There is this invincible desire to renew our appearance, to dress up in the winter, right? When the days are becoming shorter and the air is becoming colder, a new hairstyle is like throwing on your warmest sweater. However, the real question here is what kinds of styles will be cool and wearable when you are actually juggling between holiday meals, spending long hours at the office and weekend retreats? And how does one avoid having the appearance of a flat hair with all that beanies? It is not merely staying warm but also making your day-to-day appearance even more buzz-worthy with cuts, braids, and waves, which feel effortless and deliberate, at the same time.
It seems that braids, structured waves, and glossy volume are taking the centre stage in the trending winter 2025/2026 and it is evident. They are lightweight, they are feminine and they possess that slightly smooth touch that suits best with thick knits and party dresses. You want to have a low-profile evening in front of a fireplace or a fancy vacation, either way, these hairstyles will be able to bring in that touch of magic.
Shall we go in together–it does not necessarily mean that winter hair is statical, and dry and concealed under hats. Rather, it is the ideal time to explore the textures, layers and even subtle accessory. It is this that I cannot cease to obsess about at the moment.
Painless Double Dutch Braids
The Dutch braids are something eternal, particularly when they are formed into two large plaits that are arranged in a way that is very attractive against a blonde hair. This appearance is shrieking homey and offers the same light-heartedness that will be as important in an after ski atmosphere as in a run-to-the-store coffee break. The plaits are voluminous, satin and delimited, forming a clean yet severe frame on the face, and the hanging strands on the front prevent it the appearance of being too harsh.
The braids such as these take some preparation, particularly in the dry winter climate. I also apply a light styling gel such as Olaplex No.6 Bond Smoother to keep the flyaways down and keep me out of the frizz. It makes the braids appear smooth yet not rigid which is important when you want them to hold the whole day.
As an individual, I consider this style as a complete savior when I do not have time to wash my hair. It appears deliberate, chic and conceals any absence of volume. Celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan tends to say that braids are the second-day hairstyle, and I would not disagree with this definition the second law of low effort, high impact.
It is the type of hair that nearly makes its own statement a hair cut that you do not need to wear statement earrings or bright makeup to make it stand out. You need do nothing, get the braids to talk.
Half-Up Romantic Braided Crown
A half-up hairstyle that has a crown plait is all romance. This one combines soft waves and a loosely woven braid pulled over the back, giving it a dimension but not subtracting anything to the length. It is a haircut that seems ideal on a holiday dinner, a date, or even a winter wedding, because it is so romantic with its touch of professionalism and casualness.
The ability to keep waves such as these during the colder months, in most cases, is based on hydration. My favorite one is Oribe Mystify Restyling Spray that I mist on and then use to fix every strand with a curling iron so that the hair stays healthy, shiny, and is able to sustain a curl before it goes flakey.
Personally, this type of style puts me immediately in a more up-to-date mood, even when I am simply in jeans and a loose cardigan. I enjoy that it partly looks like a fairytale, but still, it has the effect of being down to earth enough to put on a typical Tuesday.
The other thing I love about this braid is that it presents the face in a very tender way. It also has the right combination of easy and graceful enough, such that it will always remain an unparalleled fallback in the event when you need to feel a bit more special.
Waved Polished Braided Headband
It is a blend of two winter classics, braided headband and glossy waves. The braid is also woven over the top of the head resembling a fine accessory, with the other hair cascading in curls down the sides. It is smooth, classy and has an Instagram-ready finish that makes it shine in pictures.
The trick of maintaining such a look perfect is shine. An oil such as the Moroccanoil Treatment Light is lightweight and gives a miracle boost of gloss without curling down. Only a drop rubbed across the ends makes it all camera-ready even in the dry winter months.
I personally consider this hairstyle a mood booster because it reminds me of the braided hairstyles that I had in my teenage years, only that it is a much more sophisticated hairstyle. Similar to celebrity stylist Kristin Ess who frequently claims braids as the simplest method to dress up and not quite commit to anything serious, this look is a veritable quintessence of it.
Frankly speaking, I should say that this style is going to be one of those trends you will reuse throughout the season, both in parties or simply when you want to add something special to a simple outfit. It’s subtle, but so powerful.
Glamorous Side-Swept Curls
Waves swept to the side do not actually fall out of favor, but this winter they are especially luxurious. The deep part on the back, with shiny curls flowing over one shoulder, imparts power of red-carpet at first glance. It is daring and tender, organized and sensual, the type of appearance that attracts attention with no additional help.
To maintain curls such as this bouncy and smooth, I would suggest a heat protectant and finishing spray such as Kenra Professional Thermal Styling Spray 19. It holds the curl intact and prevents hair damage, something that is required when you are used to grabbing the curling wand when it is snowy.
I always have a burst of self-confidence with a side-swept style- it gives the shape of your whole appearance a lift, stretching and raising the face up. Chris Appleton, who has done styles on celebrities like Kim Kardashian, has stated on numerous occasions how the side parts add drama immediately and I agree with him fully.
It is one of this hairstyle that is almost just asking to be combined with a dress and statement earrings. It is smooth and fun-loving- the very same atmosphere I want to bring to my holiday parties this year.
Braided Low Pony and Sparkling Clips
There is a cool, playful feel to the low braided ponytail with fragile clips in it. It is easy enough to wear during the day, but the minimal reflection of the touches of the accessories makes it look good during evening outings as well. The loose waves smoothly merge within the braid providing movement and softness rather than it being stiff.
It is the functionality of this style that I love, as it keeps the hair out of the face, whilst still being able to display length and texture. To maintain the hold additionally I prefer Living Proof Flex Hairspray, which offers a touchable hold yet it does not stiffen the braid.
This appearance reminds me of what look I would have when I do not want to think and yet I want to appear dressed in a good way. The customizability is so simple: change the clips to pearls, metallic pins or even little bowing of velvet to make it feel like a new one each time.
The best part? It is sensible and offers the right level of shine – just what a winter hairstyle is supposed to provide.
Effortless Romantic Updo
A loose updo with face-framing tendrils is eternally alluring. It is polished to a level that is not too artificial but too undress to hint at romance. The amount of the volume at the crown is very nice and the strands in front are softly curled, it gives motion yet not too much. It is the type of hairstyle, which is as appropriate to a winter wedding as it is to a dinner date.
To maintain this appearance, I have discovered that to have the right amount of grip, but not make it hard, texture sprays such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray can be used. Dash of shine serum down the ends will also serve to bring out those loose waves. In case you are planning to wear this so frequently, then a weekly nourishing mask is essential to avoid heating tools drying.
Personally, I am in love with the way this updo is a combination of grace and lightness. It makes me imagine the times when the lighting is low, the music is light and the hair is not overdone but just looks glamorous. This energy is the one that is promoted by celebrity stylist Kristin Ess when she reminds her clients that a style is supposed to be lived-in, which is exactly what the imperfections entail.
And perhaps that is the beauty: it does not make too much fuss. It makes you feel brave enough to go outside in frosty weather with your head high because you know that you will look as cute as when you wrapped yourself in a scarf.
Sensational Curl with Haute Accessory
This twist is a winter season that is best to cozy up to a certain form of sparkle. The style alone is smooth but elaborate, however, the jewel-shaped clip in the form of a butterfly makes it a performance. The accessory is not merely a frill, but it seems as though it were a portion of the hairstyle itself, which adds even greater sophistication to the swooped layers. This type of hairstyle is at its best when going to a gala, a holiday party or even a New Year Eve party.
This style would not be easy to retain without some commitment. I would go through it with a smoothing balm such as Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame, which would help me to manage flyaways and then a firm hold hairspray would finish the job. One stylist once informed me accessories fit better when the hair under the accessories has some grit in it, and so a quick sprinkling of texturizing powder before pinning it all is needed.
I like most about this concept that it alters the atmosphere immediately. It is a smooth twist with no accessory, and the hair jewelry with the accessory. It is a reminder that in some cases the tiniest detail can really change the mood.
And actually isn’t that what winter beauty is? Putting a gloss on the most obscure of the dark nights.
Sleek and Modern Low Bun
A low bun is an item that I have to have in winter – it is clean, upscale, and completely multi-purpose. It is the one that is characterized by the minimalist finish: no frills, no exposed pins, it is a simple knot of smooth strands. It is the type of glances that would be in perfect agreement with the pearl jewelry and structured clothing, nearly like an unobtrusive crown.
In order to sustain such a smooth, shiny surface, hydration is all. I use Kerastase Nutritive 8H Magic Night Serum when the weather is more cold as it makes the hair soft and hydrated even in dry conditions. Before the process of making the bun, it is also possible to run a flat iron over the hair and provide a mirror finish to the hair.
Personally, this style is powerful to me. It is not romantic or flirtatious, it is smooth, confident and unassertive. It brings to mind when I would enter a boardroom and feel good about it and when I am going out on a fancy night where I can wear less to an elegant dinner.
In some cases the most effective styles are not the ones that are complex but the one that is precise. And this bun is the best proof of it.
Leather Low Ponytail with Waves
This low ponytail is the type of hairstyle which is able to appear polished without making too much of an effort. The hair is flowing in an organized cascade and the ponytail is held in place at the back of the head with the slightest movement. The touch of gloss on the strands is what really makes it shine, though it is modern, but timeless, and it can be used on office days as well as parties in winter.
It may be very difficult to keep waves this defined by dry winter air. I enjoy Oribe to apply Supershine Moisturizing Cream prior to the style; it makes the hair strands soft and avoids static. and when you are heat styling, you must spray on a little thermal protectant, just to banish the smell of a thermal protegeant, you may use the one by GHD, as it smells gorgeous and leaves the salon look.
Personally, this ponytail seems to be the best fit between casual and chic. The celeb stylist Justine Marjan has repeatedly claimed that ponytails are not simply a lazy day hairdo, when worn properly, they are runway worthy. I could not have said it better–this one has that ease of effort and consciousness.
And why not be frank, on a snowy night when you shake off a wool coat and enter a candlelit dinner, this smooth-haired pony-tail will only add to the recollection of the experience.
Soft Waves with Half-Up Twist
The half-up hair with loose waves is all winter romance. The slight back twist gives the appearance a lift and the layers in the front present the face in the gentlest manner possible. It is a hairstyle that speaks of class without ever screaming, great on a nice dinner, on a coffee date, or even a holiday event.
Textures sprays are helpful in the waves of this kind. I kept my Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture spray in my pocket- it is weightless and adds volume to the hair without making hair greasy like other roll-ons. It is not overdone by means of a light touch.
This is a style that I have used multiple times and in fact, whenever I want my hair to be off my face yet at the same time flowing. It is somehow nostalgic, some sort of nod to the early 2000s when being pretty was effortless. The most outstanding aspect of it is that it compliments almost all hair cuts, be it long layers or mid-length.
And when the wind sets to the waves one frosty morning you know why this appearance never really falls out of fashion. It is romantic, yet sensible enough to make it through to winter.
Flowery Length Crown, Braid of Velvet
This twisted crown that flows in loosely arranged waves is as though it is part of a winter fairytale. The braid gives it structure, whereas the length is loose, providing contrast between polished and loose. It is one of those winter hairstyles that can be used to take you at brunch with friends and then to a holiday party.
The keeping of this appearance entails a compromise of restraint and plushness. I would apply the Living Proof Flex Hairspray it is easy to control and the hair is still touchable. In the case of braids, I occasionally apply a small amount of styling cream (such as the Hydrating Styling Cream by Moroccanoil) to my fingers as I braid; this gives it anti-frizzing properties and also helps the hairs to hang where I want them.
On my part, I love braided items during winter. Jen Atkin, a hairstylist, who has one of the largest followers in the U.S., frequently speaks of the power of braids to take a basic style a notch higher. In this case, the crown effect actually makes the face look very beautiful, and when combined with waves, it becomes royal and friendly.
This braided crown is the one to wear when you need to look presentable but not so formal. It is romantic and at the same time can be worn over a chunky knit sweater and boots.
Braided Ponytail and Loosely Braided Ponytail
This is an amusing variation on the traditional ponytail – a braid woven into the top but the strands that fall on the face left to be loose. It is styled yet not hard, and this is also what would be ideal in winter when one wants a hair style that stays in shape even after spending the day running errands or nights at parties.
To have the braid slick, I will always run the flyaways with a little spray on a toothbrush- yes a toothbrush, it performs wonders. To shine, an elixir such as Kerastase Elixir Ultime can do a lot; it leaves that reflective finish to hair but does not bring it down.
I love the fact that this appearance strikes a balance between strength and the femininity. It states, I am ready to go on that day, but also possesses that romantic touch. Ponytails braided are also trending on Tik Tok, which means that they are not leaving 2026.
Although winter winds are a real problem with your hair, the braid is built so it stays in place, making it fashionable and usable at the same time.
Sleek Bow Ponytail
This is a bow-shaped pony tail—a headpiece in itself–organized, smooth, and capricious. The bow detail immediately catapults an ordinary looking ponytail into a statement hairstyle that is not overwhelming. It is the best option during winter events when an individual wants to shine.
I would recommend to apply a smoothing balm on hair, such as Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame, to achieve that perfect look. When finished off with a shine spray everything is shiny and bow-like. It does require some practice, though, and when you have got the shape, it is one of the most fulfilling haircuts to do.
To me this appearance is something like wearable art. It brings to me holiday ribbons and gift wrap– fully in line with the celebratory mood of winter. Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton has frequently discussed the fact statement ponytails could transform an outfit in an instant, and this bow makes him correct.
When you are on a snowy night and want your hairstyle to be the accessory, then this bow ponytail will work on your behalf. It is bold, yet with a bit of whim which makes it fun.
Voluminous Twisted Half-Up
This hair style is the epitome of comfortable style. The upper part is loosely twisted and clamped behind forming height at the cap and allowing the hair to flow freely along the neck. It possesses that slightly undress yet refined look that makes it perfect during party outings particularly with the presence of huge sweaters and Christmas lights in the backgrounds.
In this much quantity, I prefer to use a mousse like Bumble and bumble Thickening Full Form Mousse. It lifts at the roots and makes the twists not to fall after several hours.
The aspect that I find most unique about this style is the versatility that it gives me, I can wear it to a Christmas market, or even all the way to a winter wedding reception. It is also romantic and not very fussy and that is why it is wearable by all ages.
This is sometimes the minutiae like the height of the crown, that immensely gives the appearance of the hairstyle elevated without making it complex. That is the reason why this one is an indispensable winter dish.
Sleek Low Bun with Sparkle
A low, flat bun is always sophisticated and the inclusion of a glittering clip puts it to a new level. It is highly polished, sleek, and completely symmetrical – a dream that everyone who adores the minimalistic style with a festive touch has.
The largest deception in this case is to make it shone and smooth. I would suggest to apply a straightener through the hair before styling it and then using Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray. It is a favorite among professionals to give a shine that is not affected by humidity even during the wet winter season.
This is my personal favorite holiday party or formal wear dress because I like it with statement earrings and bold lips. It is not emphatic and leaves a big impact.
And the jeweled accessory? It is there that magic occurs. It makes an ordinary bun out to be glitzy enough to see you through any winter night.
Retro-Inspired Half-Up Waves
This haircut utilizes this retro-chic with its flowing waves and half-up style. It is vintage, slick, and ever-flattering and has a slight touch of old-Hollywood fashion. The half-up knot is structured as well as the waves are moving and shiny.
In order to maintain waves, I promise with the help of Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Curling Iron, which is used with the Kenra Platinum Working Spray. The outcome is to get curls that are holding and feel soft to the touch.
This type of style is so nostalgic to me, it takes me back to classic holiday movies and the glamour of the black and white film stars. It is also, entirely up-to-date and it looks great with the winter clothes.
It is all here: structure combines with softness, retro combines with now. This is why I am able to foresee that this hairstyle will be one of the major revivals of 2025/2026.
Ponytail with Diamond Band
The ponytail is always elegant, and there is no use denying it. It is this, gilded with a glittering headband and a tie to match, easy to make festal. It is smooth on the top but squidgy and springy at the ends and it hits just the right mark between casual comfort and winter style.
I will always suggest smoothing serums such as Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to control frizz and to achieve the mirror finish. It keeps the ponytail shiny even under the influence of running in the cold and out of it.
In my view, the simplest solution to the ponytail is accessories of this style. When we have hairstylists, they also remind us that the sparkle on the face is the place to draw our attention upwards and that is true because, once you do it, you instantly look more shiny.
That is the type of hairdo that will turn a basic turtleneck and a blazer into a holiday outfit. The least amount of effort and maximum impact.
Oversized French Braid
The French braid is a winter classic that is oversized, and this particular one is unbelievably soft with its exaggerated size and natural finish. The portions are drawn a little slack, producing that big-textured effect which is warm and confident. It also looks good in bringing out dimensional blonde.
I also do this to add the braid to make it full, by pulling at the edges of the edges after securing, a practice commonly referred to by stylists as pancaking. A spray of Redken Triple Dry 15 Dry Texture Finishing Spray provides it with a body that is not sticky hence best suited to attain that complete appearance.
As an individual, I believe that such braids are the underdogs of winter styles. They are stashed away under scarfs or hats yet they still appear to be purposeful when you remove them.
It is practical and stylish at the same time; it is the kind of mix that I seek when I determine my staple hairstyles in the colder seasons.
Half-Up Bun with Pink Ombre
Something cool is a frolicsome playful half-up bun, particularly when it is combined with an aggressive color. The loose waves are pulled into one big bun leaving a sufficient amount of movement along the ends to display that ombre of rosy-pink. The face is framed by bangs, which provide the entire hairstyle with a flirtatious, friendly effect and at the same time make it glamorous. It is the type of appearance that will cause winter nights to shine either at a rooftop party or in a warm cafe.
Some additional care is required to keep color like this. I promise myself Pureology Hydrate Shampoo to retain the vibrant tones that tend to fade too fast especially during the cold seasons when hot water and heating systems can cause the hair to dry. Neither can heat protectant be compromised when you are curling the end regularly to display the ombre.
The thing I love about such an appearance is that it is not only casual, but also dressy. The bun claims playful, the waves feminine and the color gives it a daring touch. This proves that hairstylist Guy Tang often claims that hair color is an accessory on its own.
It is one of those winter fashions that reminds you about life again when days are short and gray. A pink is a little that makes the season warm.
Massive Crown Updo with Wavy Hair
It is all about volume at the top to provide height and structure without loosing the softness of the style. The sides are pulled in to a closed up ending, and the straggling tendrils in front of the face suit the face well. It is a glitzy winter updo which instantly lifted even a plain sweater.
Regarding maintaining that lift at the crown I tend to backcomb at the roots slightly and apply a setting spray such as L’Oréal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold. It is all a matter of balance, having a strong grip on the top but having softness around the face. Light curling iron wave prior to re-rollinging of the strands also helps the appearance not to collapse.
This style is empowering to me. It possesses that old-Hollywood figure that is always reappearing in winter due to its ability to match bold earrings or statement lip. It is not too pompous or pompous, it is graceful.
And perhaps that is what makes it so good at this moment – it balances in the middle of careless coziness and the drama that winter events require.
Pearl Accented Winter Chignon
This chignon in blonde is the embodiment of all that I adore in seasonal hair: it is soft, detailed, but with a hint of sparkle. The hair is pulled back in thick twists overlaying each other and pearl pins are used to give it a touch of opulence. Coupled with a warm knit, it is the best demonstration of the options of the elegant hairstyle to be worn in a casual way as well.
To keep this type of well-done style, I would apply a light hold mousse such as Moroccanoil Volumizing Mousse prior to blow-drying. It provides a figure that makes it much easier to twist and pin. Pins such as pearls should be attached in those areas that are teased and thus the dress will not slip in all night.
Personally, I believe that this bun is magic holiday dinner. It does not shout updo but it possesses enough personality to be a special one. According to celebrity stylist, Anh Co Tran, details make up modern hair and the pearl accents are the very detail.
It is a hairstyle that is both cozy and festive at the same time, so much the winter of 2025/2026.
Fashioned Low Bun and Twisted Layers
This has a sculptural beauty to the bun which makes it unique. The pieces are twisted and carefully fitted in place making ribbon-like loops that are folded in the style. It is smooth, yet imaginative, and it seems to be a sculpture that is placed in the nape of the neck. As it is winter, it is an elegant decision that is so versatile.
This style is best used on conditioned hair that is smooth. I would suggest a smoothing cream such as that of Bumble and bumble Hairdresser Invisible Oil Primer to make the strands ready to be blown-dried. It makes it all shiny and smooth, which is a necessity of a glossy and structure-based look.
This bun is my favorite to wear since it is minimal and maximal. It is so easy at a distance, and so fine at a distance. It is a reminder of the fact that hairstyles do not necessarily have to scream in order to make a statement.
A structured bun such as this one can be the minor but noticeable detail when all the attention is on heavy coats and thick knitwear.
Textured Low Chignon
So right in winter is the softness of this chignon. This is not a sleek bun, like the real one, but one that is played with: pieces of hair overlap, some bits are thrown back, and the movement of the hair provides texture. It is fashionable without being harsh and immediately gives light blonde shades depth. I am a fan of the way it balances between casual and sophisticated.
Had I been styling this on myself, I would first loosely curl some of the hair and then pin it back on to achieve such an effect of layers. The final application of Living Proof Flex Hairspray will be to contribute to the style and make it touchable. Blondes should always have a purple shampoo such as Amika Bust Your Brass at least once per week to keep the tone fresh under the more harsh winter light.
Personally, I can really use textured buns because they seem right in any occasion: you can be enjoying your hot chocolate next to the fire place or you can be at a holiday cocktail party. And they create the impression of not overthinking it, though they are well constructed.
The winter hair is just easy to flatten under hats and coats, and a style that has such a texture is a quick pick-me-up.
Smooth and Polished Side Bun
This bun on the side exudes classiness. The hair is smooth and has been piled in one spot and hidden in a manner that appears to have been done flawlessly. It is a classic style that seems to be eternal – something you may find on red carpets or at a small winter party. The side placement does not overstep it to much but gives it a bit of distinctiveness without losing the grace.
To maintain the glossy look of the hair, heat protection and smoothing products are generally required. My favorite is using Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil before blow-drying it provides shine and also helps in repairing. One of my stylists revealed that the trick to buns like this is tension: one needs to hold the hair firmly and twist it in such a way that the shape does not change and additional pins are not needed.
The thing that impresses me in this style is its confidence. It does not require any volume, accessories, or curls, it is based on its simplicity. It is to me a kind of hairstyle that speaks with a low voice, stating, I have come.
And perhaps that is why it suits so well in winter: it slices through the weight of the season with neat and clean cutting beauty.
A touch of drama, a sense of texture, and a bit of shine are what to play with at the end of the day, it is winter. Braid, braids, waves, glossy waves, and more will make you believe that cold weather hair does not have to be flat or boring. The best part? It will not require a red-carpet occasion to test them, and ordinary experiences should have a touch of glamour as well.
Which of these appearances do you itch to first? Tell me–I would like to know what kind of winter hair-do you are being called by this season.
