Australia’s holiday season means juggling summer heat, festive events, and busy mornings. But looking great doesn’t have to take hours. Here’s a quick list of hairstyles that are simple, stylish, and perfect for Australia’s warm festive climate. Whether you’re heading to a barbecue, a beach party, or a formal dinner, these ideas have you covered:
- Sleek Low Ponytail with a Twist: Quick, polished, and works for all hair types.
- Messy Top Knot with a Velvet Scrunchie: Casual yet chic, done in under 3 minutes.
- Twisted Half-Up Style: Keeps hair off your face while showcasing natural texture.
- Classic Hollywood Waves: Timeless elegance for formal events.
- Braid with a Bow: Adds playful charm with minimal effort.
- Low Bun with Glitter Highlights: Festive sparkle in just 5 minutes.
- High-Volume Ponytail: Adds bounce and glamour for any occasion.
- Statement Headband Style: Instant polish with minimal effort.
These styles are designed to save time while handling summer humidity, and you can customise them with accessories like bows, scrunchies, or extensions. Perfect for any festive event, they’re quick, practical, and stylish.
8 EASY Holiday hairstyles - Christmas hair tutorial
1. Sleek Low Ponytail with a Twist
The sleek low ponytail with a twist combines simplicity with sophistication. This hairstyle involves creating a smooth, low ponytail, enhanced by a subtle twist that adds a touch of elegance.
The twist is achieved by making a small gap just above the hair tie and threading the ponytail through it. It's a quick way to elevate a classic look.
"A slick ponytail is always trending... It's a staple in the arsenal of styles. They can be worn on any occasion [depending on] how you tailor it." - Martín Plascencia, New York City-based hairstylist and Pureology artist
Time Required for Styling
You can pull off this hairstyle in just 1 to 5 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy mornings during the holidays. Whether you're dashing between shopping trips or heading to a family gathering, this style ensures you look polished without spending ages in front of the mirror.
Tools and Accessories Needed
To create this look effortlessly, you'll need:
- A hair loop tool (also called a Topsy Tail tool) for the twist
- Snag-free hair ties
- A fine-tooth comb or smoothing brush for that sleek finish
- A hair wax stick to tame flyaways and add shine
These tools are budget-friendly, with prices ranging between A$5–A$10. For those wanting extra volume or length, Silkara Hair's ponytail extensions start at A$29, giving you the perfect base for a sleek ponytail.
Suitability for Different Hair Types
This hairstyle is incredibly versatile, working well with various hair textures and lengths. Its low placement helps elongate the face, softening features for a refined appearance.
- For fine hair, the twist adds a touch of volume.
- For thick or curly hair, a dab of gel can smooth out frizz and create a sleek finish.
Adjust your styling products to suit your hair's natural texture. And here's a pro tip: avoid pulling the ponytail too tightly to prevent tension and potential hair breakage over time.
Best Occasions for This Style
This style is perfect for everything from casual to formal holiday events. Its sleek finish is a great match for Australia's summer humidity, making it ideal for outdoor celebrations like Boxing Day barbecues or beachside gatherings.
Want to elevate the look? Add some festive flair with Silkara Hair's accessories or extensions. They can give your ponytail extra length and volume, turning a simple hairstyle into something truly festive for your holiday celebrations.
2. Messy Top Knot with a Velvet Scrunchie
The messy top knot paired with a velvet scrunchie is the perfect mix of laid-back charm and festive flair. Its deliberately undone vibe gives off a relaxed yet polished feel. To create this look, simply gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a loose bun, and secure it with a velvet scrunchie. The velvet adds a touch of elegance without requiring much effort - ideal for anyone juggling a busy holiday schedule.
Time Required for Styling
You can pull off this look in just 1 minute. Use your fingers to gather your hair and form the bun - it’s quick and fuss-free. If it doesn’t come out right the first time, simply redo it. Skipping the brush speeds things up even more.
Tools and Accessories Needed
All you need is a velvet scrunchie, which you can find for as little as A$0.40 to A$1.50. For extra hold, you can also use optional tools like plastic spiral hair ties, bobby pins, hairspray, or texturising spray.
Suitability for Different Hair Types
This style is a winner for nearly all hair types and lengths. Thick or curly hair benefits from the scrunchie’s grip, while fine hair might work better with lighter accessories. For shorter hair, a thicker scrunchie can help keep the bun secure, and bobby pins can provide extra support if needed. If you’re looking to add volume, Silkara Hair’s hair buns are a great option before finishing with your velvet scrunchie. This adaptable style ensures you’ll look effortlessly chic no matter your hair type.
Best Occasions for This Style
Whether it’s Christmas morning gift exchanges or Boxing Day brunches, this versatile updo fits right in with Australia’s warm holiday season. The velvet scrunchie adds a hint of sophistication, making it a great choice for casual family gatherings or informal holiday parties. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and style for the festive season.
3. Twisted Half-Up Style
For a quick and stylish holiday hairdo, the twisted half-up style is a fantastic option. It strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease, keeping your hair off your face while showcasing its natural texture. Simply twist sections of hair from each side and secure them at the crown. This look is especially practical for Australia's warm holiday season.
Time Required for Styling
This style takes just about 5 minutes to create. Its straightforward design - no intricate braiding or complex pinning required - makes it a lifesaver on busy mornings. Whether you're heading to a festive gathering or a casual Christmas outing, this look has you covered.
Tools and Accessories Needed
You'll need a comb, brush, hair ties, and bobby pins. If you want to add more texture, consider optional tools like a curling iron, teasing brush, or volumiser. Accessories such as barrettes, headbands, bows, or decorative pins can elevate the style further. For added volume, try using Silkara Hair's hair buns to give your twists an extra boost.
Suitability for Different Hair Types
This style works beautifully on all hair types. If your hair is straight, it creates a sleek and polished look. For wavy or curly hair, it enhances natural volume and bounce. Short hair? No problem - just twist smaller sections and secure with clips or barrettes for added flair. Medium-length hair allows for more defined twists, while long hair offers room for more intricate designs. For fine hair, a touch of styling product can help hold the twists in place. If you have thicker hair, use a hydrating leave-in conditioner to keep the style smooth and manageable.
Designed with Australia's summer heat in mind, this style is both festive and comfortable.
Best Occasions for This Style
This versatile look suits any occasion, from casual outdoor Christmas barbecues to Boxing Day beach outings. Add a bow or clip for a festive touch, and you're ready to celebrate in style.
4. Classic Hollywood Waves
Classic Hollywood waves bring a touch of timeless elegance, reminiscent of the golden age of cinema. With their cascading, polished waves, this style exudes sophistication and is perfect for Australia's festive season. Whether it’s a family gathering or a formal event, these waves photograph beautifully and add a sense of old-world charm to any occasion.
As Jerome Lordet, a New York-based hairstylist, puts it, "The Hollywood drama comes from all the volume". The luxurious wave pattern creates a bold and elegant statement, making it a go-to choice for special celebrations.
Time Required for Styling
Creating Classic Hollywood waves takes a bit of extra effort but delivers long-lasting results when done right. The time it takes depends on your hair's length and texture. If you have fine hair, focus on adding body with volumising and texturising products. For those with naturally curly or thick hair, starting with a smooth blowout is key to achieving the sleek base needed for this look. This versatile style transitions seamlessly from casual holiday gatherings to more formal events.
Tools and Accessories Needed
To achieve Hollywood waves at home, you’ll need a few essential tools. Start with a curling iron or wand - larger barrels create looser waves, while smaller barrels result in tighter curls. Duckbill clips, a rat tail comb, and a dressing brush are must-haves for precise sectioning and smooth styling.
Always apply a heat protectant before using hot tools, and prep your hair with a blow dryer for the best results. To lock in the style, finish with a strong-hold hairspray that ensures your waves stay intact throughout the festivities. For added volume, consider Silkara Hair's clip-in extensions - they blend seamlessly with your natural hair, giving you fuller, more dramatic waves.
Suitability for Different Hair Types
One of the best things about Classic Hollywood waves is their adaptability - they suit nearly all hair types. This style works best on one-length hair, but if you have layers, extensions can help create a more uniform look. Fine hair benefits from volumising products, while thicker or curly hair achieves the best results when prepped with a smooth blowout. To combat frizz, always use a heat protectant, and finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep your waves flawless, even in Australia's warm holiday weather.
Best Occasions for This Style
Classic Hollywood waves are perfect for formal holiday events where glamour takes centre stage. Whether you’re attending a Christmas party, a New Year’s Eve celebration, or a Boxing Day gathering, this vintage-inspired style enhances your overall look. Its polished finish makes it a favourite for evening occasions, family photos, or any event where you want to look effortlessly chic and camera-ready.
5. Braid With a Bow
A braid with a bow blends the timeless charm of braids with a touch of festive flair - perfect for Australia’s holiday season. This hairstyle adds texture and a playful vibe while maintaining an elegant finish. It’s a great option for those busy mornings when you want something that feels special but doesn’t take too much effort. The addition of a bow turns an everyday braid into a festive statement, ideal for embracing the holiday spirit.
Time Required for Styling
You’ll need about 10–15 minutes to complete this look. The braid itself takes around 5–8 minutes, and securing the bow adds another 3–5 minutes. With the right tools on hand, this style is both quick and manageable.
Tools and Accessories Needed
To create this look, you’ll need a few basics:
- A rat tail comb or afro pick for precise sectioning
- Hair bands or clips to hold sections in place
- Trimming scissors for tidying flyaways
- Hair serum for smoothness and hair spray for hold
For the bow, you can find affordable options, with multi-packs priced between A$3.99 and A$11.99. You can also enhance your braid with accessories like beads, ribbons, or metallic coils. If you’re looking for added volume or length, Silkara Hair’s clip-in extensions are a great choice to elevate the style.
Suitability for Different Hair Types
This style works beautifully across a variety of hair types. For short hair, a small bow with mini or side braids creates a delicate and charming look. Medium to long hair offers more room to experiment with larger bows or ribbons for a bold statement. Pick a braid style that complements your hair texture, and match your bow to your outfit for a polished finish.
Best Occasions for This Style
The braid with a bow strikes a balance between playful and sophisticated, making it a versatile choice for a range of holiday events. It’s perfect for family Christmas gatherings, holiday work parties, Boxing Day celebrations, and casual brunches. Metallic or jewelled bows are great for evening events, while fabric ribbons or classic bows in festive colours work wonderfully for daytime occasions. Plus, this hairstyle photographs beautifully, making it a fantastic option for holiday family photos where you want to look stylish yet relaxed.
sbb-itb-08feb2f
6. Low Bun with Glitter Highlights
Add a touch of sparkle to the classic low bun for a festive and stylish look that's perfect for Australia's holiday mornings. It's quick, elegant, and effortlessly festive.
Time Required for Styling
You can pull off this dazzling style in less than five minutes. Simply apply lash glue, attach rhinestones or glitter, and seal everything in place with a spritz of hairspray - even if your hair is slightly damp.
Tools and Accessories Needed
To create this glamorous bun, you'll need a few basic tools and some festive extras. Here's what you'll want to have on hand:
- Hair ties and bobby pins to secure the bun.
- Hairspray for hold and longevity.
- Bun makers (like donut sponges or snap-and-roll tools) to achieve a voluminous look. These are budget-friendly, ranging from A$3.99 to A$8.99.
For the glitter highlights, you can use glitter hairspray or loose glitter paired with lash glue to attach rhinestones. To tame flyaways, apply hair wax or styling cream, and for added grip, use texturising spray or hair gel, especially if your hair is freshly washed. If you're after extra volume or length, consider Silkara Hair's clip-in extensions. They provide a solid base for your glitter accents and make the bun appear fuller and more dramatic.
With these tools and accessories, this style works beautifully on all hair types.
Suitability for Different Hair Types
This glittery low bun adapts seamlessly to various hair textures, making it an inclusive choice for anyone.
- Fine Hair: Use a strong-hold hairspray and try backcombing at the crown for extra volume.
- Thick Hair: You can experiment with more intricate designs and bolder glitter patterns.
- Curly or Textured Hair: A lightweight oil can make styling easier, and this hair type naturally lends itself to soft, romantic bun shapes.
- Straight Hair: A fine-tooth comb paired with a lightweight serum or oil will help smooth frizz and create a sleek finish. For added thickness, wrap a thin hair extension weft around the bun's base.
No matter your hair type, glitter highlights work beautifully. You might just need to tweak the amount of lash glue based on your hair's texture and porosity.
Best Occasions for This Style
This sparkling low bun is perfect for Australia's festive season, effortlessly transitioning from daytime gatherings to evening celebrations. Whether you're attending a Christmas party, New Year's Eve bash, Boxing Day lunch, or a formal holiday dinner, this style strikes the right balance between sophistication and festive cheer.
For daytime events like brunches or casual get-togethers, go for subtle silver or gold glitter to catch the light gently. For evening occasions, consider bolder rhinestone accents or coloured glitter that matches your outfit. The versatility of this look also lets you play around with different sizes and colours of rhinestones, making it easy to customise to your personal holiday style.
And the best part? The sparkle photographs beautifully, making it a standout choice for family holiday photos or social media posts.
7. High-Volume Ponytail
A high-volume ponytail is the perfect way to transform flat hair into a bouncy, full look that’s ideal for festive occasions. Not only does it add a touch of glamour, but it also photographs beautifully, making it a go-to choice for holiday celebrations.
Time Required for Styling
This style is quick and easy, taking just 7–10 minutes - perfect for busy mornings during the holidays. For better grip, opt for day-old hair. Start by sectioning your hair and teasing small portions at the crown. Then, gather all your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a thick elastic.
Tools and Accessories Needed
To achieve a dramatic high-volume ponytail, you’ll need:
- Thick hair elastics for a strong hold
- A densely bristled teasing comb to create lift
- Volumising products like texture sprays or powders
- A professional styling brush, bobby pins, and hairspray for a polished finish
Budget-friendly options like the Kitsch PONYFULL® (A$18.00) can help you create a fuller look. For a more comprehensive kit, the Drybar High Volume Pony Set is available for around A$290.00.
If you want to take it up a notch, try ponytail extensions from Silkara Hair, starting at A$44.00. Their claw clip and wrap-around styles blend seamlessly with your natural hair, giving you that celebrity-inspired volume with minimal effort.
Suitability for Different Hair Types
This style works for a variety of hair types, with a few tweaks to suit individual needs:
- Fine Hair: Use volumising products and gently backcomb at the roots for added lift. Applying texturising spray to damp hair before blow-drying can help build volume without causing damage.
-
Curly Hair: A slicked-back curly ponytail creates natural bounce and movement. Keep curls moisturised to minimise breakage during styling. As Rose Versaga, Writer & Editor at Sitting Pretty, explains:
"First things first: the curly ponytail isn't just a trend; it's a hair-health conscious style statement."
- Straight Hair: Add texture with hair texture spray and curlers before styling. Smooth the top section while maintaining volume at the crown for a polished look.
- Thick Hair: Thick hair holds volume well but may benefit from a coily ponytail holder to avoid dents. A small claw clip placed just below the elastic can help prevent sagging throughout the day.
Best Occasions for This Style
The high-volume ponytail strikes the perfect balance between elegance and festive charm, making it suitable for a range of holiday events. Whether you’re attending a Christmas party, New Year’s Eve celebration, or Boxing Day gathering, this style fits the occasion.
In a February 2024 tutorial on Lulus.com, this teased high ponytail was highlighted as a versatile option for pre-wedding festivities, homecoming events, and holiday dinners. It pairs beautifully with backless dresses and sparkly earrings, creating a youthful, bouncy vibe that frames the face. Following "The Jawline Rule" - gathering hair along an imaginary diagonal line from your jawline upward - can accentuate your cheekbones and chin.
For daytime events, keep the volume moderate and add playful touches like colourful scrunchies or decorative bobby pins. For evening occasions, go for a sleeker finish with statement accessories for extra drama. This style not only looks stunning in person but also photographs exceptionally well, making it perfect for holiday family photos or social media posts.
Whether you’re rushing to a Christmas brunch or preparing for an elegant New Year’s Eve party, the high-volume ponytail offers instant glamour that lasts all day. It’s the ideal choice for a modern, festive look that’s both practical and stylish.
8. Statement Headband Style
Pressed for time but still want to look effortlessly chic? A statement headband can instantly elevate messy hair into a polished, festive style. Just slide it on, and you’re ready to go. Let’s dive into the quick steps, must-have tools, and styling tips that make this accessory a holiday favourite.
Headbands are having a moment, with their resurgence drawing inspiration from everything from Blair Waldorf’s preppy elegance to the glamour of vintage 1960s fashion. Fashion experts agree that headbands are stealing the show because of their versatility and ability to add flair to any outfit. Whether adorned with crystals, pearls, feathers, or beads, a statement headband can bring sophistication and sparkle to your holiday ensemble.
Time Required for Styling
This look is perfect for busy mornings, taking just 2–3 minutes to pull together. Simply brush your hair back, position the headband, and tuck in any loose strands for a sleek finish.
Tools and Accessories Needed
Here’s what you’ll need: a statement headband, a comb, and, optionally, light-hold hairspray and bobby pins.
When choosing a headband, opt for embellished designs with crystals, beads, feathers, or pearls to add a festive touch. Wide, padded styles are especially trendy right now, making a bold statement. Baroque-inspired designs featuring velvet and intricate details are also in demand, adding a luxurious feel to your look.
Suitability for Different Hair Types
The beauty of this style is its adaptability - it works for all hair types:
- Thick or curly hair: Wide, non-slip headbands are ideal, and satin- or silk-lined options can help minimise frizz.
- Fine or straight hair: Thin, elastic headbands with silicone grips work best, while padded or textured fabrics provide extra hold.
- Wavy or medium-textured hair: Adjustable, tie-back styles or stretchy jersey fabrics pair beautifully with relaxed waves.
Choosing the right headband for your face shape can also make a difference. For instance, centred accents can draw the eye upward on round faces, while thick, padded styles can balance out square-shaped faces.
Best Occasions for This Style
Statement headbands are perfect for any festive event. Go for subtle sparkle on Christmas morning, relaxed styles for Boxing Day barbecues, or bold, embellished designs for New Year’s Eve. For work parties, elegant headband options can add just the right amount of flair. During the Bronx and Banco runway show in February 2024, models showcased how a sleek, slicked-back hairstyle paired with an embellished headband and a few loose strands can create an effortlessly elevated look.
For more styling tips and premium headband options, check out Silkara Hair to complete your holiday look.
Style Comparison Table
When you're scrambling to get ready for holiday festivities, choosing a hairstyle that matches your hair type and available time can make things so much easier. Here's a handy breakdown of eight holiday hairstyles to help you pick the ideal look for your celebrations.
| Hairstyle | Time Required | Essential Tools | Best for Hair Type | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sleek Low Ponytail with a Twist | 3–4 minutes | Hair elastic, comb, hairspray | All hair types; especially fine to medium | Easy |
| Messy Top Knot with Velvet Scrunchie | 2–3 minutes | Velvet scrunchie, texturising spray | Medium to thick hair; wavy or curly | Very Easy |
| Twisted Half-Up Style | 4–5 minutes | Hair elastics, bobby pins | All hair types; ideal for layered cuts | Easy |
| Classic Hollywood Waves | 8–10 minutes | Curling iron, clips, hairspray | Medium to thick hair; straight to wavy | Moderate |
| Braid with a Bow | 5–7 minutes | Hair elastic, decorative bow, comb | All hair types; best with longer lengths | Easy to Moderate |
| Low Bun with Glitter Highlights | 4–6 minutes | Hair elastic, bobby pins, glitter spray | Medium to thick hair | Easy |
| High-Volume Ponytail | 3–5 minutes | Hair elastic, teasing comb, volumising spray | All hair types; especially fine hair | Easy |
| Statement Headband Style | 2–3 minutes | Statement headband, comb, light-hold hairspray | All hair types | Very Easy |
For those rushed mornings, the messy top knot and statement headband styles are lifesavers - they're quick (under 5 minutes) and effortlessly chic. If you have straight hair, styles like the sleek low ponytail or Hollywood waves work beautifully, adding a polished touch to your look. Wavy hair pairs naturally with the twisted half-up style, especially when enhanced with a sea salt spray for a relaxed, beachy vibe. Curly hair shines with the messy top knot or statement headband, especially when you use moisturising products to define curls and manage frizz.
Elevating Your Holiday Looks with Silkara Hair
Silkara Hair has a range of accessories that can take your holiday hairstyles to the next level:
- Ponytail extensions (starting at A$29.00) add volume to high-volume ponytails. Choose from claw clip or wrap-around styles for a secure, easy application.
- Hair buns (starting at A$24.00) are perfect for creating fuller low buns or messy top knots. Elastic and clip-in options ensure a snug fit.
- For Hollywood waves or twisted half-up styles, try halo extensions (starting at A$40.00). These no-clip extensions are a game-changer for adding salon-worthy length and volume in no time.
- Fringe extensions (starting at A$27.00) pair wonderfully with statement headbands, offering a polished, party-ready finish. Silkara Hair even has headband fringe designs that are perfect for festive events.
Every hair texture can benefit from the right accessory. For example, blending extensions with your natural hair is key - if you have curly hair, curling straight extensions can help them blend seamlessly. Paying attention to these small details ensures your holiday hairstyle looks natural and flawless, even when you're short on time.
Whether your hair is straight, wavy, or curly, Silkara Hair's accessories make it easy to customise your look and step up your holiday style.
Conclusion
The holiday season doesn’t mean you have to trade style for convenience. These eight hairstyles offer a polished look, whether you’re racing out the door or have time to spare. From the effortless charm of a messy top knot to the refined glamour of Hollywood waves, there’s something for every hair type and schedule.
Each style fits seamlessly into your holiday plans, making it easy to transition from casual family gatherings to formal parties. Their versatility is their strength. As celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons puts it:
"A half-up, half-down hairstyle for the holidays will always be a classic. It's the perfect mix of elegant and effortless - you can dress it up or down no matter your plans. My favourite way to style this hair for the holidays is with a simple black bow, but a barrette or small claw clip would be a great option, too."
Taking a little time to prepare can make all the difference. Practising these styles ahead of time or prepping your hair the night before can save you from morning chaos. Often, embracing your natural hair texture is the quickest way to achieve an effortlessly chic look.
Accessories can also elevate your style instantly. Items like Silkara Hair’s scrunchies (starting at A$9.00) or ponytail extensions add a festive touch. Fitzsimons highlights how a simple accessory can transform your look:
"Headbands are a holiday staple because they're elegant but effortless. You can wear it out to dinner or in your living room and it'll never look out of place."
With these techniques and accessories in your toolkit, you’re set for stress-free mornings. These eight hairstyles ensure you’ll stay festive and fabulous, no matter how busy your holiday schedule gets.
FAQs
How can I style holiday hairstyles if I have short hair?
If you’ve got short hair, there are still plenty of ways to create eye-catching holiday hairstyles that suit your length and texture. Think about trying half-up styles, mini twists, or sleek low buns for a polished and elegant vibe. To add a festive touch, accessorise with sparkly pins, decorative headbands, or statement clips - perfect for embracing the holiday spirit.
For an easy way to switch things up, clip-in extensions or halo extensions can instantly add volume and length. These are ideal for crafting more detailed styles without much effort. Brands like Silkara Hair offer a variety of premium extensions and styling tools, making it simple to achieve a salon-quality look right from the comfort of your home - even when you’re pressed for time.
How can I keep my holiday hairstyles looking great in Australia's humid summer weather?
To keep your holiday hairstyles in top form during Australia's humid summer, it's all about managing frizz and protecting your hair from the elements. Reach for anti-frizz products like serums or leave-in conditioners to tame flyaways and keep frizz under control. Styles like braids, buns, or ponytails are not only chic but also help shield your hair from humidity while locking in moisture.
After washing, give your hair a cold water rinse to seal the cuticle, which can help reduce frizz. Follow up with a smoothing serum or a lightweight hair oil to create a protective layer against the moisture in the air. These simple tricks can keep your hair looking sleek and polished, no matter how sticky the summer gets.
Can I create these holiday hairstyles without using heat tools?
If you're looking to style your hair for the holidays without heat, you're in luck! Techniques like braiding, twisting, or using no-heat curlers or flexi-rods can give you gorgeous waves, curls, or added texture - all without causing heat damage.
To make the style last longer, apply a bit of mousse or a setting spray before starting. Let your hair air-dry naturally, or if you're in a rush, use the cool air setting on your hair dryer. These no-heat methods are gentle on your hair and a lifesaver for those busy holiday mornings.