21 Elegant Festive Braided Hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!)

The holiday season beckons with a flurry of parties, dinners, and joyous celebrations, demanding a hairstyle that is both sophisticated and suitably festive. Braids offer a truly timeless elegance, providing structure, texture, and a beautiful canvas for glittering holiday accessories.

Forget the usual straightforward styles; 2026 brings an exciting focus on elaborate, yet wearable, braided artistry, transforming familiar looks into glamorous masterpieces.

We have curated a stunning collection of 21 unique and elegant festive braided hairstyles, ranging from sweeping side plaits adorned with winter berries to intricate braided flowers and pearl-studded halos.

Prepare to discover the artistry that will define your look and ensure you shine brilliantly throughout every elegant event this Christmas.

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1. The Sparkling Braid Halo

Embodying a true celebration of style, this exquisite half-up, half-down look brings together voluminous waves and a detailed braided crown, securing a spot among the most elegant festive braided hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!).

Accented by dainty pearl pins or a subtle hair vine woven directly into the braid, the style achieves a sophisticated sparkle, enhancing its holiday appeal. This romantic hairdo lifts the face while allowing the majority of the length to showcase its texture and dimension.

Surely a show-stopper, this style would pair stunningly with an off-the-shoulder dress or a high-collared velvet gown. The light-catching accessories add a festive touch, making it a beautiful choice for a Christmas party, New Year’s Eve celebration, or a winter gathering.

2. The Winter Forest Plait

Presenting a gorgeous fusion of texture and festive ornamentation, this elaborate half-up braid is a magnificent addition to the 21 Elegant Festive Braided Hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). The light blonde hair is gently waved, providing a soft backdrop that emphasizes the central, cascading plait.

Nestled within the twists and loops of the plait are charming accents that truly capture the spirit of the season. Sprigs of faux greenery, resembling pine or spruce, are tucked strategically into the braid’s structure, evoking a woodland Christmas theme.

Ultimately, this style offers a unique blend of casual waves and intricate braiding, making it quite versatile. Although paired here with a denim jacket, this glamorous braid would look breathtaking alongside a formal gown or an elegant cocktail dress.

3. The Winter Forest Plait

Presenting a gorgeous fusion of texture and festive ornamentation, this elaborate half-up braid is a magnificent addition to the 21 Elegant Festive Braided Hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). The light blonde hair is gently waved, providing a soft backdrop that emphasizes the central, cascading plait.

Nestled within the twists and loops of the plait are charming accents that truly capture the spirit of the season. Sprigs of faux greenery, resembling pine or spruce, are tucked strategically into the braid’s structure, evoking a woodland Christmas theme.

Ultimately, this style offers a unique blend of casual waves and intricate braiding, making it quite versatile. Although paired here with a denim jacket, this glamorous braid would look breathtaking alongside a formal gown or an elegant cocktail dress.

4. The Grand Victorian Plait

Demonstrating immense volume and meticulous detail, this stunning side braid stands out as one of the most elegant festive braided hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). Hair is intricately worked into a voluminous, oversized Dutch braid that travels diagonally from the top of the head down over one shoulder.

Scattered throughout the length of the thick blonde plait are delicate sprigs of white baby’s breath or tiny floral hairpins, adding a graceful, wintry sparkle. These subtle accessories catch the light and enhance the soft, romantic feel of the hairstyle.

Ultimately, this magnificent braid offers a statement look, especially when worn with the lace texture of the outfit shown, suggesting an air of vintage romance. It makes an excellent choice for a formal Christmas gala or a New Year’s celebration where high drama and old-world glamour are desired.

5. The Festive Half-Up Ribbon Braid

Offering a charming blend of simplicity and holiday elegance, this easy half-up braid is a lovely inclusion in the 21 Elegant Festive Braided Hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). Long blonde hair is styled in loose, natural waves, providing a soft and approachable foundation for the look.

From this secured section, a simple, delicate three-strand plait falls down the back, subtly blending into the rest of the loose hair. The focus of this style is undeniably the crisp white satin ribbon tied in a substantial bow just above where the braid begins.

Worn here with a cozy, dark green cable-knit sweater, this hairstyle embodies comfort and festive cheer, making it wonderful for casual Christmas Eve gatherings or office parties. The style’s simplicity ensures it is quick to execute yet remains entirely sophisticated.

6. The Voluminous Side Fishtail

Showcasing incredible texture and depth, this chunky, loose braid is certainly one of the most elegant festive braided hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). Brunette hair, highlighted with warmer blonde tones, is swept to one side and styled into a voluminous, deconstructed fishtail braid.

Significantly, the braid is intentionally loosened and pulled apart, adding significant width and a wonderfully soft, messy-chic feel. Wisps of hair are deliberately left out around the face and along the nape, softening the profile and giving the look a romantic air.

Furthermore, the style works beautifully with the slightly undone curl at the tail end of the braid, preventing the look from seeming overly structured. This gorgeous, flowing plait offers a sophisticated alternative to a standard updo for any holiday event, from an intimate dinner to a lively celebration.

7. The Elegant Braided Flower

Showcasing an artful and intricate design, this magnificent floral braid is a standout amongst the 21 Elegant Festive Braided Hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). The hair, featuring striking blonde highlights over a dark base, is pulled back into a sophisticated half-up style.

Crucially, the main attraction is the exquisitely formed flower shape created entirely from braided hair, situated just below the crown. Individual strands from a wider plait are carefully looped and pinned to form layered, concentric petals, resulting in a three-dimensional, blooming effect.

Moreover, the rest of the hair is left long and straight, creating a sleek, dramatic backdrop that allows the braided flower to truly shine as the centerpiece. This hairstyle exudes a refined, celebratory feel, making it an excellent choice for a formal Christmas gathering or an upscale holiday party.

8. The Elvish Waterfall Plait

Featuring incredibly intricate weaving and a striking light color, this fantasy-inspired braid is a magnificent entry for the 21 Elegant Festive Braided Hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). The hair, a stunning platinum blonde, has been styled with a distinct crimped texture, providing a wonderful grip.

Notably, the upper section features two interlocking braids that create a horizontal woven band across the back of the head, reminiscent of Celtic knotwork. Below this crown section, a central, loose, pull-through braid cascades vertically down the back, showcasing beautiful, rounded loops.

Ultimately, this glamorous and elaborate style commands attention and would be truly memorable at a formal Christmas event or a themed winter party. The lengthy, straight texture of the remaining hair provides a dramatic contrast to the dense, structural braiding.

9. The Romantic Floral Fishtail

Boasting softness, depth, and sweet floral details, this large braided look is a sophisticated choice among the 21 Elegant Festive Braided Hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). Rich brunette hair, enhanced with subtle chestnut highlights, is meticulously woven into an incredibly thick, flowing fishtail braid.

Adding a delicate, feminine touch, several sheer pink fabric flowers are strategically pinned throughout the length of the braid. These light-colored blooms and the small pearl accents nestled amongst them provide a lovely contrast against the dark, voluminous hair.

Worn with an ethereal, light-colored dress featuring sheer, gathered sleeves, the overall impression is romantic and graceful. Although florals are often associated with spring, the soft pink and brown tones make this an unexpectedly stunning look for an elegant Christmas celebration or a winter gathering.

10. The Classic Pearl Twist

Exhibiting classic elegance and polished waves, this half-up style is a stunning, sophisticated option among the 21 Elegant Festive Braided Hairstyles for Christmas (2026 Edition!). Long blonde hair, featuring rich dimension and highlights, is beautifully styled into bouncy, voluminous curls that tumble down the back.

Leading back from the temples are two neat, small braids or twists, which meet in the center back of the head. These braids flow into a compact, rosette-like bun or braided knot, securely holding the top section of the hair.

Overall, the style achieves a wonderful balance between the structured, elevated top and the free-flowing, romantic curls below. This refined hairdo is incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into both a glamorous holiday party and a more intimate family Christmas dinner.

11. The Sparkling Braid Halo

Golden blonde hair, gently curled into soft, flowing cascades, tumbles down the back, offering a gorgeous contrast to the intricate work at the crown. Delicately woven plaits form a beautiful, textured headband, drawing the eye upward.

Accented by dainty pearl pins or a subtle hair vine woven directly into the braid, the style achieves a sophisticated sparkle, enhancing its holiday appeal. This romantic hairdo lifts the face while allowing the majority of the length to showcase its texture and dimension.

Surely a show-stopper, this style would pair stunningly with an off-the-shoulder dress or a high-collared velvet gown. The light-catching accessories add a festive touch, making it a beautiful choice for a Christmas party, New Year’s Eve celebration, or a winter gathering.

12. The Winter Berry Fishtail

The hair, featuring warm blonde and brown highlights, is styled into an exceptionally voluminous pull-through braid that cascades down the back. Sections of hair are artfully loosened and expanded, resulting in a wide, soft, and textured silhouette.

Integrated throughout the intricate weave are delightful accessories that bring a vibrant seasonal touch. Small sprigs of faux pine needles and bright red berries are tucked into the gaps of the braid, instantly evoking the classic colors of the holidays.

Consequently, this hairstyle achieves a wonderful blend of intricate technique and natural, rustic holiday charm. The soft, textured look pairs beautifully with the light-colored, patterned dress worn here, suggesting a romantic and celebratory feel.

13. The Celestial Butterfly Braid

The rich, dark brown hair is styled in beautiful, loose waves that cascade down the back, setting a flowing and romantic foundation. The upper half is secured in a woven design, likely a loose Dutch or pull-through braid, creating volume at the crown.

Woven into and around the braid are multiple shimmering, translucent floral and butterfly-shaped accessories in soft shades of blue and lilac. These dainty, light-catching embellishments are placed strategically along the central braid, creating a gorgeous path of festive sparkle.

The combination of the deep hair color and the cool-toned, glowing accessories gives this look a truly magical quality, evoking a winter night sky. This dramatic and unique hairstyle makes an absolutely enchanting statement, offering a glamorous option for a formal holiday ball or a sophisticated New Year’s Eve event.

14. The Floral Halo Waterfall

Rich, deep brown hair, featuring warm chestnut highlights, tumbles down in defined, soft spiral curls, establishing a romantic and voluminous texture. A central section of hair at the crown is woven into a subtle, loose horizontal plait, creating a gentle sweep.

Crucially, the crowning feature is the striking band of light pink and white flowers, interspersed with tiny red berry accents, placed directly beneath the braid. These natural elements form a stunning floral halo, providing a gorgeous pop of color that draws attention to the intricate upper section of the hair.

Worn with a salmon-pink outfit featuring gold embroidery, the entire look exudes warmth and celebratory style, even by the poolside setting. This beautiful hairstyle merges classic texture with lively floral accessories, creating a memorable option for a holiday event in a warmer climate or a vibrant Christmas Day brunch.

15. The Glitz Ponytail Braid

The hair, styled in a brilliant platinum blonde, is gathered high on the head, creating a polished and lifted silhouette. A voluminous, three-strand braid travels diagonally across the side of the head before joining the ponytail, adding beautiful texture and complexity.

Crucially, the ponytail itself is cinched with a wide, sparkling cuff, covered entirely in rhinestones, which provides an undeniable touch of holiday glamour. The ponytail length flows into large, soft curls, contrasting the tight braid and the smooth hair at the crown.

Worn with a casual grey sweater, the hairstyle instantly elevates the outfit, demonstrating its versatility for both casual chic and formal events. This dynamic look combines sleekness and sparkle, making it an excellent choice for dancing the night away at a lively Christmas party or a sophisticated winter gathering.

16. The Cascading Side Plaits

The hair, a lovely blonde highlighted with darker lowlights, is styled in relaxed, loose waves that lend a beachy, bohemian texture to the overall length. The top section is twisted and secured loosely at the back, creating subtle volume at the crown.

Notably, the style is defined by two different types of plaits that flow down alongside the loose waves. A thick, voluminous pull-through braid starts from the secured upper section and cascades down, its loops gently pulled apart for a soft, full appearance.

Furthermore, the mixture of textures—from the loose waves to the two distinct braid styles—creates a dynamic and visually interesting hairstyle. This glamorous, yet effortless look, especially when paired with the white ruffled top, suggests an air of easy holiday elegance.

17. The Elvish Waterfall Plait

The hair, a stunning platinum blonde, has been styled with a distinct crimped texture, providing a wonderful grip and fullness that enhances the complicated braiding patterns. This look combines multiple braiding techniques into one flowing, cohesive design.

Notably, the upper section features two interlocking braids that create a horizontal woven band across the back of the head, reminiscent of Celtic knotwork. Below this crown section, a central, loose, pull-through braid cascades vertically down the back, showcasing beautiful, rounded loops.

Ultimately, this glamorous and elaborate style commands attention and would be truly memorable at a formal Christmas event or a themed winter party. The lengthy, straight texture of the remaining hair provides a dramatic contrast to the dense, structural braiding.

18. The Winter Snowdrift Twist

The hair, a beautiful ash blonde with subtle dimension, is woven into an exceptionally thick, three-strand Dutch braid that runs vertically down the back of the head. Hair is meticulously pulled apart from the braid’s edges, lending the weave a remarkably soft, almost cushion-like fullness.

Significantly, this technique creates an impressive, rounded shape that gives the appearance of a snowdrift or a plush garland. The texture is further enhanced by loose, wispy curls at the bottom of the braid, preventing the style from appearing too rigid.

Worn with a delicate, light-colored slip dress, the overall look feels effortlessly feminine and romantic, transcending the ordinary side plait. This glamorous, voluminous braid is an excellent choice for a sophisticated Christmas party or a New Year’s Eve gathering where a contemporary, high-impact style is desired.

19. The Classic Dutch Plait

The light blonde hair is smoothly pulled back into a single, high Dutch braid, which begins near the crown and travels down the back. This style focuses on creating a lifted, rounded shape at the top of the head for maximum volume.

Carefully, each loop of the three-strand plait is gently expanded, resulting in a thick, wide, and remarkably soft weave. The intentional loosening of the strands gives the braid a glamorous, full texture, preventing it from appearing too tight or severe.

Moreover, the simplicity of the style allows its beautiful structure and clean lines to be the main visual focus. Paired with a feminine, light pink floral dress, the look balances sophistication with youthful charm, making it quite versatile.

20. The Elegant Double Dutch Plaits

The hair, featuring a rich base color that transitions sharply into striking blonde ends, is cleanly parted down the center of the head. Two thick, inverted Dutch braids run parallel, securely following the curve of the scalp.

Constructed for texture and impact, the sections of the braids are gently pulled apart, creating a rounded, voluminous shape that lifts away from the head. This technique successfully showcases the high contrast of the ombre coloring, making the blonde weave truly pop against the darker roots.

Worn with a stylish black top featuring intricate lace detailing at the neckline, the look achieves a refined yet edgy aesthetic. A simple, large silver hoop earring is the sole accessory, keeping the focus entirely on the precision and drama of the dual braids.

21. The Gilded Winter Braid

The hair, a gorgeous light blonde, is loosely curled in the lower half, creating a cascade of soft, flowing waves. The upper section is pulled back and artfully woven into a thick, loose pull-through braid that runs vertically down the center.

Intricate seasonal decorations are tucked strategically into the spaces of the braid’s chunky loops, immediately establishing a holiday theme. Small sprigs of realistic dark green pine needles and shiny gold-leaf hair accessories are interspersed throughout the weave.

Styled over a denim jacket, the hairstyle brilliantly contrasts a casual outfit with high-effort artistry, demonstrating its versatility for different occasions. This captivating look offers a fresh, nature-inspired glamour, making it a truly memorable option for a stylish Christmas Eve gathering or a festive party.