20 Super Cute Christmas Hairstyles for Kids You Haven’t Tried
Parents often want something cute, simple, and fun for the holidays. Christmas hairstyles for kids don’t have to be complicated or expensive. A few clips, ribbons, and small accessories can completely change a look. Below is a full list of easy, charming ideas that help you create cheerful styles right at home.
- Twisted Candy Cane Ponytail
A candy cane ponytail looks playful but stays practical. Part the hair into two sections. Twist each side with red ribbon, then wrap both together. Keep the twist loose so it sits comfortably during school events or family photos. Kids often move a lot, so secure the base with a thick elastic. Add a tiny bow at the end for a simple touch. If your kid has shorter hair, try a half-up version instead. You can also use leftover craft ribbon. It holds well and costs little. If the twist starts slipping, rewrap only the bottom instead of starting over. This saves time when you’re rushing before a Christmas dinner. The style matches any outfit, from cozy sweaters to holiday dresses.
- Snowflake Bun Swirl
A bun swirl takes just a few minutes. Pull the hair into a high bun and wrap a thin strand around the base. Slide in snowflake clips around the circle. Keep the bun slightly loose so it feels soft and child-friendly. If your kid dislikes tight styles, lower the bun to the nape. You can use foam bun makers from discount stores for a rounder shape. They hold surprisingly well. For thin hair, add a tiny bit of lightweight mousse before shaping the bun. It helps the style stay put without feeling sticky. Mix different sizes of snowflake clips for a cute holiday pattern. This style works for school parties, church events, or quick photos by the tree. It also pairs well with warm scarves or winter coats.
- Ribbon-Wrapped Side Braid
A side braid is simple enough for busy mornings. Start the braid behind one ear. Thread a ribbon through the first loop, then let it follow the braid all the way down. Keep the style loose to make it look soft and playful. Red works great for Christmas, but green or gold adds a nice twist. If your kid has thick hair, split it into three chunky sections so the ribbon stays visible. A small elastic at the bottom keeps it neat. You can curl the loose ends for extra charm. If your child’s hair is shorter, try a mini version at the front. This style works well even after running around at events. It’s also a budget-friendly option because one small ribbon lasts the whole season.
- Holly Berry Double Buns
Double buns always look fun during the holidays. Part the hair down the center. Twist each side into a bun and secure with elastics. Add berry-inspired clips or small red beads around the buns for a cheerful touch. Lightly pull out a few face-framing strands to keep it soft. If beads feel heavy, pick felt holly leaves instead. They’re lightweight and easy to pin. You can complete the look in under ten minutes. It holds well during playtime too. This style fits both long and medium hair. For younger kids, keep the buns low so they don’t tug. It’s a cute option for Christmas morning photos or school pajama day.
- Cozy Sweater Headband Look
A knitted headband instantly adds holiday charm. Brush the hair back and slide the band behind the ears. Leave the rest natural or add soft curls. Choose red, forest green, or cream for a winter feel. If your kid dislikes clips, this is an easy option. You can find budget-friendly knitted bands at many local shops. They keep ears warm during outdoor events too. For short hair, pick a thinner band so it doesn’t slide. Add a tiny bow on the side if you want extra detail. This style takes seconds and requires no special tools. Great for last-minute holiday outings.
- Christmas Bow Half-Up Style
A half-up look creates a sweet holiday shape. Gather the top half of the hair and tie it with a bright bow. Keep the strands loose for softness. Curl the ends if you want a bit more volume. Ribbon bows cost very little and last all season. Swap colors depending on the outfit. For fine hair, add a small elastic under the bow for extra hold. Kids can wear this style to school or family gatherings without discomfort. It also keeps hair out of their face while still feeling festive.
- Jingle Bell Pigtails
Pigtails always bring smiles. Part the hair into two sides and tie with elastics. Wrap a ribbon around each base and attach tiny jingle bells near the ends. Choose bells that are light so they don’t tug. If the sound feels too loud, wrap a small piece of tape over the opening to soften it. Kids love the playful movement. For shorter hair, keep the pigtails low. If your child has curly hair, let the curls stay natural. This style works well for holiday performances or casual outings. And it costs very little—most craft stores sell small bell packs for cheap.
- Frosty Crown Braid
A crown braid looks fancy but feels light. Braid around the head starting from one ear and ending at the other. Tuck the ends under the braid and pin with clips. Add small silver accents for a frosty touch. If the braid feels too tight, gently loosen each loop. This gives a fuller look and feels more comfortable. For younger kids, make a half-crown instead. You can use glittery hair pins from discount shops to save money. This style stays in place during long events and looks cute in photos.
- Elf Ear Loop Braids
Loop braids near the ears look playful and fun. Make two small braids by each ear. Fold each braid upward into a loop and pin gently. Add green or red clips for extra charm. This style works for all hair types. It takes less than ten minutes and holds well. If the loops slip, use small silicone elastics. They blend easily and cost almost nothing. Kids enjoy the cute elf look during Christmas parties or dress-up events. Pair it with simple waves for a soft finish.
- Winter Ribbon Waterfall Braid
A waterfall braid pairs perfectly with ribbon. Start near the temple, braid across the back, and let pieces fall gently. Thread a thin white ribbon through each step. Keep the strands small so the ribbon stays visible. This style looks detailed but doesn’t require advanced skill. If hair slips, add a tiny bit of leave-in conditioner. It keeps strands controlled without stiffness. Waterfall braids suit long or medium hair. You can adapt it into a half-up style too. Ribbon packs from craft stores cost little and last all winter.
- Sleigh Ride Low Pony with Bow Wrap
A low ponytail makes mornings easier. Tie the pony, then wrap a long ribbon around it in a spiral. Leave a bow at the end for a festive touch. Use a soft brush to smooth the top. If your kid has thick hair, split the ponytail in half and wrap each side lightly. This helps the ribbon stay visible. For extra detail, curl the bottom. The style stays neat during car rides or outings. It works for both simple holiday outfits and dressy occasions.
- Mini Ornament Clipped Side Sweep
A side sweep looks charming with small ornament clips. Brush hair to one side and pin it with tiny round clips shaped like ornaments. They’re lightweight and easy to find at low cost. If your kid’s hair is short, clip only the front section. For thicker hair, use one larger clip and surround it with smaller ones. This style takes seconds and holds well for school or quick family visits. It adds subtle holiday flair without being too bold.
- Red Velvet Bow Top Knot
A top knot works well for active kids. Pull hair into a high ponytail. Wrap it into a knot, keeping it loose so it feels soft. Add a velvet bow at the front or side. Velvet bows look festive and cost very little. For kids with finer hair, use a small donut bun maker. It adds shape without heaviness. This style stays comfortable during playtime or family gatherings. You can finish with a tiny mist of water to tame flyaways.
- Peppermint Twist Pigtail Braids
Peppermint twists look adorable on braid days. Split hair into two sides and braid each. Weave red and white ribbons through the strands. Keep the ribbons flat so the colors show clearly. Tie the ends with small elastics. If your kid moves a lot, wrap the base with an extra ribbon layer. It holds longer. This style suits long or medium hair. You can also do a single braid version for quicker mornings.
- Star Clip Cluster Updo
A simple updo becomes festive with star clips. Pull the hair back loosely and twist it into a soft bun. Add star clips randomly for a scattered sky look. This style takes only a few minutes. If your child has layered hair, pin the shorter pieces first. Star clips are inexpensive and reusable for birthdays too. This updo works with both straight and curly textures. It feels light and comfortable for long events.
- Reindeer Bun with Brown Ribbon
A reindeer bun makes kids smile. Create a high bun and wrap it with brown ribbon. Add small antler clips above it. You can even attach a tiny red pom-pom at the base for a nose detail. Keep the bun loose for comfort. For shorter hair, try a half-up bun instead. Craft stores sell antler clips cheaply during the season. This style works great for classroom parties and photos.
- Golden Garland Twist
Loose twists look soft and festive. Split hair into two sections and twist each loosely. Weave a thin golden garland string through the twists. Keep it light so it doesn’t weigh down the hair. Tie the ends with clear elastics. If the garland slips, anchor it with one small pin near the top. This style suits long and medium hair. It’s a quick way to add sparkle without spending much.
- Mistletoe Clip Side Bun
A side bun feels cute and simple. Sweep the hair to one side and twist it into a soft bun. Add a mistletoe clip above or below the bun. Choose lightweight clips so they stay comfortable. You can also use a green bow if clips aren’t available. This style works well for holiday dinners or photos by the tree. It’s easy, quick, and affordable.
- Christmas Lights Braid
A lights braid turns regular braids into something fun. Start a basic three-strand braid. Add colorful bead clips down the length. Pick small beads so they don’t feel heavy. For younger kids, attach fewer clips for comfort. This style holds well during long events and looks bright in pictures. Most bead clip packs cost very little and last multiple seasons.
- Soft Curl Holiday Bob
Kids with short bobs can enjoy holiday styles too. Add soft curls using a low-heat tool or heatless rollers. Pin one side back with a small holiday bow. Keep the curls loose so they fall naturally. This adds charm without extra effort. If curls don’t hold well, spritz lightly with water instead of heavy spray. This keeps the hair soft. Bows come in packs that cost very little and match any outfit.
Conclusion
Holiday hairstyles don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few ribbons, clips, and simple techniques, you can create cute looks your kids enjoy wearing. Try one idea or experiment with several. These styles add cheerful charm to school days, family gatherings, and Christmas photos. Enjoy the fun and keep it easy.
