15 Trendy Braided Hairstyles to Try This December 2026
Are you looking for a beautiful braid hairstyle to wear this December? You are in the right place!
December is a special time of the year. There are Christmas parties, family gatherings, dinners, and many other events to attend. You may want a hairstyle that makes you look beautiful without spending too much time styling your hair every morning.
Braids are a great option because you can wear them in many different ways. You can make a simple ponytail, try a beautiful high bun, add some color, or wear long braids with curly ends.
The good thing is that you do not need an expensive hairstyle to look good. Sometimes, a simple style is all you need to make your outfit stand out.
In this article, we will look at 15 trendy braided hairstyles to try this December. Whether you prefer simple styles or something more eye-catching, you will find ideas to inspire your next salon visit.
1. Burgundy Braided High Bun
A burgundy braided high bun is a beautiful choice if you want your hair to stand out this December.
Burgundy is a rich color that looks lovely with many outfits. You can wear it with black, cream, brown, or gold clothing for a beautiful holiday look.
For this hairstyle, the braids are gathered into a high bun, while a few thin braids are left hanging around the sides of the face. These loose braids give the style a soft and elegant finish.
This hairstyle is suitable for Christmas parties, dinner dates, family gatherings, and other special occasions.
Styling tip: Gather your braids gently into a high bun and secure them with hairpins or a soft hair tie. Avoid pulling your hairline too tightly, especially if your edges are fragile.
2. Cute Double-Bun Braids
Do you want a hairstyle that looks playful and different? Double-bun braids may be a good choice.
This hairstyle involves dividing your braids into two sections and wrapping each section into a bun on either side of your head. You can leave a few braids loose around the sides for extra detail.
Double buns can give your regular braids a fresh look without requiring you to change your entire hairstyle.
You can wear this style for casual Christmas outings, shopping trips, parties, or spending time with friends.
Styling tip: Make sure both buns are comfortable and secure. If your braids are long or heavy, avoid packing too much hair into the buns because this can put pressure on your roots.
3. Braided Side Ponytail
A braided side ponytail is a simple way to change your look without doing too much.
Instead of allowing all your braids to hang down your back, gather them gently to one side. You can wear the ponytail low for a relaxed appearance or slightly higher for a more dressed-up look.
This hairstyle works well with dresses, sweaters, and other outfits you may wear during the holiday season.
It is also a good option when you want your braids away from your face while still showing their length.
Styling tip: Use a soft hair tie to secure your braids. Do not pull the ponytail too tightly, and loosen it if you feel discomfort.
4. Half-Up, Half-Down Braids
If you cannot decide between wearing your braids up or down, this hairstyle gives you both options.
Simply gather the upper section of your braids into a ponytail or small bun while allowing the remaining braids to fall freely over your shoulders.
The half-up, half-down style is easy to wear and can look beautiful with both casual and formal outfits.
You can also add a decorative hair cuff or a simple ribbon to make the hairstyle look more festive.
Styling tip: Keep the top section comfortable and avoid gathering too many heavy braids into one tight ponytail.
5. Elegant Braided Top Knot
A braided top knot is another beautiful hairstyle to consider for December.
For this look, the braids are gathered toward the top of the head and wrapped into a bun. You can leave a few braids hanging down if you prefer a combination of an updo and a long braided style.
This hairstyle gives a polished appearance and can make even a simple outfit look more put together.
It is suitable for Christmas dinners, holiday parties, and other occasions when you want an elegant look.
Styling tip: If your braids are very long or heavy, consider a smaller bun or a lower updo to reduce the weight pulling on your roots.
6. Long Knotless Braids
Long knotless braids are a lovely option if you prefer a classic hairstyle that gives you several styling choices.
Unlike traditional box braids, knotless braids are usually started with your natural hair before the braiding hair is added gradually. This technique can create a flatter-looking base, although the finished result still depends on the braider and the amount of tension used.
You can wear long knotless braids loose, gather them into a ponytail, or style them into a bun for a special occasion.
For December, you can choose black, dark brown, burgundy, or a color combination that matches your personal style.
Styling tip: Choose a braid size and length that feel comfortable. Longer braids can be heavy, so ask your stylist to avoid excessive tension.
7. French Curl Braids
French curl braids are a beautiful option if you love braids with soft, curly ends.
The curled ends add movement and give the hairstyle a different look from regular straight-ended braids. You can choose a long or medium length depending on your preference.
This hairstyle works well for holiday dinners, birthday celebrations, Christmas parties, and other special events.
You can wear French curl braids loose or gather the upper section into a half-up style.
Styling tip: Protect the curly ends when sleeping and separate them gently with your fingers when needed. Avoid rough brushing, which can cause tangling.
8. Fulani Braids With a High Ponytail
Fulani braids are known for their distinctive patterns, often featuring cornrows at the front and braids that extend toward the sides or back.
If you want to change the look, you can gather the braids into a high ponytail. This allows the braid pattern at the front to remain visible while keeping the rest of your hair neatly arranged.
You can also add a few decorative cuffs if you prefer a more detailed look.
This style is suitable for holiday outings, dinners, and everyday wear.
Styling tip: Ask your braider to create a comfortable pattern without pulling tightly around your temples or hairline.
9. Brown and Caramel Knotless Braids
If you want a softer color combination for December, consider brown and caramel knotless braids.
These shades can create a warm, blended look without making your hairstyle too bright. You can use dark brown as the main color and add caramel pieces for highlights.
This combination works well with cream, beige, black, and brown outfits.
You can wear the braids long and loose or style them into a ponytail or bun.
Styling tip: Before choosing your braiding hair, compare the shades together. A mixture of dark and lighter brown tones can create a beautiful result without using too many colors.
10. Braided High Ponytail
A braided high ponytail is a simple way to give your hairstyle a neat and stylish appearance.
The braids are gathered toward the crown of the head and secured into a ponytail. You can allow the braids to fall down your back or bring them forward over one shoulder.
This style is a good choice when you want your braids to look different without spending a long time restyling them.
It can work for casual outings, work events, and holiday celebrations.
Styling tip: Avoid tying your braids too tightly. If the ponytail feels heavy, try a lower ponytail instead.
11. Braids With Curly Ends
Braids with curly ends combine the neat appearance of braids with the softness of curls.
You can choose a small, medium, or large braid size depending on the look you prefer. The curls at the ends add movement and make the hairstyle look different from braids with straight ends.
This style is worth considering if you want something that looks beautiful with both everyday outfits and festive clothing.
You can wear the braids loose or create a half-up hairstyle when you want them away from your face.
Styling tip: Keep the curly ends moisturized according to the needs of the hair extension, and separate tangles gently with your fingers.
12. Black and Burgundy Braids
Black and burgundy braids are a lovely choice if you want to add color without making your hairstyle too bright.
You can use black braiding hair as the main shade and add burgundy braids throughout the style. Another option is to use burgundy mostly toward the back or lower sections for a more subtle effect.
The combination can look beautiful during the fall and winter months, especially when paired with neutral or dark-colored outfits.
Styling tip: Decide how much burgundy you want before your appointment. A few accent braids can create a different effect from using burgundy throughout the entire hairstyle.
13. Braided Space Buns With Loose Braids
If you love double buns but want to keep some length, try braided space buns with loose braids.
For this hairstyle, part the braids into two sections at the top of your head and wrap each section into a bun. Leave the remaining braids hanging down.
This style combines the playful look of double buns with the beauty of long braids.
It is suitable for casual gatherings, holiday shopping, and outings with friends.
Styling tip: Make sure the buns are balanced and comfortable. Use only the amount of hair needed to create the look instead of forcing all your braids into tight buns.
14. Side-Swept Braids
Side-swept braids are a simple way to make long braids look more elegant.
Instead of allowing your braids to fall evenly on both sides, gently move most of them over one shoulder. You can secure a few braids behind your ear or use a decorative cuff to keep the style in place.
This hairstyle works well with dresses, sweaters, and outfits with an open neckline.
It is also a good option when you want to show the length and texture of your braids.
Styling tip: If your braids are heavy, avoid pulling them tightly to one side. Arrange them loosely so that your scalp remains comfortable.
15. Braided Bun With Gold Accessories
A braided bun with gold accessories is a lovely finishing idea for the holiday season.
You can start with knotless braids, box braids, or another braid style you already have. Gather the braids into a bun and add a few gold hair cuffs or decorative accessories.
The gold details can make the hairstyle look more festive without requiring you to use a different braiding color.
This is a good choice if you prefer a simple hairstyle but still want something special for Christmas dinner or a holiday party.
Styling tip: Use lightweight accessories and secure them properly. Avoid accessories with sharp edges that could snag or damage the braids.
How to Choose the Best Braided Hairstyle for December
Before choosing your next hairstyle, think about what you need from it.
Consider your outfit. If you plan to wear formal clothing, a braided bun or a neat ponytail may suit the occasion. For casual outings, long knotless braids or half-up styles can work well.
Choose a comfortable length. Very long braids can look beautiful, but they may also feel heavy. Choose a length that is easy for you to manage.
Think about your hairline. If your edges are fragile, ask your stylist for a gentle installation. Avoid styles that pull tightly on your temples.
Pick a color you love. Black, brown, caramel, and burgundy are options to consider. Choose a shade that fits your personal style rather than choosing a color simply because it is popular.
Plan your maintenance. Keep your scalp clean, follow a suitable moisturizing routine, and protect your braids while sleeping. You can also read our guide on [how to wash braids without ruining them] when caring for your hairstyle.
How to Keep Your Braids Looking Good During the Holidays
Your braids can stay looking neat for longer when you care for them properly.
Here are a few simple tips:
- Keep your scalp clean and follow a gentle cleansing routine.
- Avoid adding too much heavy product, which can leave buildup on your hair and scalp.
- Wear a satin bonnet or use a satin pillowcase when sleeping.
- Handle your edges gently when styling your braids.
- Avoid tight ponytails and buns if they cause discomfort.
- Do not keep a protective style installed longer than is comfortable or appropriate for your hair.
If your braids feel painful or you notice bumps around your hairline, do not ignore the discomfort. Loosen or remove the style if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which braided hairstyles are good for Christmas?
Knotless braids, French curl braids, braided buns, high ponytails, and half-up styles are all options to consider for Christmas. The best choice depends on your outfit, preferred length, and personal style.
What braid colors can I try this December?
You can consider black, dark brown, caramel, burgundy, or a combination of two shades. Choose colors that you enjoy wearing and that complement your wardrobe.
Which braided hairstyle is easiest to maintain?
A simple medium-length knotless braid style or a classic box braid style can be relatively easy to manage. However, maintenance depends on the installation, your hair, and how you care for it.
Can I style my braids in different ways?
Yes. Depending on the braid size and length, you can wear them loose, create a ponytail, make a bun, or try a half-up, half-down style. Avoid styling them too tightly.
How can I protect my edges when wearing braids?
Choose a comfortable installation, avoid excessive tension, and do not use heavy braids that pull on your hairline. If your edges are already thinning, consider gentle styles and seek professional advice if the thinning continues.
Final Thoughts
December is a great time to try a hairstyle that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Whether you prefer burgundy braids, long knotless braids, French curl braids, or a simple braided bun, there are many ways to change your look for the holiday season.
You do not have to choose the most complicated hairstyle to look good. Start with a style that suits your taste, feels comfortable, and works with your daily routine.
Which of these 15 braided hairstyles would you love to try this December? Let us know your favorite, and save this article for inspiration before your next salon appointment.