12 Elegant Braided Updos for Christmas Parties in 2026

Christmas is almost here! It is time to dress up, celebrate and try beautiful hairstyles.

Are you looking for an elegant hairstyle for your Christmas party? A braided updo might be exactly what you need.

Braided updos are beautiful and versatile. They combine lovely braid patterns with stylish buns and twists. You can wear them to office parties, family dinners, weddings, and festive celebrations.

You can also make them more special with pearls, gold hairpins and velvet ribbons.

In this article, we share 12 elegant braided updos for Christmas parties. These hairstyles will give you plenty of inspiration for the holiday season.

1. Elegant Braided Low Bun

Image

A braided low bun is a beautiful choice for a formal Christmas party.

This hairstyle gathers the hair into a neat bun at the back of the neck. The braids add texture and make the bun more interesting.

It looks especially beautiful with evening dresses and elegant jewelers.

Why you should try it:

• It looks classy and sophisticated.
• It keeps your hair away from your face.
• It works well with formal outfits.
• It suits pearl and gold accessories.

Styling tip: Add small pearl pins around the bun. They create a beautiful festive finish.

2. Romantic Braided Crown Updo

A braided crown is perfect if you love romantic hairstyles.

The braids wrap around the head like a crown. You can gather the remaining hair into a small bun at the back.

This hairstyle looks beautiful at Christmas dinners and evening celebrations.

Why you should try it:

• It creates a soft, feminine look.
• It looks beautiful from every angle.
• It works with different hair lengths.
• It pairs well with elegant dresses.

Styling tip: Add delicate gold pins to make the hairstyle more festive.

3. Sleek High Braided Bun

Do you prefer neat and polished hairstyles? Then try a sleek high braided bun.

This hairstyle gathers the hair at the crown. The braids are wrapped around the base to create a beautiful bun.

It is a great choice for women who want a clean and elegant appearance.

Why you should try it:

• It looks neat and stylish.
• It highlights your facial features.
• It shows off statement earrings.
• It works with formal and festive outfits.

Styling tip: Add a small gold hair cuff for extra sparkle.

4. Fishtail Braided Updo

A fishtail braid creates a beautiful woven pattern. It looks different from a traditional three-strand braid.

For this hairstyle, create a fishtail braid and arrange it into a bun at the back of your head.

The result is a detailed and elegant updo.

Why you should try it:

• It creates beautiful texture.
• It looks romantic and sophisticated.
• It works well for evening events.
• It can be decorated with small hairpins.

Styling tip: Choose a crystal hair clip to give the hairstyle a festive touch.

5. Double Dutch Braided Updo

Double Dutch braids are another beautiful option for Christmas.

This hairstyle starts with two braids on opposite sides of the head. Both braids meet at the back and form a bun.

The raised braid pattern gives the hairstyle a lovely finish.

Why you should try it:

• It creates a detailed look.
• It keeps longer hair neatly arranged.
• It works for different occasions.
• It looks beautiful from behind.

Styling tip: Add a thin gold ribbon to one of the braids.

6. Braided Chignon with Pearl Pins

A braided chignon is one of the most elegant hairstyles for formal occasions.

A chignon is a bun worn at the back of the head. Adding braids makes it more stylish and unique.

Pearl pins can also make the hairstyle look more luxurious.

Why you should try it:

• It looks timeless.
• It suits formal dresses.
• It highlights beautiful hair accessories.
• It creates a polished appearance.

Styling tip: Wear pearl earrings to match your hair accessories.

7. Side-Swept Braided Updo

A side-swept braided updo is perfect for women who love soft and romantic hairstyles.

The braid starts on one side of the head and moves towards the back. The remaining hair is gathered into a side bun.

You can also leave a few soft strands around your face.

Why you should try it:

• It creates a romantic appearance.
• It looks beautiful with side-parted hair.
• It suits dinner dates and Christmas parties.
• It works with different outfits.

Styling tip: Add a small floral or crystal hair clip.

8. Halo Braid with a Textured Bun

A halo braid creates the appearance of a beautiful braided crown.

For this style, wrap a braid around your head. Then gather the remaining hair into a textured bun.

The combination creates a soft and elegant hairstyle.

Why you should try it:

• It gives your hairstyle a beautiful shape.
• It works for formal occasions.
• It looks lovely from the front and back.
• It can be decorated with gold accessories.

Styling tip: Use small gold floral pins around the bun.

9. Braided French Twist

A French twist is a classic hairstyle for formal occasions.

You can make it more interesting by adding a small braid along one side.

Gather the remaining hair and twist it upwards. Then tuck the ends inside and secure everything with hairpins.

Why you should try it:

• It looks classy and elegant.
• It suits evening dresses.
• It keeps the hair neatly arranged.
• It works well with decorative combs.

Styling tip: Choose a gold or crystal hair comb for a beautiful finish.

10. Twisted Rope Braid Updo

A rope braid is different from a traditional braid. It uses two sections of hair twisted around each other.

You can create several rope braids and arrange them into a low bun.

This hairstyle is simple but still looks elegant.

Why you should try it:

• It creates an interesting texture.
• It works for different hair lengths.
• It looks beautiful with hair accessories.
• It is suitable for formal and casual parties.

Styling tip: Wrap a champagne-gold ribbon around the finished bun.

11. Braided Updo with a Velvet Ribbon

Velvet ribbons are beautiful accessories for Christmas hairstyles.

You can add one to a braided bun or crown braid. The ribbon gives the hairstyle a festive appearance.

Burgundy, red, forest green, and gold are lovely Christmas colors.

Why you should try it:

• It adds color to your hairstyle.
• It looks festive and stylish.
• It works with different braided updos.
• It is easy to personalize.

Styling tip: Choose a burgundy velvet ribbon and pair it with gold earrings.

12. Glamorous Braided Bun with Gold Accessories

If you want a hairstyle that stands out, try a glamorous braided bun with gold accessories.

Gather your braids into a full bun. Then add gold cuffs or decorative hairpins.

The gold details make the hairstyle perfect for a Christmas celebration.

Why you should try it:

• It creates a glamorous appearance.
• It looks beautiful with evening outfits.
• It highlights the braided pattern.
• It works well with statement jewelers.

Styling tip: Match your gold hair accessories with your earrings or necklace.

How to Choose the Best Braided Updo for Christmas

Choosing the right hairstyle depends on your hair, outfit, and the type of party you are attending.

Here are some helpful tips.

Consider the Occasion

For a formal Christmas dinner, try a braided chignon or low bun.

For an office Christmas party, a sleek high bun is a great option.

For a glamorous evening celebration, choose a braided updo with gold or crystal accessories.

Consider Your Hair Length

Your hair length can affect which updo works best.

• Short hair: Try small braids and pinned styles.
• Medium hair: Choose compact buns and French twists.
• Long hair: Try crown braids and larger braided buns.

You can also use extensions if you need extra length or fullness.

For more ideas, see our guide to 15 short braid hairstyles for a chic, easy-to-wear look.

Choose Beautiful Hair Accessories

Accessories can make a simple hairstyle look special.

Try:

• Pearl pins.
• Gold hair cuffs.
• Crystal clips.
• Velvet ribbons.
• Small floral accessories.

Choose accessories that match your outfit. Avoid using too many at once.

For more festive inspiration, explore 12 cute braided hairstyles with beads for Thanksgiving and Christmas 2026.

Choose a Style That Suits Your Hair Texture

Braided updos work with straight, wavy, curly, and coily hair.

However, each hair type may need different preparation.

Detangle your hair gently before styling. Use suitable products to keep it manageable.

You can also explore boho braids vs. goddess braids for more braid inspiration.

How to Keep Your Braided Updo Looking Beautiful

You want your hairstyle to look good throughout the party.

These simple tips can help.

Prepare Your Hair Properly

Start with clean, detangled hair. Use products that suit your hair type.

Avoid applying too much product before styling.

Avoid Tight Braids

Your hairstyle should feel comfortable.

Do not pull your braids too tightly. Tight hairstyles can cause hair breakage and damage around the hairline.

The American Academy of Dermatology provides helpful advice about hairstyles that pull on the hair.

Use Enough Hairpins

Secure your bun with suitable hairpins.

Spread them evenly around the hairstyle. This helps keep the bun in place.

Carry a Small Touch-Up Kit

Keep a few useful items in your handbag.

These include:

• Bobby pins.
• A small hair elastic.
• A travel-size hairspray.
• Spare hair accessories.

Remove Your Hairstyle Gently

After the party, remove your hairpins carefully.

Do not pull or force the braids apart. Take your time when loosening the hairstyle.

For more seasonal inspiration, explore 15 trendy braided hairstyles to try this December 2026 and 15 winter braid hairstyles for 2026–2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Is the Best Braided Updo for a Christmas Party?

A braided low bun is one of the best choices for a Christmas party.

It looks elegant and works well with formal dresses. You can also add pearl pins or gold accessories.

2. Can I Wear a Braided Updo to a Formal Christmas Dinner?

Yes! Braided updos are beautiful for formal dinners.

Try a braided chignon, crown braid, or French twist. These styles create a polished appearance.

3. Which Braided Updos Work Best for Natural Hair?

Braided buns, crown braids, and twisted updos can all work well with natural hair.

Choose a style that suits your hair length and texture. Make sure it is not too tight.

4. How Can I Make My Braided Updo Look More Festive?

Add beautiful accessories to your hairstyle.

Pearl pins, gold cuffs, velvet ribbons, and crystal clips are excellent choices.

5. Can I Create a Braided Updo with Medium-Length Hair?

Yes. Medium-length hair works well with compact buns, French twists, and smaller crown braids.

Extensions can also help if you want extra length.

6. How Can I Make My Braided Updo Last All Night?

Start with properly prepared hair.

Use suitable hairpins to secure the style. You can also use a light finishing spray to control loose strands.

Most importantly, avoid making your braids too tight.

7. Are Braided Updos Suitable for Short Hair?

Yes! You can create small side braids and pinned-up styles with short hair.

You may also use extensions to create a fuller bun.

Final Thoughts

Christmas is a wonderful time to try beautiful hairstyles.

These 12 elegant braided updos offer plenty of inspiration for your holiday celebrations. From romantic crown braids to glamorous buns, there is a style for every occasion.

You can keep your hairstyle simple or make it special with pearls, gold accessories, and velvet ribbons.

Choose a style that suits your hair and makes you feel confident.

After all, the best Christmas hairstyle is one that makes you feel beautiful and comfortable.

Which of these 12 braided updos would you love to wear this Christmas? Share your favorite in the comments!