There is something about dressing up for the holidays that feels extra special. With smaller gatherings this year, perhaps in lieu of endless holiday parties, looking festive might just be what makes an occasion feel celebratory for a paired-down get-together.

When we think about holiday looks, it conjures up wearing luxurious fabrics like silk and velvet and is the perfect time to accessorize by adding a little sparkle. Why let your clothes have all the fun? Try adding those accents into your hairstyles.

However you celebrate this season, a festive hairstyle can elevate your look and lift your spirit. So we’re making a list and checking it twice — we've put together our favorite hairstyles to inspire this holiday season. Let’s deck the halls and adorn our do’s!

Pearl accents

You can toss your hair into any classic style like a ponytail, bun, or side-swept hair tucked behind the ear. Whether chunky or delicate, adding a pearl accent will give your look a touch of holiday spirit. Try pearl barrettes, headbands, or oversize clips.

Classic Hollywood waves

This is a retro classic that’s been a favorite for decades. Side parted Hollywood waves paired with red lipstick is a timeless beauty look that’s perfect for an intimate family get-together. You can use an authentic pin curl method or a styling tool method to achieve this look that will flatter everyone.

A bubbled ponytail

Create little bubble poofs between hair tie notches throughout a ponytail. Give your bubble ponytails a little holiday flair by adding ribbon spiraling down and crisscrossing toward the end. 

Poofy headbands

If you’re short on time, you can't go wrong with a voluminous headband to polish your holiday hairdo. It quickly adds drama to any look and comes in an array of colors and fabrics. We especially love velvet headbands for a luxe and cozy statement.

Glitz and sparkle

Everything should shine merry and bright around the holidays; that goes for hair too! You can simply add a rhinestone barrette or clip or even meticulously place delicate adhesive rhinestones throughout a neat bun for an icy twinkly effect that mimics snow.

Bows

'Tis the season for ribbon and bows! We love an oversized silk or patterned bow or one that compliments the rest of your ensemble — tuck one into the base of a half-up ponytail or end of a fishtail braid.

Soft blowout

Nothing says it’s party time like huge volume. More is more and bigger is better! Dial up the volume with some loosely shaped, blown-out curls. Brush them through with a paddle brush and give a spritz of hairspray.

Sleek wet look

With little prep time and no heat styling tools, this look can shine, look chic, and modern for any wintery occasion. All you need is to work a hair serum through slightly damp hair and finish with a spray gloss to keep your long bob glossy. The Hair La Vie Hair Serum can help smooth down flyaways while locking in the sleek look. 

Halo braid

We’re in love with this heavenly braid for an angelic do’! You can try weaving a gold thread or strand of tinsel for some extra whimsy. Simply secure your braid with a few bobby pins and a little spritz of hairspray to keep everything in place.

Half up-do

Should you go with hair up or down? Ahh, the eternal question. Instead of this back and forth, do both! A half-up, half-half down look is super chic and won’t take long to achieve. You’ll want to use a little Dry Shampoo for texture, and tease the hair a bit underneath, then secure it into a twist or ponytail. You can curl the ends of your hair for some added flair.

Top knot or chigńon

Skip the neat ballerina bun and opt for an effortless piecey bun. Use a texturizing spray for volume, and twist hair into a bun as high as you like for a top knot or at the nape of the neck for a Parisian chignon. Pull a few pieces of hair down to frame the side of your face. This pairs nicely with festive accessories.

Final thoughts

Going through this list has us dreaming about hair we’d wear to a Yuletide Ball — no winter travel needed! So, whether you have elaborate plans or are all dressed up with nowhere to go this holiday season, just remember that putting a little extra effort into your hairstyle is festive and fun. Not only that but, the feeling is contagious, and that’s what the holidays are all about, spreading cheer. So, sip some mulled wine and celebrate with loved ones — ‘tis the season to be jolly.