23 Festive Christmas Hairstyles for Kids | Holiday Hair Ideas
Looking for the perfect children’s Christmas hairstyles to make your little one shine this holiday season? Whether it’s for a festive family gathering or a fun Christmas party, these creative and cute ideas will bring the holiday spirit to life. From sparkly buns to festive braids, these children’s hairstyles for Christmas will have your child feeling magical and ready to celebrate!
Classic Christmas Curls
This timeless style never goes out of fashion. Soft, bouncy curls give a glamorous yet effortless look perfect for a festive celebration. For children, you can create these curls using a curling wand with a low heat setting to protect delicate hair. This style works well for little ones with shoulder-length or longer hair, adding volume and texture. It’s especially great for those with naturally wavy hair, but it can also add body to fine or straight hair types. It’s perfect for both girls and boys who want to feel extra special this Christmas!
To maintain this style throughout the day, use a lightweight mousse like John Frieda’s Frizz Ease Curl Reviver to enhance the curls without making the hair stiff. For extra hold, a soft hairspray such as TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray will keep the curls intact while allowing natural movement.
Braided Snowflake Crown
For a whimsical winter look, try the Braided Snowflake Crown. This involves weaving the hair into a circular crown braid, with snowflake-inspired hairpins or accessories scattered through the braid to give it a magical, wintry effect. This style works best for children with longer hair, as it provides enough length to create the intricate braid. It’s a great option for holiday photos or Christmas-themed events, giving a fairytale-like vibe. Kids with thicker hair will particularly enjoy this style as it holds better.
To keep this style secure throughout the day, use a gentle detangling spray such as SoCozy Detangler + Leave-In Conditioner before braiding, ensuring a smooth finish. Add snowflake or glitter hairpins to complete the look, and mist the braid lightly with Paul Mitchell Flexible Style Super Clean Spray for added hold and shine.
Festive Ponytail with Ribbons
A ponytail can be transformed into a delightful holiday hairstyle with the addition of festive ribbons. For this style, simply gather the hair into a high ponytail and tie it with colorful, Christmas-themed ribbons like red, green, or gold. You can even weave smaller ribbons through the length of the ponytail for a playful touch. This style is ideal for active children who want something simple yet festive, and it works well on both straight and curly hair. It’s perfect for girls who love the elegance of a ponytail but with a holiday twist.
To keep the ribbons secure and the ponytail neat, use a strong-hold elastic like Goody Ouchless Hair Ties and finish with Aussie Kids Gel to smooth any flyaways. Choose satin ribbons to avoid pulling or damaging the hair. For added sparkle, sprinkle some light glitter spray like IGK Preparty Hair Strobing Glitter Spray over the ponytail.
Twisted Half-Updo with Christmas Clips
This half-updo is an elegant yet fun option for the holiday season. For this style, take two sections from the front of the hair, twist them, and secure them at the back with a festive Christmas clip or barrette, leaving the rest of the hair loose. This style works well for medium to long hair and looks beautiful on all hair textures. The added Christmas-themed clips, like reindeer antlers or snowflakes, give the hairstyle a playful holiday touch while still being practical for children.
To keep the twists in place, use Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer to smooth the hair before twisting, preventing frizz. Then, secure the twists with small, clear elastics. For extra holiday charm, try clips from Claire’s Holiday Collection. Finish with a light hairspray like Pantene Airspray to hold the style without making the hair too stiff.
Christmas Tree Braids
Turn your child’s hair into a festive work of art by creating Christmas Tree Braids. These braids are designed in a triangular shape resembling a Christmas tree, with the hair braided from the scalp and decorated with small hairpins, colorful elastics, or beads to resemble ornaments. This style is a hit for holiday parties and school events, as it’s both creative and eye-catching. It’s perfect for children with long hair and works best on thicker textures, as the volume helps form the “tree” shape.
To achieve this style, start by sectioning the hair and creating tight braids that taper to a point at the base. Use Eco Style Olive Oil Gel to keep the braids sleek and secure. Decorate the braids with Scunci Christmas Mini Clips for a truly festive look. Keep the style in place with Garnier Fructis Flexible Control Hairspray, ensuring a long-lasting hold.
Santa Hat-Inspired Hairstyle
This playful Santa Hat-Inspired Hairstyle brings Christmas fun to life. The hair is shaped and styled to resemble a Santa hat, complete with a red ribbon wrapped around the hair and a small white puffball on the tip of the “hat.” This style works best for children with medium to long hair and adds an element of fun to any Christmas celebration. It’s perfect for a holiday party or themed event, bringing the joy of Christmas to a unique hairstyle.
To create this look, start by gathering the hair into a high bun and securing it with a red ribbon. Attach a small white pom-pom at the top to mimic Santa’s hat. Use Goody Ouchless Elastics for the base and finish with a light spritz of Bed Head by TIGI Hard Head Hair Spray to hold everything in place.
Holiday Bun with Sparkle
For a simple yet stunning look, the Holiday Bun with Sparkle is an excellent choice. This style features a classic bun, decorated with glitter or sparkly hairpins to give it a holiday vibe. It’s perfect for little ones who prefer a sleek and neat hairstyle but still want to embrace the festive spirit. This style is particularly flattering on children with medium to long hair and can be adapted for various hair textures.
To get this look, smooth the hair into a high or low bun using MOROCCANOIL Treatment Light to keep the hair sleek and frizz-free. For added holiday sparkle, use Kitsch Holiday Rhinestone Pins or lightly dust the bun with Sephora Collection Glitter Spray.
Candy Cane Twists
For a fun and colorful holiday look, try Candy Cane Twists. This style involves twisting sections of the hair and intertwining them with red and white ribbons to create a candy cane effect. It’s a playful and festive style perfect for Christmas parties or school events. This look works well for children with medium to long hair and looks best on straighter hair types, but can be adapted for wavy or curly hair by using thicker twists.
To achieve this style, twist two sections of hair from each side of the head and secure them with small elastics. Wrap red and white ribbons around the twists to resemble a candy cane. Use Cantu Care for Kids Styling Custard to smooth the hair and prevent flyaways, and finish with L’Oréal Elnett Satin Hairspray for a flexible hold that keeps the style in place all day.
Winter Wonderland Pigtails
Simple yet festive, Winter Wonderland Pigtails are perfect for children who want a cute and playful look for Christmas. The hair is styled into two low or high pigtails, with each secured by festive elastics or holiday-themed hairpins, like snowflakes or stars. This style is great for younger children and works well on short to medium hair lengths. It’s ideal for kids with fine hair, as the pigtails add volume and bounce.
To keep the pigtails smooth and sleek, use Johnson’s Shiny & Soft Conditioning Spray before styling. Secure the pigtails with holiday-themed elastics from Scunci Holiday Hair Accessories, and lightly spritz with Not Your Mother’s Smooth Moves Frizz Control Hair Spray to hold everything in place while keeping the hair soft.
Rudolph-Themed Hairstyle
This adorable style turns your child’s hair into a tribute to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer! The hair is pulled into a bun or ponytail and accessorized with reindeer antlers, a red nose clip, and small brown hair ties to mimic the look of a reindeer. This children’s Christmas hairstyle is perfect for holiday parties or Christmas-themed events, bringing a sense of fun and playfulness. It works well on medium to long hair, and is an easy way to make your child feel festive.
To create the look, gather the hair into a high bun or ponytail. Use reindeer antler clips from Claire’s Christmas Collection to secure the “ears” and attach a small red nose pin to the front of the hairstyle. Finish with Wet Brush Pro Shine Enhancer to smooth the hair and keep the bun looking neat all day.
Holly Berry Hair Bows
This style is simple, elegant, and festive—perfect for the holiday season. Holly Berry Hair Bows involve pulling the hair into a half-updo or full ponytail and adding holly berry-inspired bows to complete the Christmas look. This style works well on children with straight or wavy hair and is especially charming for holiday gatherings or school Christmas events. The holly berry bows give it a festive feel without requiring too much styling.
To create this look, gather the hair into a ponytail or half-up style, then secure it with Holly Berry Hair Bows from Etsy Holiday Collection. Use SheaMoisture Kids Curl Butter Cream to keep the hair soft and moisturized. Lightly mist with Herbal Essences Set Me Up Spray Gel to ensure a soft hold that keeps the style in place.
Snowman-Inspired Braid
For a creative and fun style, the Snowman-Inspired Braid is sure to impress. This look involves braiding the hair and adding snowman-shaped accessories or clips along the braid, creating a charming winter wonderland effect. It’s ideal for longer hair, and works well for both straight and wavy textures. This is a great choice for holiday photos or festive family gatherings.
To achieve the look, braid the hair into a single French braid down the back, and attach snowman-shaped clips from Claire’s Christmas Accessories at intervals along the braid. Use Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Detangler to smooth the hair before braiding, and finish with Pantene Shaping Extra Strong Hold Hairspray to keep the braid neat and in place.
Sleek Side Part with Holiday Accessories
For a simple yet elegant look, a Sleek Side Part with Holiday Accessories is perfect for any Christmas celebration. The hair is parted deeply to one side, giving it a smooth, polished finish. You can add holiday accessories like snowflake clips, star barrettes, or festive headbands to complete the look. This style works for children with straight or wavy hair and is ideal for those who want something sleek and easy to manage.
To achieve this look, apply John Frieda Frizz Ease Nourishing Oil to smooth the hair and add shine. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a deep side part, and secure the style with festive accessories from H&M’s Holiday Hair Accessories Collection. Finish with OGX Coconut Miracle Oil Air Dry Cream for a natural, frizz-free finish.
Star-Topped Braided Bun
This Star-Topped Braided Bun is perfect for a magical holiday look. The hair is braided into a bun, and a star-shaped accessory is placed at the top, resembling a Christmas tree topper. This style is ideal for longer hair and works well with medium to thick hair textures. It’s a great choice for children attending Christmas Eve services or holiday parties, as it combines elegance with a touch of fun.
To create the style, gather the hair into a high bun and braid sections of the hair before wrapping them around the bun. Secure with Scunci No-Slip Grip Elastics and place a star-shaped accessory from Claire’s Holiday Collection on top. Use Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream to smooth the hair and reduce flyaways. Finish with L’Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray for a long-lasting hold.
Glittery French Braid
For a hairstyle that sparkles like snow, the Glittery French Braid is a showstopper. This style involves creating a classic French braid down the back of the head, with glitter sprinkled throughout for a festive touch. It’s perfect for long hair and works well on both straight and wavy textures. This look is ideal for holiday parties or family gatherings, bringing the sparkle of the season to your child’s hairstyle.
To achieve this style, braid the hair into a neat French braid, and then use IGK Preparty Hair Strobing Glitter Spray to add a layer of sparkle. Apply Ouidad Advanced Climate Control Gel before braiding to keep the hair smooth and frizz-free. Finish with Garnier Fructis Flexible Control Hairspray to hold the braid in place without making it stiff.
Frosted Tips for a Festive Look
Frosted tips can add a fun, wintry effect to your child’s hair. This style involves applying temporary white or silver hair color to the ends of the hair, mimicking frosty snow. It’s perfect for both boys and girls and works on all hair lengths and textures. This style is ideal for those who want a bold and festive change without committing to a permanent color. It’s great for holiday parties or Christmas-themed events.
To create frosted tips, apply Bwild Temporary Hair Color Spray in white or silver to the ends of the hair. For extra smoothness and shine, use Suave Kids 3-in-1 Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash before styling. Finish with Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo to add volume and texture.
Simple Holiday Headband Style
For an easy yet festive hairstyle, the Simple Holiday Headband Style is the perfect choice. This involves styling the hair naturally and adding a holiday-themed headband to complete the look. It’s a versatile style that works for all hair types and lengths, making it perfect for younger children who prefer not to spend too much time on their hair. The headband can feature anything from reindeer antlers to holly leaves, adding a festive flair.
To get this look, brush the hair and use SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie for curly or wavy hair, or L’Oreal Paris Smooth Intense Frizz Taming Serum for straight hair. Finish by placing a headband from Target’s Holiday Hair Accessory Collection on top of the head. This style requires little to no maintenance and is perfect for a day filled with holiday activities.
Gingerbread House Hairdo
The Gingerbread House Hairdo is a playful and imaginative style that will have your child looking like they stepped right out of a Christmas storybook. This style involves arranging the hair in a way that mimics the shape of a gingerbread house, complete with hair accessories that resemble candy, gumdrops, and icing. It’s ideal for long hair and works well for special Christmas parties or holiday-themed events where your child wants to stand out.
To create this whimsical style, section the hair into a structured bun or series of twists that resemble the roof and sides of a gingerbread house. Use Conair Topsy Tail Styling Tool for creating intricate shapes, and add accessories from Amazon’s Christmas Hair Clip Set. Finish with Kenra Volume Spray 25 to hold the style in place.
Reindeer Antler Pigtails
A cute and festive option for younger children, Reindeer Antler Pigtails are perfect for the holiday season. This style involves creating two pigtails and adding reindeer antler headbands or clips to mimic a reindeer look. It’s a fun and easy style that works well on short to medium-length hair, and it’s ideal for children who want to feel festive without spending too much time on their hair.
To create this look, divide the hair into two sections and secure each with Goody Ouchless Hair Elastics. Attach reindeer antler clips from Claire’s Holiday Hair Accessories at the base of each pigtail. For smoother hair, use Maui Moisture Kids Curl Refreshing Mist to add moisture and shine. Finish with Paul Mitchell Firm Style Freeze and Shine Super Spray to keep the pigtails in place all day.
Frosty Braided Ponytail
The Frosty Braided Ponytail combines elegance with holiday charm. This style involves braiding the hair into a sleek ponytail and adding frosty or glittery accessories to give it a winter wonderland look. It’s ideal for long hair and works well on both straight and wavy textures. The frosty effect makes it perfect for Christmas parties or formal holiday gatherings.
To achieve this look, braid the hair into a single ponytail, and add Scunci Sparkle Hair Ties to the base. For a frosted effect, lightly spray IGK Preparty Hair Strobing Glitter Spray along the length of the braid. Use Aussie Miracle Curls Defining Oil to smooth any frizz and keep the braid sleek. Finish with TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Hold Hairspray for a long-lasting finish.
Shiny Holiday Top Knot
For a chic and simple holiday look, the Shiny Holiday Top Knot is the way to go. This style involves pulling the hair into a sleek top knot, creating a polished and elegant look for Christmas. Add a touch of shine or glitter for a festive finish. It’s a great style for children with medium to long hair and works well for any hair texture.
To create this look, gather the hair into a high ponytail and twist it into a top knot, securing it with Goody Spin Pins. Add IGK Crybaby Anti-Frizz Smoothing Serum for extra shine and smoothness. For a touch of holiday sparkle, use Sephora Collection Glitter Hair Spray. Finish with L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray for a sleek hold.
Christmas-Themed Space Buns
For a playful and trendy look, Christmas-Themed Space Buns are perfect for kids who want a fun hairstyle this holiday season. The hair is divided into two sections and styled into high buns on either side of the head, with festive decorations like glitter or holiday clips added to complete the look. This style works best for medium to long hair and can be worn by children with any hair texture.
To create this style, part the hair down the middle and gather each section into a high bun. Secure with Goody Ouchless Hair Elastics and decorate with Christmas-themed clips from Claire’s Holiday Collection. Use SheaMoisture Kids Extra-Nourishing Styling Gel to keep the buns smooth and in place. For a touch of glitter, spray Bumble and Bumble Bb. Glitter Spray over the finished buns.
Jingle Bell Accent Braids
For a truly festive look, Jingle Bell Accent Braids are a fun and creative way to style your child’s hair for Christmas. The hair is braided into two or more sections, with small jingle bells woven throughout the braids for a fun, holiday-themed sound and look. This style works well on longer hair and is ideal for children with straight or wavy textures.
To create this look, braid the hair into two or more braids and attach mini jingle bells using Scunci No-Damage Hair Elastics. For smooth and frizz-free braids, apply Cantu Care for Kids Curling Cream before braiding. Finish with TIGI Bed Head Masterpiece Shine Hairspray to keep the style shiny and secure, ensuring the bells stay in place throughout the day.
Conclusion
This Christmas, let your little one shine with these creative and festive children’s Christmas hairstyles. Whether you’re going for playful pigtails or elegant braids, there’s a style for every occasion and hair type. Which one will you try first? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!