18 Holiday Updo Hairstyles for Every Festive Party

When the holiday invitations start rolling in — the office party, the family dinner, the neighborhood cookie exchange, the New Year’s Eve countdown — an updo is the hardest-working hairstyle in your arsenal. Updos keep you cool on a crowded dance floor, show off your earrings and neckline, and stay put from the first toast to the last goodbye. They’re polished, practical, and endlessly elegant.

This season’s holiday updos are softer and more wearable than ever. Think lived-in chignons, modern French twists, braided crowns with a romantic edge, and buns dressed up with velvet bows and pearls. Whether your hair is long, medium, or even on the shorter side, there’s a festive updo here with your name on it.

Every style below comes with a simple how-to you can follow at home — no salon visit required. Grab your bobby pins, a good hairspray, and maybe a pretty accessory or two. Here are 18 holiday updo hairstyles to carry you through the entire season looking effortlessly stunning.

1. The Classic Low Chignon

The low chignon is the Audrey Hepburn of updos — timeless, graceful, and appropriate for literally every holiday occasion. Sitting at the nape of the neck, it’s comfortable to wear for hours and flatters every face shape. This is the updo to master first, because every other style builds on its techniques.

Smooth your hair back into a low ponytail and twist the length loosely. Wrap the twist around the base of the ponytail, tucking the ends underneath, and secure with U-pins placed in a star pattern for maximum hold. Gently pull a few face-framing pieces loose and mist everything with a medium-hold hairspray.

For holiday polish, slide a slim gold or jeweled barrette just above the chignon. The key to a modern chignon is softness — don’t pull it drum-tight. A little looseness at the crown keeps it romantic rather than severe, and the style only gets prettier as it relaxes through the evening.

2. The Modern French Twist

The French twist has shaken off its stuffy reputation and returned as one of the chicest holiday updos around. The modern version is intentionally soft — a little undone, a little romantic, and far more forgiving to create than the precision twists of the past. It elongates the neck beautifully and looks stunning with statement earrings.

Sweep all your hair to one side and hold it as if making a side ponytail. Twist the length upward along the back of your head, folding the ends down into the twist as you go. Secure with large U-pins inserted vertically along the seam, then gently tug the twist outward in a few spots for softness.

Leave the front pieces slightly loose for a face-framing effect, and don’t stress about a perfectly smooth surface — texture is what makes this look current. A decorative hair stick or a row of small pearl pins along the seam adds instant holiday glamour.

3. Slicked-Back Ballerina Bun

High, sleek, and sculptural, the ballerina bun is the power updo of the holiday season. It lifts the face, lengthens the neck, and keeps every strand exactly where you put it — ideal for long nights of mingling and dancing. This style works on medium to long hair and looks incredible with a bold lip.

Brush your hair into a high ponytail, smoothing the surface with a shine serum as you go. Twist the ponytail tightly and wrap it around its base, pinning securely. For extra sleekness, go over the finished bun with a toothbrush sprayed with hairspray to catch tiny flyaways along the hairline.

Placement matters: a bun sitting at the crown reads modern and bold, while one slightly lower at the back of the head feels softer and more classic. Wrap a thin velvet ribbon around the base for a festive touch that takes ten seconds and looks completely intentional.

4. Textured Twisted Updo

If your hair has natural wave or curl, the textured twisted updo is your holiday secret weapon. Instead of fighting your texture, this style builds on it — twists of wavy hair pinned loosely create gorgeous dimension that straight hair simply can’t replicate. It’s bohemian, romantic, and surprisingly secure.

Divide your hair into four to six sections. Twist each section loosely and pin it against the back of your head in a pleasing arrangement, overlapping the twists so no scalp shows through. Let the ends poke out naturally for a soft, organic finish. Set with a flexible-hold hairspray that won’t crunch your texture.

Enhance your natural texture with a curl cream or texturizing spray before you start — the more grip and wave, the better this style holds. Tuck small sprigs of baby’s breath or tiny gold stars into the twists for a holiday finish that looks like it came straight from a winter editorial.

5. Double Dutch Braid Updo

Two Dutch braids wrapped into a low bun combine the security of braids with the elegance of an updo — nothing moves, nothing falls, and you look like you spent an hour in a salon chair. This is the ultimate choice for all-day holiday events, from morning church services to late-night parties.

Create two Dutch braids starting at your hairline, one on each side, braiding back toward the nape. Join them into a single low ponytail, then twist and wrap it into a bun. Pin securely, pancake the braids gently for fullness, and finish with strong-hold hairspray.

This style is a lifesaver for thick, heavy hair that slips out of other updos — the braids distribute the weight and anchor everything in place. Weave a thin metallic ribbon through each braid before wrapping for a festive detail that peeks through beautifully.

6. The Elegant Low Knot

The low knot is minimalism at its most beautiful — a simple, sculptural twist at the nape that looks expensive and takes five minutes. It’s the updo equivalent of quiet luxury, perfect for formal holiday dinners where you want to look polished without appearing overdone.

Part your hair down the middle and gather it into a low ponytail. Split the ponytail into two sections, tie them in a simple knot, and wrap the ends around the knot, pinning underneath. Smooth the top with serum and set with hairspray. The whole thing takes less time than brewing coffee.

The beauty of the low knot is its clean lines, so take an extra minute to smooth the surface. A center part keeps it modern; a deep side part makes it more dramatic. Add a single pearl pin at the side for a whisper of holiday sparkle that doesn’t disturb the minimalist vibe.

7. Messy Top Knot with a Velvet Bow

The messy top knot gets a holiday upgrade with one simple addition: a velvet bow. What was your lazy-day hairstyle becomes party-ready in seconds, and the contrast between the undone knot and the luxe bow is exactly the kind of effortless chic that turns heads. It’s perfect for casual holiday gatherings and Friendsgiving-style dinners.

Pile your hair into a high, loose bun — the messier the better. Pull out face-framing pieces and loosen the crown slightly. Then clip or tie a velvet bow at the base of the bun or just to one side. Black velvet is classic, but deep burgundy or forest green feels wonderfully seasonal.

Day-two or day-three hair works best here, since the natural texture helps the knot hold its shape. If your hair is freshly washed, add dry shampoo and a texturizing spray first. This is also a great style for shorter lengths — even a lob can be coaxed into a cute mini top knot.

8. The Gibson Tuck (Rolled Updo)

The Gibson tuck is a vintage-inspired rolled updo that’s as clever as it is pretty — your hair literally tucks into itself, creating a soft roll with no visible pins from the front. It has a romantic, Downton Abbey quality that feels perfect for holiday parties with a dress code.

Put your hair in a low, loose ponytail and create a small opening above the elastic. Flip the ponytail up and tuck it down through the opening, then roll the remaining length upward, tucking as you go. Pin the roll securely underneath and smooth the top. The result is a seamless, elegant roll.

This style loves medium-length hair — long enough to roll, short enough to manage easily. If your hair is very long, do the tuck in two stages for better control. A jeweled comb slid into one side of the roll adds vintage glamour worthy of any holiday soiree.

9. Pin-Curl Inspired Updo

Channel vintage holiday glamour with a pin-curl inspired updo — sculpted, glossy, and unapologetically retro. This style nods to the 1940s and 50s, when holiday hair was an event in itself, and it pairs beautifully with red lips and winged eyeliner for a full vintage moment.

Curl your hair in one-inch sections with a medium iron, pinning each curl to cool. Once set, arrange the curls around the back of your head, pinning them into a soft updo shape while keeping the curl definition visible. Smooth the front into gentle waves or a deep side part.

The pin-and-cool method is non-negotiable here — it’s what creates the defined, lasting curls this style depends on. A shine spray over the finished updo enhances the glossy vintage finish. This is a wonderful choice for holiday photos, since the sculpted shape reads beautifully on camera.

10. Woven Basket-Weave Bun

The basket-weave bun looks incredibly intricate but is secretly simple — it’s just a series of small twists woven over and under each other. The woven texture catches the light in a way smooth buns can’t, giving the style gorgeous dimension that photographs beautifully.

Divide a low ponytail into six to eight small sections. Twist each section and weave them over and under one another around the base, pinning each twist as you go. Tuck the ends underneath and set with hairspray. The weaving doesn’t need to be perfect — slight irregularity adds to the organic, handcrafted charm.

This style is fantastic for showing off dimensional hair color — highlights and balayage look stunning in the woven texture. If your hair is fine, tease each section lightly before twisting for extra fullness. Scatter a few tiny pearl pins through the weave for a festive finish.

11. Half-Up Twisted Crown

Not ready to commit to a full updo? The half-up twisted crown gives you the best of both worlds — the polish of an updo with the softness of wearing your hair down. Two twists meet at the back of the head like a crown, leaving your length flowing. It’s romantic, easy, and works on nearly every hair length.

Take a two-inch section from each temple, twist them back, and pin them where they meet at the back of your head. Cross two bobby pins in an X for a hold that won’t budge. Curl the remaining hair loosely or leave it natural — both look gorgeous.

Dress it up for the holidays by pinning a small statement clip where the twists meet, or weaving a thin gold chain through the twists. This style is also kind to shorter hair — even shoulder-length locks can manage the twists, making it one of the most versatile looks on this list.

12. Knotted Low Ponytail Updo

The knotted updo is modern, architectural, and quietly dramatic — a series of simple knots stacked into a sculptural shape at the nape. It looks like something from a runway show but requires zero braiding skill, just the ability to tie a knot. It’s a fantastic conversation-starter hairstyle.

Divide your hair into three horizontal sections at the back. Tie each section in a loose knot, stacking them down the back of your head, and pin each knot securely before moving to the next. Tuck the final ends underneath and set everything with strong-hold hairspray.

Keep the knots slightly loose for a soft, organic look, or pull them tight for sharper definition. This style shows off hair color beautifully — each knot creates highlights and shadows that add depth. A spritz of shine spray over the finished knots enhances the sculptural effect.

13. Romantic Loose Updo with Tendrils

Soft, touchable, and unabashedly romantic, the loose updo with face-framing tendrils is the hairstyle equivalent of candlelight. It’s the perfect choice for holiday date nights and intimate dinners, when you want to look beautiful without looking like you tried too hard.

Gather your hair loosely at the back of your head and pin it in soft loops and twists, leaving the shape intentionally airy. Pull out generous face-framing pieces and curl them lightly. Tug gently at the crown for softness, and finish with a flexible-hold hairspray that keeps movement.

The tendrils are the whole point, so curl them with intention — wrap them around the iron away from your face for a flattering frame. This style is forgiving on all hair types and actually improves as it relaxes through the evening, settling into an even softer shape by dessert.

14. High Wrapped Bun with a Braid

Take the classic high bun and give it a twist — literally — by wrapping a braid around its base. The braid adds texture and visual interest to an otherwise simple shape, elevating it from gym hair to gala hair. It’s polished, secure, and works beautifully on long hair.

Create a high ponytail, then braid a small section of it separately. Twist the remaining ponytail into a bun and pin it, then wrap the small braid around the base of the bun and pin the end underneath. Smooth everything with serum and set with hairspray.

A fishtail or rope braid makes the wrap look extra special, but a simple three-strand braid works perfectly too. This style holds up remarkably well through long events — the braid acts like a seatbelt for the bun. Add a thin metallic headband for extra holiday polish.

15. Pearl-Pinned Party Updo

When in doubt, add pearls. The pearl-pinned party updo takes any simple bun or twist and transforms it into something celebration-worthy. Scattered pearl pins catch the light with every turn of your head, creating a starry, festive effect that’s pure holiday magic.

Create any simple updo you love — a low bun, a twist, a chignon — keeping the shape soft and touchable. Then press adhesive pearl pins or pearl bobby pins into the style in a scattered pattern, varying the sizes and placing them in odd numbers for a natural, constellation-like effect.

The scattered placement is what makes this look modern — avoid perfect symmetry. Concentrate more pearls on one side for an asymmetrical, editorial feel. Pearl pins are inexpensive, reusable, and work on every hair color and texture, making this the easiest holiday upgrade on the entire list.

Holiday Updo FAQ

Everything you need to know before you pin, twist, and tuck.

How do I make an updo stay put all night?

Three things: prep, pins, and product. Start with hair that has some grip — second-day hair or hair with dry shampoo and texturizing spray. Use U-pins for buns and twists (they hold more hair than bobby pins) and cross bobby pins in an X. Finish with strong-hold hairspray, and carry a few extra pins in your clutch for touch-ups.

What updos work best for thin or fine hair?

Styles that create the illusion of fullness: the textured twisted updo, the woven basket-weave bun, and the messy top knot all add visual volume. Tease the crown lightly before smoothing the top layer over it, and use a volumizing powder at the roots. Clip-in extensions are also a game-changer — even one weft transforms a bun or ponytail base.

Can I do a holiday updo on short hair?

Yes! The messy top knot, half-up twisted crown, pearl-pinned styles, and the Gibson tuck all work on bobs and lobs. For very short hair, focus on accessories — jeweled clips, headbands, and pearl pins make a pixie or short bob feel instantly festive. Faux hairpieces like clip-in buns can also create a full updo on shorter lengths.

How do I hide bobby pins in my updo?

Choose pins that match your hair color — blonde pins for blonde hair, dark pins for dark hair. Insert bobby pins with the wavy side facing down against your scalp for better grip and less visibility. Tuck pin ends underneath sections of hair rather than leaving them on the surface, and use U-pins for larger sections since they disappear into the style more easily.

Should updos be done on clean or dirty hair?

Slightly dirty hair — one or two days after washing — is ideal for most updos because it has more texture and grip. If you’ve just washed your hair, fake the grip with dry shampoo at the roots and a texturizing spray through the lengths. The only exception is super-sleek styles like the slicked-back bun, which actually look best on freshly washed, smooth hair.

How do I add volume to the crown of an updo?

Tease the crown section lightly with a fine-tooth comb, then smooth the top layer over it with a soft brush. Velcro rollers at the crown for ten minutes before styling also create lasting lift. For fine hair, a volumizing powder sprinkled at the roots gives grip and height that lasts all evening without feeling stiff.

What accessories elevate a simple updo for the holidays?

Velvet bows, pearl pins, crystal combs, jeweled barrettes, thin gold chains, and metallic ribbons all transform a basic bun or twist into holiday hair. The rule of thumb: pick one statement accessory rather than several competing ones. A single beautiful piece looks intentional and chic; too many can look cluttered.

Your Most Polished Holiday Season Yet

Holiday updos are proof that the most elegant hairstyles are often the simplest — a twist here, a braid there, a scattering of pearls, and suddenly you’re the best-dressed head in the room. Whether you go for a sculptural low knot, a romantic loose updo, or a braided crown worthy of a winter queen, the right updo carries you through every party on your calendar with total confidence.

Remember the updo golden rules: prep for grip, pin in a star or X pattern, and always do a trial run before the big night. Keep a mini kit in your bag with extra pins, a travel hairspray, and your statement accessory, and you’ll be ready for anything — from office parties to midnight countdowns.

Now pick your favorite, put on your holiday playlist, and enjoy the process. Beautiful hair is the best accessory you’ll wear all season. Happy holidays, gorgeous!

Need more festive hair inspiration? These Bedinspo favorites go beautifully with your holiday updos:

• 17 Modern French Twist Ideas You’ll Love in 2026 — endless variations on the chicest updo of the season.
• 18 Gorgeous Slicked-Back Bun Ideas to Try in 2026 — sleek bun inspiration for every hair type.
• Holiday Party Hairstyles (2026) — down styles and half-up looks for every party on your calendar.
• Holiday Hair Accessories (2026) — the bows, pearls, and sparkle that finish any updo.