It’s finally that time of year again: finals are (nearly) over, and your social calendar is filling up with more Ugly Christmas Sweater parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations than you can count. Seasonal get-togethers hold a special place in our hearts, thanks to: 1) the gift of an excuse to be fun and adventurous with our wardrobes, and 2) the chance to don a red carpet-worthy hairstyle in the name of being festive. So if you’re in need of some inspiration for that holiday party you’ve been invited to, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to provide you with a few hairstyles that are easy to do and will bring a little holiday cheer to any festivity.
1. A Braided Crown
The beauty of this style is that it works on short hair and long hair, offering up an elegance fit for a formal ball. And the best part is that it’s way easier to put together than it looks.
Instructions:
- Form two low ponytails.
- Braid each ponytail separately and secure them both with elastic hair ties.
- Take one braid up and over, securing it close to the forehead.
- Do the same with the remaining braid, and fasten it behind the other.
2. The Lobster Tail
This style actually does resemble a lobster. Sound crazy? Maybe, but we love it, and especially for a cozy dinner party. Here’s a foolproof video tutorial to help you on your way.
3. A Chain Braid
This braid will give you a messy modern look that’s still chic and festive enough to impress any of your fellow party-goers. We’ll be wearing it at our next holiday mixer.
Instructions:
- Start by curling your hair a little to help your braid appear fuller, and then lightly tease it.
- Grab hold of the top section of your hair, as you would to prep for a half-up hairdo.
- Split that top section into two more sections.
- Loop those two sections in a shoelace-like tie.
- Continue to knot by adding in more strands, as you would with a French braid.
- Secure the end with an elastic hair tie.
- Loosen the knots to give a tousled finish.
Related: 5 Braided Buns to Add to Your #HairGoals Pinterest Board
4. Havana Twists
Okay, so these aren’t technically braids, but they achieve the same gorgeous (and wear-anywhere) look while helping to protect natural hair that needs a break from more damaging styles. We’ll leave instructing to the experts: get started with this in-depth tutorial (or the shorter version for last-minute gals).
5. The Infinity Braid
If you’re a braid junkie and you want to get a little more complex, try your hand at this seemingly-endless style. Those twists will be sure to turn heads, and the look will elevate even the ugliest of Christmas sweaters.
Instructions:
- Separate your hair into three sections: middle, left and right.
- French braid either the left or right side and secure.
- Form regular braids with the leftover sections and secure.
- Turn the center regular braid into a bun and secure.
- Loop the French-braided section around the bun, starting underneath, and secure.
- Loop the final braid around the bun as well, but start by going over, rather than under.
6. A Braided Bun Updo
This is a classy, French-braided bun that’s really perfect for all occasions. It gives you the perfect balance of elegance and sass. In search of a killer tutorial? Watch here.
7. The Braided Halo (Upgraded)
This version of the halo braid is a bit like the crown, except that it requires you to leave more of your hair out. We’re all for the fab tousled pouf, ideal for a night out on the town.
Instructions:
- Separate your hair into two sections, one on the top and one on the bottom.
- Clip the upper section to the top of your head.
- Take a small section of hair by your temple and begin French braiding, all the way back.
- Secure the braid with an elastic hair tie and repeat on the other side.
- Unclip your hair and tease what’s above the braids, then lightly smooth it out.
- Use bobby pins to keep the braid in place, right below the pouf you just made.
The only thing more exciting than a holiday party is getting ready for a holiday party. Try out a few of these hairstyles to give your look an extra hint of celebratory glam!