, relaxed, and effortlessly stylish, perfect for casual holiday gatherings or Christmas brunch. Create small, loose braids randomly throughout your hair, mixing textures with soft waves or curls.
Pull out a few face-framing strands for a natural look. Add tiny metallic clips or glitter accents for a festive touch.
This style is versatile, works for all hair types, and adds a youthful, playful vibe. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed yet stylish appearance during the holidays while keeping their hair creative and fun.
6. Double Braided Ponytail
A double braided ponytail adds structure and flair to your holiday look. Create two braids on each side, securing them at the nape of your neck into a ponytail. This hairstyle is practical for dancing or holiday activities while looking stylish.
Wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie for a polished finish. Add festive scrunchies, ribbons, or sparkly hair ties for a Christmas-themed vibe.
It’s a trendy, youthful look that’s perfect for both kids and adults. Try this style for an upbeat, cheerful holiday appearance that’s fun and functional.
7. Twisted Halo Braid
The twisted halo braid encircles the head like a delicate crown, adding elegance to any holiday outfit. Twist sections from each side and pin them along the crown, creating a circular braided effect. This style works well with medium to long hair and pairs beautifully with soft waves underneath.
Add subtle hair jewelry or glitter sprays for a festive touch. It’s perfect for formal events or photoshoots, giving a regal yet approachable appearance.
This braid is a must-try for those who want a standout hairstyle without needing complicated techniques or extensions.
8. Rope Braids with Ribbon
Rope braids are simple yet visually striking. Twist two sections of hair around each other, adding festive ribbons for a holiday accent. These braids can be worn as pigtails, a single side braid, or incorporated into an updo.
They’re excellent for all hair types and lengths. The addition of a ribbon instantly elevates the style, making it holiday-ready.
Pair with casual or dressy outfits for versatility. Rope braids are perfect for adding a subtle yet stylish twist, combining tradition with playful festive elements for a charming Christmas look.
9. Half-Up Braided Bun
This hairstyle combines the elegance of a bun with the texture of braids. Create a braid from each side of the head and gather them into a half-up bun at the back. The remaining hair can be curled or left straight.
Add festive clips or tiny ornaments to the braid for a holiday-ready twist. Perfect for medium to long hair, this style balances sophistication with a relaxed vibe.
It’s great for those who want their hair partly up while still showing off length and volume, providing a versatile holiday hairstyle option.
10. Braided Low Chignon
A low chignon with braids is an elegant and timeless holiday hairstyle. Start with two side braids that wrap into a low bun at the nape of your neck.
Secure with bobby pins and add small festive accessories, such as pearl pins or miniature holly accents. This style works best on medium to long hair and is ideal for formal dinners or parties.
The combination of braids and a chignon creates a polished, sophisticated look that’s easy to accessorize. Pair with statement earrings or a glittery dress for a perfect festive ensemble.
11. Braided Bun with Twinkling Pins
A braided bun combines sophistication with festive charm. Start with a simple three-strand braid at the crown or side, then wrap it into a bun at the back of your head. Secure with bobby pins and add small twinkling or glitter pins for a holiday sparkle.
This hairstyle works best for medium to long hair and is perfect for formal dinners or office parties. It keeps hair neat while looking intricate and elegant.
You must try this style if you want a polished, photo-ready look that pairs beautifully with sparkly earrings or a chic holiday dress.
12. Candy Cane Braids
Candy cane braids are playful and festive, perfect for adding a holiday twist. Create two or three small braids and weave red and white ribbons or threads into them.
Style them as pigtails, side braids, or crown braids for a creative holiday look. This hairstyle is excellent for kids and adults who want a fun, whimsical vibe.
The colorful braid accents instantly bring Christmas cheer, making it a must-try for parties or holiday school events. Pair it with a cozy sweater or red dress for an adorable, festive ensemble.
13. Side Braided Ponytail
A side braided ponytail is stylish, casual, and easy to achieve. Braid a section of hair along one side of your head and incorporate it into a low or high ponytail.
Add a festive ribbon or sparkly hair tie to enhance the holiday look. This hairstyle is perfect for medium to long hair and keeps strands neatly in place while still looking chic.
It’s ideal for casual gatherings or office parties. You must try this style for its effortless elegance and versatile charm, as it works beautifully with both straight and wavy textures.
14. Double Fishtail Braids
Double fishtail braids are perfect for an eye-catching holiday statement. Part your hair down the middle and create two fishtail braids, one on each side.
Add subtle glitter or metallic threads for extra sparkle. This hairstyle works best for long hair and is great for parties, festive markets, or casual holiday events.
It’s playful yet polished and highlights your hair’s length and texture. You must try this style if you love intricate braids that combine elegance and fun. Pair it with cozy scarves or festive sweaters for an Instagram-worthy holiday look.
15. Dutch Braids with Ribbon Ends
Dutch braids add depth and dimension to your hairstyle, making them ideal for festive styling. Start braiding underhand rather than overhand for a raised effect and secure with ribbons at the ends. You can create one or two braids depending on your preference.
This style is perfect for medium to long hair and can be dressed up or down. It’s a must-try for those who want a bold, trendy, yet elegant holiday vibe.
Pair with sparkly barrettes or earrings for a complete festive look. The ribbons instantly make it Christmas-ready.
16. Crown Twist Braid
The crown twist braid is romantic and graceful, encircling your head like a halo. Twist small sections along the hairline and pin them around your crown.
This works beautifully for medium-length hair and looks stunning with curls or waves left loose underneath.
Add small decorative pins or holly-inspired accessories for a festive flair. This hairstyle is perfect for formal dinners, holiday parties, or Christmas photos.
You must try it for its regal yet approachable charm, offering a unique alternative to traditional braids while keeping hair tidy and elegant.
17. Braided Pigtails with Sparkle
Braided pigtails are youthful, fun, and perfect for casual holiday gatherings. Divide hair into two sections and create braids, adding glitter spray or metallic threads for a festive twist.
This hairstyle works for all hair lengths and is ideal for parties, gift exchanges, or outdoor holiday events. You must try it if you want a playful, cheerful look that’s easy to style.
Pair with a cute holiday sweater, festive earrings, or a Santa hat for maximum charm. This style combines simplicity, comfort, and holiday spirit effortlessly.
18. Twisted Rope Halo
The twisted rope halo braid is an elegant way to frame the face and add festive sophistication. Twist two sections from each side of your head and pin them around the crown, creating a circular braided effect.
This style works best for medium to long hair and pairs beautifully with loose curls or waves. Add tiny glitter pins or hair jewelry for extra sparkle.
It’s perfect for formal events or festive dinners. You must try it if you want a standout style that’s romantic, polished, and distinctly holiday-ready without being overly complicated.
19. Half-Up Braided Twist
The half-up braided twist is perfect for combining casual and elegant elements. Take small braids from the front sections of your hair and twist them into a half-updo at the back.
Leave the rest of your hair in waves or curls. This style works for medium-length hair and is ideal for dinners, office parties, or family gatherings.
You must try it for its effortless elegance, as it keeps hair off your face while maintaining a festive vibe. Add glitter clips or small bows to elevate the holiday charm.
20. Milkmaid Braids with Accessories
Milkmaid braids are classic and charming, with two braids wrapped over the top of the head like a crown.
Secure with pins and add festive accessories such as ribbons, mini ornaments, or sparkly clips. This hairstyle works best for medium to long hair and is perfect for formal or casual gatherings.
You must try it for its timeless appeal and the ability to transform your holiday look instantly. Pair with a chic dress or cozy knitwear for a nostalgic yet stylish Christmas vibe.
21. Loose Bohemian Braids
Loose bohemian braids are relaxed, effortless, and full of holiday charm. Create small, loose braids throughout your hair, leaving some strands free for a soft, romantic effect. Add subtle glitter or tiny decorative pins for festive touches.
This style works well for medium to long hair and is perfect for casual parties, holiday brunches, or outdoor gatherings.
You must try it for its natural, carefree aesthetic combined with elegant detailing. Pair with soft waves, cozy scarves, or a festive headband for a whimsical, holiday-ready hairstyle.
Conclusion
These 21 braided Christmas hairstyles bring the perfect combination of style, elegance, and festive charm. From intricate crowns and fishtails to playful pigtails and boho braids, there’s a look for every hair type, length, and occasion.
Adding holiday accessories like ribbons, glitter, and pins instantly transforms these braids into festive masterpieces. These hairstyles keep your hair neat, photo-ready, and full of holiday spirit.
Whether you prefer a formal, elegant style or a playful, casual vibe, trying these braided hairstyles ensures you’ll stand out and shine throughout the Christmas season.