Easy Holiday Party Hairstyles

'Tis the season for holiday parties, dinners with friends, wandering around cute holiday markets, and Christmas concerts. You want to look your best, but getting ready time is limited (or maybe you just don't love doing your hair)...so we're here to help! We're bringing you some easy holiday party hairstyles perfect for those days you don't have a lot of time, but will still have you looking styled and put together in ten minutes or less.

1. Styled ponytail: We can all do a ponytail, and you can style it however you like depending on the amount of time you have. You can never go wrong with a ponytail--it's versatile, depending on what your event requires. Rock a sleek, slicked-back high or low pony with a dramatic smoky eye for an elegant look, or create a piece-y look by leaving some hair framing your face for a more casual evening. Try adding a little volume at the crown of your head, scrunching up your natural curl, and putting a festive bow or scrunchie in your hair--you'll be set to go!

2. Sleek and straight: If you have straight hair, leave it down and lean in to your natural hair texture! If you have some time, you could use a flat iron to make sure it's super straight, or just add a little hairspray to smooth down any fly-aways. If you've got some extra time (and shorter hair), use a flat iron or curling iron to flip up the ends for some retro glam. Add some shine spray and pop a festive barrette or bow in your hair, and that's all you need!

3. Rock those curls: For those on the other end of the hair texture spectrum, lean into it! Refresh those waves or curls with a little curl spray and show off that gorgeous natural hair. Pop a sparkly headband in and you've got a festive, glam--and easy look.

4. Braids: Braids are an easy way to add style to any length of hair. A long braid intentionally left a little messy can create a nice casual look for an ugly sweater party, or a tight, sleek braid lends itself to a more elegant, put-together look. A headband braid is a fun way to add interest while still highlighting your natural hair texture. Braid the front pieces, pull them back, and add a bow for a romantic look. For a quick braided updo, divide your hair in half and create braided pigtails. Pin one side up on top of your head, then the other for a milkmaid-type effect--no French braids required.

5. Updos: Updos that look great don't have to be complicated! A ballerina bun is always a great bet, as is the messy bun with a festive scrunchie. If you've got a little extra time, a cloud bun is a fun option: twist your hair into a loose bun at the nape of your neck and pin it into place. Don't slick it back and make sure to keep the edges full and airy--done in five minutes! A soft, undone French twist is a romantic yet put-together option that only requires you to swap out your normal claw clip for some pretty hair pins. Keep your natural middle part (or whatever part you prefer), twist your hair like you normally would, and pin it up. Add some pieces of hair that frame the face, and voila--a quick, stylish updo.

6. Half Up-Half Down: Half up-half down options are great for when you have no time and can't seem to get those face-framing pieces of hair to cooperate! Slick your hair back or keep your part wherever it falls. Twist your hair into a messy bun on top of your head or midway down your head, or just create a tiny high pony with those pieces of hair. Create a little volume at the crown for a fun retro look. Again, this style goes well with whatever your natural hair texture is, just make sure to play it up and add some holiday hair accessories if you feel like it.

There you have it! These quick styles add some festive holiday glam without a lot of effort. If you need a hair cut, color, or a styled updo for a fancy party, give Salon Patrice a call at (815) 223-8643, or find all of our hair services here.