Introduction
Holiday parties call for hairstyles that feel festive, polished, and easy to create without spending hours getting ready in front of the bathroom mirror before you head out the door for the evening. These easy updos for Christmas and New Year celebrations range from quick low buns to elegant braided styles, giving you plenty of options for every hair length, texture, and skill level. Whether attending a formal dinner or a relaxed family gathering, this list has a stylish updo ready for every holiday occasion.
1. Classic Low Bun
The classic low bun is one of the easiest updos for Christmas because it takes minutes to create yet always looks polished and refined. This style works for nearly any hair length and texture, making it a reliable choice for anyone who wants a put-together look without spending an hour in front of the mirror before a holiday party or family gathering this festive season. It also takes very little time to master with a bit of practice. It has become a reliable go-to for anyone short on time before a party.
To create this look, gather hair into a low ponytail, twist it into a coil, and secure it with pins at the nape of the neck. Leave a few strands loose around the face for softness, then finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep flyaways controlled. Add a decorative pin or small clip for extra festive sparkle that suits any Christmas or New Year celebration. A few practice runs beforehand can help make the finished look feel effortless on the actual day.
2. Half-Up Twisted Crown
The half-up twisted crown combines the elegance of an updo with the freedom of wearing hair down, making it a favorite easy updo for Christmas parties. This style flatters nearly every face shape and hair length, and it works especially well for those who want a festive look without committing to a fully pinned-up hairstyle for the entire evening ahead. It also works well across multiple hair types and thicknesses with ease. It suits nearly every outfit, from casual sweaters to formal gowns.
Start by taking two small sections of hair near the temples, twisting them backward, and pinning them together at the back of the head. Continue adding twists for more dimension, or keep it simple with just two twists for a quick finish. Curl the remaining loose hair for extra volume, and mist with hairspray to hold the style through a long night of celebrating. Try it a day or two before the event to make sure it holds well. This keeps the twists looking neat through hugs and holiday photos.
3. Textured Top Knot
A textured top knot is the perfect easy updo for those who want a trendy, effortless look for Christmas or New Year celebrations. This style works particularly well with second-day hair since a little texture actually helps the bun hold its shape better, making it one of the most low-maintenance options on this entire list of festive hairstyles. It is also one of the most budget friendly styles since it needs no extra tools. It remains one of the quickest updos to master with practice.
Gather hair high on the crown of the head and twist it into a loose bun, allowing some pieces to fall naturally for a relaxed, undone look. Secure with bobby pins hidden within the twist, and pull a few strands loose around the face for softness. Finish with a texturizing spray for added grip and a slightly tousled, effortlessly chic finish. This finishing routine keeps the whole style looking neat well into the evening. A shine serum can add extra polish to the finished bun.
4. Braided Low Ponytail
A braided low ponytail elevates a simple hairstyle into something special, making it an easy updo for Christmas that still feels intentional and elegant. This style is quick to achieve yet reads as more sophisticated than a standard ponytail, making it ideal for holiday dinners, office parties, or any festive event where you want a refined finish. It transitions easily from daytime festivities into a formal evening event without a full redo. It photographs beautifully from every angle at any holiday gathering.
Begin by gathering hair into a low ponytail and securing it with a clear elastic band. Take a small section from underneath, braid it, and wrap it around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic completely. Pin the end underneath and smooth any flyaways with a light serum for a polished, camera-ready finish perfect for any holiday event. A small holiday-themed clip can add extra sparkle without much additional effort. This keeps the braid neat and secure through a long evening out.
5. Voluminous French Twist
The French twist has been a party favorite for decades, and it remains one of the most elegant easy updos for Christmas and New Year celebrations. This style works beautifully with any hair length and instantly adds a touch of old-Hollywood glamour, making it a top choice for formal events, holiday galas, and dressy New Year’s Eve parties this season. It has remained a timeless choice at holiday parties for good reason over the years. It has been a favorite at formal events for many generations now.
Gather hair to one side and twist it upward, tucking the ends inside the twist as you go. Secure the twist vertically with bobby pins spaced evenly along its length for a secure hold. Gently pull a few pieces loose around the crown for softness and volume, then finish with hairspray to keep the elegant twist in place all night long. This approach works well whether your hair is thick, thin, straight, or wavy. This ensures the twist stays elegant through dinner and dessert alike.
6. Messy Bun with Curls
A messy bun with curls strikes the perfect balance between casual and festive, making it an easy updo for Christmas gatherings that do not call for a fully formal hairstyle. This look is forgiving of imperfections, which makes it especially appealing for anyone who wants a relaxed style that still feels intentional and party-ready. It also holds up well through hours of dancing, hugging, and holiday celebration. It suits nearly any hair length, whether short, medium, or long. It requires almost no advanced skill to pull off successfully.
Curl sections of hair before gathering it loosely into a bun near the crown, allowing pieces to fall out naturally for texture. Pin the bun loosely rather than tightly to maintain that soft, undone appearance throughout the evening. Finish with a texturizing spray for grip and a slightly tousled finish that feels effortlessly festive and completely on trend. Practicing the twist ahead of time makes it much faster on the actual party day. This keeps the curls bouncy and defined through the whole party.
7. Sleek High Ponytail
A sleek high ponytail is a simple yet striking easy updo for Christmas and New Year events that require a bold, modern look. This style works especially well for those who want to show off statement earrings or a dramatic neckline, since it keeps all the attention on the face and outfit rather than the hair. It draws attention to statement jewelry and festive makeup beautifully all evening long. It works particularly well when paired with a bold lip color.
Brush hair back smoothly and secure it high on the crown with a strong elastic band, using a fine-tooth comb to eliminate any bumps. Wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic for a polished finish. Smooth flyaways with a light gel or serum, and finish with hairspray for a sleek look that lasts all night. This routine ensures the style survives hugs, photos, and dancing throughout the night. This keeps the ponytail smooth and sleek for hours at a time.
8. Half-Up Braided Bun
The half-up braided bun offers the perfect combination of structure and softness, making it one of the most versatile easy updos for Christmas parties on this list. This style works for both casual and formal occasions, and the braid adds a decorative element that feels special without requiring advanced hairstyling skills or extra time. It also works wonderfully for those who want to try braiding for the first time. It also feels appropriately festive without looking overly elaborate. It also works well for those newer to braiding techniques.
Section the top half of the hair and braid it loosely, then coil the braid into a small bun and pin it in place at the crown. Leave the remaining hair down and curl it for added volume and movement. Finish with hairspray to keep the braid secure while allowing the loose waves to move freely throughout the night. A texturizing spray beforehand can make the braid easier to work with overall. This keeps the braid intact through dancing and holiday festivities.
9. Elegant Chignon
A chignon is the epitome of understated elegance, making it a favorite easy updo for Christmas dinners, formal parties, and other dressy occasions this season. This style suits nearly every hair type and works particularly well for those who want a sophisticated look that pairs beautifully with statement jewelry or an elaborate holiday gown. It pairs beautifully with both simple and elaborate holiday outfits alike this season. It complements both casual and formal holiday attire equally well. It suits nearly every formal holiday occasion beautifully.
Smooth hair back into a low ponytail, then twist it into a coil and tuck it under, pinning it flat against the head for a neat finish. Use a fine-tooth comb to eliminate bumps for a truly polished appearance throughout. Mist with a strong-hold hairspray to keep every strand in place for a formal event that lasts well into the night. This method keeps the updo secure even through a long evening of celebrating. This ensures the chignon stays neat through a formal evening event.
10. Twisted Half-Up Pigtails
Twisted half-up pigtails bring a playful, youthful energy to holiday hairstyling, making them an easy updo for Christmas gatherings that call for something fun and lighthearted. This style is quick to create and works particularly well for casual parties, family photos, or holiday brunches where a more relaxed hairstyle feels appropriate. It also feels playful without looking too casual for a holiday party setting. It photographs wonderfully for family portraits and holiday cards alike. It works especially well for younger guests at family parties.
Section hair into two parts near the temples, twist each one backward, and pin them together at the back of the head. Leave the remaining hair down and curl it for extra volume and bounce throughout the day. Add a festive bow or ribbon at the pinned section for a charming, holiday-appropriate finishing touch that ties the whole look together. Adding a small amount of styling cream beforehand helps control frizz during humid weather. This keeps the bow looking crisp throughout the entire celebration.
11. Braided Updo with Volume
A braided updo with added volume creates a romantic, princess-like effect that makes it a standout easy updo for Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties alike. This style takes a bit more time than others on this list but delivers a dramatic, memorable result that photographs beautifully for holiday cards and celebrations. It is a wonderful option for those wanting a fuller, more dramatic hairstyle. It creates a dramatic silhouette that feels perfect for evening events. It creates a striking focal point for any festive outfit.
Braid a section of hair from one side of the head to the other, gently pulling on the braid strands to create extra volume and a fuller appearance. Pin the braid in place and tuck any loose ends underneath for a seamless finish. Add small hairpins with subtle sparkle for extra festive shine that catches the light beautifully. This finishing step makes the whole look feel complete and camera ready. This keeps the halo braid intact through a long night of celebrating.
12. Low Side Bun
A low side bun offers a slightly asymmetrical twist on the classic updo, making it an easy updo for Christmas dinners that feels a little more unique and personal. This style works beautifully for intimate gatherings where you want an elegant look without appearing overly formal or fussy for the occasion. It also suits both casual holiday brunches and slightly dressier evening plans. It suits nearly any face shape thanks to its adjustable placement. It suits those wanting understated elegance without extra fuss.
Gather hair to one side at the nape of the neck, twist it into a bun, and secure it with pins close to the ear. Smooth the crown with a comb for a polished appearance, then pull a few strands loose for softness around the face. Finish with hairspray to hold the style through dinner, conversation, and dessert. A quick touch-up with pins midway through the party keeps everything looking fresh. This keeps the bun neat through conversation, dinner, and dancing.
13. Curly High Bun
A curly high bun celebrates natural texture, making it one of the best easy updos for Christmas among those with curly or coily hair types. This style requires minimal heat styling, letting natural curl patterns shine while still achieving a polished, party-ready appearance that feels authentic and low-maintenance for the holiday season. It celebrates natural texture instead of fighting against it for the occasion. It embraces natural texture rather than requiring heavy heat styling. It celebrates natural curl patterns beautifully all season long.
Gather curls loosely at the crown of the head, twisting gently to avoid disrupting the natural curl pattern too much. Secure with pins and allow a few curls to spring free around the hairline for a soft, natural finish. Use a lightweight curl cream to define pieces without weighing them down throughout the party. This lets natural curl definition do most of the styling work for you. This keeps curls looking fresh and defined throughout the party. This lets natural texture shine through all evening long.
14. Sleek Ponytail with Bow
Adding a bow to a simple ponytail instantly transforms it into a festive, easy updo for Christmas that feels intentional and celebratory. This style is incredibly quick to achieve, making it perfect for last-minute holiday plans or anyone who wants a fun, statement-making hairstyle without much effort involved. It also works beautifully paired with a matching ribbon for coordinated holiday style. It can be recreated in just a few short minutes before heading out. It also works well for last-minute holiday plans.
Smooth hair into a sleek ponytail and secure it with a clear elastic band at the desired height. Tie a satin ribbon or bow around the base to hide the elastic completely, adjusting the loops for a full, polished finish. Smooth any flyaways with a light gel, and the look is ready for any festive celebration. This small addition makes the whole hairstyle feel more festive and intentional. This ensures the bow stays secure through hours of celebrating. This keeps the bow looking fresh through hours of celebrating.
15. Twisted Bun with Face-Framing Layers
This twisted bun with face-framing layers softens the overall look, making it an easy updo for Christmas that feels romantic rather than severe or overly structured. The loose layers around the face add movement and warmth, which works beautifully for formal events like Christmas Eve services or elegant New Year’s Eve parties. It softens sharper features and adds a gentle, romantic quality to any outfit. It suits both casual daytime events and dressier evening plans. It suits both casual and formal holiday settings alike.
Twist hair upward into a bun at the crown, leaving a few face-framing pieces out before securing everything with pins. Curl the loose layers for soft movement, and mist with a light hairspray to keep the curls defined throughout the evening. This finishing touch adds elegance without requiring extra time or advanced skill. This ensures the softness lasts through photos and conversation all night long. This keeps the face-framing curls looking soft all evening long. This keeps the curls soft and defined all night long.
16. Braided Crown Updo
The braided crown updo is a beautiful, easy updo for Christmas that works especially well for those who want a fully polished, all-up hairstyle for formal events. This look feels regal and put-together, making it a wonderful choice for Christmas Eve services, holiday weddings, or elegant family portraits this season. It also feels appropriately formal for religious services or elegant family gatherings. It feels appropriately elegant for religious services or formal dinners. It suits weddings, services, and other formal winter events.
Braid two sections of hair starting near each ear and continue braiding around the back of the head, pinning as you go to secure the crown shape. Tuck any loose ends underneath the braid for a clean, seamless finish throughout. Mist with hairspray to hold the braid in place for a look that lasts the entire event. This finishing touch keeps the crown looking neat from every single angle. This keeps the braided crown intact through a full night of festivities.
17. Low Twisted Ponytail
A low twisted ponytail adds subtle texture and interest to a simple base style, making it an easy updo for Christmas that still feels a little more elevated than a standard ponytail. This look works well for office parties or dinners where a polished yet approachable hairstyle is exactly what the occasion calls for. It adds subtle interest without requiring much extra time before the party. It works well for both casual outings and dressier occasions alike. It also adds subtle dimension without much extra effort.
Gather hair into a low ponytail and twist the length of it loosely before securing the end with a small elastic band. Gently pull on the twist to loosen it slightly for added volume and texture throughout. Finish with a light hairspray to hold the twist without making it feel stiff or overly done for the evening. This keeps the texture looking intentional rather than undone by the end of the night. This keeps the twist looking polished through a long evening out.
18. Half-Up Bubble Ponytail
The half-up bubble ponytail is a trendy, playful easy updo for Christmas that has become increasingly popular for holiday parties and festive gatherings. This style is simple to create and adds a fun, modern twist to a classic half-up hairstyle, making it a great option for younger crowds or anyone wanting a fresh look. It has quickly become a favorite among those looking for a fresh holiday look. It has quickly become a popular choice among younger party guests. It suits those wanting a fresh, modern holiday look.
Pull the top half of the hair back into a ponytail, then add small elastic bands every couple of inches along the length to create the bubble effect. Gently pull on the sections between the bands to create fullness and dimension throughout. Finish with hairspray to keep the bubbles defined for a fun, festive party look. This final step keeps the bubbles looking crisp for photos throughout the party. This keeps the bubbles looking neat through dancing and photos alike.
Conclusion
These easy updos for Christmas and New Year parties prove that festive hairstyling does not have to be complicated or time consuming to look beautiful. From sleek ponytails to romantic braided crowns, each style offers a quick, polished option for any holiday event on your calendar this year. Save your favorites, practice a few before the big night, and step into the season with a hairstyle that feels effortlessly festive and fun.
