23 Winter Holiday Party Hairstyles That Sparkle

Elegant Updos: Timeless Glamour

An updo is the quintessential holiday hairstyle—sophisticated, polished, and perfect for showing off statement earrings. This winter, take your updo to the next level with a touch of sparkle.

The Glitter-Dusted Chignon: This isn’t your everyday bun. Create a low, sleek chignon at the nape of your neck. Before securing the final pins, lightly spray a section of hair with a temporary hair spray adhesive or use a gel, then gently press on cosmetic-grade glitter in gold or silver. The result is a subtle, mesmerizing sparkle that catches the light with every turn.

The Crystal-Bedecked Ballerina Bun: Achieve a high, perfect ballerina bun. The magic lies in the accessories. Use a series of small, crystal-encrusted hairpins to create a constellation around the bun. You can form a delicate half-circle at the crown or scatter them like stars for a more playful effect.

The Braided Crown with Pearls: Channel your inner queen with a regal braided crown. Create two Dutch braids along your hairline, wrapping them around your head like a tiara, and secure them at the back. Weave a string of tiny faux pearls or pearl-embellished pins through the braids for a look of pure, frosty elegance.

Glamorous Waves & Curls: Old Hollywood Meets Winter Frost

If you prefer to let your locks flow freely, voluminous waves and defined curls offer a red-carpet-ready vibe that’s perfect for any festive soirée.

The Hollywood Glam Wave: Create deep, polished side-swept waves using a large-barrel curling iron. The key is the dramatic volume at the roots and the sharp, defined “S” shape of the wave. For holiday sparkle, part your hair deeply to one side and secure it behind your ear with a dazzling, statement barrette featuring crystals or geometric metal designs.

The Sparkling Half-Up, Half-Down: This style offers the best of both worlds. Take the top section of your hair, tease lightly for volume, and pull it back into a elegant half-up style. Secure it with a beautiful, sparkly clip or a comb. Let the rest of your curled hair cascade down your back, and for extra magic, add a few temporary glitter streaks to the visible bottom layer.

The Mermaid Curls with Twisted Accents: Create a head full of bouncy, spiraled curls. Then, take two small sections from the front and twist them back, securing them at the back of your head with a pin. This adds intricate detail and keeps hair out of your face. Weave a thin, glittery ribbon or a chain hair accessory through the twists for a festive touch.

Braided Brilliance: Intricate & Festive

Braids are incredibly versatile and can be adapted from boho-chic to regally elegant with just a few sparkling additions.

The Fishtail Braid with Woven Ribbon: A classic fishtail braid becomes holiday-ready when you incorporate a metallic or glitter-printed ribbon. Simply weave the ribbon in as you braid, letting the ends flow freely at the bottom. It’s a simple trick with a stunning, gift-wrapped effect.

The Waterfall Braid with Crystal Drops: The waterfall braid is ethereal and romantic. Elevate it by incorporating small, clear bead or crystal charms on random strands as you braid. As the braid cascades down the side of your head, these delicate drops will shimmer like melting ice or morning dew.

The Pull-Through Braid Bun: This braid looks complex but is surprisingly easy. Create a series of ponytails down the back of your head, pulling each subsequent one through the last to form a stunning, braid-like effect. Gather it all into a bun and wrap a sparkling hair chain around its base for a jewelry-like finish.

Short Hair Magic: Sparkle Without Length

Short hair is no barrier to festive fabulousness. In fact, it’s a fantastic canvas for bold accessories and textured styles.

The Slicked-Back Pixie with Metallic Accents: Use a strong-hold gel or pomade to slick back your pixie cut for a sleek, wet-look finish. The holiday twist? Place a few strategically placed, metallic silver or gold hair clips along your hairline or at the side of your head. It’s edgy, modern, and utterly chic.

The Textured Bob with Sparkly Headband: Add volume and texture to your bob with a curling wand or texturizing spray. Then, crown the look with a thin, sparkly headband or a wider, embellished one. This instantly frames your face and adds a dose of 1920s-inspired glamour with zero effort.

The Accessorized Finger Waves: For a truly vintage holiday vibe, set your short hair in classic finger waves. Once set, highlight the sculptural beauty of the waves by placing a line of small, individual rhinestones along the crest of a primary wave.

Sparkling Accessories: The Icing on the Cake

Sometimes, the simplest hairstyle is transformed by the right accessory. This season, don’t be shy with your hair jewelry.

Hair Chains & Cages: These delicate pieces drape across your hair like wearable art. Drape a hair chain from a side part to the opposite ear, or use a “cage” piece over a simple low bun. They look intricate but often simply clip or pin into place.

Statement Clips & Barrettes: Bigger is often better for the holidays. A single, large barrette adorned with faux pearls, crystals, or colorful enamel can hold back a significant section of hair while serving as a masterpiece.

Glitter Roots & Temporary Color:

For the truly bold, temporary glitter roots make an unforgettable statement. Apply a glitter gel or spray directly at your part and along the hairline. Alternatively, use temporary color sprays in silver, gold, or even festive red and green for peek-a-boo highlights in braids or updos.

Quick & Easy Sparkling Styles

Short on time? These last-minute ideas deliver maximum sparkle with minimal fuss.

The Sparkly Ponytail: A high ponytail is instantly elevated when you wrap the base with a sparkly scrunchie or a coil of metallic cord. For extra detail, take a small section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the base to conceal the hair tie, and secure it with a glittery bobby pin.

Bobby Pin Constellation: This is perhaps the easiest trick on the list. After styling your hair as usual, scatter a collection of sparkly bobby pins in a deliberate, constellation-like pattern on one side of your head. It’s random, chic, and takes 30 seconds.

The Festive Scarf Tie: Use a beautiful, silky scarf with metallic threads or holiday patterns. Tie it around a low ponytail or bun, or use it as a headband, tying it at the nape of your neck. It adds a pop of color and a touch of retro sparkle.

Tips for Long-Lasting Holiday Hair

To ensure your sparkling style lasts from the first toast to the last dance, follow these pro tips. Start with clean, dry hair: Most styles hold best on day-old hair, but if you need to wash, use a volumizing shampoo and a light conditioner. Use the right products: A good heat protectant is non-negotiable. For updos, a texturizing spray provides grip. For sleek styles, a smoothing serum is your best friend. Secure everything: Don’t skimp on bobby pins and hairspray. Use pins that match your hair color for a seamless look, and finish with a strong-hold, flexible hairspray to lock in both style and sparkle.

The winter holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and a little extra shine. With these 23 sparkling hairstyle ideas, you’re equipped to choose a look that reflects your personal style and the festive mood of the season. So go ahead, experiment, accessorize boldly, and step into your celebrations with confidence and dazzling hair. Remember, the most beautiful sparkle comes from within—let your holiday hairstyle be a reflection of your own inner light.